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Some cities have one idea of a perfect summer day. Toronto doesn’t.
On any given summer day, you can ask yourself, “What do I feel like doing today?” and make it happen.
Toronto makes it both easy and difficult to figure out an itinerary. With so many possibilities, the challenge is choosing between the multitude of things to do. And regardless of what kind of day you want to have, the city has a way of delivering. One moment you could wander through markets with an iced coffee in hand, the next be on a hiking trail, and then find yourself on a waterfront patio watching the boats go by. Toronto’s unique ability to offer a completely different experience every day is why many visitors choose an extended stay—we’ll talk later about how DelSuites gives guests the flexibility to experience the city beyond a quick getaway.
Need a little inspiration for a summer day in Toronto? Here are a few ways you might want to spend one, depending on your mood.
If You’re Seeking a Slow, Relaxing Day
Ditching the packed itinerary and looking to enjoy the weather?
Morning: Start slow
Grab coffee at a local café like Botanic Coffee and Caphe or Le Bleu Coffee for pastries and creative drinks, and head to an active farmers market to stroll the stalls. Then, travel to a neighbourhood you’re unfamiliar with and see what you may be missing.
Afternoon: Spend time outdoors
Pack a delicious picnic for one of Toronto’s green parks, find a quiet spot at the waterfront, or take the ferry to the Toronto Islands. Some popular waterfront spots include the Toronto Music Garden and Sugar Beach.
Evening: Time to unwind
Book a spa or wellness experience at the Sweetgrass Spa or Spa at the Old Mill and enjoy a pampering and dining package. Alternatively, enjoy a sunset walk at Sunnyside or Humber Bay.
If You’re Feeling Adventurous
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Prefer a little more action?
Morning: Follow your curiosity
Kickstart your day with a change of scenery. Toronto is home to the Scarborough Bluffs, Toronto Islands, and Rouge National Urban Park, which let you feel far away without the long drive.
Afternoon: Add a little action
Get moving by renting a kayak or paddleboard on the waterfront, hopping on a city bike and exploring the trails at Étienne Brûlé Park, or trying a new outdoor activity.
Evening: End the day somewhere memorable
After a full day of exploring, find somewhere to take in the city. Toronto is teeming with rooftop restaurants like the Writers Room Bar and Harriet’s Rooftop and rooftop patios like that at the Broadview Hotel.
If You Want a Classic Toronto Summer Day
Want a day filled with classic Toronto experiences?
Morning: Start with a Toronto staple
There’s a good reason why certain activities and landmarks become synonymous with a city. Some of the top things to do in Toronto every summer include checking out the CN Tower, strolling through St. Lawrence Market, and visiting one of the many museums and galleries throughout the city.
Afternoon: Spend time by the lake
Swap city streets for open water by paddling along Lake Ontario’s shoreline. Whether you’re kayaking past the harbour, trying stand-up paddleboarding, or sitting by the water watching sailboats and ferries pass, the waterfront offers a different perspective on the city.
Evening: Finish with a classic Toronto summer night
If there’s one happening during your visit, catch a Blue Jays game and experience the energy of a summer night at the newly renovated Rogers Centre. Grab a ballpark snack, watch the skyline light up around downtown, and join thousands of fans for one of the city’s most iconic warm-weather traditions.
If You Need a Break From the Hustle and Bustle
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Looking to escape the city’s constant buzz for a few hours?
Morning: Hit the road
Get an early start and head out into the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Stroll through Downtown Unionville, visit Elora for some peace and quiet, or explore one of the lush provincial parks like Forks of the Credit or Bronte Creek.
Afternoon: Settle in for lunch or tea time
The GTA is full of hidden gems for fresh-baked treats and unique menus—you just have to seek them out. Why not make a pit stop at the Tin Roof Cafe in Erin or stop at a winery for a tour and a relaxing lunch?
Evening: End the day somewhere memorable
Before heading back to Toronto, you can continue your time in the GTA. Get a taste of upscale dining at The Pine in Creemore or browse through local boutiques somewhere special.
End Every Toronto Day Somewhere Comfortable
Our example itineraries are only a glimpse of what’s possible in Toronto and the GTA, which means you’ll need more than a day or two to let your plans unfold. Rather than treating your Toronto trip like a checklist of attractions and must-sees, an extended stay lets you experience the city more intentionally.
DelSuites Suite @ The Livmore
DelSuites blends the comforts of home with the conveniences of a hotel, so guests can enjoy a longer-term stay without feeling like they’re simply passing through. With decades of property management experience, we’ve become an industry leader in our field. Our suites are located in top-notch residential communities within the GTA, complete with bi-weekly cleaning services, 24-hour building security, and other amenities and in-home essentials.
We’re located in 16 locations throughout the GTA, including Downtown, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and North York. That way, you can stay close to all the things you want to do in Toronto this summer.
Curious if our suites are the right fit for your stay? Explore our locations here.
