Categories > Guides and Tips

15 Fun Date Ideas for Toronto Winter That Will Give You a Kiss of Approval
- Go ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square
- Warm up at Dineen Coffee Co.
- Enjoy a staycation for 2 at the Fairmont Royal York
- Explore the Distillery Winter Village
- Get serenaded at the Candlelight Christmas Concert
- Hit the bullseye at BATL Axe Throwing
- Ready, set, game at Freeplay Toronto
- Get a couples massage at Elmwood Spa
- Dance to the beat at the Wintersong Music Festival
- Go on a retro date at Rollerpony
- Race to the finish at Pursuit OCR
- Discover Toronto’s food scene with Winterlicious
- Pick up the brush and paint at Pinot’s Palette
- Aim and shoot at Shooting Academy Canada Ltd.
- Learn the art of sushi making with Roll This Way
The winter season tends to make us cocoon ourselves in the thickest blanket. It feels like there’s not much to do when the city’s covered in snow and the skies are grey.
Suddenly, date nights become Netflix and chill, but that’s not always fun, is it? We’re not letting chilly weather dull the romance.
Time to break out of the winter shell and do something exciting and memorable (and no, it doesn’t always have to be complicated snowy getaways!)
Say goodbye to a TV movie and dinner date (we can do that anytime). Add zest to the relationship with our handpicked fun date ideas in Toronto that actually impressed my wife!
Go ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Media credit: nathanphillipssquare
Location: 100 Queen St W
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (subject to change)
Admission: Free
You can’t let Toronto winter pass by without ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square. The fountain transforms into an ice skating rink for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re not from Toronto, it’s right where the famous illuminated “Toronto” sign is. So don’t forget to take an Instagram-worthy pic in front of it to remember your date.
You can join in on the opening night of the Cavalcade of Lights, where you can watch live performances and the lighting of the official Toronto Christmas tree. Just be ready for a huge crowd.
Pro Tips:
Bring your own skates if you want to save some money. Rental skates are available at Nathan Phillips Square for $15.
Weekends are going to be packed. Try visiting on a weekday if you can.
Warm up at Dineen Coffee Co.
Media credit: dineencoffeeco
Website: https://www.dineencoffee.com/
Location: 140 Yonge St
Contact: (416) 900-0949, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
After a fun date if ice skating, cap off the night with a warm cup of coffee. Dineen Coffee Co. is just on Yonge Street, a short 10-minute walk, bringing you a little farther from the huge crowds.
It’s located in one of the city’s oldest structures. The interior is absolutely stunning, but it’s particularly magical in the winter.
Don’t miss out on sipping on their holiday drinks. Finish off your fun night with these exclusive seasonal delights.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on their coffee roasts. The Temperance Roast is creamy with a chocolatey and nutty taste.
Enjoy a staycation for 2 at the Fairmont Royal York
Media credit: fairmontroyalyork
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/royal-york-toronto/
Location: 100 Front St W
Contact: (416) 368 2511, +1 (866) 540 4489 (Toll-Free), [email protected]
A staycation will always be a fun date idea in summer or winter. Staying in a hotel is enjoyable because you don’t have to worry about chores and you’re free to eat on the bed.
Let’s take it up a notch by staying at Fairmont Royal York, a luxurious hotel in Toronto. The elegant rooms will keep you warm during winter nights.
You’re also super close to winter festivities, making it an ideal base for your Toronto fun adventures.
Pro Tip:
Join the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) program to find the best rooms and prices. It’s free to join!
Explore the Distillery Winter Village
Media credit: distilleryto
Website: https://www.thedistillerywintervillage.com/
Location: 51 Gristmill Lane
Contact: 1 (647) 693-4646, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- November – January: 7 days a week (Exact dates and hours will vary)
General Admission: $15
The holiday season in Toronto is not complete without visiting the famous Distillery Winter Village. Around November, the historic Distillery District transforms into a festive environment.
It’s the largest festive market in Toronto, where you can fill your bellies with good food and great beer. Wander around the cobblestone streets and find the best food you’ve ever tasted—Tartistry is a must-visit for their famous butter tarts.
Don’t forget to take a photo with the giant Christmas tree and the Christmas countdown! The tree was even sponsored in 2023 by Dior.
Pro Tip:
Tickets are required after 4:00 pm. If you want to save some money and avoid the crowd (the place is jam-packed with visitors at night), visit before 4:00 pm and check out the permanent shops.
Get serenaded at the Candlelight Christmas Concert
Media credit: candlelight.concerts
Website: https://candlelightexperience.com/
Location: Click here for the complete list of venues
Contact: Online form
Ticket Prices: Varies depending on the show
Candlelight Christmas Concert is truly a unique experience. It’s fun and romantic, the perfect date idea if you want a different kind of festive activity.
This is not your typical concert. You’ll enter beautiful venues and listen to holiday classics performed by renowned musicians in a candlelight setting (they use LED candles so it’s safe).
They’ve featured music by Hans Zimmer and Warner Bros soundtracks. Music from famous artists like Lana Del Rey and Coldplay have also been played, so you’re sure to find the perfect experience for you and your date.
Pro Tips:
Do not arrive late because you won’t be allowed to go in. You won’t get refunds either.
Make sure the flash on your phone is off. Photos and videos are allowed during the final piece only, but this rule may change depending on the musician or venue.
Hit the bullseye at BATL Axe Throwing
Media credit: batlground
Website: https://batlgrounds.com/axe-throwing-toronto-east/
Location: 33 Villiers St
Contact: (647) 793-6410, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
BATL Casual Ticket:
- 1 hour – $31.99/person
- 2 hours – $42.99/person
Tap into your inner lumberjack and compete at BATL Axe Throwing. It’s the ultimate fun date idea but with a twist.
Instead of just having fun, you can also battle it out and see who can hit the bullseye first—we admit this will bring out your competitive edge! You don’t even have to be an expert axe thrower because you’ll get a quick lesson.
When it’s time to give your arms a rest, you and your partner can drink a cold glass of beer and eat pizza.
Pro Tips:
Wear clothing that won’t restrict your movement. Also, stick to closed-toe shoes, which is a requirement.
The two-hour ticket has a four-person minimum. It’s best for double dates, so call up your favourite couple!
Ready, set, game at Freeplay Toronto
Media credit: freeplaytoronto
Website: https://www.freeplaytoronto.com/
Location: 300 College St
Contact: (416) 929-2979, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Thursday 5:00 pm – 1:00 am
- Friday: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am
- Saturday: 2:00 pm – 2:00 am
- Sunday: 2:00 pm – 12:00 am
Admission: $5 per person
Get ready for a fun date that won’t hurt the bank! Freeplay Toronto has two floors of all-you-can-play arcade games that will give you a nostalgic feeling.
It’s like you’re a kid again, except you can actually drink beer this time. There are over 65 games you and your date can play, like pinball, SNES Classic, PlayStation Classic, and arcade games that include The House of the Dead 2 and Marvel vs Capcom 2.
That’s not all. This is an adult playground, after all, so a visit to the bar for some drinks is a must!
Pro Tip:
For some gaming, drinking, and dancing, they have a live DJ from Thursday to Saturday.
Get a couples massage at Elmwood Spa
Media credit: elmwoodspa
Website: https://www.elmwoodspa.com/
Location: 18 Elm St
Contact: (416) 977-6751
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Prices:
- Couple’s Essential Retreat – $450
- Exotic Escape for Two – $472
- Thai Escape for Two – $633
Fun dates don’t always have to be thrilling activities. Sometimes, all you need is to relax, away from all the worries of life.
You and your partner can pamper yourselves right in the heart of downtown Toronto at Elmwood Spa.
They offer couples massages and three-course meals. There’s also a pool to relax in and do some water therapy.
Pro Tips:
Book at least two to three weeks in advance for a higher chance of getting your preferred date and time.
Make sure to let them know you’re going in as a couple and ask about getting a massage room for two, so you and your partner can stay together.
Dance to the beat at the Wintersong Music Festival
Media credit: wintersongfest
Website: https://wintersong.ca/
Location: Multiple venues at Whitchurch-Stouffville
Contact: [email protected]
When: January
Admission: Free to attend, tickets will vary per musical act
It’s no secret that Canada hosts hundreds of festivals a year, and Toronto is no stranger to this. Even with the chilly winter air, you can sing along with your favourite artists.
If you love music, the Wintersong Music Festival is the ultimate date night. With over 100 musical acts, you can listen to your favourite artists or discover new ones to add to your playlist.
This two-day music fest is the perfect weekend getaway. Stouffville is just an hour’s drive from Toronto.
Pro Tip:
Check their website and Instagram so you can plan out your schedule. Some bands will have limited tickets available, so better grab those while you can.
Go on a retro date at Rollerpony
Media credit: rollerponyto
Website: https://rollerpony.com/
Location: 75 Westmore Dr Unit B, Etobicoke
Contact: (647) 999-4199, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Thursday: Special events only, closed for public skating
- Friday – Saturday: 6:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Sunday: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission:
- Standard Admission (3 hours) – $17.12 + tax
- Rental Skates – $5
Travel back to the 90s (and Etobicoke) for an old-fashioned date idea that won’t cost a fortune. Rollerpony, an 18+ only roller skating rink, has a surface of 20,000 sq ft with multiple layers for skating.
Unleash your funky style and enjoy this retro date night. There’s cool music (they have a DJ!), retro lighting, disco ball, arcade games, a barber shop, and a Jamaican restaurant called Flava Ceen.
Pro Tips:
Don’t forget to wear socks since they’re required. Bring one that provides a little cushion to protect your feet.
Bring a lock for the locker or you’ll need to purchase on site.
Race to the finish at Pursuit OCR
Media credit: pursuitocr
Website: https://pursuitocr.com/
Location: 75 Westmore Dr Unit A, Etobicoke
Contact: (647) 467-8444, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 2:00 pm – 9:30 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 1:30 pm – 11:00 pm
- Sunday: 1:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Standard Admission: $25
Once you’re done rollerskating at Rollerpony, head over to Pursuit OCR, Toronto’s largest adult indoor playground (it’s 18+ only). Have fun at the seemingly endless obstacle courses at this 33,000 sq ft facility.
You don’t have to be the strongest person or the most athletic. All fitness levels will enjoy this place because there are different types of obstacles for everyone.
Climb the rope, hold on to the rings, hang on to the monkey bars, land in the giant ball pit, or pedal and race around the track. Basically, see who can be a Ninja Warrior!
Pro Tip:
Wear running shoes and comfortable clothing you can move around in. You can bring gloves if you want to have a better grip on the obstacle course.
Discover Toronto’s food scene with Winterlicious
Media credit: liciousto
When: For 2 weeks around February
Price: $20 – $75 (depending on the restaurant and the type of meal)
Food adventures are always a good idea and it’s even better if it lasts two weeks. Every year, Toronto celebrates its vibrant (and delicious!) culinary scene with Winterlicious.
Over 200 restaurants participate to showcase their scrumptious meals. Explore the city and choose any of the participating restaurants for either a 3-course lunch or dinner.
Food lovers will surely have fun since you get to eat new meals but pay fixed prices instead. So, make the most out of this event, go on a culinary adventure, and taste something new.
Pro Tips:
Make a list of the participating restaurants and plan your schedule. Many restaurants will join in, so this is the time to try something you normally wouldn’t go to.
Don’t forget to reserve a table because participating restaurants are likely to get packed. It’s likely they may not be able to accommodate walk-ins.
Pick up the brush and paint at Pinot’s Palette
Media credit: pinotspalettetoronto
Website: https://pinotspalette.com/toronto
Location: 7540 Weston Rd Unit B2, Woodbridge
Contact: (416) 769-8585, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 1:00 pm -10:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
No walk-ins. Reservations only.
Price: In-studio – $25 – $45
Unleash your inner Van Gogh at Pinot’s Palette. If you’re looking for a fun date idea, you can paint like pros…or newbies, it doesn’t really matter.
This is not your typical art class. You and your partner can paint while sipping pinot or beer! They have a bar where you can order drinks and snacks!
Pro Tip:
Avoid wearing long sleeves and clothes you don’t want to stain.
Aim and shoot at Shooting Academy Canada Ltd.
Media credit: shootingacademycanada
Website: https://shootingacademycanada.com/
Location: 40 Continental Pl, Scarborough
Contact: (416) 551-1610
Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Price:
- Beginner Archery – $30 – $35
- Airgun – $35 – $60
- Knife Throwing – $35 – $50
Who doesn’t like shooting things? Safely, of course. For a fun date idea, a visit to Shooting Academy Canada Ltd. is a must.
Forget dinner and a movie for a first date. Here, you get to learn how to aim and shoot, which is a really cool thing to do in summer and winter (it’s indoors, so you’re safe from the chilly weather).
There are three activities here: archery, airgun, and knife throwing. With these three, you’re sure to have a memorable and fun date.
Pro Tip:
Wear comfortable clothes. If your clothes restrict your movement, you may not get to aim properly.
Learn the art of sushi making with Roll This Way
Media credit: rollthiswaysushi
Website: https://rollthisway.com/
Location: 14 Logan Ave
Contact: 1 (855) 447-8744, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Depending on class availability
Admission: $85/person
For food lovers or aspiring chefs, Roll This Way is the ultimate date idea and the perfect excuse if you love Japanese food.
Time to say goodbye to sushi mishaps! For 90 minutes, you and your partner will learn how to make sushi the right way!
In this class, you and your date will make four different types of sushi (maki, uramaki, temaki and nigiri), totalling 28 pieces. The best part? You can eat afterwards and bring home any leftovers!
Pro Tip:
If you’re not up for Toronto’s chilly winter, you can still enjoy this fun date in the comfort of your own home. Just pick the pre-recorded sushi-making class and have the ingredients and kit delivered to your doorstep.