Summer is in full swing, and there are so many events, attractions and more to experience in Toronto. If you’re looking to make the most of the season without breaking the bank, these fun things to do for under $35 are worth checking out.
You can travel to majestic islands, watch films beneath the stars, and experience Canada’s largest annual fair while sticking to your budget.
Here are eight fun things to do in Toronto this summer for $35 or less.
Go on a retro roller skating date
Price: $18 per hour for skate rentals
When: Select days until September 28, 2025
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can roll around Toronto like it’s 1975 at this retro rollerskating pop-up. SUSO has returned to the Bentway for another season, and it’s a fun way to get outdoors and enjoy a unique activity. You can rent skates, helmets and more onsite, or bring your own equipment and participate for free.
SUSO offers rollerskating lessons, as well as events like Seventies Sundays and Nineties Friday Night, where you can enjoy themed music and more.
SUSO Website
Explore the Toronto Islands
Price: $9.11 round-trip ferry fee per adult
Address: 9 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don’t have to go far to enjoy a little taste of island life. The Toronto Islands are just a short ferry ride away from the city and offer so many fun things to see and do.
Once you’re on the island, you can visit Centreville Amusement Park, check out Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, stroll along the boardwalk, or rent a bike or canoe.
You can also head to one of the beaches, like Centre Island Beach or Hanlan’s Point Beach, which features a clothing-optional section.
Toronto Islands Website
Visit adorable animals
Price: $33 + per person
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Toronto Zoo is an iconic spot for a summer day trip. You can see all sorts of animals, from majestic lions to adorable penguins.
Head to the African Savanna, where you’ll come face-to-face with giraffes and baboons, or visit the Tundra Trek, where you’ll find arctic wolves and polar bears.
The Zoo offers more than unique creatures. You can check out the virtual reality theatre, visit Splash Island, explore the greenhouse, ride on the Zoomobile and more.
Toronto Zoo Website
See an outdoor play
Price: $20 + per person
When: Until August 31, 2025
Address: 1873 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can see a classic Shakespearean play brought to life beneath the stars in Toronto this summer. Dream in High Park is hosting Romeo & Juliet in the magical High Park Amphitheatre this summer.
The open-air theatre consists mainly of grass seating, so you’ll want to bring blankets or pillows to sit on. You can also pack your favourite snacks, or purchase some from the onsite concession stand.
Tickets are $32.50 per person, but you can also score rush tickets available at the Amphitheatre gate starting 30 minutes before each show, while supplies last.
Canadian Stage Website
Hunt for pirate gold
Price: $35 per person
When: Select dates until October 26, 2025
Address: 319 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Ahoy there! This immersive boat cruise adventure will have you feeling like Captain Jack Sparrow. Pirate Life is an interactive pirate-themed show that takes place on Lake Ontario.
You’ll sail around the waters on an authentic-looking pirate ship, hunting for treasure, firing cannons and even witnessing a sword fight.
Pirate Life Website
Sip drinks at a new restaurant
Price: $12 + per cocktail
Address: 245 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: There’s nothing like cooling off with a drink on a hot summer day, and this new Toronto restaurant is worth checking out.
Queen’s Harbour is a 23,000-square-foot dining destination that’s home to Canada’s largest retractable rooftop. You can enjoy a fusion of Mediterranean and Asia influences paired with modern design, waterfront scenery and CN Tower views.
Cocktails start at $12, and appetizers at $11, so you can enjoy a drink and a snack while sticking to your budget.
Queens Harbour Website
Visit Canada’s largest annual fair
Price: $25.11 + per person
When: August 15 to September 1, 2025
Address: 210 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The CNE, Canada’s largest annual fair, is returning for another fun-packed season. The event features attractions, exhibits, food, rides and more, and is an iconic Toronto summer tradition that draws crowds from all over the province.
From the thrilling Air Show to the scenic Sky Ride and an endless lineup of wild, over-the-top eats, the CNE is packed with summer fun.
You can grab advance tickets for $25.11, so it’s a good idea to start planning that trip.
CNE Website
Enjoy a movie beneath the night sky
Price: Free, donations accepted
When: Select dates until August 24, 2025
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show is back for its 20th anniversary. This year’s theme is “coming of age,” celebrating stories of growth, self-discovery and more.
From Stand by Me to Lady Bird and Flow, there is a range of films to enjoy beneath the night sky.
The festival is free to attend, but donations are appreciated. Snacks and beverages will be available at each location, with food vendors on-site at select locations.
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show Website
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
