Dinner, drinks or a movie is the standard fare for a date. But what if inspiration hits and instead you want to get active, creative, or even push those comfort zone boundaries? No worries, there. Toronto is a diverse and vibrant city with endless possibilities for a memorable and unique date night or day. Here are just a few:

Strap on your skates

There is no escaping winter in Toronto. So you might as well get out there and embrace it. Outdoor skating is a great activity to do with a date, especially in the early stages of getting to know one another. Like going for a walk, it’s a space that encourages conversation, where you can talk freely without the constraints of sitting awkwardly across a table. There are several outdoor rinks in Toronto but one of the best and most picturesque is the Evergreen skating rink at the Brick Works.

Hit the playground

But if the weather is less than ideal and you still want to be active, why not take your date to an indoor adult playground? Play, be silly, get some exercise and see your date in a whole new light. During the early stages, getting together can sometimes feel like a job interview. It’s important, at some point, to take the structure and seriousness out of it.  The Pursuit OCR in Etobicoke boasts “30,00 Sq Ft of Awesome”. It’s an adults only obstacle course designed to help you release your inner child.

Go covert

If it’s the weekend and you are looking for a twist on that old meet-for-a-drink standby, then why not check out one of Toronto’s many hidden bars or speakeasies? They are smaller, cozier and feature house-made cocktails and nibblies and their own unique vibe. Dundas West is a neighbourhood that is home to many of these hidden gems. Call an Uber and hit more than one! Start your speakeasy crawl at the Gift Shop on Ossignton Ave. In the backroom of a barber shop, the bartender, mysteriously known only as “H”, will serve one-of-a-kind cocktails, and the menu is original and very delicious. But’s it’s a busy one so be sure to make a reservation!

Painting for two

Do you have a creative side? Or maybe your date does? Exploring creativity during a date can be very revealing, and fun. Forgo the usual and connect during a painting session at the Paint Lounge, while sipping on coffee and teas in their cafe. You can go freestyle (paint anything you want!) or join a step-by-step guided workshop. They have three convenient locations in Toronto.

Art Galleries Big and Small

If creating art is not your thing, there are plenty of opportunities in the city to just admire it. Walking through the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is always a worthwhile way to spend an afternoon with someone special. But there are also many smaller boutique galleries in Toronto that are definitely worth a look, too. The Yorkville area boasts several galleries all within a short radius. Park the car go and go for a stroll with your date. And of course when you are ready for a break, there are plenty of food and beverage options close by.