Ivana ChavezSummer: the best time to wander, explore, and enjoy a cool refreshing drink in the sun.
People change like seasons – and with seasons. It’s no doubt everyone is in a better mood with graceful weather. Like every year, no one is pleased with the fact that summer is coming to an end – Especially in Toronto. So, this is a call to action for those who haven’t enjoyed the weather to the fullest. Enjoy the last month of summer while it lasts! Here are some five recommended places to visit in their primetime before the season ends.
KOST
Part of Toronto’s BISHA Hotel, this 44th floor restaurant lounge will give you stunning panoramic views of the city’s hustle and bustle. The cuisine has elements of Californian and Mexican coastlines, with lively flavors and colorful platters. It also has a great interior design and a pleasing, light themed aesthetic. Additionally, KOST’s rooftop patio includes a pool. KOST is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – so it’s a great place to start your day off with a lively breakfast, or grab a colorful cocktail to end off your night while enjoying the view. Here’s a sneak peek of their views @kosttoronto
LAVELLE
You’ve probably heard of Lavelle by now, as it was definitely highlighted as a must-see in Toronto when it opened – thanks to it’s breathtaking city views and design. It’s a rooftop experience unlike any other on King West. The restaurant has French inspired cuisine, with views of the rooftop pool right next to the bar. This hotspot is great for day brunches and tanning, as well as evening cocktails. It’s also known for its transition to a busy evening hotspot, with sometimes a huge line to get in. Make sure to arrive early! Lavelle is located at 627 King St. West. Learn more about them at @chezlavelle.
DUTCH DREAMS
this hidden gem is every ice cream lover’s dream. Hence, the name. It’s an ice cream parlour with an impressively wide range of flavours, as well as frozen yogurt, sundaes, and shakes. This spot is a definitive must as it’s one of the best ice cream parlours in Toronto, with so many options, sizes, and different kinds of waffles. Along with this, it has a great atmosphere and their staff is very kind. If you want to enjoy some cold ice cream on a hot summer day before the season ends, this is the place to go. Check out their mouth-watering instagram for a peek @dutchdreams.
TORONTO ISLANDS
When Drake mentioned going to the islands and “getting gold no spray tans”, he probably was not referring to Centre Island. Or maybe he was? Either way, I’m sure he’d recommend anyone visiting the hometown to stop by. They’re chain of small islands off of Lake Ontario, and are located minutes away from the city center, the most popular one being Centre Island. Access to the islands are either through your own boat, or you can take a ferry! Boat rides are fun right? The Island includes lots of activities from biking, picnic areas, playgrounds, an amusement park, and beaches. You also get beautiful lake views, and views of the city skyline when you’re visiting. Overall it’s definitely a place to go to during the summer if you’re looking to explore an island, and you love being outside with lots of people.
SCARBOROUGH BLUFFS
Another benchmark to visit is the iconic Scarborough bluffs, a long-time special Toronto Landmark. These escarpments located on the outskirts of the city’s east end have extraordinary views of the eastern waterfront. This getaway zone is perfect for a day off in the sun. You can get in a good workout by taking a trip to the top of the bluffs for great views, or take a walk around the bridges and stumble upon Bluffer’s beach. The bluffs have a serene atmosphere and a calm vibe, so you can spend a few hours here basking in the sun and exploring the beauty of nature.
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