
Whether you are visiting Toronto for the first time or are a Toronto resident looking to put some spark into your relationship, Toronto is the ideal place for romantic excursions. Here are seven romantic things to do in Toronto:
- Centre Island – Take the ferry from the Harbourfront docks across to the Toronto Islands and rent a tandem bicycle and cycle through the islands or rent a canoe and navigate the lagoons. Bring a picnic lunch and relax on one of three sand beaches.
- The Distillery District – This former Gooderham and Worts industrial site will have you thinking of days gone by. Enjoy walking along the district’s lamplit, cobblestone lanes while discovering original works in refurbished artisan boutiques and art galleries, or savour wine and apps on the patio at restaurants such as the Boiler House, Mill Street Brew Pub or Pure Spirits Oyster House.
- Little Italy – One of the most charming places to dine in Toronto, especially in the summer months, Little Italy is a collection of bars and restaurants along College Street West between Bathurst and Ossington. Dine al fresco on the patio at Sotto Voce Wine and Pasta BarĀ or Coco Lezzone while people-watching on the sidewalk.
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The Blacksmith’s Shop by Cornelius Krieghoff Art Gallery of Ontario – Learn about life in rural Quebec through the paintings of Canadian artist Cornelius Krieghoff or explore the European works in the Thomson Collection including Rubens, Monet, Brueghel and Modigliani. Enjoy an espresso at the coffee bar on the top floor overlooking Grange Park.
- The Beaches – Located south of Queen St. E. and east of Woodbine Avenue, the Beaches or Beach neighbourhood is aptly named for its long stretch of sand along the shores of Lake Ontario. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and then head over to Queen Street for a casual summer meal at popular Beach restaurants including The Lion on the Beach, the Beacher Cafe or Whitlock’s.
- University of Toronto Campus – Take a tour of the downtown campus, starting at College St. W. and walk north along King’s College Road, passing Convocation Hall on the left and facing the magnificent University College to the north. Continue on to Hart House and browse the collection in the intimate second floor library or stop for lunch at the elegant Hart House Grill. Walk north on Tower Road and enter Trinity College or head west to St. George Street, turning south towards College, and admiring the Gothic architecture of Knox College along the way.
- CN Tower – Take a ride to the top of the CN Tower and see a 360 degree view of downtown Toronto and Lake Ontario. If your partner is adventurous, dare to navigate the newly-opened CN Tower EdgeWalk along the circumference of the roof.

