Yes, it’s cold, but it’s Canada, so let’s bundle up, dig ourselves out, and embrace the fresh and fun side of winter here in Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood!

From great cafes to cool vintage stores to amazing murals, Riverside is a vibrant lifestyle district with plenty to offer and is home to many small, locally owned businesses. So put your cute winter outfit on and buckle up — we’re going on a little trip to Queen East. Here’s five fun things to do in Riverside this season:

Photo credit: Isle of Coffee

Go cafe hopping.

Riverside is home to many amazing coffee shops. There’s Isle of Coffee (745 Queen St E), Jimmy’s Coffee (806 Queen St E), Amber Kitchen and Coffee (4 Boulton Ave), and Dark Horse Espresso Bar (630 Queen St E). Cafe hopping is a great way to spend a day in the neighbourhood, while staying warm in the winter. Some of them have seasonal drinks so that’s worth trying as well.

Photo credit: Riverside BIA

Take a walking tour.

… when there’s no Extreme Cold Warning, at least. You can explore some of the historical landmarks in Riverside like The Opera House (735 Queen St E) or look at the cool public art we have in the neighbourhood. FYI, we’ve launching a series of self-guided walking tours with a new tour every week or so this winter – so check them out and stay tuned for more to come!

Photo credit: Coffee and Clothing

Do your own vintage crawl.

Vintage fashion lovers are in for a treat in Riverside as the area boasts a vibrant community of independent vintage clothing stores. While our first 2026 Riverside Vintage Crawl is still months away (we know you’re excited), you can definitely do one yourself in the meantime. As of writing, we have eight vintage clothing stores in the BIA — see the full list in the blog post linked below!

BLOG: A Fashion Reset: Vintage Shopping in Riverside This Winter

Photo credit: The Broadview Hotel

Treat yourself to a staycation.

We all deserve to spoil ourselves occasionally, right? Join the Broadview Key Club for members-only perks at The Broadview Hotel (106 Broadview Ave). They’re pet-friendly as well so you don’t have to worry about leaving the fur babies behind. A bonus tip: While you’re in the neighbourhood, sign up for the brewery tour at Eastbound Brewing Company (700 Queen St E), which is just next door).

Photo credit: The Comrade

Enjoy happy hour.

When you want to unwind a little bit, whether it’s from a stressful week at work or just the winter blues getting you down, gather the gang and head over to Riverside for happy hour. There are deals on fish tacos and margs at La Carnita (780 Queen St E), cocktails and burgers at The Comrade (758 Queen St E), and half-price bottles of wine over at Chez Nous (798 Queen St E), just to name a few.

If you’re new to Riverside, be sure to follow @riverside_bia on Instagram and check out the Riverside Blog to stay updated on exciting happenings in the neighbourhood!