Kandice VincentThere are times when I’m longing for a leisurely stroll in the park or a picnic by the lake, but as any Torontonian knows, the weather here can be wildly unpredictable.
So, when the skies turn gray and the rain starts pouring, I don’t let it dampen my spirits. Instead, I embrace Toronto’s hip indoor scene.
And believe me, I am spoiled for choice. I could choose to strike down pins at a retro bowling alley, dodge paintballs, belt out my favorite tunes at karaoke, and much more.
Just because the weather’s miserable doesn’t mean you have to be, too. Here, we reveal the best indoor adventures the 6ix has to offer!
- Go axe-throwing at BATL
- Jump up and down at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
- Play VR games at Levelup Virtual Reality Arcade
- Get trippy at the Museum of Illusions
- Check out Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
- Swim in Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre’s indoor pool
- Go bowling at Parkway Bowl
- Wipe out the competition at Sgt. Splatters
- Belt out tunes at Echo Karaoke
- Sculpt a masterpiece at The Pottery
Go axe-throwing at BATL
Media credit: batlground
Website: https://batlgrounds.com/axe-throwing-toronto-east/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/batlground/
Address: 33 Villiers St
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sat: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 8 PM
Contact: (647) 793-6410
BATL Toronto is the kingpin of urban axe throwing in North America. Founded by a backyard axe-throwing enthusiast, they’ve become the go-to place for over 2 million people (including some celeb dads and sons, like the Quaid crew!).
They cater to those who are planning to go on a hot date (who wouldn’t be impressed by your axe-throwing skills?), celebrate their birthday, host team buildings, or are just bored. Even bachelor/bachelorette parties and fundraisers are welcome!
Don’t worry about juggling axes and snacks—BATL has a fully licensed bar stocked with local craft beers, coolers, and wines. Plus, you can pre-order your food before the event—no need to worry about a hangry meltdown interrupting your axe-throwing.
Pro Tip:
Feeling competitive? BATL can handle groups of 2 or even over 100 with ease. They can set up awesome tournaments, complete with trophies and BATL merch for the champions!
Jump up and down at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Media credit: skyzone_toronto
Website: https://www.skyzone.com/ca-toronto/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skyzone_toronto/
Address: 45 Esandar Dr
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs, Sun: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Fri – Sat: 9 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (647) 363-5552
Sky Zone Trampoline Park is the world’s largest trampoline and active entertainment park operator, with more than 300 locations worldwide. While kids tend to go wild here, it’s often the adults who really feel addicted to that carefree, weightless feeling.
Here, you can challenge your friends to a game of trampoline dodgeball on their dedicated courts. You can also head over to the basketball courts, where you can finally land that perfect slam dunk.
And if you’re just here for some pure fun, the foam pit will catch you every time with its squishy goodness. What sets Sky Zone apart is their patented 3-D trampoline-walled courts, giving jumpers of all ages a safe (and super fun!) place to leap around.
Pro Tip:
For those looking to combine fitness and fun, check out their SkyRobics classes, offered several times a week. It’s a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to your typical fitness club, and let’s be real, it’s way more fun than a treadmill!
Play VR games at Levelup Virtual Reality Arcade
Media credit: gunterwandt
Website: levelupreality.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/levelupreality/
Address: 661 Yonge St Lower Level
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 2:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 1 PM – 12:30 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Contact Details: (833) 538-3587
Levelup Virtual Reality Arcade offers one of the best VR experiences in and around Toronto. If you’re new to the VR world, their staff are always ready to lend a hand to help you get into a game or figure out the gear.
The real highlight is their jaw-dropping selection of over 80 single and multiplayer games. Feel free to choose from several action-packed adventures, survival horror, sports, and even escape room scenarios!
Pro Tip:
Remember, Levelup is a cashless facility, so make sure to have your card ready.
Get trippy at the Museum of Illusions
Media credit: museumofillusions_toronto
Website: https://museumofillusions.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/museumofillusions_toronto/
Address: 132 Front St E
Hours:
- Mon-Thurs, Sun: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 8 PM
Contact: (416) 889-2285
The Museum of Illusions is a place filled with optical illusions and interactive exhibits that will have you questioning reality—and snapping plenty of Instagram-worthy pics.
See your head on a platter or step inside a right-side-up subway car. You can also go into a vortex tunnel that’ll have you feeling like the ground is shifting beneath your feet or challenge your brain with puzzles and brain teasers.
Whether it’s shrinking yourself in the Ames room or walking on walls in the tilted room, the museum turns the laws of physics upside down in the most fun way possible. It’s also the perfect indoor spot for families, friends, or even date nights!
Pro Tip:
The Museum of Illusions can get pretty busy, especially on weekends, so book your tickets online in advance to avoid the wait.
Check out Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
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Website: https://www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-canada
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ripleysaquaca/
Address: 288 Bremner Blvd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 9 PM
Contact: (647) 351-3474
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is tucked in the Harbourfront area, and it’s home to over 20,000 marine animals from across the globe. The aquarium is a magical journey for all ages, with interactive exhibits and mesmerizing displays of marine life.
Start your adventure at the Shoreline Gallery, where you’ll come face to face with jellyfish that glow like little floating lanterns, giant lobsters, and graceful stingrays.
And then there’s the real showstopper: the Rainbow Reef. With 5.7 million litres of water, you’ll be surrounded by over 100 species of brilliantly coloured fish, darting in and out of coral reefs.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss Ripley’s moving sidewalk that takes you through the Dangerous Lagoon tunnel, where sharks and rays swim overhead. It’s one of the most thrilling parts of the aquarium and makes for epic photos!
Swim in Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre’s indoor pool
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Website: https://www.tpasc.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontopanamsportscentre/
Address: 875 Morningside Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 5 AM – 12 AM
Contact: (416) 283-5222
The Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre houses one of the best indoor pools in Toronto. Lifeguards are on hand to help you out, although they might request a quick swim test, so be prepared.
Their Leisure Swim sessions are a great way to dive in and enjoy some quality pool time. Each session allows up to 30 swimmers, so there’s plenty of space to make a splash!
They also offer a variety of swim options to suit everyone’s needs, including a Females Only Leisure Swim. Parents and Tots sessions are perfect for introducing little ones, while the Mid-Length Water offers a great way to swim without going full lap mode.
Pro Tip:
If you or someone you’re with has a serious medical condition, make sure to inform one of the Sports Centre’s staff so that they can offer additional supervision.
Go bowling at Parkway Bowl
Media credit: kass.n.sash
Website: http://www.parkway-bowl.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkway-bowl/
Address: 67 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough
Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 9 PM
Contact Details: (416) 447-1761
Parkway Bowl is a hidden gem located on the lower level of Parkway Mall. With its 70s-inspired vibe and top-notch amenities, it’s the perfect indoor spot for a night of bowling fun.
It’s equipped with a state-of-the-art scoring system, bumper bowling, and a killer sound system. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just starting out, you’ll have a blast on their 24 lanes, which can accommodate both 5-pin and 10-pin bowling.
Plus, it’s the perfect venue for corporate events, fundraisers, and birthday parties. You can choose from two different party packages available (A and B), both priced at $21.95 per child.
Pro Tip:
If you want to take your bowling game to the next level, consider joining one of Parkway Bowl’s bowling clubs. They offer clubs for youth, men, women, and mixed groups, as well as programs for those with special needs.
Wipe out the competition at Sgt. Splatters
Media credit: sgtsplatters
Website: https://www.sgtsplatters.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sgtsplatters
Address: 54 Wingold Ave
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Fri – Sun: 9 AM – 12 AM
Contact Details: (416) 781-0991
For an adrenaline-pumping indoor activity, look no further than Sgt. Splatter Paintball, Canada’s largest and best indoor paintball destination. Operating for over 25 years, it’s a paintball paradise for players of all ages and skill levels.
This massive 35,000-square-foot facility is designed by a Hollywood set designer, so you can expect a truly immersive experience. Explore abandoned buildings, dodge enemy fire behind vehicles, and strategize your next move on this indoor battlefield.
We love that they offer a variety of specials and promotions throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for the latest deals. From daily specials to seasonal discounts, there’s always a way to save some money on your paintball adventure.
Pro Tip:
Sgt. Splatter offers party packages that include paintball, pizza, and a party room. Choose from the Basic, Silver, Gold, or Platinum packages to find the perfect option for your group.
Belt out tunes at Echo Karaoke
Media credit: echokaraoke_
Website: echokaraoke.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/echokaraoke_
Address: 693 Bloor St W
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs, Sun: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Fri – Sat: 4 PM – 2:30 AM
Contact: (437) 873-2611
Echo Karaoke in Toronto’s Koreatown is one of the best KTVs in Toronto! Here, you can enjoy Korean-style private karaoke rooms, where you can belt out tunes in Russian, Filipino, English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and of course, Korean.
Unlike other karaoke spots with strict age limits, they have a 3rd-floor space that’s perfect for all ages. No alcohol is allowed here since it’s unlicensed, making it a fun and family-friendly environment for everyone.
While outside food isn’t permitted, they’ve got you covered with classic pub grub like wings and fries. And if you’re craving something more, there’s a Korean BBQ restaurant conveniently located on the ground floor.
Pro Tip:
Echo Karaoke is a cash-only spot, so be sure to have some cash on hand. But no worries, there’s an onsite ATM to keep the party going.
Sculpt a masterpiece at The Pottery
Media credit: paulthepottery
Website: thepottery.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulthepottery
Address: 498 Runnymede Rd
Hours:
- Mon, Wed: 11 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tue, Fri – Sun: 12 PM – 5 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (416) 690-9475
The Pottery in Toronto is the perfect place to get your hands dirty and create something amazing indoors! Led by Paul Stewart, an instructor with nearly 40 years of pottery experience, you’ll be in expert hands as you learn the craft.
For those who want to dive deep, their 10-week lessons are a fantastic option. But if you’re short on time or just want a taste of the pottery life, check out their two-hour workshops, where you can make up to three pots on the wheel.
The Pottery also welcomes groups, offering workshops for schools, social service agencies, and corporate teams. It’s no wonder they’re one of the best pottery class places in Toronto!
Pro Tip:
Got little ones? The Pottery’s summer camps are a hit as kids get to explore their creativity through hand-building, wheel-throwing, and glazing—all with experienced instructors guiding them every step of the way.
