Break out of movie-and-dinner mode and try something new in Toronto.
Treat your date to a unique date in the city or unforgettable night on the town. Here are 12 ideas to surprise and delight.
1. See the city from new heights
For an adventure you and your date won’t soon forget, book a sky-high tour of the city with Toronto Heli Tours. You’ll experience the city's twinkling lights like never before and will feel like you are on cloud nine. Or, book another bucket-list Toronto experience.
2. Treat your date to a MICHELIN Star experience
Did you know that Toronto is the first Canadian city to have the MICHELIN Guide? Treat your date to a taste of one of Toronto's 15 MICHELIN-starred restaurants (or one of the 82 restaurants included in the second edition of this prestigious guide. Whether it's for a special occasion or just because, book a reservation in advance and treat your partner to a meal they won't soon forget.
Can't get a reso? Try one of these alternatives to MICHELIN Guide restaurants, or these peak-luxury Japanese restaurants.
3. Pamper yourselves with a day at the spa
Show your sweetheart just how much you appreciate them with a relaxing spa day. Kick back at the Hamman Spa, treat yourselves to a massage at a hotel spa or spend the day lounging at the 24-hour GoSpa. After all, doesn’t laying in the lap of luxury sound like the perfect bonding experience?
If you really want to make some memories, plan a wellness weekend in the city—think sound baths, sweat-sessions and salt rooms.
4. Taste-test something new
Shared experience is what bonds people the most, and there is nothing more fun (and delicious) than trying something new together! Make a list of dishes that either you or your partner have never tried and work your way through it. To get you started, you could try Jamaican patties, Indigenous food, Eastern European delicacies or go on a momo crawl in Little Tibet.
5. Go hotel lobby bar-hopping
There's something that's just oh-so-romantic about meeting up with your date in a swanky hotel bar. Dress to impress and spend the evening moving from lobby lounge to lobby lounge. We've rounded up a few of our faves (plus cocktail recommendations that are sure to impress).
If non-alcoholic drinks are more your thing, Toronto's best zero-proof cocktails are sure to impress.
6. Get into the festive spirit
Embark on a festive date night in Toronto, marveling at enchanting window displays, basking in the glow of the twinkling lights, attending a magical holiday event, and exploring a charming holiday market for unique gifts. The city transforms into a winter wonderland for the perfect romantic and merry experience.
7. Cheer on your favourite sports team
Get your adrenaline pumping! Whether you're cheering on the Toronto Maple Leafs or supporting the Toronto Raptors at home court, Toronto's epic sports scene makes it easy to plan a date night this season. If you can’t make it to a game in person, catch up on the highlights at one of Toronto’s top sports bars.
8. Treat your date to a shopping spree
A little retail therapy is the perfect treat for you and yours. Get creative by personalizing some custom beauty products or designing your own sustainable souvenirs. Or support these Indigenous creators or women-owned businesses in Toronto's best shopping districts. If vintage is more your thing, go hunting for fashion finds in Kensington Market. You're sure to leave with some mementos and lasting memories.
9. Explore a new neighbourhood
With over 140+ diverse neighbourhoods, locals and visitors alike can find something new to discover in Toronto. Might we suggest embarking on a waffle tour in Koreatown, a romantic date night in Chinatown, or an adventure-filled streetcar tour of Gerrard East?
10. Stroll through the Distillery Historic District
For the perfect walking date, take a stroll through The Distillery Historic District. Until December 31, the district lights up during the Distillery Winter Village. Grab a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine and wind your way together along cobblestone laneways lined with chic design shops, art galleries and designer boutiques. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the iconic heart sign, all lit up for the holidays.
11. Feed your love at St. Lawrence Market
For the ultimate foodie date, browse the charming bakeries, cheese shops, seafood boutiques and restaurants of iconic St. Lawrence Market. Snack on made-to-order sandwiches, then pick up caviar, oysters, chocolate and other indulgent treats for later. Make sure to stop at least a few of the iconic food stalls while you are there.
12. Spend the night together
Even if you live in the city, there’s nothing like getting away from it all à deux. Indulge in a staycation package at one of Toronto’s most romantic hotels. Need inspo? Check out our guide to planning the perfect Toronto staycation.
