15 distanced things to do in Toronto this long weekend: February 13 to 15

Please Note: As of January 14, a Stay at Home order is in effect for all of Ontario. This means you must stay at home and only go out for necessities, including getting food, going to work, and getting exercise. Learn more about Ontario’s Stay at Home order here. If you go out, maintain the six-feet physical distancing guidelines and wear a mask.

Staying indoors can get a bit daunting, but there are a few things you can do in Toronto that are safe, fun, and can get you out of the winter blues this long weekend.

It’s Family Day on Monday and though things are much different this year, there are still things you can do to pass the time while staying safe.

It’s important to remember that with Ontario’s Stay at Home order, you must only head outdoors for the essentials such as getting food, heading to work, and getting exercise.

Here’s a list of ideas that might help ease your mind as you head into the second week of February:

Try delicious chowders from local chefs

The annual Ocean Wise National Chowder Chowdown Festival has officially returned to cities across Canada this month, and that means from now until February 28, folks across the country can get in on some deliciousness. This year, chowder lovers from Prince Rupert, BC, to Summerville, Nova Scotia, can get a taste of the grub featured in this now-national sustainable seafood fundraiser for the Ocean Wise Seafood program.

When: All of February
Where: Across Toronto, find them here.

Galentine’s Day Hand Painted Love Letter Class

You can join local artist Stefanie Furgiuele and Original Genes for a virtual Self Love Club Workshop, where you will learn how to hand paint and write your own love letter to yourself. This class is perfect for absolute beginners – no experience needed. Be sure to sign up in advance.

When: Feb 13 at 11 am
Where: From your own home, online

Try the best of the BEST fried chicken sandwiches

If you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to Toronto’s fried chicken sandwiches, look no further; here’s where you can treat yourself. Extra fresh and extra juicy are the qualities necessary to be chosen as one of the city’s BEST fried chicken sandwich joints.

When: Whenever you’re in the mood
Where: Across the city

Order from local pizza shops across Toronto

Sometimes the same old pizza shops can get a bit boring, so it’s a good thing Toronto is loaded with a variety of local spots that definitely help out on pizza nights. There are a lot of hidden gems across the city, and without knowing, you might find your next go-to restaurant.

When: When you want!
Where: Across the city

Place a pre-order from Biscotti Queen

The best of both worlds in one delicious bite! Biscotti Queen is opening the very first “Biscookie” bakery in Toronto this week. A biscotti and cookie mix is the newest creation coming to the city, opening on the day of all days, February 14. Though its physical doors may not open, its online shop will be ready to take orders if you’re interested in trying this treat.

When: February 14, pre-orders start February 1

Take a virtual rollercoaster ride at Canada’s Wonderland

Though amusement parks have been out of the picture for months now, you can still enjoy a rollercoaster right from home – virtually, that is. Canada’s Wonderland has a variety of rollercoaster POVs on their YouTube channel.

When: Whenever you’re looking for an adventure.
Where: On their YouTube channel.

Try out Toronto’s best taco shops

The great thing about Toronto is that the city is full of different cultures, which means different kinds of food to try out and enjoy. There are a bunch of Mexican and Latin restaurants that serve a variety of tacos, from fusion menu items to traditional flavours.

When: Whenever you’re in the mood
Where: Across Toronto

Take up Starbucks 50% off deal on Valentine’s Day

Looking for a sweet, sweet deal for Valentine’s Day? Starbucks Canada is offering half off your order of $15 or more when you order through Uber Eats on Sunday, February 14. Whether it’s a treat for yourself or a little surprise for your loved one, when you place an order of $15 or more, you can get 50% off their drinks and treats to celebrate the day of love, for one day only.

When: February 14
Where: Locations across Toronto.

Take art lessons with the AGO

If you’ve always wanted to dive into your artistic side, now is the perfect time to indulge. The AGO offers creative art lessons that you can watch right at home. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or beautiful creative pieces, their art lessons are in full swing, and you can watch all their videos online.

When: Whenever you have the chance!
Where: On their website.

Register for virtual events celebrating Black History Month in Toronto

As of February 1, it is officially Black History month. Since everything is now online, there are tons of virtual events in Toronto you can take part in. Take the time to educate yourself and register for free events available until March 1.

When: New events every day.
Where: Online, virtual seminars.

Check out a local Toronto restaurants Valentine’s Day take out meals

Love is in the air, and it smells delicious. Whether it’s elegant dining or wholesome meals to enjoy, several local restaurants are cooking up something straight from the heart to your home. Here’s your guide to Toronto restaurants offering sweet deals and special packages for the most romantic day of the year:

When: Most require pre-orders by February 11, double-check!
Where: Across Toronto.

Order from Toronto’s newest Windsor-style pizza

Windsor meets Toronto with a brand new pizza shop. Ambassador Pizza Co. has opened its doors this week, bringing Windsor-style pizza to the city. Their menu consists of Windsor classics such as shredded pepperoni and canned mushrooms, as well as the classic “Super” pizza, which comes loaded with shredded pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, canned mushrooms, and olives.

When: When you’re in the mood for a slice
Where: 946 Bloor Street West

Explore Jollibee locations across Toronto

In the last few months, Jollibee, the popular Filipino fast-food joint, has opened several locations across the GTA and plans to open a couple more this year. There are a total of eight locations in Toronto and the GTA.

When: When you’re craving those Peach Mango pies! (they’re that good)
Where: Several locations around the GTA and downtown Toronto.

Get your hands on Toronto’s best smash burgers

You can NEVER go wrong with a deliciously mouthwatering, eye-grabbing, oh-so-cheesy smash burger, and lucky for you, Toronto has the best around. Whatever your take is on these heavenly burgers, there’s no doubt that an extra bit of caramelization and browning on the patty gives a more intense flavour. If done right, a smash burger is as juicy as a delicious burger can get. Stay in, and order it right to your door.

When: Whenever hunger calls
Where: Several locations across the city

Go out for a skate at some of Toronto’s outdoor skating rinks

Skating season is upon us. There are so many great outdoor spots to go for a skate in Toronto, but if you find public skating rinks too crowded, you might want to consider other spots for your outdoor activities this winter. Be sure to sign up in advance. Masks are mandatory.

When: Location hours vary depending on the rink.
Where: Across Toronto.