The Toronto Waterfront covers quite a bit of space on a Google map. Technically it’s a 46 km area running between Etobicoke Creek in the west and the Rouge River in the east. For our purposes, we’re confining the Waterfront to the area near Pier 27, and most accessible by transit and biking – we’re talking Spadina in the west and Yonge Street in the east. As you can imagine, there are endless things to do along the Waterfront – do, see, eat and enjoy. The area is bustling with Torontonians and visitors alike, as well as the spot of a major revitalization. Here’s our guide to how to have your own perfect day on the Toronto Waterfront.
Coffee at Boxcar Social
Image via harbourfrontcentre.com
A newer addition to the Waterfront, but a great one. Located inside the Harbourfront Centre Building, this cafe offers a discerning selection of coffee, cafe beverages, and tasty offerings from Delysees and Bake Shoppe (we’re talking homemade pop tarts, people!) Start your day with your caffeine fix, and a baked treat to enjoy from their patio overlooking Lake Ontario.
Rent a Canoe, Kayak, or Paddleboard
Image via Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre on Facebook
Habourfront’s Canoe & Kayak Centre has lots to offer those looking for fun activities on the Waterfront. Take a tandem tour of the Toronto Islands, a beginner or intermediate lesson, sign up for a social excursion, or just rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard for a few hours or a full day. Get active while enjoying the gorgeous views.
Picnic in the Park
Image via Jan A on Flickr
With the incredible location from any Waterfront location, we highly recommend an impromptu picnic to split your day in half. Whether you’re grabbing a BeaverTail, roti, or sandwich from one of the surrounding cafe’s or restaurants in the area, or have come prepared with a picnic basket of your own making, the Waterfront offers many park benches and grassy knolls to enjoy a leisurely lunch al fresco.
Afternoon Activity
Image via Steam Whistle Pilsner on Facebook
Depending on how worn out you are from your morning activity out on the lake, and foraging for picnic supplies, the afternoon can be spent however you please. If you’ve still got some fuel for the day do a tour of Steam Whistle Brewery or check out Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. If beer and sharks seem like too much, why not head over to The Power Plant, one of Canada’s best known public galleries, and see what contemporary exhibits they have on display. If all else fails, there’s always something awesome going on at the Harbourfront Centre – did we mention they have an incredible shop?
Dinner at Miku
Image via mikutoronto.com
You’re probably getting peckish now, post-picnic and are hoping to sit down and enjoy a delectable dinner. Not to worry, there are lots of great options, but we suggest Miku – a wonderful Japanese restaurant hailing from Vancouver. This talked-about spot is famous for its Aburi-style sushi. Here you’ll enjoy refreshing cocktails, a great selection on quality sushi, including their signature flame-seared options, and fresh bites from the raw bar.
Drinks at The Slip
Image via harbourfrontcentre.com
Don’t let the day end yet! Your day can come full circle at one of the city’s newer Waterfront spots – The Slip! Located just outside of where you had coffee at the Boxcar Social, this open-air patio bar offers up fun music, tasty cocktails, and a solid selection of beer. Sip on your drink, and reflect on your Insta-memories of the day, while you take in the setting sun, and the lights of the city.