We now live in a world where face masks and social distancing is the norm. With all these obstacles in the way, how can we spend time with a significant other or even have that first date with that special someone you have been face-timing for 3 weeks? Well, if you must get out and about in Toronto amid these times, I may have just a few solutions for you.
- Yellow creek – Located just off Yonge and St. Clair, just south of Mt. Pleasant cemetery. This hidden ravine in the heart of the city will make you forget all about the concrete jungle and right into a divine bliss. Great spot to just head out and enjoy a nice weekend hike.
- Evergreen Brickworks- Located in the Rosedale neighborhood, just off the Don River, this former quarry has been brought back to life on the weekends with a farmer’s market. And if that wasn’t enough, you also have a few hiking and biking trails along the way. Great spot to spend the day just hanging out or doing various activities available throughout the year.
- Old mill – All the way in the west end, the Old mill area is home to a section of the Humber River and the Humber marshes. During the day the area is home to many parks and trails. You can also indulge in fishing during the year ,it’s a fantastic spot to watch the salmon run. Old Mill is also home to one of the many trails on the discovery walk – these are trails all over the city used by the natives many generations ago and are still available for us to follow today. They are quite a fun adventure as you can just end up just about anywhere in the city.
- Sunnyside Park and Beach – Just a great place to get outside and enjoy the sun. Sunnyside beach is verified under the blue flag program as safe for swimming and other water related activities. So, if you are craving the sun and the sand now that we cannot fly to Cuba, this may be a close second.
- Market 707 – A stretch of sidewalk near dundas and bathurst, is a collection of recycled shipping containers offering food selections from around the world. This spot is all outdoor seating and close to Alexandria park. A fantastic spot for a sunny day or a pit stop while exploring downtown toronto. Kensington market is just a stone’s throw away.
Now that you have a few ideas, make sure to get out and enjoy these outdoor activities instead of spending hours deciding on the traditional restaurants/café/bar first dates. It worked for me and I guarantee you that this is definitely a good way to also explore a city which has so much to offer.
Travel Tips:
- One of the best ways to explore local hidden gems is usually found out by talking to taxi drivers and bus drivers. They have spent years showing people around, giving directions and in fact are usually settled in a city since birth and they would be the best people to advertise what commercial travel guides don’t.
- Try to learn the local emergency contact numbers and information. A lot of the times if you’re lost & you can call your hotel they will send a car to get you. Keep a card sized info sheet with important numbers in case you lose your phone or it loses power.
- Always be open to experience. Learn to say ‘yes’ to the unknown and live in the moment.