Cheap or Free things to do in Toronto

Winter can be pricey in Toronto so here is the list with all the best free and cheap things to do in the city.

  

1. Go tobogganing

It’s a Canadian winter tradition, and best of all, it’s totally free. You can use a shiny new sled from Toys R Us, Walmart or even an old laundry basket or garbage can lid and head down a slope.

2. Hit an ice rink

There are plenty of ice rinks in Toronto (this is a hockey town, after all) and public skates are usually free (some adult only skates are $3).

3. Visit museums during discounted hours

There’s plenty of ways to get culture in the city, and many of our museums offer free or discounted hours. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) offers discount admission on Friday’s from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is free Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., excluding special ticketed exhibitions.

4. Admire the sculptures at Ice Fest

If you’d like to admire a different kind of art, head to Bloor-Yorkville’s annual ice sculpture festival. The weekend long event has elaborate ice designs on display as well as an ice carving contest, street performers and more. ]

5. See a free show from the Canadian Opera Company

From September until June, the COC hosts a series of free shows at the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre. The concerts and dance performances take place Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon, with some shows on Wednesdays at noon or 5:30 p.m. It’s a good way to stay warm for an hour, all while enjoying a show. Admission is first come, first served.

6. Shop at a farmer’s market

A rare summer-time tradition can be applied to the colder months. St Lawrence Market’s farmer’s market is open year-round – indoors, of course. Peruse the aisles and buy some seasonal produce or just people-watch and enjoy the smells.

7. Take in a movie

There are several theatres around town that offer cheaper movies: CineStarz in Mississauga, Rainbow Cinemas and the Lightbox has a free screen that plays experimental films. Cost: $4 to $5.

8. TIFF in the Park

Every Wednesday at sunset beginning in July, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Toronto Entertainment District BIA present free outdoor screenings of classic screen musicals at David Pecaut Square, at King and John streets, (formerly Metro Square).