January in Old Town Toronto | Things to Do + Neighbourhood Guide
Hockey Hall of Fame, Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
Winter in Toronto doesn’t mean staying indoors! Old Town Toronto is full of vibrant experiences to make your January visit unforgettable. From interactive museums and historic neighbourhoods to festive shopping and late-night sightseeing, there’s something for everyone. Use this neighbourhood guide to plan your perfect downtown Toronto getaway — and stay at Novotel Toronto Centre for the ultimate convenience.
Museum of Illusions: Fun for Children and Adults
Step into a world where perception meets play at the Museum of Illusions Toronto. With over 70 interactive exhibits, visitors can explore optical illusions, holograms, and brain teasers that blend science, art, and entertainment. It’s perfect for curious minds of all ages!
Plan Your Visit:
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Operating Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
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Parking: Available nearby
Toronto Night Sightseeing Tour on a Double-Decker Bus
See the city sparkle after dark with a 1.5-hour guided tour on a double-decker bus. Cruise past Toronto landmarks like Yonge-Dundas Square, Fairmont Royal York, University of Toronto – St. George Campus, Chinatown, Nathan Phillips Square, The Esplanade, and more. Capture breathtaking views of the skyline and enjoy a unique perspective of downtown Toronto in winter.
Starting Location: City Sightseeing Toronto
Shopping at the Distillery District
Step into a historic neighbourhood filled with over 40 boutiques and creative businesses. The Distillery District is perfect for finding unique gifts, artisanal treats, and trendy fashions. Its cobblestone streets and charming architecture make it one of Toronto’s most picturesque shopping destinations, especially in the winter months.
Grab Bagels at St. Lawrence Market
No trip to Old Town Toronto is complete without visiting St. Lawrence Market. Stop by St. Urbain Bagels in the South Market for Montreal-style bagels baked fresh daily. Popular flavours include cinnamon-raisin, onion-garlic, blueberry, whole wheat, flax, and multi-grain. Pair them with fresh cream cheese or tofutti for a true Toronto breakfast experience.
Tip: Arrive early — the “still-warm-from-the-oven” bagels sell out quickly!
Catch a Movie at Imagine Cinemas
Enjoy a cozy, budget-friendly movie night at Imagine Cinemas. Their Tuesday Special offers $5 tickets for any movie, plus most concessions for $5 or less. Luxury recliner seats make it a comfortable experience, perfect for a winter evening in the city.
Locations: Front Street, Carlton Street, and other Toronto locations
Experience: Affordable luxury seating with all-inclusive pricing
Make it a Downtown Toronto Getaway at Novotel
After a day exploring Old Town Toronto, return to Novotel Toronto Centre, your home base in the heart of downtown. Enjoy modern rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to the city’s top attractions. From interactive museums and historic markets to night tours and shopping, Novotel keeps you close to all the action — making your January stay effortless and memorable.
Book your downtown Toronto getaway at Novotel today and explore the best of Old Town Toronto this winter!