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 some ideas to surprise and delight.
Have a cherry blossom picnic
Enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms in bloom. Bring a picnic basket, relax under the pink petals, and enjoy a serene day out. Choose a locally-loved park like High Park, or opt for these under-the-radar spots.
Catch a Blue Jays game
Start the baseball season together with the ultimate Blue Jays fan experience at the Rogers Centre. Enjoy the game, indulge in classic ballpark food, and cheer for the Blue Jays. If you can’t make it to a game in person, catch up on the highlights at one of Toronto’s top sports bars.
Catch the sunset on the Toronto Islands
Head to the islands for a day of biking, walking and beaching. The ferry is an easy way to get out on the water before summer starts. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, which is especially beautiful since it is one of the best places to watch the sunset. If you prefer to stay on the mainland, here are the best beaches in Toronto that you can bike to.
Embark on a Kensington Market adventure
Explore this vibrant and eclectic neighborhood, taste food from around the world, and browse through vintage shops. Visit during Pedestrian Sundays for a special experience. Impress your date by learning the history of Kensington Market
Explore the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Spend an afternoon exploring contemporary and classical art at the AGO. Follow it with dinner at AGO Bistro, which features a menu inspired by art. If you and your partner have more niche interests, check out these specialty galleries, where you're sure to find some conversation starters. Or, check out some lesser-known local fave art galleries.
Stroll through the Distillery Historic District
For the perfect walking date, take a stroll through The Distillery Historic District. 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. Then finish off with dinner and drinks on one of the many Distillery District patios.
Explore the Toronto Botanical Gardens
Explore the various gardens, like the Edwards Gardens, and enjoy the early blooms and fresh spring air. They are perfect for a leisurely day or an evening stroll. Make sure to pack your camera and photograph the peak blooms in the gardens. Once you've visited the gardens, check out these other unique green spaces in Toronto.
CN Tower EdgeWalk
For thrill-seeking couples, experience the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and lake, if you dare to walk the edge!
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.
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.
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.
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, treat your date to Toronto's best zero-proof cocktails.
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.
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?
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.
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.
