25 Indoor Activities in Toronto That’ll Make You Forget It’s Raining
Rainy days in Toronto? Don’t cancel your plans – just switch them up. Whether you’re dodging snow, heatwaves, or an all-day downpour, there are tons of indoor activities in Toronto that keep the adventure going.
Because let’s be honest: feeling cooped up in your hotel or stuck endlessly scrolling for “what to do in Toronto when it rains” isn’t the vibe. You want to explore, enjoy, and make the most of your day – no umbrella drama required.
As someone who’s lived in Toronto for 6+ years, I’ve ducked into cozy cafés, discovered underground art galleries, and turned grey skies into some of my most memorable city days. This guide is packed with go-to indoor spots, hidden gems, and locals-only favorites – perfect whether you’re solo, with kids, with friends, or on a date.
From interactive museums to food markets, creative workshops to indoor gardens, this list has something for every kind of explorer. Let’s turn those rainy vibes around – and prove that Toronto shines even without the sun.
Best Indoor Activities in Toronto for All Ages
Ripley’s Aquarium
Get up close with jellyfish, stingrays, and sharks in this underwater wonderland. Perfect for kids and adults who love nature.
Ontario Science Centre
Hands-on exhibits, IMAX films, and interactive learning make this a full-day adventure for curious minds of all ages.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and world-class exhibits – the ROM is a Toronto staple that makes any rainy day feel like a cultural escape. Related: Best Museums in Toronto
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Explore Canadian and international art, from the Group of Seven to modern installations. Free on Wednesdays after 6 p.m.!
Toronto Zoo (Indoor Pavilions)
Yes, parts of the zoo are indoor! Explore tropical pavilions filled with reptiles, birds, and plants from around the world.
Indoor Things to Do in Toronto for Adults
Distillery District Tasting Tour
Historic charm meets modern flavor. Visit local breweries and spirit houses for indoor tastings with a side of cobblestone.
St. Lawrence Market Food Crawl
Grab a peameal bacon sandwich, sample international cuisine, and warm up with fresh coffee or wine tasting.
Escape Rooms
Test your wits at spots like Looking Glass Adventures or Roundabout Canada. Perfect for a group challenge indoors.
Board Game Cafés
Snakes & Lattes has every board game you can imagine – and the lattes are great too. Cozy, low-key, and endlessly entertaining.
Spa Day
Unwind at Body Blitz (women-only) or Hammam Spa. You deserve a little indulgence when the skies are grey.
Cozy Indoor Spots for Couples
Cooking Class at The Chef Upstairs
Whip up a gourmet meal together with a private chef. It’s intimate, interactive, and perfect for date night.
Cocktail Hour at BarChef
One of Toronto’s most creative bars. Think dry ice, edible flowers, and unforgettable flavors.
ROM Friday Night Live
When in season, enjoy cocktails and live DJs as you explore the museum after hours.
Afternoon Tea at the Windsor Arms
Classic, elegant, and a lovely escape from the rain. Sip, snack, and savor the moment.
Family-Friendly Indoor Activities in Toronto
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Located at Vaughan Mills, it’s a LEGO-lover’s dream with rides, building stations, and a 4D cinema.
KidsZone at Ontario Science Centre
Especially great for toddlers and young kids, this area is full of interactive exhibits and hands-on fun.
The Rec Room
Arcade games, VR, bowling, and food – all under one roof. Great for tweens and teens too.
Indoor Playgrounds
Check out Playcious, Happy Kingdom, or Amazon Indoor Playground for soft play areas and climbing structures.
Cineplex VIP Cinemas
Comfortable seating, in-seat service, and adult-only showtimes make this a win for parents who want a break too.
Free or Budget-Friendly Indoor Fun
Eaton Centre Window Shopping
Browse high-end brands and indie pop-ups without spending a dime (unless you want to).
Indigo Bookstore (Bay & Bloor)
Get lost in a good book or join an in-store event or signing. Cozy, calming, and completely free.
City of Toronto Pools or Rinks
Many offer indoor swim or skate times for free or low cost — check local schedules.
Related: Things to Do for Free in Toronto
Community Galleries + Art Shows
Small, free galleries are scattered across the city and often host local artist showcases.
Free Museum Nights
Keep an eye on the ROM, AGO, and Bata Shoe Museum — many offer free admission evenings once a week.
Unique Indoor Experiences You Might Not Know About
Toronto Botanical Garden Conservatory
A warm, tropical oasis perfect for escaping the chill and soaking in some plant therapy.
Textile Museum of Canada
Surprisingly fascinating and beautifully curated — a hidden gem for craft and design lovers.
Museum of Illusions
A playful and very Instagrammable spot with mind-bending exhibits and optical illusions.
Airbnb Experiences (Indoor Edition)
Pottery workshops, cooking classes, or DIY candle-making — check the platform for fun, locally-hosted activities.
Immersive Art Pop-Ups
Installations like Lighthouse Immersive or new rotating exhibits at MOCA bring light and creativity indoors.
Make Rainy Days Your Adventure Days
Rain doesn’t ruin the fun – it just changes the plan. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, curious kid, or chill-seeker, Toronto is full of indoor gems waiting to be explored. Bookmark this list for your next grey-sky day, and remember: sometimes, the best city moments happen when the weather forces you to get a little creative.
Also read: Best Cafes in Toronto for a Cozy Break
