Ten Things To Do in Ontario on a Rainy Day.
Ontario, a province brimming with natural beauty and cultural richness, offers a plethora of activities for a rainy day. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s no need to let a little rain dampen your spirits. Here are some top indoor activities to enjoy when the weather doesn’t cooperate:
1. Explore Museums and Art Galleries
Ontario is home to a myriad of museums and galleries. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto is a must-visit, with its vast collection of art, culture, and nature exhibits. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), which houses over 90,000 works spanning from the first century to contemporary art. Ottawa’s Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada also offer fascinating insights into the country’s heritage and artistic achievements.
2. Visit Science Centers and Planetariums
For a fun and educational experience, head to one of Ontario’s science centers. The Ontario Science Centre in Toronto offers interactive exhibits and live demonstrations that captivate visitors of all ages. The Science North in Sudbury, with its IMAX theatre and digital planetarium, provides an engaging way to learn about science and technology.
3. Discover Indoor Markets
Ontario’s indoor markets are perfect for a rainy day outing. St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique local products. The ByWard Market in Ottawa, one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, is ideal for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
4. Relax in Spas and Wellness Centers
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. Ontario boasts numerous spas and wellness centers where you can unwind and rejuvenate. The Scandinave Spa in Blue Mountain and the Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton offer relaxing environments with a variety of treatments designed to melt your stress away.
5. Enjoy Indoor Amusement Parks and Arcades
Families can have a blast at Ontario’s indoor amusement parks and arcades. Playdium in Mississauga features over 200 interactive games, simulators, and attractions. Meanwhile, The Rec Room in Toronto and other locations combine great food, live entertainment, and gaming experiences for all ages.
6. Take a Culinary Tour
Ontario’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. Rainy days are perfect for exploring the province’s best restaurants and cafes. Consider taking a culinary tour to sample gourmet dishes, local delicacies, and international cuisine. Wine tasting at one of the region’s renowned wineries, such as those in Niagara-on-the-Lake, is also a delightful option.
7. Watch a Live Performance
Ontario’s rich cultural scene includes numerous theatres and performance venues. Catch a live show at the iconic Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto or the Stratford Festival, which offers world-class productions of Shakespearean plays and other classic works. Ottawa’s National Arts Centre is another top spot for theatre, dance, and music performances.
8. Dive into a Bookstore or Library
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book on a rainy day. Ontario’s independent bookstores and libraries provide cozy retreats for bibliophiles. Visit Toronto’s iconic Indigo bookstore or the Toronto Reference Library, a stunning architectural gem, to find your next great read.
9. Experience Virtual Reality
For a unique and immersive experience, try virtual reality. VR lounges and arcades, such as Levelup Reality in Toronto, offer a wide range of games and simulations that transport you to different worlds without leaving the city.
10. Discover Historic Sites
Ontario’s historic sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visit Casa Loma in Toronto, a Gothic Revival-style mansion and garden, or Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, a neoclassical mansion with guided tours that tell the story of its former inhabitants.
Rainy days in Ontario need not be dull or dreary. With so many indoor activities to choose from, you can enjoy the province’s cultural, culinary, and recreational offerings, no matter the weather.
Click here to view all the things to see and do in Ontario to add to your ultimate Ontario ToDo list.