5 Hidden gems in Toronto to experience this summer
Maybe you live in the city. Maybe you visit often. Either way, chances are you’re sick of doing the same old things over and over again in Toronto. With so many tourist attractions in the city it is easy to overlook all the other unique things that make Toronto great. Here are a list of five spots and activities to hit up this summer that do not involve battling your way down to the Rogers Center or ACC.
Snakes and Lattes
Catering to people’s love of coffee (or beer) and board games, Snakes and Lattes have opened two locations in the Toronto area. There are over 1000 board games to choose from at both their Bloor and College locations, so there is bound to be a game for everyone, no matter what your interests or skill level. With an expansive drink and food menu, and an easy laid back atmosphere, Snakes and Lattes is a great place to spend an afternoon with friends, or to finally take that co-worker you like on a date.
Trinity Bellwoods Park
Maybe not be considered a “hidden gem” to some locals, but Trinity Bellwoods Park is a great place to spend a day with friends outdoors and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the west end of Toronto, Trinity Bellwoods features 36 acres of land with pools, tennis courts, fitness and community centers, trails, field space for numerous outdoor activities, and a leash-free dog park. From groups of friends slack lining between trees or throwing around a frisbee, to solitary people reading or doing yoga, there is something for everyone to experience in the park.
Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are a great way to work together with your friends, and exercise your brain in a fun way. Since the escape room trend has been on the rise for the past couple of years, there are now over 30 established escape room locations in the Toronto area. With so many variations to choose from, it is best to narrow down what skill level you are looking to play at and how many people you have in your party. Most escape rooms work best with at least five people, but there are some that accommodate groups as small as 2, or as large as 12.
The Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat
Located in the Humber Bay Shores Park, the Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat is a truly unique experience in the city. The habitat is an ecological restoration project that provides sanctuary for a variety of native butterfly species. By incorporating a variety of trees, wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses, the habitat helps support the butterflies throughout all the stages of their life cycles. As a visitor you can enjoy a self-guides tour, and learn more about the butterflies and their habitats, or you can also get involved by helping to maintain the natural environment that the butterflies thrive from. The habitat is located along the Waterfront Trail, so it also makes for a relaxing break while walking or biking along the trail.
Chester Hill Lookout
If you are looking to view the city from a different perspective, the Chester Hill Lookout spot is where you want to go. Situated off the Don Valley Parkway, Chester Hill offers a stunning view of lush trees with the Toronto skyline as their backdrop. Whether you are visiting Chester Hill during the day or night, you will experience a different sight; both offer staggering yet unique views of the city, painting the skyline in a multitude of colors.
Check these out next time you're in Toronto. If a day trip to Toronto isn't possible because of distance, you could always try your luck with our Canada 150 giveaway.