My Summer Adventures in Toronto

Discover all of the fun adventures and places to visit in Toronto from Beamlak Tareke, a Toronto Metropolitan University student.

This article was written by Beamlak Tareke, a computer science student at Toronto Metropolitan University.

When I first arrived in Toronto in September 2022, I was struck by the city’s energy and diversity, with every neighbourhood having unique characteristics and something going on, no matter the day. But it wasn’t until my first summer here last year that I saw the best parts of Toronto. As the city transforms in the summer, streets are filled with people enjoying the sunshine, and parks and patios become social hubs. The warm weather and anticipation of summertime fun create endless opportunities to explore, meet new people, and make memories.

Back home in Mozambique, the tropical summer offered hot beach days, seafood feasts and local festivals. In contrast, Toronto’s summer is a lively urban adventure! Having experienced my first Toronto summer last year, I’m excited to share my adventures and give you a glimpse of what makes summer in this city so special.

Toronto’s summer weather

Toronto summers are a delightful escape from the harsh Canadian winter. From June to August, the city warms up with temperatures ranging from 20°C to over 30°C. The warm weather invites everyone outdoors, transforming the city into a festival of activities and events.

City parks

One of my favourite ways to enjoy the summer is by visiting Toronto’s parks. Riverdale Park is a must-visit, with its sprawling green spaces, a great view of the Toronto skyline and sunset. I often pack snacks, bring a football, and spend the day lounging on the grass with friends. If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, Regent Park is also one of my favourites. The park is only a 20-minute streetcar ride away from campus with the TTC! You’ll find a soccer field, a running track, a basketball court, and a cricket pitch. These spots are awesome for anyone who loves sports and wants to have fun with some friendly matches or just practice their skills.

Festivals and events

Summer in Toronto means the festival season is in full swing. From the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), to the vibrant Caribana Parade, there’s always something happening. Last summer, I attended the Kuruza events, an African day festival that celebrates the city’s African community with delicious food, music, and dance. It was an incredible way to experience the diverse cultures that make Toronto unique.

Outdoor dining and patio season

When the weather warms up, Toronto’s dining scene moves outdoors. Patios pop up everywhere, from rooftops to sidewalk cafés. One of my favourite spots is Kensington Market. Walking through its streets, you’ll encounter a diverse mix of cultures represented in the food, shops, and people. Whether you’re sipping on a cold drink or enjoying a meal under the shade, the ambiance is unbeatable. One of my favourite restaurants there is Tacos 101. The variety of taco options never fails to impress — my favourite is their Pollo Adobado, a delicious chicken taco!

Waterfront wonders

Toronto’s waterfront is another summer highlight. I love taking a ferry to the Toronto Islands, where you can rent a bike, have a barbecue, or simply relax on the beach with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Summer classes at TMU

While summer is a time for fun, it’s also a great opportunity to get ahead in your studies. TMU offers a variety of summer classes that allow you to lighten your course load during the regular semesters. Balancing coursework with all the summer activities might seem challenging, but it’s definitely doable and rewarding. This summer I will be taking Data Structures, a course in computer science that focuses on organizing and storing data effectively to facilitate efficient operations. Taking this class during the summer will help me stay on track with my studies and lighten up my workload next term.

Toronto in the summer is an exciting and welcoming place. There’s always something to do and new experiences to be had. I’m looking forward to another incredible summer filled with adventures, and I hope to see you out there enjoying everything this fantastic city has to offer!