We’ve heard that some people have mixed feelings about winter, but Toronto has shown it is possible to mix big city urban edge with a true embrace of the season. Light festivals, waterfront art, and the hippest skate trail are just some of the ways our largest city does winter right. Spend a day (and/or night) here and you’ll quickly see why.
Skate The Bentway
Downtown Toronto’s first skate trail is a unique urban experience, tucked under the Gardiner Expressway. This multi-phase project launched this winter and runs 220 metres along the downtown core’s western edge. The plan is to extend the trail to 1.75 kilometres in the coming years. Enjoy food and a beverage at the Strongbow Lounge. Take in the local art that surrounds the trail. And be sure to check out the events schedule if carving to a live DJ show is more your groove.
You don’t even need your own skates and helmet. Rentals are available for everyone from toddlers to adults.
Location: The Bentway
Dates: Now – March 2018
More Skating in Toronto
Ice Breakers & Winter Stations on the Waterfront
Two unique outdoor art installations are on display against the wintery backdrop of Toronto’s waterfront. Head to Harbourfront for the second annual Ice Breakers to experience five award-winning interactive displays. Then head to Toronto’s Beaches for Winter Stations, an international design competition that has transformed lifeguard stations into art that has to be seen to be believed.
Location: Ice Breakers at Queen’s Quay West
Dates: Now – February 25, 2018.
Location: Winter Stations in The Beaches
Dates: February 19 – April 1, 2018
Travel Tip: In between installations on a Saturday night, make a stop at DJ Skate Nights at Harbourfront Centre.
More Winteriffic Ideas
Winter at Ontario Place
You grew up knowing Ontario Place, but not this Ontario Place. See it reborn and aglow like never before. 12 light installations by local artists, hundreds of illuminated trees, bonfires, Muskoka chairs, a synthetic ice rink plus the re-opened Cinesphere and all the iconic lakeside views in between.
Location: Ontario Place
Dates: December 8, 2018 – March 18, 2018
Even More to see and do in Toronto this winter.
Toronto Light Festival at The Distillery Historic District
The Toronto Light Festival transforms winter nights into a visual journey for the senses through the works of international and local artists.
Location: The Distillery Historic District
Date: Now – March 4, 2018
Travel Tip: In addition to lights and old world charm, The Distillery is a shopaholic’s dream. Find out why.
Are you ready to own winter and #SeeTorontoNow? We think you are. Show us by tagging #DiscoverON.