10 things to do in Toronto before the summer ends

Summer 2020 is slowly but surely coming to a close. Although we wish it could last forever, the nights are getting cooler and soon you will need to take out your hoodies and sweatpants for fall.

We know, it feels too soon but for now, summer is still here and the sun continues to shine in the city. Toronto is full of exciting and entertaining events all year round, although let’s face it, most events are better under the sun.

So as August winds down, grab some friends and hit up as many summer activities as you can. Here’s our list of nine must-dos before the end of the summer.

Get axe throwing

In case you didn’t know, axe throwing is now a sport – or something like that. A great way to get together with some friends this summer, and perhaps a way to get some aggression out, Toronto has several spots to get your Axe On.

BATL Axe Throwing in Vaughan, Pickering, and Toronto Portlands opens back up on August 14, leaving you just enough time to participate before summer ends. Bad Axe Throwing has had to find a new home in the city due to the COVID-19 pandemic but their Mississauga venue, only 25 minutes from their former Toronto location is now open (and it has a full bar).

Where to go: Check out BATL Axe Throwing or Bad Axe Throwing

Get on island time

A hop, skip, and a little ferry ride away, the Toronto Islands are a great city getaway. Whether on a weekend, or an evening after work, the islands offers family fun or adult fun depending on what you’re in need of. If you haven’t been to the Island yet, pack a picnic and head out.

Visitors must now purchase tickets online and tickets are currently limited to 5,000 per day as ferry service is operating at half capacity and on a reduced schedule. The City of Toronto has said to expect lineups — but trust us, waiting in line will be well worth it.

Where to go: Catch the ferry at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay West

Grab a cold one at a brewpub

 

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There was an official International Beer Day in August, but we celebrate that daily in the city through our craft breweries. From the east end to the west end, we love our beers in Toronto, so much so that the craft brew scene is expanding each year. Check out a local brew and try out a new flavour – you have so many options.

Where to go: Start here

Hit the road

You, some friends, a rad playlist, and the open road. It’s a summer dream come true. And lucky for us in Toronto, we have so many destinations within reach. Head to Flowerpot Island, Ontario’s hidden gem or to the scenic oasis that’s the Elora Quarry.

Where to go: You can start planning your summer road trip here

Watch a movie under the stars

Going to the Drive-In has become a popular activity during these unprecedented times. The City of Toronto has even launched DriveInTO to “bring entertainment experiences across the city. DriveInTO will give the city temporary drive-in experiences. Although, it will include more than just films. You can also expect concerts and sports broadcasts.

Where to go: Here’s a list of all the drive-in theatres and events around the GTA so far

Get a tan on a patio

 

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Who doesn’t love spending a sunny afternoon on a patio? Toronto’s got all sorts of awesome ones, especially the waterfront ones — and now is the perfect time to go and enjoy them.

Where to go: Here are some of the coolest ones

Enjoy a crazy ice cream cone

Ice cream is a fave food staple in the summer for a reason. The good news is the cold-sweet treat comes in different flavours, shapes, topping, and nowadays the cone has become the best part – actually though. Might want to get that gym membership back before fall, there are so many sweet treats to try before summer’s end.

Where to go: Check out the ever-so-popular Sweet Jesus or this list of other faves

Swim in the lake

Our urban jungle may be chaotic and busy at its core, but around its edges are little local summer getaways. Check out one of Toronto’s 11 designated swimming beaches, and don’t forget the sunscreen. Some beaches are currently closed due to an increase in E. coli levels. To see what beaches are safe, you can visit Toronto’s SwimSage page for an up-to-date status of 11 beaches in the city.

Where to go: From east to west, and on Toronto Island, there are options for everyone location wise

And while you’re there, SUP

 

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Ever seen those guys with paddle and board and wondered what they were doing? They are stand up paddle boarding, or SUPing. A few places around the beaches of Toronto rent out SUPs, or you can join a class. And these also make for awesome adventurous Instagram pictures.

Where to go: Check out WSUP Toronto or Toronto Islands SUP (and their safety precautions)

Check out a new hiking trail

Regardless of your hiking experience, there are several trails in and around Toronto that can get your heart-rate up, and get you experiencing a new place in the city.

Where to go: Check out our list of 19 trails around Toronto