If you seek a couples’ trip, take your loved one to Toronto. North America’s fourth-largest city (coming in behind Mexico City, New York and Los Angeles) is brimming with activities for a romantic getaway, whether you want a celebration with a view, a sophisticated cultural escape or must-try restaurants.
Where to Stay
Pairs who want to unwind can find refuge at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Park Hyatt Toronto, where couples’ therapy comes in the form of much-needed time on the massage table at Stillwater Spa or a little shopping in Yorkville’s high-end boutiques.
Enjoy the Stillwater Spa Wellness Package, where guests not only get a stay in one of the hotel’s newly redesigned rooms, but they also receive two treatment credits to indulge in the Rose Indulgence Body Ritual or one of the sanctuary’s other holistic treatments along with a farm-to-fork breakfast at Joni Restaurant and a mood-setting aromatherapy welcome amenity upon arrival.
Wining and Dining
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a ricotta tartlet. Tuck into one at the Five-Star Shangri-La Hotel, Toronto’s Lobby Lounge during an afternoon tea you’ll never forget. Enjoy some of the best people-watching in the city while pastry chef Steven Tran brings an upscale and whimsical approach to the luxurious service. Through May 19, celebrate the season with a special Bee-Loved Spring Afternoon Tea featuring savory and sweet treats flavored with honey harvested from the hotel’s onsite beehive.
Or enjoy the vista from Four-Star Canoe, perched on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, where a cocktail at the bar or the tasting menu at the chef’s rail provides a classic, upscale experience with a view.
The hot new Aera Restaurant, on the 38th floor at The Well multi-use project, also offers postcard-perfect peeks with a trendy supper club vibe. Expect a steakhouse, a sushi counter and copious champagne bottles.
Amorous Activities
Escape for a lovely late afternoon to the city’s Distillery District. This cobblestoned pedestrian space is picturesque to a fault, making it one of the most sought-after places in town for couples or wedding photography. For those looking to explore the area, the 19th-century warehouses are chock-full of art galleries, outdoor sculptures and boutiques. Head to SOMA Chocolatemaker for a taste of small-batch, artisanal treats; peruse the eccentric shoe offerings at John Fluevog; have a sake tasting at IZUMI Brewery; or stock up on exquisite stationery and pens at the Toronto Pen Shoppe and write your sweetheart a heartfelt love letter.
If you’re looking to mark a special occasion with a stunning backdrop, skip the CN Tower and hop on a short 15-minute ferry ride to explore the Toronto Islands, where you can enjoy a canoe ride or tandem bike with a view of the city’s famous skyline.
Other date-night options include trekking over to the Art Gallery of Ontario to stroll the picturesque Galleria Italian promenade, going the classically romantic route with an evening watching the National Ballet of Canada (see Don Quixote June 1 through 9) or catching a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre. To this day, we dream of finding a partner who looks at us the same way Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stares at a weak fastball down the middle.
