25+ Things to Do This Winter 2025 in Downtown Toronto
Winter 2025 is the perfect time to explore the heart of Toronto, where the city comes alive with vibrant attractions, seasonal events, and cozy restaurants. Whether you’re visiting for the iconic sights, indulging in local cuisine, or looking to embrace the magic of winter, Downtown Toronto has got you covered. This guide contains more than 25 must-try activities and destinations that capture the city’s spirit in its coldest season.
Iconic Attractions
1. CN Tower
Enjoy panoramic views from Toronto’s skyline from the observation decks or try out a thrill-seeking adventure on the EdgeWalk. The CN Tower will feature festive winter lights throughout the season.
- Official Website: CN Tower
- Contact: (416) 868-6937
- Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto.
- Price: Staring from $45.
2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Explore Ripley’s Aquarium marine life exhibits, including their mesmerizing jellyfish and underwater tunnel. Look out for family-friendly events in January with its holiday themed decorations.
- Official Website: Ripley’s Aquarium
- Contact: (647) 351-3474
- Location: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $50.
3. Casa Loma
Toronto’s historical castle features a magical holiday sensation with its seasonal decor, light displays, and self-guided tours. Check on Casa Loma’s official website below for winter concerts and themed dining nights.
- Official Website: Casa Loma
- Contact: (416) 923-1171
- Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $45.
4. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Marvel at AGO’s vast collection of art, including Canadian works, European masterpieces, and international contemporary paintings. Winter 2025 will feature special exhibits, check the AGO calendar for updates in the link below.
- Official Website: AGO
- Contact: (416) 979-6648
- Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $30.
5. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Discover world-class exhibits on nature, art, and culture on Royal Ontario Museum. Winter 2025 may include exclusive plans and tickets for families, making it a must-visit during these colder months.
- Official Website: ROM
- Contact: (416) 586-8000
- Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $25.
Outdoor Activities
6. Toronto Island Park
Accessible via a winter ferry, the islands offer multiple serene landscapes for a quiet walk or photography. Bundle up to explore their magical snowy trails.
- Official Website: Toronto Island Park
- Contact: 416-392-8193
- Location: Toronto, ON.
- Price: Ferry tickets from $5-10.
7. Nathan Philips Square Ice Skating
Skate under the iconic Toronto sign and Nathan Phillips Square’s dome-like set of lights. The rink hosts occasional DJ nights for an extra dose of fun. Skate rentals are available on site.
- Official Website: City of Toronto
- Contact: (416) 392-2489
- Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
8. High Park Winter Trails
Enjoy High Park’s snowy walking or snowshoeing trails. The optimal option on this guide for nature lovers who would like a quiet and calm retreat from the city.
- Official Website: High Park
- Contact: (416) 338-0338
- Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
9. The Distillery District Christmas Market
Toronto’s most popular winter market, the Distillery District offers festive shopping, dining, and twinkling lights to get you feeling the Christmas spirit. Market is active until December 23rd; however you can still visit throughout Winter 2025 for its exclusive events.
- Official Website: Distillery District
- Contact: (416) 364-1177
- Location: 55 Mill St, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $17 (on Christmas season). General Admissions: FREE.
10. Bentway Skate Trail
Skate along on the shared Bentway Skate Rail with friends and family under the Gardiner Expressway. Look out for pop-up food vendors. Skate rentals are available on site.
- Official Website: The Bentway
- Contact: (416) 304-0222
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto.
- Price: FREE.
Seasonal Events
11. Winterlicious 2025
Starting January 31st until February 13th, enjoy exclusive prix fixe menus at the most prestigious restaurants in Downtown Toronto. Winterlicious showcases diverse cuisines at affordable prices for a limited time every year. Don’t miss your opportunity this Winter 2025.
- Official Website: City of Toronto
- Contact: wintersummerlicious@toronto.ca
- Location: Book lunch and dinner dates now on your favorite restaurants.
- Price: Starting from Lunch: $20, Dinner $25.
12.DesignTO Festival
Coming back for its 15th anniversary, DesignTO Festival is Canada’s largest celebration of design with its 10-day festival features from January 24th to February 2nd this Winter 2025. DesignTO offers over 100 in-person and virtual exhibits, including urban/industrial design, architecture, and art.
- Official Website: DesignTO
- Contact: (647) 309-5494
- Location: 91 Pelham Ave, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
13. WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland
Taking place on select dates between November 4th, 2024, to January 4th, 2025, WinterFest transforms Canada’s Wonderland into a magical winter-themed place with its shimmering lights, festive shows, and seasonal treats. Even though it is a further driving distance than most of the activities in this guide, it is a magical journey you cannot miss.
- Official Website: Winterfest
- Contact: (905) 832-8131
- Location: Vaughan, ON L6A 1S6
- Price: Starting from $29.99.
Unique Experiences
14. Polar Bear Dip
Take part in this daring New Year’s Day tradition at Sunnyside Beach, where participants take a cold plunge into the icy Lake Ontario to raise money for charity.
- Official Website: Boost
- Contact: bondar@boostforkids.org
- Location: 755 Lake Shore Blvd. W., Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $30.
15. Snowshoeing at Tommy Thompson Park
Explore Tommy Thompson Park’s breathtaking views of Lake Ontario while snowshoeing in its winter trails. Bring your own snowshoes or rent on site to start off your journey.
- Official Website: Tommy Thompson Park
- Contact: (416) 661-6600
- Location: 1 Leslie St, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
16. Arcadia Earth
Dive into an augmented reality exploration at Arcadia Earth, where art installations highlight environmental issues to create consciousness about our planet. This indoor exhibition features the perfect blend between education and entertainment, making it a solid option on this Winter 2025.
- Official Website: Arcadia
- Contact: info@arcadiaearth.ca
- Location: 486 Front St W building C, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $39.
17. Ontario Place Winter Light Exhibition
Enjoy enchanting walks through illuminated art installations along Ontario Place’s waterfront. Check their official website for more information on 2025 dates and exhibit details.
- Official Website: Ontario Place
- Contact: (416) 314-9900
- Location: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
Shopping
18. Toronto Eaton Centre
Shop at over 230 stores, including luxury brands and department stores, at Toronto Eaton Centre. Seasonal decor and holiday-themed events make your shopping experience extra special on these snowy days.
- Official Website: Cadillac Farview
- Contact: (416) 598-8560
- Location: 220 Yonge St, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
19. Kensington Market
Find vintage shops, artisanal vendors, and eccentric boutiques at Kensington Market. This vibrant neighborhood is an amazing option for eclectic shopping and dining.
- Official Website: Kensington
- Contact: N/A
- Location: Kensington Market, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
20. Yorkville Village
Home to upscale boutiques and galleries, Yorkville Village is the perfect shopping destination for luxury lovers.
- Official Website: Yorkville Village
- Contact: (416) 968-8680
- Location: 55 Avenue Rd Suite 2250, Toronto.
- Price: FREE
Dining
21. Canoe Restaurant
Dine on modern Canadian cuisine while witnessing the breathtaking city views from the 54th floor of the TD Tower. Consider booking your visit during Winterlicious with their prix fixe menus for a tasty and elegant occasion.
- Official Website: Canoe
- Contact: (416) 364-0054
- Location: 66 Wellington St W 54th floor, Toronto.
- Price: $100+ per person.
22. The Senator
One of Toronto’s oldest diners, The Senator, serves hearty breakfasts and comforting meals. A great spot for a warm and nostalgic dining journey.
- Official Website: The Senator
- Contact: (416) 364-7517
- Location: 249 Victoria St, Toronto.
- Price: $20-30.
23. Odin Cafe + Bar
This Scandinavian-inspired cafe spot offers cozy seating, world-class coffee, and Nordic treats. Amazing choice to warm up after a long winter walk.
- Official Website: ODIN
- Contact: odincoffeeroasters@gmail.com
- Location: 180 John St, Toronto.
- Price: $20-30.
Entertainment
24. Scotiabank Arena
Catch live NHL icy hockey games with Toronto’s Maple Leafs or vibrant NBA basketball games with the Toronto Raptors. Scotiabank Arena also hosts major concerts and guided tours on select dates; visit their official website for more information.
- Official Website: Scotiabank Arena
- Contact: (416) 815-5500
- Location: 40 Bay St., Toronto.
- Price: Guided tours start from $30. Pricing depends on the event.
25. The Rec Room
Enjoy a wonderful mix of arcade games, live entertainment, and delicious dining all in a single place. Great option for families or friends looking for some indoor fun on this Winter 2025.
- Official Website: The Rec Room
- Contact: (416) 815-0086
- Location: 255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $10.
26. The Theatre Centre
The Theatre Centre showcases innovative and independent performances, which include plays, musicals, and artistic installations. Check their schedule for upcoming events tailored to this winter season.
- Official Website: The Theatre Centre
- Contact: (416) 538-0988
- Location: 1115 Queen St W, Toronto.
- Price: Starting from $15.
Try out these activities and attractions on this cold winter and let us know which was your favorite for the season down in the comments. If you wish to read more content like this, sign up to our newsletter or follow us on social media.
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