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Lifestyle talk, Student Housing

Transitioning from Campus Housing to Independent Living in Toronto

April 1, 2026
Toronto furnished rental ideal for students transitioning off campus

Toronto’s colleges and universities are so connected to the city that living on campus already puts you in the heart of it all. But while you might have taken the TTC to grab coffee downtown or explored nearby neighbourhoods with friends, moving off campus is often your first real experience of independent living. Leaving your dorm or residence often signals something deeper than a simple “move,” but a milestone that represents the first taste of life on your own.

Downtown Toronto condo building with a swimming pool.

Swimming Pool @ DelSuites’ 300 Front

All of a sudden, you need to buy your own furniture and make sure your new place has everything you need to live comfortably. On top of that, there’s the utility setup and the stress of finding a place before it’s time to officially move. Instead of waiting until the last minute, considering your rental options early can take a lot of that stress off your plate.

Figuring Out If You’re Ready for Independent Living

Sometimes, moving off campus isn’t a choice, but something you have to do as a student. That doesn’t mean you can’t control how smooth and comfortable the transition is. There are three areas that often determine how ready you are to make the switch: financial readiness, lifestyle readiness, and emotional readiness.

  • Financial readiness: Do you know how to budget for rent, utilities, and other everyday expenses in Toronto? The better you understand what’s coming in and going out of your bank account, the easier it’ll be to handle all the costs that come with living on your own.
  • Lifestyle readiness: Living independently comes with responsibilities such as cleaning, cooking, and paying bills on time. Are you ready to take on those daily tasks?
  • Emotional readiness: Adjusting to life outside residence, alone or with roommates, comes with unique challenges. Being ready means knowing you can ask for help when needed and navigate new social dynamics.

Getting to Know the Toronto Rental Market

It seems like the City of Toronto always has a supply of new condos popping up, but despite the softer market, people still find rent relatively expensive. If this is your first time moving out on your own, the options can be overwhelming, and you might not be sure where to begin. Which neighbourhood is most suitable for your lifestyle? What type of rental options are available? How do you avoid overpaying for a unit?

The most important consideration is monthly rental costs. It won’t help to look in an area that typically has higher rent prices you can’t afford. Many reliable sources, like the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and rental websites like RentSeeker or Apartment.com, will often have a summary of rent prices by neighbourhood. If we reference the CMHC, you can see that the median price of a one-bedroom apartment in Cabbagetown ($1,903) is often much lower than one in Rosedale ($2,203). But it also pays off to find a balance between an area that’s affordable for you and one that won’t make commute, errands, or your social life a headache.

Condos are extremely popular in Toronto because they often come with amenities like gyms, co-working lounges, and outdoor spaces. However, they’re far from the only rental option available. Other alternatives include:

  • Apartments in newer or older buildings that may have shared utilities.
  • Basement suites located in quiet residential neighbourhoods
  • Shared rentals with roommates to make rent more manageable

All these options will come with their unique perks, even if you have to trade privacy, size, or convenience.

How a Short-Term Rental Company Can Help

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If committing to a long-term lease feels like the wrong move, starting with a short-term rental company could be the way to go. You get ready-to-go, furnished spaces and flexible terms, so you can ease into independent living without the pressure of locking yourself into a place for years.

Rather than scrounging to buy bulky furniture pieces and all the essentials right away, many short-term rentals are ready to live in, with beds, tables, kitchen essentials, and more included. With utilities, internet setup, and maintenance taken care of too, you can focus on figuring out your next steps without feeling rushed.

Short-term rentals can offer more flexible terms than traditional leases, making it easier to move in or out without year-long commitments. And instead of dealing with private landlords, a trusted rental company gives you the peace of mind that your place is safe, legal, and well-maintained.

Make DelSuites Your First Toronto Home

DelSuites is backed by decades of property management expertise, providing fully furnished, flexible rentals across Toronto and the GTA, so first-time movers can settle into off-campus living without the stress. Our rentals are in convenient locations, including Downtown Toronto, West Toronto, North York, Mid-Town, Mississauga, and beyond. We cater to those who want to feel like an instant part of the community, as they continue to discover what living independently in Toronto means to them.

Our suites come with everything you need, including full-sized kitchen appliances, professional cleaning, a customer billing and reservation system, 24-hour building security, exceptional building recreation facilities, and more to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Becoming a young professional is tough enough, but DelSuites makes it so that you can focus on your new career, enjoying the city, and searching for your long-term home.

Start Off-Campus Life in Toronto with DelSuites

Stepping into independent living should be about embracing your new routine, not immediately stressing over furniture, utilities, or maintenance. DelSuites makes that transition easier with ready-to-live-in rentals to support you every step of the way. Beyond convenience, choosing DelSuites gives you the chance to experience Toronto neighbourhoods like a local. Our rentals aren’t simply a place to sleep; they also act as a base for discovering the city. Flexible lease terms mean you can adapt as your life changes, whether you start a new job or figure out your long-term plans.

First-time moves are challenging enough. Why not let DelSuites make the transition seamless?

Business Travel, Corporate Housing

What Should An Employer Include in a Job Relocation Package?

March 25, 2026

When a company seeks to relocate an employee, they often offer a job relocation package as an incentive

After all, when an employee decides to uproot themselves and their family to start a new life somewhere, this is when they are at their most vulnerable. Offering a comprehensive relocation package to cover the costs associated with the move is a way of showing an employee how much you value them. It will allow the employee to relocate in a smooth, easy way that will allow them to focus on their job without too much hassle.

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So, what should a job relocation package include? Here are some of the basic expenses that most packages will cover:

Location Scouting Trips

Many relocation packages will cover the cost of the employee taking a trip to the new location so that they can “scout out” the area and look for housing. This not only gives the employee a chance to look for a home, but it also offers a chance to get a sense of the new area and figure out which neighborhood of the city they want to live in.

Home Sales/Buying Expenses

A typical relocation package will include the costs of selling the home and purchasing a new one. This includes closing costs, real estate commissions and other expenses that are normally associated with buying or selling a home.

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Moving and Storage Expenses

Usually a relocation package will include moving expenses. This includes core relocation costs such as shipping cars, packing, household goods and unpacking. In many cases it will also include the cost of insurance for items while they are in transit.

Some employers will simply reimburse their employees for the moving costs, while others will pay a lump sum that employees can use for moving costs.

Temporary Living Expenses

Most standard relocation packages will also include the cost of temporary living expenses for the employee while their family travels to the new location. For example, the employer might cover the cost of travel, mileage, hotel costs and food to get to the new location.

The package should also cover temporary accommodation, such as in a furnished apartment, for at least the first month until you get settled into your new permanent home. (Delsuites furnished apartments are ideal for this purpose, as they are available to rent on a flexible, short term basis, they offer excellent amenities such as laundry and parking and they are well-located.)

job relocation package

Other Miscellaneous Costs

Many standard relocation packages will also include a miscellaneous expense allowance. This could cover a wide range of things, including cleaning services for the old home, the cost of relocating pets and other expenses that may arise during the move.

Make Your Employees Feel Welcome With A Job Relocation Package

When you are providing your employees with a relocation package that covers all of the basics, you are ensuring that their move goes smoothly and that they are happily settled in their new home.

Holiday Events, toronto toursim

The Ultimate Guide to Toronto’s Winter Events & Festivals

February 18, 2026

Ever wondered what winter festivities look like in Toronto? In the 6ix, the streets glow with lights, neighbourhoods lean into celebration, and the city’s calendar fills with experiences that bring people together. 

Snow and cold never slow things down. They add texture, atmosphere, and a sense of occasion that make Toronto distinct.

On top of that, festivals span the calendar, skating rinks transform public squares into gathering places, and food events warm the city from the inside out. Art, music, design, and cultural celebrations continue well past the holidays, giving winter its own rhythm and personality.

What to Expect From Toronto Winters

Winter typically runs from December through March. Temperatures vary, often hovering between -1°C and -10°C, with occasional colder stretches balanced by clear, sunny days. Snowfall transforms parks and public spaces, adding a scenic layer rather than limiting access.

Preparation makes all the difference. A few helpful considerations include:

  • Wearing layered clothing for flexibility throughout the day
  • Putting on waterproof boots with traction for sidewalks and parks
  • Staying close to transit options, especially during busy event weekends
  • Planning for a mix of outdoor and warm indoor activities

The good news is that Toronto’s transit system remains active year-round, and many winter festivals take place downtown or along major routes. Staying in a walkable, transit-connected neighbourhood allows guests to experience more without relying on a car.

Major Winter Festivals You Can’t Miss

Toronto’s winter festival calendar reflects the city’s diversity and creativity. Each event brings a distinct feel to the season, ranging from food-focused celebrations to design showcases and cultural gatherings.

The Distillery Winter Village

Historic brick buildings, twinkling lights, and seasonal treats set the scene at the Distillery District each winter. The area transforms into a holiday village inspired by European Christmas markets. Local vendors offer handcrafted gifts, warm drinks, and festive bites, while live entertainment adds to the atmosphere.

Even outside peak holiday dates, the Distillery District remains a favourite winter stop. Cafés, galleries, and boutiques stay active, making it easy to spend an afternoon exploring.

Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights

Few events mark the start of the season like Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights. Held at Nathan Phillips Square, the celebration features the lighting of the city’s official Christmas tree and a fireworks display that reflects off surrounding buildings.

Public skating often follows the ceremony and creates a shared moment that feels both grand and welcoming. Visitors staying downtown can walk or take transit to the square with ease.

Winterlicious

Late January and early February bring one of Toronto’s most anticipated food festivals. Winterlicious invites diners to sample the city’s restaurant scene through fixed-price menus at locations across the GTA.

Participating restaurants range from neighbourhood favourites to upscale dining rooms. Lunch and dinner options make it easy to plan meals around sightseeing or evening events. 

Just note that reservations fill quickly, especially for popular spots near the core.

DesignTO Festival

DesignTO happens each January, celebrating creativity across architecture, fashion, furniture, and visual arts. Exhibitions appear in galleries, storefronts, and public spaces throughout the city, encouraging exploration beyond traditional cultural venues.

The festival’s format allows visitors to experience design casually, often while walking between neighbourhoods or stopping in unexpected places. Winter becomes a backdrop for ideas and innovation rather than a barrier.

Toronto Black Film Festival

Film lovers gather each February for the Toronto Black Film Festival. Screenings, panel discussions, and industry conversations highlight Black voices and stories from Canada and around the globe.

Events take place at accessible venues, making it easy to attend multiple screenings in a single day. Guests staying nearby can return home between sessions to relax before evening programs.

Outdoor Winter Experiences and Seasonal Pop-Ups

Winter in Toronto encourages people to be outdoors, even in colder weather. The city offers experiences that balance activity with atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy fresh air without overcommitting to the cold.

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

The reflecting pool at City Hall becomes one of Toronto’s most recognizable skating rinks each winter. Skaters glide beneath the iconic Toronto sign, surrounded by downtown architecture and festive lighting.

The rink welcomes beginners and experienced skaters alike. Skate rentals are available, and nearby cafés offer warm breaks between laps.

The Bentway Skate Trail

Running beneath the Gardiner Expressway, The Bentway Skate Trail adds an urban twist to winter recreation. The trail combines skating with art installations and seasonal activities while creating a dynamic space that feels uniquely Toronto.

Proximity to neighbourhoods like Fort York and CityPlace makes The Bentway an easy addition to a day of exploration.

Evergreen Brick Works Winter Market

Evergreen Brick Works shifts with the seasons, and winter brings its own charm. Outdoor markets, nature trails, and family activities continue even in colder months. Fire pits, hot drinks, and local vendors help visitors linger comfortably.

Toronto Islands

Weather permitting, ferries continue to operate to the Toronto Islands during winter. Snow-covered paths suit snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while city views from the shoreline feel especially striking against a winter sky.

The islands offer a sense of escape without leaving the city, ideal for travellers seeking a balance between activity and calm.

Family-Friendly Winter Events

Families visiting Toronto in winter find no shortage of engaging activities suited for all ages. Many events combine entertainment with interactive elements, making them appealing for longer stays.

Ontario Place Winter Light Exhibition

Ontario Place transforms into a glowing landscape during winter evenings. Here, light installations line walking paths and create a visual experience that feels immersive without being overwhelming.

The lakeside setting adds atmosphere, and the open layout allows families to move at their own pace.

Downtown Chinatown Lunar New Year Celebrations

Filled with food and festivity, the Lunar New Year brings colour, music, and tradition to Toronto’s downtown Chinatown. Its activities begin with opening ceremonies and lion dances, followed by live performances, games, and cultural activities.

The celebration spans several weeks, allowing visitors the flexibility to plan accordingly. Nearby dining options make it easy to turn an afternoon visit into a full evening out.

Toronto Zoo Winter Programming

The Toronto Zoo remains open year-round, and winter visits offer a different perspective on animal habitats. Educational programs and seasonal events keep younger visitors engaged while allowing families to explore at a relaxed pace.

Community Festivals and Unique Celebrations

Toronto’s neighbourhood-based events add character to the winter calendar. Smaller in scale, these gatherings highlight local creativity and community spirit.

Kensington Market Winter Solstice Festival

Held in December, the Kensington Market Winter Solstice Festival welcomes the return of longer days through performances, lanterns, and parades. The event blends theatre, music, and visual art, reflecting the neighbourhood’s eclectic energy.

Bloor-Yorkville Icefest

Each February, Bloor-Yorkville hosts an ice sculpture competition that turns city streets into an open-air gallery. Artists carve large blocks of ice into detailed forms using chisels and chainsaws, drawing spectators throughout the weekend.

The area is closed to traffic, encouraging strolling and photo stops. Visitors can vote for their favourite sculptures while exploring nearby shops and cafés.

Roundhouse Winter Craft Beer Festival

Roundhouse Park hosts an annual winter craft beer festival that blends seasonal drinks with music and food trucks. The event embraces a playful après-ski theme, complete with retro winter attire and costume contests.

Held outdoors, the festival maintains a relaxed pace, with warming stations and entertainment keeping the mood lively.

Tips for Enjoying Toronto’s Winter Like a Local

Winter experiences feel smoother with a few insider habits. Locals plan ahead while leaving room for spontaneity.

Helpful approaches include:

  • Visiting popular festivals earlier in the day to avoid peak crowds
  • Relying on transit and walking rather than driving downtown
  • Pairing outdoor events with nearby indoor attractions or dining
  • Booking accommodations well in advance during festival periods

Winter rewards flexibility. A clear morning may lead to skating or a market visit, while an evening snowfall can turn a quiet neighbourhood walk into a memorable moment.

Where to Stay During Toronto’s Winter Festival Season

Staying close to transit, cultural hubs, and dining districts allows visitors to experience more without fatigue.

At DelSuites, we offer spacious, fully furnished condominium residences in prime Toronto neighbourhoods. Suites are located within professionally managed Tridel buildings known for their quality amenities and thoughtful design.

Our guests benefit from walkable surroundings, strong transit connections, and easy access to major winter events.

Suites suit both short visits and extended stays, offering space to unwind after full days in the city. Kitchens, living areas, and building amenities create a sense of home while keeping Toronto at the doorstep.

Make Winter in Toronto Unforgettable

Winter remains one of Toronto’s most underrated seasons, as festivals light up the calendar, and the city’s energy shifts rather than slows. With thoughtful planning and a comfortable place to stay, winter days feel rich and rewarding.

Spending winter in Toronto while roaming freely through its streets, events, and cultural spaces starts with luxurious living in the city. DelSuites offers the ideal way to begin, combining comfort, location, and professional service for a winter experience that feels effortless and memorable.

Make Delsuites your winter home in the heart of Toronto. Connect with us today and begin your stay with confidence, comfort, and exceptional city access.

Toronto Condos, Vacation Travel

Romantic February Getaways: Experience Toronto Like a Local

February 4, 2026

February in Toronto carries a certain mood. Snow softens the city’s edges, lights glow earlier in the evening, and couples find quieter moments in places that feel familiar yet special. Valentine’s Day arrives without pressure here. Romance feels natural, shaped by neighbourhoods, food, culture, and winter rituals that invite people to slow down and stay close.

The city offers a rare balance to couples planning a winter escape. Urban energy coexists with intimate experiences and scenic walks. And with the right homebase at DelSuites, every day feels easy, comfortable, and personal.

Why February Feels Different in Toronto

Winter brings out a side of Toronto that many visitors overlook. February strips away crowds and distractions, leaving space for connection. Restaurants feel more intimate, galleries less hurried, and outdoor moments more meaningful.

Seasonal events, cultural programming, and winter-friendly design allow the city to remain active without feeling overwhelming. Transit runs smoothly, neighbourhoods remain walkable, and cafés welcome lingering conversations over coffee or wine.

Toronto’s diversity plays a quiet role in romance as well. Each neighbourhood offers a different atmosphere, from historic streets to modern waterfront views. Couples can experience something different every day without travelling far.

Urban Romance at Street Level

Romantic experiences in Toronto rarely feel staged, as many unfold naturally while you’re walking, talking, or sharing a meal with your special someone. February encourages these simple pleasures.

Dining With a View

Toronto’s skyline creates memorable moments without effort. Dining above the city or along the water transforms a meal into an experience worth remembering.

Couples often enjoy:

  • The CN Tower 360 Restaurant, where panoramic views rotate slowly as dinner unfolds
  • Harbourfront restaurants, offering wintery lake views and calm surroundings
  • Yorkville dining rooms, known for refined menus and relaxed elegance
  • Neighbourhood restaurants and bars along Ossington Ave or Dundas St W.

Each setting invites conversation and a sense of occasion.

Arts, Culture, and Evening Experiences

Cultural spaces bring warmth and inspiration during winter. Toronto’s galleries and museums feel especially inviting in February, offering shared moments that spark conversation.

Popular choices for couples include:

Evenings can continue at nearby theatres, where historic venues and modern productions bring classic date-night appeal.

Ice Skating and Winter Walks

Outdoor romance remains central to February in Toronto, where ice skating naturally creates shared laughter, small challenges, and a reason to warm up afterward.

Favourite skating locations include:

  • Nathan Phillips Square, framed by City Hall and downtown lights
  • Neighbourhood rinks, offering a calmer pace and local feel

After skating, couples often head to nearby cafés or lounges, turning a simple outing into an entire evening.

Neighbourhoods That Set the Mood

Toronto’s character lives in its neighbourhoods. Each area offers a distinct feeling, allowing couples to shape their days based on mood and curiosity.

Distillery Historic District

Brick-lined streets, restored industrial buildings, and warm lighting give the Distillery District a timeless feel. Winter brings a quieter pace, making cobblestone strolls especially inviting. Small galleries, specialty shops, and chocolate makers encourage unhurried exploration.

Kensington Market

Colourful and eclectic, Kensington Market invites curiosity. Food from around the world, vintage shops, and casual cafés create an atmosphere that feels spontaneous and relaxed. Couples often enjoy wandering without a plan, letting the neighbourhood guide the experience.

Yorkville

Yorkville combines sophistication with comfort. Upscale boutiques sit beside cozy wine bars and stylish restaurants. February here often features winter displays and seasonal events, which add visual interest to evening walks.

Iconic Toronto Experiences for Couples

Some places define the city’s romantic appeal. Visiting them together adds a sense of shared memory and discovery.

Casa Loma

Perched above the city, Casa Loma feels like a winter fairytale. Stone corridors, grand rooms, and city views create a setting suited to quiet exploration. Evening visits feel especially atmospheric, with lighting that highlights architectural details.

Toronto Islands

Winter transforms the Toronto Islands into a peaceful escape. Ferry rides feel calm, paths invite reflective walks, and skyline views appear sharper against the snow. Couples seeking a moment away from the downtown core often find unexpected calm here.

Scarborough Bluffs

For couples drawn to natural scenery, the Scarborough Bluffs offer dramatic views of Lake Ontario. Winter adds stillness and turns lookout points into places for quiet reflection and shared conversation.

Food, Markets, and Shared Flavours

Romance more often than not unfolds around food, and the city offers countless ways to share it.

St. Lawrence Market

Historic and lively, St. Lawrence Market invites couples to browse, taste, and talk. Fresh pastries, local cheeses, and international flavours create easy moments to pause and enjoy.

This city landmark sets the tone for a romantic stay that continues back at your DelSuites suite. Wandering the aisles together often leads to spontaneous plans, inspired by what catches the eye and appetite. With a full kitchen waiting upstairs, couples can turn market finds into an intimate evening at home.

Ideas to elevate a night in include:

  • Preparing a multi-course dinner using fresh pasta, seafood, or artisanal bread
  • Creating a candlelit cheese and charcuterie spread paired with Ontario wine
  • Baking pastries together for a slow, indulgent morning
  • Setting up a cozy movie night with homemade desserts and city views

Moments like these bring even more warmth, comfort, and connection to a February stay.

Cooking Experiences

Hands-on activities add a playful side to romance. Cooking classes around the city allow couples to prepare meals together, learn new techniques, and enjoy the results in a relaxed setting.

Wine and Short Getaways

February encourages day trips beyond the city. Nearby destinations offer a change of pace without long travel times.

Popular choices include:

  • Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for wineries, spas, and quiet streets
  • Niagara Falls, offering winter views and nearby attractions
  • Elora, combining historic charm with spa experiences

Returning to Toronto afterward often feels grounding, especially with a comfortable place to stay.

Entertainment and Evening Energy

Toronto’s entertainment scene remains active through winter, offering options for every mood.

Couples often enjoy:

  • Live theatre at venues like the Royal Alexandra Theatre or Princess of Wales Theatre
  • Concerts and sports events at Scotiabank Arena
  • Intimate jazz nights and lounge settings, ideal for relaxed conversations

Why a Thoughtful Homebase Matters

Romantic trips succeed when logistics fade into the background. Comfort, location, and ease shape how each day feels. A well-chosen home base allows couples to focus on each other rather than schedules or stress.

Toronto rewards travellers who stay in walkable, transit-connected communities. Easy access to neighbourhoods, dining, and cultural venues keeps days flexible and spontaneous.

DelSuites: A Natural Fit for Romantic February Stays

DelSuites provides furnished condominium residences across the Greater Toronto Area, offering an experience that blends privacy, comfort, and location. Suites sit within established residential communities—and that brings a sense of belonging rather than a fleeting place to stay.

Each suite offers space to relax after a full day of exploring the city. Separate living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and professionally decorated interiors create a setting that feels personal and calm.

Comfort That Supports Connection

Romantic trips benefit from space. DelSuites suites allow couples to enjoy quiet mornings, shared meals, and evenings that feel unhurried. Comfort supports conversation, reflection, and rest.

Locations That Keep the City Close

DelSuites properties feature strong walk, bike, and transit scores. Couples can easily move between neighbourhoods, attractions, and dining options without relying on constant planning. Flexibility allows days to unfold naturally.

Service That Feels Personal

DelSuites has built a reputation for quality accommodations and attentive service. Properties reflect the Tridel lifestyle, known for its well-maintained buildings and excellent amenities. Guests enjoy the confidence that comes from staying somewhere cared for and thoughtfully managed.

A Residential Feel With Hotel-Level Standards

Staying in a DelSuites residence means experiencing Toronto like a local. Residential surroundings offer quiet evenings and authentic neighbourhood energy, while furnishings and service meet the highest professional standards.

Making February in Toronto Memorable

Romance in Toronto grows from shared moments rather than grand gestures. A winter walk through a historic district, a quiet dinner overlooking the city, or an evening spent skating or watching a performance can leave lasting impressions.

February encourages presence. Shorter days and cooler weather invite couples to linger, talk, and savour experiences fully.

Plan Your February Escape With Confidence

For couples looking to spend Valentine’s Day and the rest of February in Toronto while roaming freely through the city, the best way to get started is by booking a reliable stay. DelSuites offers the comfort, location, and ease that allow romance to take centre stage.

A stay with us at DelSuites turns a winter getaway into a personal experience, shaped by the city and supported by thoughtful accommodations. Toronto feels warmer when everything feels effortless.

Contact us today to learn more about our properties. 

Family Vacations in Toronto, Holiday Events

What’s Open On Christmas Day and Boxing Day in Toronto: Restaurants, Groceries, and Attractions Near Delsuites

December 17, 2025
what's open on christmas day

It’s not much of a secret that Toronto has a unique energy during the holidays. Streets glow with warm lighting, theatres offer festive performances, and the city’s favourite restaurants welcome those with memorable seasonal meals. 

For visitors hoping to enjoy Christmas and Boxing Day without worrying about where to go or what’s open, planning ahead is key, and staying at DelSuites puts you in the heart of the action. Our properties provide you with easy access to top dining, shopping, and attractions.

Luxurious furnished suites make it simple to experience the city while having a comfortable home base to return to after a day of exploring.

Where to Eat During the Holidays

Even on Christmas and Boxing Day, Toronto doesn’t completely shut down — especially in central neighbourhoods near DelSuites. While many independent restaurants will close, a few reliable picks and quick-service places remain accessible, and a handful of grocery and liquor stores open with limited hours.

Here are some food spots that’ll keep you fed: 

  • Congee Queen: For a comforting, no-fuss meal on Christmas Day, Congee Queen is a classic choice. Many locals report that some branches remain open, serving their signature congee, rice rolls, and other comforting Chinese dishes from 11 a.m. to around 10 p.m., depending on the location.
  • Nobu Toronto: If you’re in the mood for something elegant and upscale, Nobu Toronto offers a refined Japanese-Peruvian menu. Their regular hours (5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. on weekdays, later on weekends) may apply over the holidays, and their Instagram mentions they’re open for Christmas celebrations — though you should definitely call ahead or make a reservation.
  • Drom Taberna: Visit this vibrant bar for a warmer, more festive gathering spot. Drom Taberna comes up in local discussions as being open on Christmas Day. It has a fun, social bar-restaurant vibe, which is great for drinks, food, and enjoying the holiday cheer.
  • Mado: This cozy café, known for rich desserts and Turkish-inspired pastries, is also a lovely choice if you’re looking for something sweet or light.

Finding dining options on Christmas and Boxing Day in Toronto can feel like a challenge, but the city offers a variety of restaurants, cafés, and casual spots that welcome holiday visitors.

However, most, if not all, grocery stores in Toronto are open only on December 24th and Boxing Day. Here are your top choices for grocery runs and essentials:

  • Select Rabba and Metro locations
  • LCBO stores 
  • The Beer Store 

If you need a quick caffeine fix, Tim Hortons and Starbucks, popular spots for coffee and baked goods, keep some locations open on Christmas Day.

Things to Do: Attractions & Entertainment

One of the biggest advantages of staying in a DelSuites property is easy access to Toronto’s top attractions, even during the holidays. Here are some great places to visit, with their usual holiday hours or patterns.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Located downtown, this world-class aquarium is just a short walk or transit ride away. According to its schedule, the aquarium is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the holiday season.

However, during peak holidays like Boxing Day, they sometimes extend hours to 11:00 p.m. for special programming.

Tip: Plan for 2–3 hours to explore the main galleries, touch pools, and the Dangerous Lagoon.

Toronto Zoo

The zoo makes for a great day trip if you’ve got some time and want to get outside. According to its official hours, the zoo is open on December 25 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Boxing Day, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Ontario Science Centre

At the Ontario Science Centre, you’re in for a hands-on experience, and it’s especially good for families. However, it’s closed on Christmas Day but open on Boxing Day from approximately 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Expect interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and IMAX screenings that are perfect for a winter afternoon.

Canada’s Wonderland (Winterfest)

The park typically closes on Christmas Day but reopens on Boxing Day around 3 p.m. for its Winterfest celebrations. The good news is that it runs from November 15, 2025, to January 3, 2026. This means lights, winter-themed entertainment, and fewer crowds in the evening—a festive way to spend Boxing Day.

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

If you’re up for something free and seasonal, many city-run outdoor skating rinks, including Nathan Phillips Square, are open daily during the holidays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Skating under the lights in downtown Toronto brings its own kind of magic and is highly accessible from a central DelSuites suite.

Why DelSuites Is the Perfect Base for Holiday Stay

Staying with DelSuites over the Christmas and Boxing Day period offers something many hotels don’t: fully furnished, apartment-style comfort in top neighbourhoods, with easy access to key parts of the city.

  • Prime locations: DelSuites properties are within walking or biking distance of major attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, the CN Tower, theatres, and more. This means fewer transit trips and more time enjoying the city.
  • Comfort of home: Instead of a cramped hotel room, you’ll get a spacious suite with a kitchen, living area, and potentially a balcony. 
  • Service and amenities: DelSuites offers professional maintenance and recreational facilities. Whether you’re looking to have a gym session in the morning or help with taxi services, our team can support you with that.
  • Transport-friendly: With great walk, bike, and transit scores in DelSuites’ residential communities, you can minimize the holiday rush. TTC lines operate on a holiday schedule, and many of the attractions above open early.

Start Your Holiday in Toronto with DelSuites

Christmas and Boxing Day are special times to explore Toronto, with festive meals, iconic attractions, and unique experiences waiting just steps from your door. Kick off your holiday in style with luxurious accommodations at DelSuites, offering a central, comfortable, and convenient base for your celebrations.

Roam the city, enjoy the sights, and return to a suite where every detail has been considered for a perfect stay. 

Ready to make your holiday stay in Toronto special? Book a DelSuites suite and enjoy your December in style.