Pride and the City

Jason and Brad are from South Africa. They've lived in Toronto for four years now where they love hosting. Check out their tips to make the most out of a stay here, and if possible try to visit during the two massive gay events of Toronto: Pride and Halloween. Explore the world, experience your pride. 

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Toronto is a very welcoming, gay-friendly city. During pride month the whole city gets involved and the rainbow flag flies proudly at City Hall.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

Pride and Halloween are definitely the queerest times to visit the city. Pride is especially busy and crazy, but for some Halloween is probably the event that stands out the most. Although Toronto can already be freezing around that time of the year, everybody is out in their scary, sometimes minimal costumes. The whole village is shut down and everybody is out and about, going from bar to bar, having lots of fun despite the chilly temperatures.

© Pixabay/Berkay Gumustekin

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

CN Tower - the Edgewalk is amazing, that is if you like the idea of hanging off the edge of the tower. A lot of our guests love the various museums especially ROM - Royal Ontario Museum. The aquarium is also a very popular destination.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

A quick and easy option is the Firkin British pub in The Village. If you like Thai, then PAI is brilliant, although not in The Village. Toronto has thousands of restaurants, we always advise our guests to use Maps and try any restaurant that has a rating of 4 or above.

© Pixabay/ JP Augurusa 

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Sambucas On Church does a good brunch, but as Toronto is so gay friendly you can go almost anywhere. House on Parliament serves a very good brunch and what's even better is that it is only a 10-minute walk from our Condo.

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

The Village has a number of bars and patios in the summer which are always thriving with friendly tourists and locals.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

For a slightly younger crowd, we would suggest heading to Fly which has predominantly house music. For a good laugh there is Crews & Tango, which is a drag club that has a dance floor at the back with a mixed crowd.

Toronto Islands © Flickr/michal amamczyk

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

Unfortunately, the gay village isn't very big, but it does have a few cruise bars, Black Eagle is a good go-to. And Pitbull Events host various parties through the year at the Phoenix, a very big nightclub and concert venue here in Toronto. 

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

Hanlans point on the island, the beach is great, and it is also clothing optional. We only recommend this for the warmer months though obviously. 

© Pixabay/jplenio 

Where can we get the best view of Toronto?

CN Tower would be the ultimate place for a panoramic view of Toronto. There is a revolving restaurant at the top, that is always a worthwhile place to settle into to appreciate some postcard-worthy views. ● 

Thinking of visiting Toronto? Check out more Local Tips and Travel Guide page for this great gay city!  

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