The Toronto Blue Jays are back in the World Series for the first time since 1993 following a thrilling win over the Seattle Mariners in game 7.
The first game of the World Series is set for Oct. 24 vs. the Los Angeles Dodgers and with nose-bleed seats already selling for over $2,000 it’s time to think about watch parties — still an exciting atmosphere, for nothing. The next three games are on Oct. 25, 27 and 28.
If you don’t have playoff tickets, here are some of the best watch parties and big screens to catch the opener.
Nathan Phillips Square
The city’s official watch party moves to Nathan Phillips Square. We would expect thousands to descend on the Queen Street landmark to enjoy the festivities.
Steam Whistle at the historic John Street Roundhouse on Bremner is transforming into Toronto’s playoff hub, with free tailgate parties before every home playoff game! For the first time, watch parties are being held inside Steam Whistle’s indoor playoff watch-party zone, dubbed “The Bird’s Nest,” so fans without tickets can still join the action. You can even grab a beer and a burger to go and enjoy them in Roundhouse Park (perfect for overflow crowds!)
The tailgate starts three hours before the first pitch. Expect a full bar and food menu, including ballpark staples like hot dogs, burgers, chips, peanuts, as well as vegan options. Of course, you can also enjoy an ice-cold Steam Whistle pilsner, on tap or in cans to go. Best of all, it’s free, family-friendly and open to all! Visit steamwhistle.ca for more info, or follow them on Instagram. Roundhouse, 255 Bremner Blvd.
RendezViews, Toronto’s biggest outdoor picnic venue, is turning up the heat with epic Baseball Watch Parties. Fans can catch every moment on a massive big screen with full stadium sound, surrounded by unbeatable vibes, fire pits, and stunning CN Tower views. With game day eats, beer buckets, and cocktails flowing, it’s a great spot to cheer on the home team. Located at 229 Richmond St. W., RendezViews promises a high-energy playoff atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Round up your friends (or just head over and make new ones) and check out these free, drop-in campus-style Jays watch parties, filled with snacks, button-making, and a casual, community vibe! It’s great for students and families who are looking for a lower-key, all-ages environment to celebrate the Jays. Visit Hart House for more info. 7 Hart House Cir | Arbor Room (162).
Head to Chefs Hall this Saturday and watch Game 1 on the big screen. Rock your Toronto Blue Jays gear and receive one complimentary shot of the day (must be of legal drinking age). And if you’re heading to the stadium, just swing by early and enjoy $5 off draught pitchers and $1/oz house wine before you cheer on the Jays! It’s a central location with tons of seating. 111 Richmond St W.
There’s a reason Real Sports is known as the go-to bar for Toronto sports: It’s the perfect spot to experience stadium vibes without the ticket! This mega-sports bar boasts a 39-foot HD screen and wall-to-wall sightlines (perfect for watching the first pitch). The 100-foot bar and elevated comfort food will make you feel like you’re actually at the game. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Rogers Centre, so you can enjoy some crowd energy before and after the final out. Reservations recommended, even for smaller groups. 15 York St.
This 2nd-floor bar in the heart of downtown is filled with rustic tables, large screens, vintage signs and a variety of beers on tap, plus tasty ballpark-style bites like burgers and snacks! It’s been around since the late ’80s (so, part legend-part landmark) and is the perfect spot for Jays fans looking for a lively room within 10 minutes of the ballpark. 146 Front St W.
If you want to dodge the pre-game crowds, then head to Hemingway’s in Yorkville! This classic pub with a rooftop patio takes game nights seriously, with 20 TVs and a high-end sound system across its multi-level space. Bonus: It’s open year-round until 2 am, so you can extend the celebration well after the game ends! 142 Cumberland St.
In one of the most memorable moments in Toronto sports history, the hometown Blue Jays won game 7 of an intense and jaw-clenching American League Championship Series punching the team’s ticket to the World Series.
Here are the top 10 moments, mostly in-game, some for fun, from this incredible series, if you need any more reason to get hyped for Game 1 of the World Series on Friday.
Springer Delivers
Leading the highlight hit parade is George Springer, and his series-winning home run. Almost as good as Joltin’ Joe Carter, this dinger was one for the ages.
In one of the most talked about moments of the series, skipper John Schneider walked to the mound and looked to be yanking intense starting pitcher Max Scherzer from the game in a pivotal moment. Scherzer barked back, declaring himself good to go and Schneider turned around and walked away. Classic. Even better after Scherzer got the out.
After a massive game six win to set up last night’s game, an emotional Vladdy Guerrero was interviewed by Hazel Mae in front of the exuberant crowd and live on TV. During the chat, the team’s leader declared in front of everyone that he was “born ready” for this. And, in the next game he proved it.
Some Blue Jays relievers have been an issue, others have stepped up. And nobody has stepped up more than the Jay’s big closer Jeff Hoffman, who shut the door on the Mariners in two straight games.
The Blue Jays began their monumental series comeback in game three in Seattle. And, it was the diminutive shortstop Andres Gimenez who played a pivotal role. Ninth in the team batting order, Gimenez slugger a massive home run to trigger the victory and did it again the next night.
After Vladdy and Springer, Blue Jays fans are throwing their collective energy directly at young starting pitcher Trey Yesavage who was dominant in the all-important game six win, remarking on how the electric Rogers Centre crowd helped.
Sure, there are the home runs, the hits, the hustle plays, but when Vladdy got hit by a pitch in Game 6 then scored after some hustle plays and serious baseball smarts, it sent a message. Again.
The Jays pride themselves on defence and it was on full display in game six when starting pitching got into some serious jams only to be saved by inning-ending double plays in three consecutive innings. Epic.
One of the best parts of this entire season was the emergence of slugger Addison Barger. his mammoth shot in game six after a few quiet games was huge.
The east end is getting a little more retro: The Vintage Hall, a vendor market located in Toronto’s Riverside, is finally welcoming customers after their busy grand opening this month. With a wide range of vintage vendors selling goods from apparel to homeware, there’s a little something for everyone.
The 2,700-square-foot spot is located at 754 Queen St. E., with the back of the building accommodating the market and the front room solely dedicated to Second Voyage Vintage.
For owner and long-time vintage goods seller Kyle Burton, The Vintage Hall’s opening day on Oct. 3 signalled that the market was a much-needed fixture in the area.
“I think the biggest response we got from people was how amazed they were at the size of the space,” he says. “People are just truly excited to see it and to have the space in the community.”
Before opening day, Burton says the space needed a few months of renovation before it could become what he imagined.
Courtesy The Vintage Hall
“It was hard, at the time, to envision the space,” he says. “But we made it work. We did a few months of tearing down walls, setting up the store.”
According to Burton, being located in Riverside was ideal, and he says that the Riverside BIA is great at hosting events — with the market even making its debut in the BIA’s bi-annual vintage crawl.
“We had an opening party the same night as the vintage crawl,” says Burton. “So we had a ton of people come through.”
Vendors come from “all over,” according to Burton, but most are coming from different parts of the city.
Burton himself is no stranger to the vintage goods sector. Over a decade ago, he began at the Arts Market when they were at Leslieville (another multi-vendor venture that helped emerging local designers, crafters and even vintage sellers get their creations on shelves), and then eventually opened his own store in 2015 at Sherbourne and Queen, and another shop in Riverside in 2022.
“I’ve been collecting my whole life,” he says. “Since I was a kid, I was collecting Beanie Babies and I was digging up old apothecary bottles in the dirt and cleaning them up. I always had an interest in old things.”
Among the vendors — such as Her Name is Red Vintage and Second Soul Vintage — plus-size vintage retailer Polyester Plus was looking to expand beyond their Hamilton store so more customers can reach them.
“We definitely have a lot of people travelling to come and visit us because we are one of the only vintage stores that offer plus size,” says Polyester Plus owner Emily Gove. “We just thought it would be really great to have a presence in Toronto as well.”
Courtesy The Vintage Hall
Vendors are able to set up shop and have The Vintage Hall staff the booths, says Gove. The brand specializes in selling plus-size vintage from the 1960s to early 2000s, but their biggest sell is ’90s items like T-shirts and dresses.
“We really go for things that are fun, that are colourful, unique and whimsical,” Gove says. “We want to offer something that’s really different from what you can go to the mall and get.”
The Vintage Hall is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Brunch, all-day coffee, crepes, hidden patio, local art, live music: Epos Café Couture is quietly turning Yorkville into a little slice of Paris.
“Yorkville is all about art, the fashion industry and music, and it pretty much reminds me of Europe,” says owner Arpina Andreasyan. “I wanted to bring an experience that feels like stepping into a Parisian salon where you can find fine dining and fashion, art and music.”
@epos.cafe.couture/Instagram
Stepping into Epos, you immediately notice the Yorkville elegance — ornamental chandeliers, tiled floors and sleek minimalist design. European style comes alive in vibrant artwork depicting French life, extending to a hidden patio. Surrounded by lush greenery on a brick floor, the patio offers a quiet, European-style escape in the heart of the city. And Andreasyan wants you to know your dogs are invited too.
“I always make sure I have snacks for them,” she says. “They are our VIP guests.”
@epos.cafe.couture/Instagram
Sip coffee and savour freshly baked artisan treats daily, or tackle the brunch menu — 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. — with classic savoury crepes, the signature Epos Benedict and brioche French toast. Dinner blends French technique with Asian and Mediterranean touches, from halibut over potato espuma to chicken ballotine.
To add to the European experience, on Saturdays during dinner service Epos will be hosting live music — think jazz musicians playing piano and sax — and art shows to evoke even more memories of time spent in Paris.
“I want to combine dining and entertainment so guests can enjoy the cuisine while feeling part of the artistic community,” says Andreasyan.
epos.cafe.couture/Instagram
Andreasyan hopes to offer not just exceptional food, but the attentive service and thoughtful hospitality that define her vision of true luxury.
“Yes, we’re in a luxurious Yorkville space, but for me, luxury isn’t just about design, art or food,” she says. “It’s about caring for people and making them feel it. I want guests to feel at home.”
For the first time in over three decades, the Toronto Blue Jays are heading to the World Series. The Jays beat the Seattle Mariners 4-3 in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) on Monday night at the Rogers Centre, powered by a three-run homer from George Springer, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. named series MVP. Next up: the Jays will face the Los Angeles Dodgers, the reigning champions, in the World Series, in a best-of-seven showdown. Here’s everything you need to know before the two teams face off.
Why the World Series starts in Toronto
The Blue Jays face the National League champion Dodgers, who beat the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS. Because Toronto finished the regular season with a better winning percentage (.580) than the Dodgers (.574), the Jays have home-field advantage, so Games 1-2 (and, depending on how the series goes, 6-7) will be played at Rogers Centre!
2025 World Series schedule
Game 1: Fri, Oct 24, 8 pm: Dodgers at Blue Jays
Game 2: Sat, Oct 25, 8 pm: Dodgers at Blue Jays
Game 3: Mon, Oct 27, 8 pm: Blue Jays at Dodgers
Game 4: Tue, Oct 28, 8 pm: Blue Jays at Dodgers
Game 5: Wed, Oct 29, 8 pm: Blue Jays at Dodgers (if necessary)
Game 6: Fri, Oct 31, 8 pm: Dodgers at Blue Jays (if necessary)
Game 7: Sat, Nov 1, 8 pm: Dodgers at Blue Jays (if necessary)
Secondary sellers are already showing steep demand. On Vivid Seats, early Game 1 tickets ranged from $1643 for a seat in the upper 500-level section to $218,573 for a 300-level diamond suite seat (prices fluctuate by game and day). StubHub tickets are selling fast (only 4 per cent of tickets were left as of publication). For Game 1, seats in the 500-level section will set you back $2300+, a seat in section 22 (row 4) will cost a little over $14,746, while a Section 400-level executive suite seat will cost $65,599. SeatGeek is selling Game 1 tickets for anywhere between $1375 for a ticket in section 519 to $187,700 for a deluxe seat on the 300 level!
Ticket giveaways and fan promos
Rogers ran a Dial the Dugout promo, giving away 500 free tickets for each Blue Jays ALCS home game, so keep an eye out to see if similar giveaways are announced for World Series home dates (Rogers hasn’t yet confirmed any). In the meantime, check verified Instagram accounts for World Series ticket giveaways.
History of the two teams
The Jays are making their third trip to the World Series (they won in 1992 and 1993). Toronto is tied with the Miami Marlins (then the Florida Marlins), the L.A. Angels and the Washington Nationals for a perfect World Series record. Click here for more about Jays legend Joe Carter on his famous World Series-winning home run in Game 6 of the 1993 Series! The Dodgers have bragging rights too, having won eight World Series titles (the fifth-most in MLB).
What about Bo Bichette?
Shortstop Bo Bichette says he plans to return for Game 1 after a six-week absence with a sprained left knee he suffered Sept 6 against the New York Yankees. Jays Manager John Schneider said that Bichette is progressing in running and hitting, but final clearance will depend on infield and baserunning work in the lead-up to Friday’s game.
Did you know that Eglinton Avenue West between Chaplin Crescent and Oriole Parkway is a vibrant hub for Asian cuisine? The Eglinton Way is home to a diverse array of restaurants that celebrate culinary traditions from across Asia. From steaming noodle bowls and sizzling stir-fries to fresh, artfully prepared sushi, these local gems serve up authentic flavours with a creative twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely sit-down meal, it’s the perfect stretch to explore the neighbourhood’s dynamic and delicious food scene.
Upscale Meets Surf N Turf
For over 50 years, House of Chan has been a Toronto dining landmark, earning a reputation for excellence that spans generations. The restaurant is famed for its USDA prime steaks, East Coast lobster, and a menu that blends gourmet Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. From a perfectly cooked steak to bold, flavourful Chinese dishes, House of Chan delivers a refined experience that has stood the test of time.
Looking for the perfect date night or group hangout spot in Midtown?Step into Sake Bar Kushi, a cozy izakaya where the dim lighting, dark wood accents, red ambient glow, and hand-drawn wall art create an intimate and inviting vibe. Specializing in kushi (Japanese-style skewers grilled over charcoal) this spot offers a wide selection of izakaya classics like sashimi, teriyaki and karaage. Pair your bites with Japanese whisky, refreshing yuzu cocktails, plum wine, or premium sake. And here’s a little secret…tucked away inside is Ki Karaoke, a hidden karaoke speakeasy perfect for private parties and celebrations. Planning a romantic evening or a lively group gathering? This Midtown gem has you covered!
Blooming Orchid is a no-fuss Asian fusion restaurant that is a local favorite, offering flexible dining hours that cater to both lunchgoers and late-night diners every day except Tuesdays. Known for its speedy service and diverse menu featuring classic Japanese, Chinese and Thai dishes, it serves up everything from sushi party trays, bento boxes, and dim sum to all-you-can-eat sushi and customizable lunchtime combos. There’s something for everyone, and more than enough to leave you full and satisfied!
Thairoomgrand Eglinton is the second location of this upscale Thai and Malaysian restaurant, founded by notable Toronto restaurateur Kugendran Perampalam. Known for its bold, authentic flavours and artistic presentations, every dish is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients that highlight the aromatic essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. Generous and satisfying portions ensure guests leave happy and full. The sleek, decorative interior, complete with vibrant red seating booths and spacious tables, makes it a perfect setting for everything from casual office lunches to lively group dinners. Thairoomgrand also offers convenient catering through their website and earns consistent 5-star reviews on popular delivery apps, making it easy to enjoy a taste of Thailand from the comfort of home.
Tokyo Sushi is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been a beloved staple of the Eglinton West sushi scene for years. Known for its warm, welcoming service and consistently high-quality fish, it offers a stacked menu featuring an impressive variety of unique maki rolls, satisfying bento box combos, and crowd-favorite dishes. But what really sets it apart? The extravagant Tokyo Love Boats — overflowing with expertly crafted sushi, sashimi, and rolls that are as stunning as they are delicious. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a curious newcomer, this cozy neighbourhood spot delivers an unforgettable dining experience every time.
Craving a casual lunch, a date-night dinner, or something new to try with friends? The Eglinton Way has the perfect solution to satisfy every palate! We highly recommend checking out one of these local restaurant hot spots soon. It’s the perfect way to enjoy delicious cuisine right in the heart of the neighbourhood.
To discover all the incredible dining options available, visit our online directory and select the “Food & Drink” category for easy browsing: theeglintonway.com/directory
The Toronto Blue Jays are heading back to the World Series for the first time in over three decades. And, the team’s success upon reaching the October Classic is pretty darn good. They are one of the only teams to have an unblemished record in World Series championship series, including their last win in 1993 punctured by the Joltin’ Joe Carter home run that won the Blue Jays the World Series.
How did it feel to win a World Series with a swing of the bat? We asked Carter just that in this blast from the past when the legend was in town for a charity golf tournament.
Is there anything else left to say about that memorable home run to win the World Series?
There’s nothing left because it is just that big a moment. Like I say, every time I go to Toronto and I’m speaking, I tell the people I’ve been milking this home run now for 25 years. It’s great that something like that happened, and for it to happen to me was definitely a blessing from the good Lord above and a blessing for Toronto. It is etched forever in the history of the baseball laurels.
I bet you remember every moment of that historic hit.
Yeah, my wife tells me I’ve forgotten a lot of things, but I’ll never forget that. It is a big moment, but also I’ve talked about it so many times. It’s that big a moment to think, in the history of the game, over 140 years, it’s only happened twice in the history of the game. That’s special.
What do you miss most about baseball?
It’s the camaraderie of the players. Jumping on the plane, going from city to city, in that dugout, in the clubhouse. Those are the things that you miss the most. Funny, we had this 15-year reunion of the back-to-back wins, and I think almost every player returned. And as soon as we had the golf tournament, everybody got on the bus, and you know what? It was like, everybody sat in the same seat from when we were playing: “Oh no, don’t sit there, that’s Joe’s seat, that’s Jimmy Key’s seat, Duane Ward sits in the back, Winfield sits there.” Baseball is a great sport because you get a chance to spend a lot of time together and get to know a lot about each other. That, to me, that’s family.
Where was your favourite place to play?
Well, you know, your adrenaline gets pumping when you go in to Yankee Stadium or into Fenway Park when Roger Clemens was on the mound. And you’re thinking, “OK, this is going to be good,” because Fenway was one of my favourite parks to hit in, and you’ve got one of the best pitchers ever, so you knew it was going to be a blast. I enjoyed those slug fests.
After Sunday night’s 6-2 win against Seattle, the Blue Jays will take on the Mariners again tonight in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) at Rogers Centre. Torontonians can expect packed heated patios and a scramble for last-minute seats at watch parties. But if you’ve got some extra cash, here’s what prices look like as of publication across major marketplaces (prices update constantly).
Ticketmaster
Verified resale tickets for the Jays’ ALCS Home Game 4 (Game 7) start at around $368 for single seats in the 500 level (upper deck, outfield), about $577 in the 200 level, and $8,500+ for premium seats, like Section 4, Row 2.
StubHub
Snag upper 500-level seats (nosebleeds) are selling for about $280+, while lower-bowl 100-level seats are in the high hundreds ($840-$1400). Expect to pay through the nose for premium seats: 500-level home-plate Section 524, Row 16, is listed at $16,661 + fees.
SeatGeek
Listings run from about $320 in the 500 level (some aisle seats are still available as of publication) to about $1782 for premium seats (e.g., section 18, row 4).
Vivid Seats
Expect to pay around $324 for select 500-level seats, $411+ for 100-level outfield, and up to $10,000 for premium club seating.
Rogers previously ran a Dial the Dugout promo, giving away 500 free tickets for each Blue Jays ALCS home game. The contest allowed fans to call, text or post messages of support for a chance to win a pair of seats. Unfortunately, the entry window for Game 7 has already closed, so there aren’t any official same-day giveaways for tonight’s decider.
Your best bet is verified resale. Tickets are expected to sell quickly (last year, all three ALDS home games at Rogers Centre sold out in two hours), but there’s still time to compare multiple marketplaces! To get a feel of the view from the exact area you’ll be sitting in, check out “a view from my seat.”
A small home goods shop on Roncesvalles is asking the public for help after a framed Bruce Willis autograph was stolen from its display shelves.
On Saturday, Baa Baazaar (73 Roncesvalles Ave.) posted on Instagram that the black-and-white photo, dubbed the “Bruce”, has watched over their space for three years and holds great sentimental value for co-founder Nicole Elsasser, who received it roughly two decades ago.
“@nicoleelsasser got this autograph from Bruce Willis 2 decades ago and it is very important to her and all of us at BAA. He was like our weird black and white guardian angel, moving from location to location, always on the green shelf,” the post states.
“The autograph reads “To Nicole, Peace. – Bruce Willis”. And we need Bruce Willis Peace now more than ever!!!!!! If you know what happened to him please dm us or even bring him back and we won’t be mad!! Please share if you can. Thank you!”
The shop’s followers have promised to look out for the photo on secondary selling sites and are encouraging the culprit to come forward.
“I sat with Bruce on set + had him scribble out that message 25 years ago. We’re not getting another one. Return angel Bruce, pls. Peace,” one user wrote, while another said, “What a crime! shame shame. I’m in on the investigation!!!”
Baa Baazaar describes itself as a space of whimsies and comforts. When you walk in, expect vintage home goods, all types of books, bath and body products like cute little soaps and lotions, and odd gifts and knickknacks like Mary-Kate and Ashley trays, “Peanuts” bumper stickers and mushroom guy incense burners.
But none of these are a match for the Bruce. If you’ve seen the framed autograph (or know anything about its whereabouts), the shop appears to be hoping for a quiet return (or loud, as long as it’s returned)!
You can contact Baa Baazaar through their Instagram, @baabaazaar.
Toronto’s dining scene never slows and neither does food influencer Rick Silver (@dicksworld). He’s back with his unfiltered takes on four sandwich spots — some hitting the mark, others missing it. When Rick speaks, you listen.
Located on Queen West, this spot bakes its own schiacciata, a thin Tuscan version of focaccia. Freshly sliced meats, quality cremas and veggies come together to create some of the best sandwiches I’ve had this year. They even sang happy birthday to my wife. 477 Queen St. W. The Rating: 9.4/10 Last Bite: Try one of their Italian sodas.
Expect a line, and expect it to move slowly. There’s only one person behind the counter, wrapping what might be the fattest, tastiest pita shawarma in the GTA. Mountains of chicken or falafel and veggies are packed in, then wrapped impossibly tight, resulting in a wrap whose girth is truly unrivaled. 2104 Hwy. 7, Concord The Rating: 9.5/10 Take-away: Plan for a light dinner.
I’m curious who Gigi is and why she needs saving, but I didn’t love her breakfast sandwich. The egg just didn’t fit the bun — or maybe the bun didn’t fit the egg. Either way, a round biscuit supporting a round egg seems like a basic requirement. 859 Bloor St. W. The Rating: 7.4/10 Last Bite: Get the bacon
Opening a spot called Dad’s on Father’s Day is next-level. This tiny takeout joint serves just one thing: breakfast sandwiches. OK, they also do really good coffee slushies. My son took me there on opening day. Follow him at @hungry.corey if you want to see more of our foodie adventures. 1473 Dundas St. W. The Rating: 9/10 Last Bite: Take your dad.
Fall is for day tripping, whether a simple hike, a stroll along the beach or a weekend getaway. Kingston is popular for many reasons: It’s the original capital of Canada, a bit of an up-and-coming foodie hub, it’s the home of Queen’s University where thousands of Torontonians attend each year and so much more.
So, we went, And here are our impressions.
Friday night: Arrival and first impressions
There’s a moment in early October when Kingston feels like it’s been purpose-built for autumn. The limestone buildings glow in the autumn sun.
It’s the season when the Limestone City slows down just enough for visitors to slip comfortably into its rhythm — to savour the food, and history, maybe even take in the colours of the Thousand Islands from the deck of a cruise boat.
With a mix of waterfront scenery, old-world architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene shaped by local farms, Kingston makes for an ideal fall weekend escape. It’s compact and walkable, brimming with historical intrigue and contemporary energy, hidden alleyways and courtyard patios while being close enough to Toronto to make “48 hours in Kingston” feel like a proper getaway without the stress of long travel days.
Kingston is known as the Limestone City
And, if it’s a weekend to see the kids at uni, it’s also a great guide to those moments when you need to just relax for a few hours.
By the time you roll into Kingston on a Friday evening — whether by train, bus, or a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto — the city has already begun to glow. The limestone façades, the waters of Lake Ontario rippling in the sunset. Students from Queen’s spill out of cafés, locals stroll the streets, and the faint sound of live music drifts from pubs and bars.
There are a number of centrally located hotels, including the Kingston Marriott, which offers fantastic views and spacious accommodations including some with balconies with water views.
There are also plenty of smaller inns and hotels downtown offering heritage charm and walkable access to everything worth seeing.
Friday night dinner: Farm-to-Table, Kingston Style
Fall is harvest season here, and Kingston’s chefs take it seriously. The city’s restaurants draw on the bounty of local farms from Prince Edward County and the Rideau corridor — expect menus rich with squash, root vegetables, and Ontario cheeses.
The Kingston food and restaurant scene really took off, according to local lore, with the establishment of Chez Piggy, founded by former musician Zal Yanovsky of The Lovin’ Spoonful, which serves hearty fall fare in a rustic former stone stable.
Fun fact: There are also more restaurants per capita in Kingston than any other city in Canada.
One great way to get the lay of the land is on a food tour, which can include some fantastic local spots such as Dianne’s. A restaurant that boasts the unlikely fusion of East Coast and Mexican cuisines. But, it works and it’s a charmer.
Food tour in Kingston
Other spots worth noting from our tour include Olivea for delish Italian, andAtomica Kitchen for amazing pizza and delish craft beers in a very lively fun atmosphere.
A great option for dinner is The Everly Restaurant & Lounge just a couple of blocks from the Marriott at 171 Wellington St. Owned and operated by local hospitality vets Amber Thom and Jamie Hodges, The Everly offers a rotating menu of refined yet approachable classic dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. We found the service to be top-notch with food to match, while the stylish room was bustling with activity.
Saturday morning: Coffee, markets and old stones.
Wake early — Kingston mornings in October are crisp and quietly beautiful. Step out into the chill and follow the smell of baking bread to Pan Chancho Bakery & Café, the local institution for buttery croissants, house-made granola, and dark roast coffee. .
From there, stroll to Springer Market Square, home to the Kingston Public Market, the oldest continually operating market in Ontario. On fall weekends, it bursts with seasonal colour: baskets of apples, maple syrup, honey, late-harvest vegetables, and local flowers. Chat with farmers, taste fresh cider, and pick up a snack for later — maybe an apple fritter or a wedge of aged cheddar from a nearby producer.
Farmer’s Market day in Kingston with city hall looming in the background
The market sits in the shadow of Kingston City Hall, a gorgeous domed building that feels more like a state building than a municipal office — fitting, since this limestone charmer was actually Canada’s capital in the 1840s before moving up river to Ottawa. Take a few minutes to wander the square and admire the architecture, then follow Ontario Street toward the lake.
Saturday afternoon: Bike rides, waterfront history
Kingston’s waterfront tells its story better than any museum — though there are plenty of those, too. Start at the PumpHouse Steam Museum, a beautifully preserved 19th-century waterworks building where massive steam engines once powered the city’s pumps. There is always something interesting going on at this revamped facility.
Walk south about 20 paces and rent a bicycle at Ahoy Rentals, and hit the waterfront trail, which breezes past some fantastic parkland, the southern edge of Queen’s University and the now iconic Gord Downie Memorial Pier.
Gord Downie Memoriał Pier
Next stop is the Tett Centre For Creativity & Learning, a city-run arts centre that sits on Lake Ontario. Stop by the little gallery inside the arts centre then sashay down the corridor to the Juniper Café, an absolute stunner on the shore of Lake Ontario. Wonderful coffee and snacks.
Then make your way to the Kingston Penitentiary Museum, just up the road from the now-decommissioned Kingston Penitentiary itself. Tours of the penitentiary, led by former corrections officers, are both haunting and fascinating. Then head for home.
Saturday Night: Music and More
As the light begins to fade, make your way up to Fort Henry, the city’s crown jewel of history and high ground. The 19th-century limestone fortress, built to defend the harbour and the Rideau Canal entrance, looks particularly atmospheric at dusk.
From here, the view of downtown Kingston is unforgettable: the gold dome of City Hall glimmering above a patchwork of rooftops, the lake catching the last light, and the silhouettes of islands fading into mist.
It’s also a perfect time to explore the city’s hidden alleyways, former carriage roads that wind through the downtown core.
Charming Kingston back alleys
For dinner, tuck into the bustling and fun Black Dog Tavern, a classic brasserie in the best possible way with delish cocktails and fantastic fare from massive delicious salads to French pub classics and even some very delicious pasta.
Time for some music, one of the things Kingston does very well from big concerts and carefully curated shows at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. Some of the best shows in town will happen at smaller venues whether a pub for an Irish session or a bar such as the Toucan or Musiikki Cafe there is always something happening in downtown Kingston.
Sunday morning: campus, culture and coffee
Start your second morning at De Mello Coffee, an easy and breezy café with delicious coffee.
De Mello Coffee
Take the morning to stroll through Queen’s University campus, where Gothic Revival architecture, ancient trees, and the clang of bike bells will put a smile on your face. Don’t miss the Agnes Etherington Art Centre, a small but impressive gallery featuring Canadian, Indigenous, and European works — including pieces by Rembrandt and Emily Carr.
Sunday Afternoon: Thousand Islands Cruise
No visit to Kingston in the fall is complete without a Thousand Islands boat tour. This scattered array of more than 1,800 islands stretching along the St. Lawrence River, is legendary for its beauty — and in autumn, it’s nothing short of magical. Trees flame with reds and golds, the water mirrors the sky, and historic cottages peek out from between fiery maples.
1000 Islands
Book a cruise with Kingston 1000 Island Cruises on the Island Queen departing from the downtown dock. Opt for a three-hour tour that includes lunch, surprisingly delicious, and narration about the region’s shipwrecks, smugglers, and summer estates, and step out on deck for the full sensory hit: cool wind, the smell of leaves and woodsmoke, and that glittering water shifting from teal to bronze under the October sun.
Cap off the afternoon with a walk along the waterfront then grab a pint at the cheery Kingston Brewing Company or a glass of red at Tango Nuevo.
If you have extra time
Wolfe Island: Take the free ferry across the channel for a peaceful bike ride among fall fields and a stop at the wind farm lookout.
Prince Edward County: Just an hour west, this wine region offers golden vineyards, farm stands, and tasting rooms at their autumn best.
Frontenac Provincial Park: Hike through granite ridges and maple forests just north of the city — a photographer’s dream in October.
Toronto’s condo market has seen plummeting sales, skyrocketing listings and prices on the decline, trends that experts say will continue well into 2026. While the numbers are jarring — in 2025’s second quarter, condo prices dropped 6.3 per cent year-over-year in the city of Toronto, and sales were down 20.9 per cent — for savvy investors with an eye for condo remodelling, this is a major opportunity, one that won’t come around again for decades once it’s gone.
Just a few years ago, the condo market was almost completely unattainable. Now, prices are not only more affordable but some are even a steal, if you know where to look. In Toronto, the average price per square foot has plummeted 24 per cent from the February 2022 peak of $1,063, dropping to $807 in September. Condo sales are 90 per cent below the 10-year average right now, according to the Building Industry and Land Development Association. New condo sales in particular are faring poorly, falling to their lowest levels since 1990.
A series of interest rate hikes over 2023 and the first half of 2024 scared off investors — a segment which normally makes up to 70 per cent or more of buyers in Toronto — from the market. Not even seven consecutive rate cuts over the end of 2024 and beginning of 2025 has managed to entice them back, leaving Toronto with an all-time high of condo listings, especially the tiny, cookie cutter new builds languishing on the market (just 118 of which sold in August, down 59 per cent from the same month in 2024). Toronto has finally realized that no one wants to buy and start a family in these unlivable units. Instead, it’s the older, larger condos in the city that still attract attention.
Investing in an older unit with more square footage in Toronto is the best way to capitalize on the city’s current market conditions and appeal to buyers looking for livability above all. But you don’t have to settle for an older layout and ancient appliances, because the best way to squeeze every drop of value you can out of your investment is with smart condo renovations to unlock its full potential.
At Easy Renovation, a Toronto-based, full-service design–build renovation company, you’ll be supported from start to finish to help turn your bargain condo into a modern, livable home (and give you an amazing return on investment). Specializing in kitchen, bathroom and condo remodelling, their turnkey process begins with design and 4K 3D renderings and ends with not only materials and construction but seamless project management. Condo renovations can be daunting, whether it’s finding contractors you can trust or spending days procuring fixtures and finishes. With Easy Renovation, those difficult decisions are made simple and stress-free: the company takes over every step of the process, consulting with you one-on-one to create the renovation of your dreams. For an investment property you secure during this condo market downturn, the top priority is updating the home so that its long-term property value rises, whether you decide to rent or sell it down the line. Their specialized team will help you maximize square footage, a luxury afforded only to those who look to older units: the median condo size in Ontario has shrunk from 965 square feet in the ’70s to 658 square feet today. They’ll also assist in modernizing the interiors, bringing their professional design team in to align your space with today’s opportunities on the market.
Toronto’s condo market may be in a slump, but that means now is the time to jump on undervalued, affordable older units and invest in condo renovations — before the market bottoms out. Condo starts have plummeted, with no end in sight, according to RBC: there were 10,558 starts in August 2025, versus 33,088 in August 2023 and 24,579 in August 2024. When Toronto’s glut of inventory eventually clears, there will be major future supply shortages, inevitably driving up condo prices again.
Forecasting by RBC predicts that inventory will begin declining by early–2026, leading to renewed demand in the condo market by the end of 2026 and beginning of 2027. Investing in an older unit with more space now, when prices are the lowest they’ve been in years, is the smartest way to prepare for when the market turns. With the right condo renovations in place, your return on investment will be bolstered by the momentum of the market and the eventual lack of supply that will drive up demand for larger, more livable condos like yours.
