14 things to do in Toronto this week while physical distancing

May 4 2020, 4:00 pm

After the weekend, thoughts are racing with ways to fill another week locked down.

Don’t fret, because we’ve rounded up a few things that will keep you smiling, even if we are missing the beginning of patio season.

Explore the Ripley’s Aquarium online

Penguins at Vancouver Aquarium (Neil Fisher)

Many of us have been to the Ripley’s Aquarium before, but did you know there’s a PENGUIN CAM where you can literally watch penguins waddling all day, live? There are also live, educational events daily, so make sure to check out their website.

Take a free online course through UofT

Want to increase your knowledge on a subject? Forget YouTube videos. Get some real education through the MOOC and online learning portal. The page connects you to multiple courses from institutions around the world, many with a scheduled structure and others that go at your own pace. From computer science to social science, there is a lot to choose from.

Take a virtual tour of Toronto

Missing your city? Us too. But don’t worry, you can still feel connected to it through this aerial, 360° panoramic view of Toronto and explore the city from a whole new perspective.

Enjoy Disney rides and attractions

Disney has posted multiple videos to the Disney Parks YouTube channel to provide fans with a behind-the-scenes experience as they wait for the parks to reopen.

From announcing the new arrivals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to virtual tours of Walt Disney Imagineering to a front-row seat on some of the most coveted rides, the channel has something for any avid Disney lover.

Cook an incredible meal using recipes collected from Torontonians

Taste the many flavours that make up this city.

Chefs from across Toronto have come together (figuratively) to curate a digital cookbook for the masses, filled with meals designed to be made at home. The dishes in the virtual pages are simple — one recipe is titled Jesse’s No Knead, No Skill Needed Square Pie With Bacon, for instance.

And they look devilishly good.

Take a free boxing class from a Toronto gym

 

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Walking around the block is fun and all, but if you want to get into Rick Grimes-esque fighting shape for the future, or maybe just do some cardio, why not go a few rounds with United Boxing Club. The gym streams regular classes via its Instagram. Check social media for the times of upcoming classes.

Stream Toronto artists online

ISO Radio, founded by @jayemkayem and @freezachin, has been hosting DJ sets online featuring local DJs that are no longer able to perform at your favourite venues. They also have a live chat so you can stay connected over music while supporting local artists in your community.

Listen to free audiobooks

Toronto Public Library’s Overdrive program is a great way to stream or download a massive collection of audiobooks and ebooks. It can be done over a computer or even through the Overdrive app on both android and iOS.

Learn something new about the city, the world, or even the universe. All it takes is a library card. You can also check out the free reading app Libby, by the same company.

Have a picnic in your car

Dine-ins and picnics in the park are now off limits, but who says you can’t get take out and eat in your car? Find a secluded rooftop parking lot with a nice view of the Toronto skyline, and enjoy your very own dining experience with a view.

Watch a comedy show online

It’s important to stay positive during times like these. Toronto’s very own The Corner Comedy Club has brought its shows online to continue to support Toronto’s comedians. Interested in becoming one yourself? The Second City Toronto is also offering classes online.

Tour the AGO online

ago

AGO/Shutterstock

Get your art fix by visiting the AGO through its online collection. If you’re feeling inspired for your own paint night, Above Ground has a wide selection of art supplies and is now offering delivery across Ontario and Quebec.

Get into a podcast or three

If you need some background chatter while you work from home, it’s never too late to discover a favourite podcast. From true crime to just hanging out and joking around, we’ve found 22 podcasts to appeal to anyone with a set of headphones and time to kill.

Binge watch some shows

There’s nothing but time these days, so it’s a perfect time to catch up on your must watch list. We’ve put together a list of 17 shows to binge watch on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ if you need some inspiration!

Play some online Dungeons and Dragons

Failing being self-isolated with a group of roommates or the family, a lot of people will be looking for ways to pass the time and get some social contact beyond a phone call or a text thread.

Enter online Dungeons and Dragons.

Most people think of D&D and picture a dining room table surrounded by people and covered with miniatures, and while in-person sessions are fun, there is an entire world of online D&D just waiting to be explored.

Here’s how to go about playing a game of Dungeons and Dragons while still physical distancing.

Remember, the times we stay at home are what we make of it. Stay indoors as much as possible, stay safe, and stay up to date with daily news on Daily Hive.

Peter SmithPeter Smith

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