Gradlife

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My brother is coming to visit in a few weeks, and I’ve been planning his trip for the past week. The great thing about Toronto is that there is a lot to do, so much that we can’t possibly fit everything I want to take him to in a week. As we wrap up GradLife blogging for this semester, I thought it would be nice to end off with a list of things you can do this summer. It’s my second full summer in Toronto, so I’m excited to try all these things too!

1. Visit the Aquarium

Ripley’s Aquarium is a new attraction right next to the CN Tower. I haven’t visited yet, but a few of my friends have, and they loved it. If you’re a photographer, it’s a perfect place to take some dramatic shots with the water in the background. Everyone I know who’s been there says it’s a must-go.

2. Shop at St. Lawrence Market (and visit the Distillery District while you’re there) 

I think everyone has heard of St. Lawrence Market, but how many have actually been there? The market is a chef’s dream. The produce is unbelievably fresh – if you love to cook, you have to buy your ingredients here at least once. If cooking isn’t your thing, maybe brewing is. The Distillery District is close by. I hear you can visit the breweries and try some of their sample brews!

3. Take Pottery Classes

If you missed out the pottery class Grad Escape a few weeks ago, here’s your second chance. The Gardiner Museum holds drop-in classes every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. It’s only $12 for students!

4. Visit a Cute Coffee Shop or Cafe

There’s something about Toronto and coffee shops that go together. You can’t have experienced all the difference neighborhoods until you visit their signature coffee shop or cafe. Some of my favourites around campus are Bicerin (latte pictured below) in Baldwin Village and Sicilian Sidewalk Cafe in Little Italy.

5. Visit Museums for Free

Our TCard is magic. We can get discounts are certain businesses, which is great. It can get us free admission to others, which is even better. Every Tuesday, admission to the Royal Ontario Museum is free for post-secondary students. All you need to do is show them your TCard. Nifty, right? The Art Gallery of Ontario also has free admission Wednesday nights starting at 6pm.

 6. Watch a Show or Performance 

There are plenty of opportunities to watch live shows and performances around town. In fact, there is a Grad Escape for a Mirvish production next week that I will be going to! There are still tickets available for that one. If you missed out on the many Grad Escapes this year, or want to see more, check out The Second City (Comedy/Improv), the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the National Ballet, Mirvish Productions and Lower Ossington Theatre. Some these places have student discounts too!

I’m not a Toronto native, so I’m bound to be missing something. What is your favourite summer thing to do in the city? Share in the comments below.

It’s been a great year. Congratulations to those of you finishing up your degree. Have a great summer!