The best family attractions to check out in Toronto before school break ends

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Last updated: Dec. 27, 2025

The new year is almost here, but there are still tons of family-friendly attractions to explore before the kids head back to school. Toronto is filled with educational activities and magical activities that are perfect for the winter break, so both kids and adults will be enthralled as they roam around the city and create lasting memories. From eccentric museum displays and cool art galleries to attractions featuring cute, furry animals — bundle up and check out these family-friendly attractions in Toronto throughout the holidays and beyond!

Little Canada

Maybe you won’t have time to travel the country this winter, but this ingenious exhibit will allow you and your family to see Canada as you’ve never seen it before! Little Canada is filled with detailed miniature displays of popular Canadian landmarks and neighbourhoods, like Little Niagara, Little Toronto, Little Golden Horseshoe, Little Ottawa, Petit Québec, Little East Coast, and Little West Coast. Your kids will learn about the history of the country while admiring miniaturized versions of the grand landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, the CN Tower, and the Bay of Fundy’s 400 L basin! Located in the heart of downtown Toronto (10 Dundas St. E.).

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) for the Holidays

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Your entire family can experience the annual ‘ROM for the Holidays’ attractions until Jan. 4, 2026, with enhanced programming, live performances, and interactive activities. Craft lanterns inspired by lanterns on display in the museum; try an experimental art activity to learn about rainbows; and enjoy pop-up surprise performances, including eco-troubadour Chris McKhool. Before you head out, check out the museum’s new shark exhibit — perfect for kids who are obsessed with the sea. (100 Queens Park).

The Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame is filled with interactive activities for kids (and kids at heart)! Challenge your hockey skills against life-sized, animated versions of the greatest NHL goalies and shooters (you even get to use a real-life puck and stick). Snap a photo alongside the Hall’s mascot ‘Slapshot’ or while embracing the great Stanley Cup. There are also tons of artifacts to explore representing hockey’s greatest moments, including Sidney Crosby’s Golden Goal and a gallery of iconic goalie masks! (30 Yonge St.).

Casa Loma

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Bundle up and wander the castle grounds of Canada’s most famous, majestic castle! Until the end of the first week of January, admire the dazzling light displays sprawled across the castle’s estate and charming gardens. Head inside and get lost as you explore the extensive walkways and tunnels. Your kids can participate in festive arts and crafts activities and even meet holiday mascots! (1 Austin Terrace).

Bubble Planet Toronto

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Before the winter break ends, let your kids embark on a sensory journey with oversized bubbles! This immersive experience (which closes in Toronto in just a few weeks) features different rooms filled with bubble-themed activities, like the LED room, a VR room, and a soap bubbles room. The whole experience takes about 60 minutes to complete but you’re welcome to stay as long as you want in each room before moving on to the next one. All ages are welcome (and kids under three enter free of charge). (Exhibition Hub, Downsview Airport Lands, 30 Hanover Rd.).

Art Gallery of Ontario

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Teens and kids alike will love exploring Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room, featuring a seemingly endless amount of mirrored orbs and reflective surfaces. Meanwhile, the entire family can head to the Dr. Mariano Elia Hands-On Centre for art-making and creative play activities — these are fun and educational activities that will help your little ones develop confidence and critical thinking skills. Throughout the winter, younger kids can explore other artistic activities, like life drawing, portrait painting, and even animation and cartooning classes (317 Dundas St. W.).

Toronto Zoo

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Winter’s the perfect time to visit the zoo! There’s less crowds and your kids will get to spend more time learning about their fav animals. Head over during the holiday break and enjoy five tropical indoor pavilions, 10 kilometres of walking trails, and discounted winter pricing. Check out the Zoo’s Guardian Talks series, where zookeepers share fascinating details about the animals in their care (everything from their diets to any special care they receive — runs until Jan. 5, 2026). The entire family can celebrate ‘Noon New Years Eve’ in the Discovery Zone — this free event will be filled with interactive games, entertainment, prizes and even a DJ spinning kid-friendly tunes (Dec. 31, 2025, 11 a.m.). At the heart of the celebration is a countdown to 12 (p.m.), so a perfect event for early risers and a great way to create more family memories as you head into the New Year.

5 enchanting Ontario towns to visit during the holidays

By

Julia Mastroianni

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5:47 am

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Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an impromptu day trip, everyone loves a good reason to escape from the everyday. Sure, those long summer days may feel like a distant memory, but just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean we should curl up and hibernate (although, sometimes, that’s nice, too). Why not explore a little this winter? You might be pleasantly surprised!

Whether you’re interested in history or culinary adventures — or you’re simply looking to do something a bit festive — there’s plenty to do across Ontario’s small towns this holiday season. To get started, here are five wintry destinations for a road trip worthy of exploration.

Elora

Famous for its gorge and historic streets, this pretty mill town is a great spot to explore over the Christmas holidays. Meander the main street strung with sparkling lights and evergreen garlands and pop into the many shops for unique boutique items. Warm yourself with a hot chocolate or warm up at a coffee shop favourite, Lost + Found Café before planning an intimate dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants.

Almonte

Known as Ontario’s Christmas town, thanks to the many Hallmark movies filmed here, Almonte is always a winter delight. Spend some time exploring the 19th-century ambiance of downtown and discover the perfect spot for a festive brunch at The Sterling. Stroll the picturesque riverwalk amid a snow-covered wonderland and enjoy an afternoon exploring the town’s many quaint shops or historic sites.

Brockville

Brockville’s Blockhouse Island will be aglow in festive cheer from now until Jan. 4. Featuring thousands of choreographed twinkling lights along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, it’s a sight to see. Hop on the Holiday Train for a fun way to experience the light show or enjoy it independently at your own pace. Discover the town’s charming interior and shop the many small businesses to find something unique. Stop by the local brewery for a boozy holiday lunch, or enjoy freshly baked goodies from a nearby cafe. For a taste of history, check out the Brockville Railway Tunnel.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

notl holidays — Courtesy @visitniagaraonthelake/Instagram

Delightful at any time of year, Niagara-on-the-Lake truly sparkles during the holiday season. Known for its historic streets and cozy B&Bs, meandering this little town on the shores of Lake Ontario is always a pleasure. Stop by the Christmas Store for a customized ornament, or pop into one of the many confectionary shops for a sweet treat to bring home. Enjoy a festive high tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel amid a backdrop of picturesque winter scenery, and explore the town’s sights on an enchanting horse-drawn carriage ride.

Stratford

Stratford may be famous for its renowned theatre scene, but it’s also a great town to explore during the holiday season. For a fun-filled foodie adventure, check out the Chocolate Trail or Bacon & Ale Trail. As for winter festivities, explore the fifth annual Lights on Stratford, which runs until Jan. 18. Follow the interactive map and immerse yourself in glowing art installations that light up the night sky, like the cosmic Stargate display or towering Trumpet Flowers. Stick around for New Year’s Eve and ring in 2026 at a roaring ’20s party, or go incognito at a masquerade ball.

The 9 saddest Toronto restaurant closings of 2025

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Jennifer Schembri

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12:55 pm

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Snapinsta.app_212594487_323830466121152_5272759840058875123_n_1080 — @therosedalediner/Instagram

Everything must come to an end, but when it’s your favourite Toronto restaurant, the one where you celebrated milestones or the neighborhood gem that stood for years, it can be heart-wrenching. While new amazing restaurants open in Toronto daily, some can never truly be replaced.

Here are the saddest restaurant closings of 2025.

San Francesco Foods, Little Italy

SnapInsta Ai Cy6ovmvrRsx — The famous veal sandwich

After more than 70 years on Clinton Street, San Francesco Foods closed its original location on Dec. 21. The family-run spot, famous for introducing Toronto to the veal sandwich, had stayed almost entirely unchanged over the decades: fresh bread delivered each morning, marinara made daily and meat sourced locally. Rising costs and shifting dining habits finally caught up with the old model, and one of Little Italy’s longest-running food counters quietly disappeared. The brand survives in Mississauga and during summers at the CNE, but the Clinton Street space, with its worn counters and loyal regulars, is gone for good.

Greta Solomon’s, Leslieville

Greta Solomon’s, the intimate 26-seat bistro that brought a whisper of Paris to Leslieville, closed its doors in March 2025. Opened in 2016 by Darlene Mitchell in honour of her late mother and grandfather, the restaurant quickly became a city darling for its precise French classics — risotto à l’orge, steak frites, magret de canard and rich desserts. Loyal patrons mourned its loss, leaving heartfelt messages online as the doors closed for good. Mitchell hinted there might be new ventures ahead, but for Leslieville, the quiet clink of plates and soft French chatter of Greta Solomon’s is gone.

Glory Hole Doughnuts, Little India

After 14 years of creative, fan-favourite doughnuts, Glory Hole Doughnuts closed its Gerrard Street doors in July. Founded in 2012 by Ashley Jacot De Boinod, the shop became a Toronto favourite, known for handmade treats, a welcoming vibe, and a commitment to community over flash. For more than a decade, Torontonians queued for the inventive doughnuts and despite plans to rebrand, nothing new ever materialized, leaving the original Glory Hole a memory.

La Bartola, Little Italy

In March after five acclaimed years, La Bartola was no more. The Michelin Bib Gourmand plant-based Mexican spot, led by award-winning chef Ivan Castro, had become a city favourite for its scratch-made dishes and sustainable ethos. The closure came as Castro reflected on the personal toll of kitchen life on his mental and physical health. For its final service, La Bartola celebrated its roots with a tasting menu, One Night in Oaxaca, honouring the flavours of the region.

St. Thomas, Yorkville

Opened at the tail end of 2023, St. Thomas was a short-lived Spanish-inspired gem in Yorkville, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Quinton Bennett of Enigma. The restaurant offered small plates à la carte and a daily Pintxos Hour, where champagne met seasonal bites, plus a private wine lounge for quieter indulgence. But the concept lasted less than two years. The space was quietly folded back into Enigma during a January refurbishment, ending St. Thomas before it could fully find its footing.

Vivoli, Little Italy

snapins ai 3217293120113700663 — @torontovivoli/Instagram

After more than 20 years, Vivoli closed its College Street doors on July 6. The Italian mainstay, just west of Clinton Street, had been a fixture in Little Italy: rooftop patio bustling with casual diners, birthday parties, post-bar hangs and first dates. A renovation in 2017 refreshed the look and menu, but Vivoli kept its easygoing, neighbourhood charm. When the closure was announced on Instagram, regulars flooded the comments with memories of tables, patios and meals that had become part of their routines. No reason was given for the closure.

Saving Grace, Dundas West

After 25 years, Saving Grace closed its doors on February 15, 2025. The Dundas West brunch spot had become a neighbourhood fixture, known for no-frills, solid food—chalkboard menus, plywood tables, mismatched chairs — and a line that rarely disappeared. Owner Monica Miller built the menu around creativity and travel-inspired specials, from perfectly poached eggs to gourmet sausages. A month-long yard sale followed the closure, giving the community one last chance to take a piece of the restaurant home.

Ascari Enoteca, Leslieville

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A bankruptcy notice appeared in the window of Ascari Enoteca on June 11, 2025, marking the end of over a decade for the Leslieville Italian restaurant. Known for handmade pasta, seasonal menus, and an intimate 38-seat dining room, Ascari earned praise from diners and chefs alike, including Michelin-recognized Lawrence La Pianta. The restaurant, named after Italian Formula One driver Alberto Ascari, blended its love of food, wine and racing into a quietly meticulous fine dining experience. A second King West location opened in 2019 but closed in 2023. Co-owner Erik Joyal cited pandemic fallout, rising costs and debt obligations for the forced bankruptcy, noting that the business had never fully recovered from COVID-19 disruption

Indie Ale House, The Junction

snapins ai 3623029946836659334 — @indiealehouse/Instagram

Indie Alehouse closed its Junction brewpub on October 11, 2025, after 13 years. The 4,000-square-foot space had helped launch the area’s modern craft-beer scene, combining on-site brewing with a 140-seat pub and a rotating lineup of bold, hard-to-find beers, from Belgian Lambics to Imperial IPAs and seasonal stouts. The closure came after the team was unable to reach a new lease agreement, though their Eataly location at Bay and Bloor remains open.

7 new pizza spots in Toronto you absolutely need to try

By

Nisean Lorde

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12:10 pm

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Toronto’s pizza scene is filled with piping hot slices, and in the past few months, a new wave of openings has pushed the city’s love affair with dough, sauce and cheese to new heights! From a high-fashion pizza room in Vaughan to flaky, croissant-style pizza in the downtown core, here are some of the best new pizza spots in and around Toronto right now.

1. ZZaVia

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At the heart of Bayview, Zzavia has become one of Toronto’s most talked-about pizza rooms. Expect a sleek, modern space with pizzas bursting with quality ingredients, like fresh organic dough, premium tomatoes, local mozzarella and artisanal toppings that honour Italian tradition. Whether you opt for a whole pie or pizza by the slice, you’ll come to understand Zzavia’s motto: Life’s too short for boring food. Try the classic Capricciosa, featuring San Marzano tomatoes, mushrooms, artichokes, ham and traditional dry-cured olives. 1597 Bayview Ave.

2. Cantina Amici

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Vaughan’s latest Italian diner opened earlier this year and blends the flavours of Naples with the comfort of a family spot. Expect the most delicious dough: it’s crafted in-house with flour imported from Italy, then left to rise for 48 to 90 hours. With a high hydration of nearly 85 per cent, the result is a light, airy base! Try the Pizza Paolino and beet salad, and you’ll have the perfect start to the night. 345 Millway Ave, Unit 2, Vaughan.

3. Bello Pizza

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Bello Pizza began as a backyard pandemic project and has evolved into one of the GTA’s most popular pizza spots! The new Toronto location already has a loyal following thanks to its slow-fermented dough, airy crusts and commitment to thoughtfully sourced ingredients. You’ll never go wrong with a perfectly balanced pie topped with high-quality cheese and sausage n’ peppers. 50 Brant St.

4. Nice Slice

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Nestled in Harbord Village, Nice Slice caters to lovers of craveable slices and pies. For meat lovers, indulge in the new bacon-sausage-pepperoni special, and if you’re looking for a delicious spin on a traditional classic, try the vodka pepperoni. Pair it with some extra hot honey sauce with smoked ghost pepper and call it a day! 196 Borden St.

5. Little Pebbles

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If you can’t decide between a buttery, flaky croissant and a pizza, why not combine the two? Little Pebbles makes its CROZZA Pizza croissant crusts in-house from scratch and serves them in a rotating lineup of flavours like margherita, lox and chicken pesto. 540 College St.

6. Pizzeria Isabella

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Over in Ajax, Pizzeria Isabella has earned destination status for its Roman-style pizza with super crisp bases! It’s a popular stop for Toronto pizza lovers willing to travel for the most perfect pie. If you’re extra hungry, order the Tre Formaggi (three-cheese) big slice, topped with Neapolitan tomato pulp, fior di latte, mozzarella and parmigiano cheese. Or opt for a simple Margherita, with basics like roasted garlic and fresh basil-balsamic reduction. 34 Church St S, Ajax.

7. Tony’s Sourdough Pizzeria

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Tony’s isn’t exactly in Toronto, but it’s well worth the 90-minute drive. The restaurant was opened by MasterChef Canada alum Tony Bish and has quickly become a pizza pilgrimage spot for diners craving inventive takes on the classic pie. Standout creations include the Umami, topped with fior di latte mozzarella, Gruyère, thyme, smoked local mushrooms and (yup) nutmeg, as well as the Farmboi, featuring veal sausage, poached egg, smoked ricotta and Gruyère. More of a traditionalist? Classic options like the Plain Red are also offered. But there’s a twist: Chef Bish only crafts 100 pizzas a day, making each one a coveted option. 45 Mill St W, Unit 9, Elora.

Ontario Regulation 668 – Do You Know What This Is?

By

Jarrod Daley

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9:30 am

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Auto and Car Insurance policy with keys — Photo Bill Oxford

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“No-fault insurance” is perhaps the most misunderstood term in Ontario. Many drivers believe it means that if they get into an accident, it doesn’t matter who caused it—everyone just fixes their own car and moves on.

This is false. “No-fault” simply means you deal with your own insurance company for your claim, regardless of who caused the crash. But make no mistake: someone is always to blame.

That blame is assigned using a strict, standardized playbook known as Ontario Regulation 668: The Fault Determination Rules.

The “Playbook” Insurers Use

Regulation 668 contains diagrams and descriptions of more than 40 common accident scenarios. When you report a collision, your adjuster doesn’t necessarily care about your story or how slippery the road was. They look at the position of the cars, compare it to the diagrams in the Regulation, and assign fault: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%.

Crucially, these rules ignore weather and road conditions. If you slide on black ice and rear-end someone, you are 100% at fault. The Regulation assumes you should have been driving according to the conditions.

The Financial Sting: Who Pays the Deductible?

The biggest immediate impact of Regulation 668 is on your wallet.

If you are 0% at fault: Your claim is covered under the Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) section of your policy. In Ontario, this typically means you do not pay a deductible. Your insurer covers the repairs fully.
If you are At Fault (50% – 100%): You must claim under your optional Collision coverage. You will be required to pay your deductible (often $500 or $1,000) before repairs begin. Furthermore, your premiums will likely increase upon renewal.

The “50/50” Parking Lot Myth

A common belief is that all accidents in parking lots are automatically split 50/50. Regulation 668 actually has very specific rules for parking lots (Section 16).

The Thoroughfare Rule: If you are driving in a main “thoroughfare” (a lane that exits the lot or connects directly to a road) and someone hits you while pulling out of a “feeder lane” (the aisles between parking spots), they are 100% at fault.
Leaving a Spot: If you are backing out of a parking spot and hit a passing car, you are 100% at fault.

The 50/50 split usually only applies when two drivers are both backing out of spots simultaneously or both vying for the same lane and collide.

The Left Turn Trap

Regulation 668 is notoriously harsh on drivers making left turns. If you are turning left at an intersection and collide with an oncoming vehicle going straight, you are almost always 100% at fault.

Even if you argue the other driver was speeding or ran a yellow light, the Fault Determination Rules generally place the burden on the turning driver to ensure the way is clear. Unless you have independent witnesses or dashcam footage to prove the other driver ran a blatant red, you will likely be on the hook for your deductible.

Summary of Common Scenarios

Here is a quick reference guide to how Regulation 668 typically assigns blame:

Accident Scenario	Your Action	Other Driver	Your Fault %	Do You Pay Deductible?
Rear-End	You hit car in front	Stopped/Moving	100%	Yes
Rear-Ended	You are hit from behind	Stopped/Moving	0%	No
Left Turn	Turning left	Going straight	100%	Yes
Lane Change	Changing lanes	Going straight	100%	Yes
Parking Lot	Driving in main lane	Exiting feeder lane	0%	No
Open Door	Door opens into traffic	Driving by	100%	Yes

Why This Matters

Understanding Regulation 668 is vital because it removes the emotion from the equation. Insurers effectively use a flowchart to decide your financial liability.

“Many clients come to us shocked that they were found at fault because the roads were icy or the other driver ‘came out of nowhere.’ The harsh reality is that the Fault Determination Rules are rigid. They don’t care about the weather; they care about who had the right of way. Knowing these rules before you get behind the wheel is the best defense.” Jeremy Diamond, Senior Partner at Diamond & Diamond Lawyers.

If you are involved in an accident, document the scene thoroughly. The difference between being 0% at fault (no deductible) and 50% at fault (paying your deductible + rate hike) often comes down to proving exactly which diagram in Regulation 668 applies to your crash.

About Jeremy Diamond

Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.

5 indoor garden oases in and around Toronto to escape the winter blues

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:47 am

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We may be in the middle of winter, but there are several indoor garden spaces in and near Toronto that are filled with tropical and arid displays, providing a warm escape from the cold weather! The next time you’re seeking respite from the biting wind, check out one of these indoor green sanctuaries.

Bamboo Garden, Terrence Donnelly Centre (University of Toronto)

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This indoor garden along the southern façade of the building was constructed nearly 15 years ago and is a fav spot for students or anyone who enjoys greenery! The area is separated by tall tropical plants, palms, and 30-foot-tall bamboo trees, so it almost feels like you’re in a secret garden hidden away amidst a large, commercialized campus. The staircase is surrounded by a forest of trees that lead up to a vast patio with benches, making it the perfect hiding spot to escape the winter cold and enjoy lush vegetation. (160 College St., Toronto).

Centennial Park Conservatory

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This expansive conservatory offers free admission and boasts more than 12,000 square feet of indoor gardens that bloom all year around, making it an ideal space to shake off your winter blues. The main greenhouse contains over 200 tropical plant varieties, including lush palms, hibiscus, and orchids, as well as tropical fruit trees, like banana, soursop, and papaya! Stroll through the South Wing and you’ll discover unusual cacti and succulents, like agave, opuntia, and aloe. The north wing features more specialty displays that change seasonally, like floral species selected for the spring, summer, fall, and winter seasons. (151 Elmcrest Rd., Etobicoke).

Royal Botanical Gardens

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The venue features the largest botanical gardens in Canada — with over 2,400 acres of indoor gardens and outdoor, as well as a nature sanctuary, the space feels like a botanical dream! The gardens span across Hamilton and Burlington, so it’s just under a 1-hour drive from Toronto. During the winter months, you’ll want to check out the Royal Botanical Gardens Centre. Stroll through the Mediterranean Garden and you’ll witness new plants alongside familiar flora, like the Cacti and Succulent Collection, which adapt to arid, desert-like environments. Visit the Breezeway display and it’ll brighten your entire afternoon with colourful flowering shrubs and trees, as well as a range of common and exotic bulbs. Even if it’s sub-zero outside, it’ll literally feel like a spring day. (680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington).

Allan Gardens Conservatory

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The Conservatory opened up more than a century ago, and with six display houses and plant collections from across the globe, you can explore the venue for hours. Visit the Palm House — the historic glasshouse is the oldest greenhouse at the Gardens and is bursting with palms, bananas, and other tall specimens under a huge 16-sided dome! If you’re more into exotic plants, like cycads, gingers, and jade vines, check out The Tropical House — you’ll be transported to a brilliant Amazon rainforest. To get really heated up throughout the winter months, visit The Arid House — you’ll feel like you’re strolling through a desert as you clamber through dense cacti and beautiful succulents. Entry is free and the Gardens are open 365 days a year! (19 Horticultural Ave., Toronto).

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

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This tropical venue features much more than greenery — observe thousands of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, plants, live insect galleries, and more at this 25,000-square-foot facility. This is especially a perfect spot to escape the cold if you’re into butterfly evolution, as you can witness butterflies emerge from their chrysalis and take their first flight. The Conservatory, just over a 1-hour drive from Toronto, also boasts over 100 species of exotic plants that provide both nectar and pollen as natural food sources for the butterflies (you can also talk with their specialists to find out how to create the perfect butterfly habitat in your own backyard once the weather gets warmer)! (2500 Kossuth Rd., Cambridge).

Where to get the best latkes in Toronto

By

Jennifer Schembri

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3:05 pm

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Crispy, golden, and flawlessly fried, latkes are the unsung heroes of the holiday spread. As Hanukkah rolls in, Toronto’s top eateries are elevating this humble dish, offering everything from the classic sour cream and applesauce pairing to inventive, zhuzhed-up spins that put a modern twist on tradition. Whether you’re sticking to the OG or indulging in something a little more daring, these latkes are stealing the show this season.

Here’s where to get the best latkes in Toronto.

Fat Pasha

At this Annex favourite, latkes are a crispy, golden masterpiece. latkes are a crispy, golden masterpiece. Chef Anthony Rose gets it just right with tender centres and perfectly crunchy edges, served alongside signature roasted cauliflower or a decadent drizzle of tahini. 414 Dupont St.

Free Times Cafe

A cultural institution for over 40 years, this spot serves up light yet hearty latkes, perfectly paired with sour cream and house-made applesauce. For an added treat, try the brisket or smoked salmon latke sliders. 320 College St.

United Bakers Dairy Restaurant

For over a century, this iconic spot has been dishing out latkes that are the epitome of comfort and tradition. Each golden bite is served with your choice of classic sour cream, applesauce, or a surprising twist with sweet blueberry topping. 506 Lawrence Ave. W.

Centre Street Deli

Serving up latkes since ’88, Centre Street has mastered the art of crispy, golden nostalgia. Whether you’re sticking with the classic potato or going bold with a veggie twist, these latkes are always on point. 1136 Centre St., Thornhill.

The cosiest winter cabins to rent near Toronto for a snowy weekend getaway

By

lindsaylow

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10:30 am

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Vacations take on a different meaning during the winter, with people often opting for warm and tropical destinations to escape the weather. But there are plenty of ways to enjoy the best that winter has to offer (namely, those incredible views) for those looking for a short trip away from it all. Start the new year right with these off-the-beaten-path winter cabins within a three-hour drive of Toronto. These little hideaways are sure to give you a real cabin-in-the-woods type of experience, but with a touch of luxury.

An off-grid hideaway

cabinscape-winter-cabins — Image: Cabinscape

Mountain Grove | 3 hours

Cabinscape was founded by Toronto couple Laura Mendes and John Loerchner in 2017. The pair loved going on back country canoe trips, but once they had a baby they realized they needed alternative accommodations that offered more creature comforts than backpacking and camping. So they created their own. Cabinscape offers seven wilderness cabins spread out across southern Ontario from Pakenham, Ont., in the east to Bayfield, Ont., in the west. Pictured is the Mason cabin in Mountain Grove, Ont. The cabin sits on 576 private acres on a quiet lake with marked trails on site. Couples can enjoy snowshoeing the trails, ice skating, sledding and more in the winter months. Although this winter cabin may seem small, it comes complete with a queen bed, gas stovetop, fridge, freezer and bathroom. Just a 20-minute drive away is a gas station, beer store and LCBO. Five minutes further and you’ll wind up in the village of Sharbot Lake where cafés, restaurants and grocery stores will fulfill any need. The best part? No Wi-Fi. Couples can truly unplug from their devices and reconnect with each other.

A tiny cabin in the woods

fernwood hills winter cabin — Images: Lee Mann

Komoka | 2 hours

Fernwood Hills is a family-run operation by Lee Mann and his parents Ron and Celia. The cabin was first created for day use as it doesn’t have a washroom — guests use the washroom in the facility just up the lane — but then guests started asking the Mann family to stay the night. Perfect for singles or couples, the cabin is just the right place to breathe, think and relax. For those looking for a romantic getaway, the Manns know how to turn up the heat. The team will string the cabin with little lights and have a grazing platter waiting when you arrive, using their own farm fresh eggs and food from their market garden. Even the charcuterie boards themselves are made by Lee using fallen trees on the property. The family will even put together a dinner for two to be enjoyed inside this secluded retreat. In the winter months, the nearby pond freezes over, and skating is a must, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Come sugar shack season, the Manns make maple syrup from their trees, and guests can take a bottle home. For those looking for more comforts of home, the larger studio loft with additional amenities can also be rented. Just a perfect winter cabin for two.

An architect-designed gem

bear stand winter cabin — Images: Joe Magrath @thebearstand (top) and Danielle Meredith Photography (bottom)

Highlands East | 2.5 hours

Joe Magrath spent his summers on Contau Lake in the Haliburton Highlands for as long as he could remember. When he and his wife, Sharon Leece, had the opportunity to scoop up a 99-acre woodland in the area, they jumped. Next, they partnered with international award-winning architects Bohlin Cywinski Jackson to create the Bear Stand. The name comes from the hunting legacy of the area — original hunting stands used by generations past can still be found in the woods of the property. This vacation cabin offers 1,300 feet of lakeside shoreline and more than five kilometres of hiking trails and wetland boardwalks, but it’s what’s inside that really ups the wow factor: a sumptuous master suite with all the luxuries: a sauna, three fireplaces, a six-person lakeside tub and spa-like amenities from the rain showers to the Egyptian cotton towels. Magrath and Leece say they wanted to create an indoors-outdoors vacation home in the heart of nature that fused their passion for contemporary design with a pristine natural environment. They did just that.

Escape to a secluded lake

Godfrey | 3 hours

Marla Isaacs discovered Bob’s Lake when her eldest child was four years old — he is now 42. They rented a property on the lake for a decade before deciding to buy their own. Now they own five cottages and have created a lakeside retreat like no other. The Great House is perfect for a family getaway with six bedrooms. In the winter, there is a skating rink carved out on the lake right out front for skating and hockey, along with cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails on the lake. The activities don’t stop there for this winter cabin — snowmobiles are available for rent, as well as ice fishing excursions and an igloo-building activity. For those looking to stay warm, there is an outdoor hot tub that overlooks the lake. The town of Westport is just a 20-minute drive away, and there you’ll find a craft brewery, and just 10 minutes further is the Kilborn’s store and restaurant. Babysitting services are also available if you want to leave the little ones in the cottage while the adults go explore. What else? The staff will even prepare meals and baked goods if you put in the request.

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What’s open and closed on Christmas Day in Toronto

By

Ron Johnson

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9:47 am

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As Toronto embraces the holiday season, residents and visitors are gearing up for festive activities and making preparations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s open and closed in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) during the holidays.

City Life

Public Transit

TTC (Toronto Transit Commission): Operating on a holiday schedule on Christmas and New Year’s Day, and a Sunday schedule on Boxing Day.
Go Transit: Operating on a Saturday schedule on all three days. Free rides offered from 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to 8 a.m. on Jan. 1.

Government Services

Government services will be closed on Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

Toronto Public Library

Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Postal Services

Canada Post and UPS: Closed with no mail collection or delivery on Christmas, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day.

Banks

All banks will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

Alcohol

LCBO and The Beer StoreClosed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Hours may vary on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Amsterdam Brewery retail shop open Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 for limited hours.

99 Bottles, 925 Kingston Rd., open all the days.

Restaurants

There are many restaurants open on Christmas Day in the city, use this list at OpenTable to help you decide. Or check our list of the top five restaurants that are open.

Shopping and Groceries

Grocery Stores and Pharmacies: Operating on modified schedules around Christmas and New Year’s. Check with local stores for opening hours.

Rabba Fine Foods: Open throughout the holidays.

Malls (Selected): Fairview Mall, Yorkdale Mall, Sherway Gardens, Dixie Outlet Mall, Scarborough Town Centre, and Dufferin Mall will be closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Special schedules may apply on Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve. Shops at Don Mills, Eaton Centre, and Square One Shopping Centre will be closed on Christmas but operate on a special schedule on Jan. 1.

Entertainment

Most first-run movie theatres such as Cineplex Odeon, TIFF Bell Lightbox are open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Attractions

Canada’s Wonderland: Closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas.
Toronto Zoo: Open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Christmas. Regular operation on other days.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Closing early at 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Regular operation on other days.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Closed on Christmas, closing early on Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve. Open on New Year’s Day from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Special schedule from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Dec. 24 to Jan. 7, closed on Christmas.
Casa Loma: Open until Christmas Eve for Christmas at the Castle. Hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration starting at $225 per person.
St. Lawrence Market: Modified hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for the South Market on selected dates. Closed on Dec. 25 and 26 as well as Jan. 1 and 2.
Toronto’s History Museums: Offering holiday-themed tours and events, running throughout the season (except Mondays), closed on Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1.
Centennial Park Conservatory: Explore the Winter Flower Show at the City’s Centennial Park Conservatory until early January. The conservatory is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the holiday season. For additional details, visit the City’s Conservatories webpage.
Riverdale Farm: Residents and visitors to Toronto can visit Riverdale Farm daily all weekend from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. More information about the farm is available on the City’s Zoos & Farms webpage.

Enjoy the holiday season!

10 things to do on Boxing Day in Toronto

By

Julia Mastroianni

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5:47 am

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hr 1800x1200 Juliet2025 NEW 2873 02 — Vanessa Sears as Juliet and the Canadian cast. Photo by Dahlia Katz.

If the thought of braving mall crowds for post-holiday deals sends a shiver down your spine, don’t worry. There’s plenty happening in Toronto this Boxing Day that doesn’t involve shopping carts or checkout lines. From drag shows to quirky museums, here are 10 unique ways to spend Dec. 26 in style in Toronto.

Boxing Day Dinner and Drag Show at O’Grady’s

Nothing says post-holiday fabulousness like a drag dinner and show at O’Grady’s on Church. With fierce queens, including host Jordana Myles, serving looks (and drinks), you can enjoy an evening of laughs, lip-syncs and indulgent eats.

A full night of music at Drom Taberna

Head to Drom Taberna for a night of music, fun and good food. Enjoy live music, including performance by Donné Roberts, the band 2 Days Work Week and a set by DJ Munin.

Mark Oliver’s The Gift at CODA

As the temperature drops, CODA is bringing the heat with Mark Oliver’s The Gift, a Boxing Day party designed to keep your holiday spirits alive. Expect high-energy beats, a packed dance floor and a chance to dance off that turkey coma.

Museum of Bad Gifts at Northern Contemporary Gallery

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Did you find yourself with a hideous reindeer sweater with your name on it under your tree this year? You’re not alone. Visit the Museum of Bad Gifts to commiserate with others and laugh at the holiday weirdness. It’s catharsis, Toronto-style. Hosted at Northern Contemporary Gallery, you can even submit your own bad gift to be a part of the exhibition.

A Boxing Day All Star Comedy Show

Boxing Day just got a whole lot funnier. Featuring killer lineup comedians from Toronto Comedy All Stars, this show at renowned comedy club Yuk Yuk’s brings some of the best comedic talent Toronto has to offer. Use this as your chance to unwind and laugh off the holiday stress.

Hit the movies

Skip the post-holiday chaos, gran yourself some popcorn and settle into a comfy theatre seat this Boxing Day. With some of the most anticipated films of the year releasing on Christmas Day, use Dec. 26 to catch up on some cinema magic. Leading the lineup is Marty Supreme, starring Timothée Chalamet as real-life American table tennis player Marty Reisman. There’s also Song Sung Blue with Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman, or the family-friendly buddy comedy Anaconda, with Paul Rudd and Jack Black.

Hands On: Pasta Traditions from the South with Eataly

Christmas is pretty much all about food, but on Boxing Day, you can spend the holiday looking at food from another angle. Learn the basics of pasta from the south of Italy at Eataly, and make your very own pasta by hand (paired with a bit of wine and Prosecco, of course).

Head to the theatre

The holidays are the best time to catch some live theatre, and we’re so grateful that so many amazing shows play right through the break! Plenty of Mirvish shows are available on Dec. 26, including the amazing all-Canadian & Juliet as well as a classic, The Sound of Music. You can also catch the super festive and fun Robin Hood: A Very Merry Family Musical at Canadian Stage.

Toronto Marlies Boxing Day Classic

Missing hockey during the holidays? Don’t miss the Toronto Marlies’ annual Boxing Day Classic. They’ll be taking over Scotiabank Arena at 2 p.m. against the Belleville Senators, and you can cheer them on from the stands!

What’s In The Box at The Drake

Drake Underground’s annual post holiday music fest is back, and this year the stage belongs to an entire collective of amazing musicians. See Steve Foster, Arden Van Fleet, Amy Pinkus, Anh Phung, Turkish Fufu and O’Six.

Toronto tops Vancouver on new ranking of the world’s most desirable cities

By

Nisean Lorde

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5:00 pm

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snapins ai 2648294065713816604 — @torontoislandsup/Instagram

Toronto has long been known as Canada’s cultural and economic powerhouse, and The Six has once again shown its global appeal, landing ahead of Vancouver on a high-profile global list of desirable cities!

According to the Global Power City Index (GPCI), Toronto placed 26th overall worldwide, while Vancouver ranked 38th out of 48 cities, putting Toronto well ahead of its west-coast counterpart.

The list is published each year by the Institute for Urban Strategies at Japan’s Mori Memorial Foundation, and it evaluates cities based on their ability to attract people, capital and enterprises from across the globe. The index has been tracking global cities since 2008 and is widely cited in urban planning, economic development and international competitiveness research (so very respected).

Rather than focusing on quality of life alone, the GPCI takes a broader look at what makes a city globally powerful. Each city is scored across six key functions: economy, research and development, cultural interaction, livability, environment and accessibility. These categories are combined into an overall score that reflects a city’s comprehensive global appeal.

Toronto and Vancouver were the only two Canadian cities to make the list, but Toronto earned an overall score of 1063.6, placing it in the middle tier of global cities, alongside powerhouses like Los Angeles, Barcelona and Hong Kong. Vancouver, meanwhile, posted a score of 975.9, placing it a bit lower.

While both Canadian cities performed strongly in livability and environmental quality, Toronto’s higher ranking shows stronger results in economic power, research capacity and international accessibility (maybe partially due to the city’s larger population size).

The Six earned a score of 88.9 for the availability of skilled human resources and 93.2 for employment in business support services. Toronto also posted strong results for political, economic and business stability (85.1) and economic freedom (75.5).

As for the rest of the cities, London, England, topped the list (with a score of 1642.2) while Johannesburg, South Africa, landed in the final spot, with a score of 658.6 (you can see the full results here).

The results are pretty consistent with other global desirability lists. In the World’s Best Cities 2026 rankings released by Resonance Consultancy, Toronto placed well ahead of Vancouver, landing in 17th place globally compared with Vancouver’s 41st, scoring highly on factors like livability, “lovability” (e.g., culture and vibrancy) and prosperity.

5 Toronto eats picked by a top food influencer that are absolutely worth trying

By

Jennifer Schembri

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2:28 pm

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Toronto’s dining scene never rests and neither does food influencer Rick Silver (@dicksworld). He dives into five restaurants, calling out the hits and the misses with his trademark unfiltered honesty. When Rick talks, the city listens.

Atomic Burger

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With so many burger spots in this city, how did this tiny takeout joint, just a few months old, serve the best burger I’ve had all year? Simple: a fat, juicy 45-day dry-aged patty paired with incredible onion rings and fresh-cut fries. 245 Greenwood Ave.
The Rating: 9.4/10
Last Bite: There’s nowhere to sit.

McVeigh’s Irish Pub

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If I’m recommending an Irish pub, it has to be a good one — and this place delivered, even without me having a Guinness. A great spot for good food and good old Irish fun in the heart of the city! 124 Church St.
The Rating: 9/10
Last Bite: Order a Guiness. Or two.

Susie’s Rise & Dine

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A post shared by Rick Silver (@dicks.world)

Those were some exceptional pancakes! I guess deep-frying them in clarified butter helps — because they were awesome. Great staff, cool retro decor and an attention to detail you don’t see at most restaurants. 539 College St.
The Rating: 9.6/10
Last Bite: Make a reservation.

Bà Nội

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I’ve never arrived early enough to try anything but the butter tarts — and they’re so good I’d recommend the whole bakery sight unseen. After judging Ontario’s biggest butter tart competition and tasting dozens, I can say Bà Nội’s rival the best. 806 Bloor St. W.
The Rating: 9.5/10
Last Bite: Let me know what else they have.

Rasa Burger

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Born out of one of the city’s best restaurants, a Rasa Burger outpost has joined the food stalls at Chefs Hall. It seems we’re entering a new era of fat, juicy gourmet burgers, ground in-house and served medium or even medium-rare. 111 Richmond St. W.
The Rating: 9.1/10
Last Bite: Skip the fries and salads.

RICK SILVER is a Toronto food influencer, always on the hunt for the best eats in the city.