Traveling to new cities during New Years Eve is always fun and exciting! We try to visit a new city each year, as long as our schedule allows.
Toronto was a last minute trip for us, but definitely one of the most memorable. We stayed at the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel, which is actually attached to the Rogers Center. The Rogers Center is home of the Toronto Blue Jays, and if you have the chance, we highly suggest asking for a room with a field view! We stayed during the off season, but it was still such a cool experience! The room was immaculate and larger than most. The Marriott offers a really nice fitness center, pool and is even pet friendly. Since it is located in the city center, it is the perfect place to stay for business, nightlife, and sporting events.
Since we did stay in the heart of the city, we decided to explore by foot. When you walk through a city, it changes everything. You’re no longer just getting there, you’re actually getting to see and experience every step along the way. Walking can show you parts of a city that you didn’t even know you wanted to see.
If you prefer to explore other ways, check out the Hop On/Hop Off Sightseeing Bus. You’ll want to take the Redline— it starts at Yonge-Dundas Square and ends in the Distillery District.
We bar/restaurant hopped the first day and scratched all of our plans. Sometimes trips are more exciting when you just wing it! No pressure or stresses of needing to be in a certain place at a certain time.
We walked to Front Street from the hotel and came across The Loose Moose. It has a good atmosphere, tons of TV’s, and a nice menu. Grab the guac and chips to start and try either the Raspberry Lemonade (alcoholic beverage) or Classic Margarita.
Next, we stopped into 3 Brewers (off of Adelaide Street.) We had a nice experience and the customer service was great. Their menu is full of popular pub fares- order a Pretzel and an IPA!
We passed by the St. Lawrence Market, but ended up having to revisit a different day since it was already closed by the time we arrived. The Market is a must visit place when you go to Toronto. They have so many great shops and amazing food to try. Everything is also indoors, so it’s perfect for a rainy day!
The Distillery District is not too far from the Market. We visited during the holidays and every year they hold a Christmas Market for over a month! There are family activities and events, as well as dining and shopping. Stop by Mill Street Brew Pub for a drink and Boku Noodle Bar for some ramen.
If the Toronto Raptors or Maple Leafs are in town during your stay, be sure to visit the stadium (Scotiabank Arena.) Outside of the stadium is Real Sports Bar & Grill, which is a one-of-a-kind sports bar that has everything you’re looking for when you’re trying to find a place to watch a game. There isn’t a bad seat in the bar because TV’s line the bar from floor to ceiling!
If you follow the Redline bus route, you’ll come across Yonge-Dundas Square, which is advertised as a smaller version of Times Square. It is a focal point of downtown Toronto and is often used for community celebrations, concerts, and receptions. You’ll find endless shopping and dining options here. You can find more shopping at the Eaton Centre (also on the Redline bus route.)
Be sure to walk down Queen Street West. There is so much to discover here— from antique stores to art galleries, trendy bars and boutiques. Don’t miss Graffiti Alley and don’t forget to grab a cupcake from Dlish Cupcakes! Queen Street will take you to Spadina, which will take you to China Town. It is filled with colorful shops and plenty of places to try a variety of foods!
From China Town, walk to Kensington Market and and eat at Big Fat Burrito. There are also plenty of other options for restaurants, bars, coffee shops and markets.
Toronto was a trip we will never forget and we would love to revisit soon. Is there anything we missed that you would recommend?
Cheers—
Kayla + Logan