Canada on a Budget: Free Things to Do in Toronto

The average Canadian spends about 90% of their free time looking at a screen, whether it’s a smartphone, TV, computer, or tablet. But when spring and summer finally roll around, it’s the perfect time to get outside.

If you’re living in Toronto on a budget, you may think that everything is too expensive. However, there are actually tons of free activities for you to enjoy.

Do you want to know what they are? Keep reading to discover the top 4 free things to do in Toronto.

Enjoy Nature

There are a lot of benefits to living in the city, but you’ve likely grown sick of all the skyscrapers and buildings by now.

Get a taste of nature by visiting the Humber Arboretum. Here, you’ll find over 6 kilometers of walking trails that take you through gorgeous gardens. Keep your eyes peeled for some wildlife, including white-tailed deer, red foxes, beavers, groundhogs, and turtles.

If you can’t get to the Humber Arboretum, the Toronto Botanical Gardens and Allen Gardens Conservatory are two great alternatives. Of course, you could also visit one of Toronto’s many parks and enjoy a leisurely stroll or afternoon picnic.

Go to a Festival

Toronto is full of festivals that take place all year long—yes, even in the middle of winter! Many street festivals have food vendors, live music, kid-friendly activities, and games. While you’ll have to pay for the food and games, you can enjoy walking through the festival free of charge.

If you want something a little different, be sure to check out the Toronto Comic Arts Festival, which takes place for one week every May. It celebrates comics and has various events, like readings, interviews, workshops, art installations, and panel discussions.

Take the Kids to Riverdale Farm

If you’re looking to give your kids an experience they’ll never forget, head over to Riverdale Farm in the neighborhood of Cabbagetown.

This is a 7.5-acre representation of a working farm. There are historic farm buildings and animals to see as well as pathways that take you through wooded areas, gardens, and ponds. There’s even a farmer that teaches kids all about daily chores on the farm, like milking cows, feeding animals, and collecting eggs.

Just make sure your cell phone is in good working order, so you can take some unforgettable pictures.

See a Free Concert

You don’t have to break the bank to see a concert by the Canadian Opera Company. From September to May you can escape the cold by catching a free concert in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheater. The 6 series you can experience are vocal, jazz, world music, piano, dance, and chamber.

Best Free Things to Do in Toronto

Who says you have to spend a fortune to have a good time? From visiting the Humber Arboretum to seeing a Canadian Opera Company concert, there are plenty of free things to do in Toronto.

Do you want to discover the best local businesses and professionals? Then check out our Toronto guide today!