15 things you can do on a budget in Toronto this fall
Everyone knows that Toronto is a beautiful city to explore, but it can often cost you a pretty penny doing it.
Whether you’re a local looking to save some cash or a tourist looking to wander the city for a day, here are 15 things to do while on a budget in Toronto this fall!
See also
- 104 spooky Halloween events to check out in Toronto this year
- 5 clubs you can join in Toronto for free this fall
- St. Lawrence Market opens after dark for one night only this November
Harbourfront Centre
Visit Harbourfront Centre this fall and take a scenic walk along the waterfront. You can check out their fall visual arts exhibitions that run until December 24 and are completely free, go for a skate in November when the rink opens, or check out local events coming up at the venue.
Where: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto
When: Hours vary
Toronto Music Garden
While you’re at Harbourfront Centre, check out a magical place known as Toronto Music Garden. Designed by renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma alongside landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy, the garden has no admission fee and it’s beauty is definitely something you just gotta see for yourself!
Where: 479 Queens Quay W, Toronto
When: Open 24 hours
Riverdale Farm
There’s something about being outdoors in the fall – the leaves start to change colour, the air is crisp. So immerse yourself in the great outdoors by heading to Riverdale Farm this fall. Located in Cabbagetown, you can spend the afternoon visiting with the farm animals, take a tour of the grounds or go on a hike through the wooded areas.
Where: 201 Winchester St, Toronto
When: Everyday 9 am – 5 pm
William Meany Maze
Get lost for a few hours – quite literally. Try heading to the Toronto Islands and spend some time testing your navigational skills in the William Meany Maze. While you’re there you can also rent a bicycle, pack a picnic lunch and just enjoy the beautiful views!
Where: Avenue of the Island, Toronto
When: Everyday 8 am – 11 pm
Factory Theatre Toonie Tuesday’s
Spend Tuesday night at the local theatre. Factory Theatre has been around since 1970 and specifically features Canadian plays. On Tuesday’s you can line up for their ‘toonie tuesday’ preview night special. Tickets go on sale starting at 5 pm the day of show on a first come first serve basis.
Where: 125 Bathurst St, Toronto
When: Every Tuesday night, tickets available at factorytheatre.ca
Yonge-Dundas Square
Head down to the South-East corner of Yonge and Dundas Street and check out one of the many events happening weekly. Coming up in October the public square will have a Google Home Mini Donut Shop set up, and a Sketchers Canada JUST DANCE event.
Where:1 Dundas St E, Toronto
When:Anytime, details for events available at ydsquare.ca
Comedy Bar
Catch a show -and a few laughs – at the Comedy Bar this fall, with multiple shows happening nightly. Tickets range from $5 up to $20 depending on the performer and features acts like improv, sketch, alternative and stand-up.
Where: 945 Bloor St W, Toronto
When: Check out comedybar.ca for showtimes
Fox Theatre
Located in the Beaches neighbourhood in Toronto, Fox Theatre has been around since 1914 and is the perfect place to go for some old school nostalgia. This independent cinema features contemporary, classics and cult films, along with having a fully licensed bar serving craft beer, cider and wine. Members get in for only $8 a ticket and non-members are $11.
Where: 2236 Queen St E, Toronto
When: Check out foxtheatre.ca for showtimes
High Park
Picture a blur of red, green and yellow surrounding you and the sound of the city just fading away. Slow down the daily grind by exploring nature for a few hours in High Park. The park features 161 hectares of green space and is known to be exceptionally beautiful during the autumn months.
Where: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto
When: Open 24 hours
Kensington Market
Take a stroll through Kensington Market this fall and get lost in the charm of this unique bohemian neighbourhood. Regardless of your cash flow, you’ll find lots to do with indie shops, boutiques, specialty grocers, and quaint cafes on every corner.
Where: Bordered by Spadina Avenue, Dundas Street, Bathurst Street and College Street
When: Anytime, local shop hours vary
St. Lawrence Market
Go exploring at the St. Lawrence Market with over 120 vendors including artisans, bakers, butchers and more. There is also a farmers market with fresh local produce on Saturdays, along with an antique market on Sundays.
Where: 93 Front St E, Toronto
When: Tuesday to Thursday 8 am to 6 pm, Friday 8 am to 7 pm, Saturday 5 am to 5 pm, Sunday to Monday closed, Antique Market open on Sunday 5 am to 5 pm
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The Distillery Historic District
Spend a few hours walking in the pedestrian-only Distillery District in Toronto. Take in the 19th century buildings, wander along the cobblestone streets, marvel at the outdoor sculptures, or venture into the many shops and cafes. It’s also home to the famous ‘love lock’ sign – for all the lovers out there.
Where: Bordered by Parliament Street, Mill Street and Cheryl Street
When: Anytime, local shop hours vary
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Art Gallery of Ontario
Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario on Wednesday nights and you’ll get in for free! It has been a tradition with the gallery for awhile now, they allow free access to all their collection galleries between 6 – 9 pm.
Where: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto
When: Wednesday nights from 6 – 9 pm
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Graffiti Alley
If you’re short on cash, and looking for your next great Instagram post, Graffiti Alley is where it’s at. Also referred to as Rush Lane, you can wander the street while taking in all the beautiful yet eclectic artwork that just seems to go on and on.
Where: 513 Queen Street W on Rush Lane
When: Anytime
Henderson Brewery Tour
Freshen up on your history of Toronto and enjoy a brewery tour at Henderson Brewing Company. The tours are free, and for only $5 you can also sample a few of their signature brews on tap.
Where: 128A Sterling Rd, Toronto
When: Mondays at 7 pm, view schedule at hendersonbrewing.com
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