Showing 252 gems
The local read
A tucked-away St. Clair West counter serving sourdough bagels, schmears and classic sweets. Find the rear unit through the laneway entrance from Humewood.
At a glance
Cost
Price not published
Best time
During the posted morning service; check current hours before travelling.
Good for
Sourdough bagels, schmears and classic sweets
Time needed
See guide
The local read
Design and hand-stitch your own leather or vegan leather handbag at this intimate DIY workshop on the Danforth. Choose your colours, hardware, and style under step-by-step guidance from a skilled craftsperson. A genuinely creative, hands-on experience that leaves you with a custom-made bag and a new skill — perfect for date ideas, girls' day out, or solo creative time.
At a glance
Cost
$$
Best time
Weekend afternoon for the most relaxed pace and fullest material selection
Good for
DIY, Creative, Date ideas, Girls' day, Indoor, Hidden gem
Time needed
2.5–3 hours
The local read
A tropical greenhouse tucked between Bay Street office towers — one of Toronto's most unexpected escapes. Inside: winding stone paths, towering palms, ferns, flowering plants, and a full indoor waterfall. Completely free, open to the public, and almost always quiet on weekdays. The terrace gardens outside add another layer of the city you'd never find on a standard visit.
At a glance
Cost
Free
Best time
Weekday lunch
Good for
Solo, Quiet escape, Photo spots
Time needed
30 minutes to 1 hour
The local read
A former streetcar repair barn converted into a community hub with artist studios, a farmers market, and resident artist galleries. The Saturday market is one of the city's warmest community spaces.
At a glance
Cost
Free
Best time
Saturday morning
Good for
Local life, Foodies, Art lovers
Time needed
1–2 hours, or longer if you linger at the market or events.
The local read
Toronto's most beautiful and oldest cemetery. Gothic chapel, Victorian monuments, and a peaceful garden where some of the city's most notable historical figures are buried. A genuine hidden park.
At a glance
Cost
Free
Best time
Fall mornings
Good for
History lovers, Solo, Photographers
Time needed
45 minutes–1.5 hours
The local read
A boardwalk trail through a lush ravine in The Beaches neighbourhood. Feels like a forest hike but you're 10 minutes from Queen Street cafés. Completely off the tourist radar.
At a glance
Cost
Free
Best time
Morning or golden hour
Good for
Nature, Hikers, Dog walkers
Time needed
45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending if you do the full loop up and down the boardwalk.
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Best of Toronto, every Thursday. Free.
