Score big by planning your next vacation around Toronto’s major league teams and other epic sports events.
–With files from Karen Kwan
Toronto is a sports city year-round, but summer means game days, big plays and stadium energy. Whether you’re catching home runs at the Rogers Centre or cheering on marathon runners along the waterfront, the city is packed with sports action all season long.
With great restaurants and patios near every venue, planning a full day (or weekend) around the game is easy. Here are some top sports events to check out in Toronto this summer—and where to eat before or after the action.
AFC Toronto at York Lions Stadium (*New in 2025)
Toronto’s newest pro soccer team is making waves. AFC Toronto will join the inaugural season of the Northern Super League, Canada’s first women’s professional soccer league, which kicks off in April 2025.
Home games will be held at York Lions Stadium, a fast-growing hub for Canadian soccer fans. Expect a passionate crowd, rising national talent, and an atmosphere built for celebration—this is history in the making.
Where to eat: Dining near York Lions Stadium is mostly quick and casual. On campus, grab a rice bowl at Basil Box, a burrito from Z-Teca, or something sweet from Insomnia Cookies.
If you're driving, Kabob Express and Ghazale are both under 10 minutes away and offer hearty options like shawarma nd rice platters. That said, your best bet is to eat before you go.
2025 kickoff: The season began in April 2025. Visit AFC Toronto for schedule updates and ticket info.
Toronto FC at BMO Field
The Reds are back for the 2025 MLS season, and summer matchdays at BMO Field are a must for soccer fans.
The waterfront stadium offers electric energy, lake breezes, and loyal supporters packing the south end stands. Expect a fast-paced, high-intensity experience, whether you’re catching a rivalry match or a midweek showdown.
Where to eat: Fuel up before kickoff with steak frites, sushi, or elevated comfort food at the Drake Hotel on Queen West. For something closer to the stadium, Liberty Commons at Big Rock Brewery offers a lively pre-game atmosphere, house-brewed beers, and crowd-pleasers like fried chicken, burgers, and share plates.
2025 schedule highlights: Visit Toronto FC’s website for up-to-date matchdays and ticket info.
Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre
Watch the Toronto Blue Jays take on MLB rivals at the Rogers Centre, where a retractable roof and skyline views set the stage. Recent renovations added elevated fan experiences and new concessions—perfect for grabbing bao buns or a porchetta sandwich between innings.
Where to eat: Pre-game, head to The Rec Room for casual bites and arcade fun. After the final out, Steam Whistle Brewing is a top spot for beers and burgers with CN Tower views and a sunny patio.
2025 schedule highlights: Look out for themed days and Jr. Jays games. Check the Blue Jays website for this season’s matchups.
Toronto Argonauts at BMO Field
CFL football under an open sky? Yes, please. The Toronto Argonauts bring big plays and summer energy to BMO Field, with Lake Ontario on one side and city skyline views on the other. It’s one of the most scenic spots in the league to catch a game, and the home crowd brings the noise.
Where to eat: Grab pre-game tacos and cocktails in nearby Liberty Village (try Local Public Eatery or Mildred’s Temple Kitchen for brunch-y vibes). After the game, head to Liberty Soho for elevated pub fare and a cozy-chic atmosphere that’s perfect for debriefing the win.
2025 schedule highlights: Don’t miss rivalry games and theme nights. Check the Argos website for full season details.
RBC Canadian Open
The RBC Canadian Open returns to the Toronto region in June 2025, bringing some of the world’s top golfers to one of the oldest national championships in the sport. Known for its relaxed-yet-competitive vibe, the tournament blends big-name talent, scenic fairways, and lively fan activations, including live music, food trucks, and partner pop-ups.
The 2025 host course is TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, about an hour from downtown Toronto. It’s the first time a PGA Tour event will be played at this public course, known for its natural setting and trio of championship tracks.
Where to eat: You won’t go hungry at TPC Toronto. The Fare Way fan zone offers a solid mix of food trucks, bars, and live music, making it a great spot to recharge between rounds. You’ll also find grab-and-go snacks and premium options like the Stanley Thompson Clubhouse, with covered seating and elevated eats.
2025 dates: Events open to the public will run from June 4–8. Visit RBC Canadian Open website for tickets, field announcements, and travel tips.
Honda Indy Toronto at Exhibition Place
Feel the adrenaline as race car engines roar through the streets around Exhibition Place. The Honda Indy Toronto transforms downtown into a high-speed circuit with an 11-turn track and full-throttle energy all weekend long.
Beyond the racing, there’s plenty to get revved up about—like Friday night’s Rev & Run 5K (yes, on the track), autograph sessions, and fan-friendly pit access.
Where to eat: After the action, head to Brazen Head Irish Pub in nearby Liberty Village for cold beers, wings, ribs, and classic fish and chips on the patio.
2025 schedule tip: The event occurs in mid-July. Check the Honda Indy Toronto website for ticket information and full race weekend details.
National Bank Open at Sobeys Stadium
Tennis’s biggest stars return to Toronto this August as the women’s draw of the National Bank Open hits Sobeys Stadium, located on the grounds of York University's Keele Campus.
From Grand Slam champs to rising stars, expect a stacked field and high-stakes matches. Past winners include Bianca Andreescu (2019), Jessica Pegula (2023), and Serena Williams, who claimed the title here three times.
Where to eat: Voilà by Sobeys offers in-seat ordering for snacks and drinks at the stadium. Before or after the match, head a short drive away for Indian-style Hakka at Royal Jade, steaks and plant-based mains at Chop Steakhouse, or tacos and fried chicken at El Jefe de Pollo.
2025 dates: July 26–August 7. Check the National Bank Open website for tickets and the schedule.
The King’s Plate at Woodbine Racetrack
Dust off your best hat—the King’s Plate returns to Woodbine Racetrack on August 16, 2025, bringing pageantry, pedigree, and people-watching to Canada’s oldest and most prestigious horse race.
Now in its 166th year, this historic event showcases the country’s top three-year-old Thoroughbreds in a day that blends tradition with high-stakes action (and standout outfits).
Where to eat: Woodbine Racetrack is home to ten dining options, including the laid-back Champion’s Bar and the upscale Woodbine Club Restaurant, both offering racetrack views—perfect for a pre-race brunch or a celebratory drink between bets.
Check out Woodbine Entertainment for tickets, dress codes, and tips on making the most of race day.
—This story has been updated with new details since it was first published in June 2024.
