4 Ways to Spend Winter Days in Toronto

Here in Canada, one thing we are known for is our winters. Depending on where you are in the country, this chilly season can look a bit different. As someone who has grown up with Ontario’s stereotypical snowy and cold winters, I have learned the best ways to take advantage of the winter weather. Amongst the freezing temperatures and icy sidewalks, winter can be a fun time to experience some once a year activities! Here are four ways to celebrate winter weather while in Toronto. 

Would you totally judge me if I told you that I don’t know how to skate? Even though there is a good chance that you won’t see me participating, skating is a perfect winter activity to enjoy by yourself or with friends. Downtown Toronto has plenty of unique places to go skating, including one right on our campus! During the winter, our very own Lake Devo (external link, opens in new window)  turns into a skating rink so you can skate between classes. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to see more of the city, you can skate at Nathan Phillips Square (external link, opens in new window)  or under the Gardiner Expressway at the Bentway Skate Trail.

When you’re a child who grew up in a snowy climate, there is very little that beats the excitement of sliding down a hill in your favourite sled. You can relive this moment — or experience it for the first time — just a short streetcar ride away from campus! Riverdale Park East (external link, opens in new window)  has a great view of the downtown skyline and a large hill that is sure to thrill. There are also hills at Trinity Bellwoods Park (external link, opens in new window) , my favourite park in downtown Toronto.

The Toronto Light Festival (external link, opens in new window)  is an opportunity to see some beautiful lights during what can be a dark winter season. Located in the Distillery District (external link, opens in new window) , you can take a walk through the streets and see a variety of light installations. It can also be the perfect place to snap some Instagram shots with you and your friends. The best part is it’s totally free! 

Truthfully, it is more likely that I am complaining about winter weather rather than embracing it. On a snowy day, you’ll see me enjoying the views inside instead of building a snowman. Sometimes when it’s just a little too cold or a bit too snowy, it’s best to enjoy winter from indoors! If you still want to get out of the house but still stay warm indoors, you can go to one of Toronto’s many museums. The Art Gallery of Ontario (external link, opens in new window)  is free for visitors under 25 years of age. The Royal Ontario Museum (external link, opens in new window)  also has a student discount and is free on Wednesdays for post-secondary students. If you’d rather stay home, drinking a mug of hot chocolate while reading a book or watching a movie with friends might sound like the perfect winter day for you. 

One thing that my mom always told me (and still does) is that winter is much more fun if you’re actually prepared for the season. So plan some activities, put on your hats, boots and mittens and enjoy the winter weather!

Thumbnail source: Pexels (external link, opens in new window)