Visiting a new city can be daunting if you're looking to break out of the traditional hop-on, hop-off guided tour routine and explore on a more intimate level. What do these Torontonians DO on weekends? On weeknights? Where do they find out about events? So many questions.
I can't give you all the details of our informant networks, because then I would have to... never mind - but I will highly recommend picking up a copy of NOW Toronto, a (free!) alternative weekly newspaper. You can grab a copy from a NOW newspaper box, which are scattered across the city on most major streets downtown, or from local shops, which often carry a stack. It will give you the low-down on events taking place throughout the week, ranging from concerts, theatre and ballet, to workshops, lectures and other miscellaneous community gatherings. The food and drink section is also great for reading about new spots worth checking out (or avoiding). And then there's "Savage Love" at the back of the paper, for your general personal edification... you'll see what I mean.
While you're at it, you can also learn about political hot topics in Toronto, Ontario and the rest of Canada, and impress locals you meet with your awareness of current events.
If you prefer to get your updates online, you can do so - see the link to NOW's website.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
by
"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
by
Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
by
From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
by
A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
by
Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
by
Somewhat tucked away in the Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, this sweet shop welcomes you with a selection of locally made baked goods you can take to-go.
by
There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
by
Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
by
I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
by
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
by
145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 145 Insider Tips