Best Outdoor Activities in Toronto, Canada

Best Outdoor Activities in Toronto, Canada


Best Outdoor Activities in Toronto, Canada

The beautiful city of Toronto has lots to offer as a holiday destination, from its incredible arts and entertainment attractions to its famous islands and waterways. If it’s adventure you want, it’s adventure you will get. Here’s what our travel experts have chosen as the best outdoor activities in Toronto, Canada.

  • Take a ferry to the islands
  • Explore High Park
  • Try stand up paddle boarding
  • Play volleyball at Ashbridges Bay
  • Experience the food and atmosphere of Toronto’s famous farmer’s markets
  • Go canoeing or kayaking in the harbour

Take a Ferry to Toronto Islands

visit Toronto islands

The Toronto Islands are just a short ferry ride from the city centre. Explore the islands by bicycle; they are available to rent on arrival. With four gorgeous beaches to discover and many ideal picnic spots, the islands are the perfect place to explore and relax. The addition of Centreville, a child-friendly amusement park, including a petting zoo, pony rides, an antique carousel and, of course, thirty rides and attractions, means the islands provide fun for all the family.

Explore High Park

High Park is Toronto’s largest public park, with 161 hectares of historical buildings, beautiful hiking trails, a free zoo and playgrounds. A must-see at the park is Colborne Lodge, a monument to the couple who founded the park, John and Jemima Howard. The lodge was built in the 1830’s and still has some original paintings of early Toronto. Most interesting though is it’s reported haunting by the couple, who both died there.

Try Stand up Paddle Boarding

Toronto Island Stand Up Paddle Boarding (TISUP) offers paddle board rental and lessons. You can even take part in a stand up paddle boarding yoga class out on the water, overlooking the stunning cityscape before you.

Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Toronto

Play Volleyball at Ashbridges Bay

A fun way to spice up going to the beach, Ashbridges Bay has eleven public beach volleyball courts that are available year-round. This is great summer activity for those looking to soak up some sun and sand during their holiday.

Toronto’s Farmer’s Markets

Toronto’s Farmer’s Markets are a hub of flavour and atmosphere. You can enjoy the sweet and the savoury, the weird and the wonderful. Be sure to check out St. Lawrence Market, the famous three-building market that was awarded World’s Best Food Market by National Geographic.

Canoeing and Kayaking in the Harbour

A fun and exciting way to take in the beautiful Toronto skyline, there are incredible memories to be made with this activity. Canoeing and Kayaking can be enjoyed by solo holidaymakers, couples and families. There are multiple reputable local companies who offer canoe and kayak hire, along with all necessary safety equipment.

Toronto Holiday Deals

Planning your holiday and looking for the best outdoor activities in Toronto? Speak to one of our expert travel advisors, they will help you to choose the activities and adventures that appeal to you most. Give us a call now and our experts will create the perfect holiday package to Toronto for you.

By Linda Collins

Personal Travel Planner

Favourite Destination: Vancouver

I love spending time in Vancouver, there is just so much to do no matter what your interests are. My top tips for a holiday to Vancouver would include the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a whale watching tour and you can’t beat Gastown for the food and drink scene! Planning a trip to Vancouver? I highly recommend adding on another couple of nights elsewhere in British Columbia during your stay such as Whistler, Victoria or Vancouver Island, especially if you love outdoor adventure!