Explore the best of Toronto’s lakeside attractions-plus a local hidden gem that’s blowing up on TikTok.
Toronto’s waterfront is more than just a view-it’s a vibe. Stretching over 46 kilometers, it offers one of the most diverse and vibrant urban lakeside experiences in the world. Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for a fresh weekend plan, this list has something to surprise you.
Here are 7 must-try Toronto waterfront activities that should be on your 2025 bucket list.
Activity | Type | Best For | Local Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
Levelup Reality VR Arcade
| VR Arcade
| Families, Friends, Gamers
| Book in advance for weekend slots
|
Waterfront Artisan Market
| Food & Crafts
| Couples, Tourists
| Check schedule-vendors rotate weekly
|
Sugar Beach
| Urban Beach Park
| Solo Relaxation, Couples
| Bring a book or picnic for a mid-day reset
|
Toronto Harbour Boat Cruise
| Scenic Tour
| First-time Visitors, Photographers
| Go at sunset for the best skyline views
|
Harbourfront Centre
| Cultural Activities
| Art Lovers, Families, Date Nights
| Check event calendar for festivals & performances
|
BeaverTails | Snack Spot
| Families, Foodies
| Try the classic with cinnamon and sugar
|
Boardwalk Walk or Bike Ride
| Outdoor Leisure
| Everyone
| Bike rentals available near Queen’s Quay
|
Table of Contents
Step Into Another Universe at Levelup Reality (VR Arcade in Downtown Toronto)
Let’s start strong-this one’s just slightly off the waterfront, but absolutely unmissable.
Just a few blocks from the lake, Levelup Reality is Toronto’s highest-rated virtual reality arcade and a favorite for both locals and visiting groups. From deep space battles to zombie survival and rhythm games, it’s a wild and fully immersive experience you won’t get anywhere else.
- 80+ multiplayer and solo VR games
- Haptic suit upgrades that make it feel real
- Options for birthday parties, dates, and team events
- Affordable pricing and summer discounts
Located near Yonge-Dundas Square – walkable from Queens Quay
Browse Local Food & Art at the Waterfront Artisan Market
If you’re in town between June and October, don’t skip this rotating outdoor market located steps from the lake. Featuring a mix of gourmet bites, handmade crafts, and indie art, it’s one of the city’s best weekend events.
- 50 vendors rotating weekly
- Great for picking up unique gifts or grabbing lunch
- Free to enter, with paid food and goods
📍 HTO Park + Queen’s Quay Terminal
🛍️ Come early for the best selections before vendors sell out!
Chill Out at Sugar Beach (Yes, It’s Real)
Pink umbrellas, soft white sand, and city skyline views-Sugar Beach is Toronto’s answer to tropical vibes without leaving downtown.
It’s not swimmable, but it’s an ideal escape from the buzz. Bring a book, take a lunch break, or enjoy people-watching by the water.
- Relaxing urban beach setting
- Free public access
- No alcohol permitted, but you can bring snacks
📍 11 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON M5A 1J1, Canada
Cruise Toronto Harbour and See the City from the Water
A boat ride on Lake Ontario offers the best views of the skyline-and it’s a great way to slow things down.
There are plenty of options: sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, or even themed party boats in summer. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and one of the best ways to experience the waterfront.
- Book online or on-site near Queens Quay
- Sunset cruises are especially popular
- Bring a jacket-it gets breezy on the lake
📍 Departures from Harbourfront Centre, Queens Quay West
Catch an Exhibit or Festival at Harbourfront Centre
If you’re into art, music, or culture, Harbourfront Centre is your go-to. With 4,000+ events every year, there’s always something happening-from dance showcases to outdoor concerts to art installations.
- Explore the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery
- Catch live performances at the Enwave Theatre
- Family-friendly events year-round
📍 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8, Canada
🎭 Check their online calendar before visiting.
Snack on a Canadian Classic: BeaverTails
Need a sweet fix by the water? You’ll find BeaverTails stands near the waterfront, offering their signature fried dough pastries topped with everything from chocolate hazelnut to Oreos.
It’s so Canadian, and you’ll want to grab a pic before you bite in.
- Quick snack stop during your walk
- Best enjoyed hot and fresh
- Try the “Killaloe Sunrise” for a local favorite
📍 Look for the kiosk near Harbourfront Centre or outdoor events
Walk, Jog, or Bike the Waterfront Trail
One of the simplest and most rewarding activities: just walk.
Toronto’s Martin Goodman Trail stretches all along the waterfront and links up with several parks, cafes, and viewpoints. Rent a bike, grab a coffee, and cruise the coastline.
- Great for morning jogs, date walks, or photo ops
- Bike rentals available on Queens Quay
- Pass by the Toronto Music Garden, a hidden gem
📍 Trail access from Queens Quay, Spadina, Bathurst and beyond
Your 2025 Toronto Waterfront Game Plan
Whether you’re in the city for a weekend or a longtime local, the Toronto waterfront is a choose-your-own-adventure. From culture to carbs to VR arcades with your friends, these activities offer the perfect mix of fun, chill, and discovery.
