With Mother’s Day around the corner, we’re all thinking the same thing: how are we going to show the woman that went through hell raising us just how appreciative we are for doing so? (Or maybe that’s just me, I was a nightmare.)
I love my mom, and always want to show her just how special she is to me. Mother’s Day also allows me to show off just how great Toronto is, and there are plenty of activities to keep both you and your mom entertained. Here are five ways to help plan your day.
Brunch
Toronto isn’t short of unique brunch spots. The Drake Hotel is one of my personal favourites (and my mom can’t get enough of their scones), but you will need a reservation. The Dakota is another gem if you want to munch on all-you-can-eat scrambled eggs, sausages, pancakes and fruit, all while a top notch bluegrass band serenades you; it’s a great spot for a group with their communal table setup and yummy fare. If you want to step your brunch game up a bit, you can even take mom on the Mariposa Cruises Toronto Brunch Cruise, which gives stellar views of the Six while enjoying a yummy brunch.
Vintage shopping
Vintage shopping is always a favourite with mom because she’ll be able to pinpoint which era certain trends came from, and you’ll both have some fun trying things on. Toronto has some great strips to set you up for thrifting success, my favourites being the Ossington strip, Queen West and Kensington Market. If you’re heading to Queen West, be sure to check out Gladstone Hotel’s pop-up market, with all items handmade by kids and families.
See a show
And a show doesn’t have to break the bank (though Kinky Boots and Matilda are sure to be great entertainment). Toronto has some great independent theatres”like Factory Theatre, Tarragon Theatre and The Second City”all of which come at a much lower price point than large Mirvish productions, and are located in different neighbourhoods in Toronto, which may expose your mom to a new area she’s never been to before.
Arts and crafts
Toronto proudly offers a variety of workshops to take you away from your screens and learn a new hobby. From taking a painting class to learning how to make your own shoes, this list is a good starting point to peruse a DIY class that fits your desire to learn a new skill.
Get outside
There’s plenty of great hikes in Toronto where you can still grab a coffee at the end and put up your feet on a patio. High Park is a personal favourite, and there’s a good mix of walking by the water, through the trails or visiting the animals at the High Park Zoo. Depending on weather, the island is also a great option, with breaktaking views of the city skyline and a delicious restaurant, Rectory Cafe, to grab a bite after you explore.
