How is it August already? The summer has managed sneak up yet again, leaving us to scramble and get our 2016 summer bucket list complete. If your head’s still in April and you never even got around to creating a bucket list, this list is for you. In case you haven’t brushed up on how great these spots are this summer, check ˜em out before it gets too chilly.
Go to the island
Each summer I make a pact to go to the island more often. It doesn’t always shape up like that, but if all else fails, I’ll go once. If you haven’t gone yet, go now! The island is this mecca of beach, urban, forest, boat culture and community. And obviously perfect Instagrammable opportunities from the water taxi over (yes, it’s a much better use of your time to take a taxi there and the ferry home). You can bike around, check out the nude beach, find your own private spot, walk around the community (yes people live there) or grab lunch at one of two cute cafes.
See a show at Molson Amphitheatre or Echo Beach
Does getting lawn tickets at Molson Amphitheatre remind anyone else of their high school years? Regardless, the Amphitheatre or Echo Beach are fun spots to grab your crew and see your favourite show. Whether you splurge and get seats or chill out on the lawn, nothing beats watching a live show outside.
Bike or run to the Leslie Street Spit
Ok, maybe running is a little ambitious. Unless you drive to the entrance and run the 5km to the end ;). Wherever you start, the Leslie Street Spit offers a chance to feel as though you’re in a secret place; it isn’t as busy as the island yet still provides that feeling of being totally immersed in nature. At the end of the trail you’ll be greeted by a perfect view of the Toronto skyline, but keep in mind the bridge closes at 6 p.m., and I don’t think camping out would be too enjoyable.
Check out the Scarborough Bluffs
I had lived in Toronto roughly five years before checking out the Bluffs and I implore you not to follow my lead. Go check them out; they’re gorgeous! Take a picnic and hang out beneath the bluffs”you won’t regret it.
Hit up a rooftop patio
My level of dedication to rooftop patios in Toronto spans so deep I even worked at one for four summers in university to optimize my patio time. There’s great patios in most neighbourhoods and fortunately a range in level of classy-ness (read: price of cocktails). Hit up Paupers Pub if you’re looking for cheap drinks by the dozen or if you’re looking to splurge, head to my ultimate favourite, The Chase. Not in your neighbourhood? Check out blogTO’s handy list of top 50 rooftop patios.
See a Jays game
Regardless of your level of enthusiasm for sports, a Jays game is a no brainer. If you haven’t been to one yet, there may be something wrong with your level of dedication to this lovely city we all call home. (Full disclaimer, I haven’t been to one yet; opening up the schedule in a separate window right now¦). Don’t have tickets? Be a true Torontonian and grab some off a scalper in front of the SkyDome”you’re more likely to get a better deal.
