Backpacking Toronto

Little Somewhat Italy and Portugal (5.8 km)

Little Italy and the neighbouring neighbourhood, Little Portugal, are enclaves for the first Italian and Portuguese settlers in Toronto. Today, these neighbourhoods are less distinctly Italian/Portuguese. They have become trendy districts for global food. In fact, they boast the highest density of top-rated restaurants in Toronto. There are some attractions along the way like murals, an Italian broadcaster, and a Portuguese parkette. But the highlight is undoubtedly the profusion of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. We'll take a quick detour to Trinity-Bellwoods park before ending at a northern Italian restaurant featuring Lombardy cuisine. No pizzas, just steak, breaded cutlets, and other rich foods. **Highlights** 1. Dundas St W and Bathurst St southeast corner (depart 6:30pm) 2. Garage door murals at Boxcar Social Laneway 3. Bar Raval 4. Liu Loqum Atelier 5. Italian Walk of Fame / PG Clucks 6. Portuguese Walk of Fame 7. Casa Tropical / The Daily Dumpling Wonton Co 8. Mayil Coffee 9. West End YMCA 10. Gateau Ghost 11. Death In Venice 12. Youngplace 13. Trinity Community Recreation Centre (depart 7:55pm) 14. Harry and Heels California Donuts 15. Stelvio (arrive 8:20pm) **Neighbourhoods** Little Italy > Trinity-Bellwoods > Little Portugal **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ZMfY8WowqpbeBxg91X-NsNTDtv6HGWc&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ZMfY8WowqpbeBxg91X-NsNTDtv6HGWc&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Snow loops of Don Valley (8.1 km)

Golf courses are not just for golf. In winter, city-owned courses become cross-country skiing and snowshoeing territory. Of these, the Don Valley Golf Course has the largest and most scenic routes. It goes across rivers and under massive highways. Toronto's only ski lift is just outside its boundaries, which we can visit if the gate there is unlocked. After romping through the golf course, we'll continue exploration in the Hoggs Hollow neighbourhood. It has some historical buildings, a fancy French restaurant, and a 1850s tavern. Heading south along Yonge Street, we'll reach a clutch of eateries, where you can choose between Georgian, Indian, or Thai food. This event depends on snow. If there is heavy snowfall, you're encouraged to ski or snowshoe the golf course portion of the hike. If there is no snow and ice, we'll just walk. Walking in heavy snow is not recommended. If you must, wear muck boots and/or traction aids. After the golf course, the rest of the hike will be on foot. **Highlights** 1. Don Valley Golf Course main building (depart 12pm) 2. Golf turf blanketed in snow (or barren and grey) 3. Hogg's Hollow Bridge 4. Earl Bales ski lift 5. Don Valley Golf Course main building (depart 1:12pm) 6. Auberge du Pommier 7. C W Jeffrey's house 8. St. John's York Mills Anglican Church 9. York Mills Centre (depart 1:40pm) 10. Miller Tavern 11. Tamada Georgian Restaurant / Mumbaikar 12. Pii Nong Thai (arrive 2:05pm) **Neighbourhoods** Armour Heights > Hoggs Hollow > Bedford Park **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1clcrZAR9LCTyev1-8BHf3pNAgyS-Muw&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1clcrZAR9LCTyev1-8BHf3pNAgyS-Muw&usp=sharing) Moderate incline going down from golf course, potentially covered in ice. Stairs to St John's York Mills Anglican Church. Uphill along Yonge St from York Mills to Glen Echo. Free admission to golf course in winter. **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Old New Toronto (11.3 km)

New Toronto is a neighbourhood in Etobicoke just west of the former limits of Toronto. It mushroomed in the early 20th century but today it looks older than old Toronto. The exception is the enclave of spiffy condos at Humber Bay Shores. The biggest attraction here is the former Mimico Asylum, which now houses Humber College and a couple of ghosts. We won't explore the underground tunnels but we'll check out Toronto's largest open-air skating trail and loop around the historic buildings. Going eastwards, we'll pass by Polish and British food places and an Australian cafe. The eclectic mix continues in Mimico, with an increasing Tibetan and Thai focus. It's also home to the best Ukrainian restaurant in the GTA. The route winds through soaring condos at Humber Bay, the frozen lakeshore, and circles back from the iconic bridge marking the border of Etobicoke and old Toronto. From there, it's a short distance to either an exemplary Argentinean steakhouse for asado (barbecue) or a modern Chinese restaurant for spicy Sichuan claypot dishes. **Highlights** 1. Assembly Hall (depart 2pm) 2. Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail 3. Humber College / Cumberland House / The Gatehouse 4. Zakopane Deli / Albatros Pub 5. Kitchen On Sixth 6. Eighth Street Skate Park / Bosnian Islamic Centre 7. The Sydney Grind (depart 2:50pm) 8. Prince of Wales Park 9. Mr. Momo 10. Pemako Kitchen / Barrel House Korchma 11. Asters Patisserie 12. Waterfront Trail 13. Humber Bay Park West Parking Lot (depart 4:05pm) 14. Eau Du Soleil 15. Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen 16. Humber Bay Arch Bridge 17. Vos Restaurante Argentino 18. Tis Two Cities (arrive 5:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** New Toronto > Mimico > Humber Bay Shores **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

VMC and the real Little Italy (8.2 km)

Italian immigrants have long moved out of Little Italy in downtown Toronto. Find them in Vaughan, home to a plethora of Italian restaurants, booming condos, and the local mafia. The areas around Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) and Highway 7 / Weston Rd are packed with industrial food outlets. We'll visit two cheese superstores, a seafood mart, and other hidden gems. It's not just Italian food either. There's Vietnamese and a growing Turkish presence. Also, one of the top 3 croissants in the GTA. And a winery tour (subject to availability). If that's not enough Mediterranean food for you, stay for a meal at a upscale Greek restaurant or grab Roman pizza and panini at a hidden takeout joint. **Highlights** 1. VMC (Vaughan Metropolitan Centre) Library (depart 12pm) 2. Mapletri Supermarket 3. Bartholomew Bakery 4. Ricci's Pizzeria (depart 1:10pm) 5. San Antonio Seafood Market / Grande Cheese 6. Ciao Roma / Nes Bakery 7. Quality Cheese 8. Magnotta (depart 2:25pm) 9. Zet's Restaurant 10. Nonna Amina Turkish Bakery 11. Gulbay Turkish Bakery 12. Medusa Authentic Greek Cuisine / Giro Bottega / Corned Beef House (arrive 3:25pm) **Neighbourhoods** Vaughan Metropolitan Centre > Vaughan Business Park > Woodbridge **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=15a06BMqNFARkynRVVr-2Fn3-1ow7Wag&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=15a06BMqNFARkynRVVr-2Fn3-1ow7Wag&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com. No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Cherry Blossoms in Japan! The Golden Triangle-including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka~

Join us on this magical trip to Japan to experience the enchanting allure of spring, where nature paints the landscape with vibrant colors. We chose this season for the unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations at their best: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka. We will also visit the Japanese Alps with stays in Matsumoto and Kanazawa. Each city boasts unique attractions and seasonal charm that will captivate our senses and leave us with unforgettable memories. A true Meetup Experience! What is included: * 3 nights in Tokyo * 1 night in Matsumoto * 2 nights in Kanazawa * 2 nights in Kyoto * 3 nights in Osaka * Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers * Transportation throughout by Coach * English Speaking guide throughout the itinerary * Sightseeing tours with admissions fees per itinerary * Breakfast Daily * 2 lunches, 5 dinners Experience: * Visit to shrines, temples and castles with amazing Spring Blossoms * The Bullet train-Shinkansen * Sushi Making Class * Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony * Maiko Dinner (apprentice geisha) * Samurai Experience What is not included: * International Airfare * Tips for the guide and driver * Meals not listed in the itinerary * Items of personal nature Japan during spring is a feast for the senses, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban excitement. We will enjoy it all and this promises to be an unforgettable adventure with our fellow Meetup travelers! **Land Tour cost USD$5760 per person, double occupancy** **(we match roommates for those wishing to share)** **Solo occupancy additional USD$1050** **\*\*\*International Airfare not included\*\*\*** The only way to guarantee your spot for this meetup is a **USD$400 deposit.** **[CLICK HERE](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/TB7SYRJPHPT5A) for secure deposit link:** Upon submitting the deposit, please **[fill out this form](https://forms.gle/toSHuzqVMT92rutL7)** RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info. **RSVP DOES NOT RESERVE YOUR SPOT.** Deposit is the only way to hold your spot. **[Click Here for secure deposit link.](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/TB7SYRJPHPT5A)** Your deposit is fully refundable up to 90 days before the departure. For airfare and other info on the trip, [click here to message Anna](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) [Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) to fill out our google info request form to receive detailed itinerary. We believe in good decent social. This event is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. [Click Here ](https://www.meetup.com/ccccc-c/events/299222593)for the main location of this event. Still have questions? We do a monthly [Q&A Travel Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/) on all our events Come to the zoom and ask any questions. Great way to get the info you want without all the other fluff. As well as meet us and other attendees. [Click here for General Policies](https://www.meetup.com/MoreToExplore/events/282719353/) and useful info about our international trips. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too. [Click Here to see all our other fun events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it! SOT 2000318-10

Health and Wellness Trip in SoCal

This experience is designed for people who want to reconnect with their bodies and experience Santa Barbara beyond the surface 🌿🌊. Throughout the trip, I’ll be guiding yoga, breathwork, and meditation to help regulate your nervous system, build presence, and create space for clarity and connection 🧘‍♀️🌬️. We’ll explore some of the most special parts of the area together, including a trip to Channel Islands National Park 🏝️, where we’ll spend time in nature and let the landscape do some of the work for us. We’ll also soak in local hot springs, take a sunrise pier walk 🌅, and visit my favorite local yoga studio to experience the Santa Barbara yoga community. Evenings are intentionally simple and human: time to unwind, rest, and a guided discussion circle at a local café ☕ — focused on reflection, integration, and real conversation. We’ll be staying just a 4-minute walk from the beach, leaving plenty of room for spontaneous ocean time, morning walks, and space to breathe between activities. https://jmt.li/9GuDUP Link for more details Happy to connect more:) Please message me on here if you would like to go on a call!

⭐️ GROUP CLOSING SOON ⭐️ More info below!

⭐️ ⭐️ NOTE: This is not an event, but just an ANNOUNCEMENT for all group members ⭐️ ⭐️ We regret to inform you that this group will be closing in February. If you'd like to continue to find and join guided local, national or international adventures, you are welcome to join our sister group in Toronto -- **[Hiking Network.](https://www.meetup.com/hikingnetwork/)** \*\* LEARN MORE HERE: [https://www.meetup.com/hikingnetwork/](https://www.meetup.com/hikingnetwork/)

💃 Zumba with Intention

Move. Sweat. Smile. Repeat. This is a fun, high-energy Zumba class designed for real people — not performers, not fitness models, just humans who want to move, feel good, and leave happier than they arrived. Expect: Easy-to-follow Zumba routines Great music (Latin + global vibes) A welcoming, judgment-free space A workout that feels like a party (but still burns calories 😉) No dance experience needed. No pressure to “get it right.” Just show up and move. Followed by yoga for 45 mins. Sweat first, snacks after. If you’re free, we may head to a nearby spot to eat together. Class fee: $5 (helps cover space and music). Email money transfer to: monasalahuddin@hotmail.com

Feedback | An Open Mic Comedy Show @ Backroom Comedy Club

Ticket Link: **[https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193)** Welcome to **Feedback \| An Open Mic Comedy Show** at the **Backroom Comedy Club**! Get ready for a night filled with laughter, jokes, and good vibes. Whether you're a seasoned comedian or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy some live comedy. Come join us on **Sundays** at **10:00 PM** for a hilarious evening that you won't forget. Talented and non-talented lineups of comedians will be taking the stage to entertain you and keep you laughing all night long, and if they fail, owners Ariel Kagan & Brandon Sobel will offer feedback on sets at the request So grab your friends, grab a drink, and get ready to have a great time at the **Backroom Comedy Club**. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience some of the best or worst comedy in town!

Frozen Rapids Snowshoe

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/historic-winter-2026)** ***Join us as we explore this seemingly untouched wilderness known to just a few.*** This hike is a genuine adventure, taking us to a spot where trails appear out of nowhere then disappear again as soon as you find them. While only 9km, this is a harder hike that will see us bushwhacking through dense forest, hopping over myriad streams and potentially trudging through thick snow. The reward is incredible however - we end up tracing a raging river along an impossibly pretty shoreline and past some ferocious rapids. If you've been itching for something a bit more challenging, this is your chance. On this hike you can expect: \- Trekking along icy rivers \- Sprawling frozen scenery \- Raging rapids \- An epic feat of engineering ***A note for self-drivers: parking can be precarious here, especially with heavy snowfall. You are strongly encouraged to take WU transport to avoid issues.*** ***Snowshoes are included in the cost of this adventure. Please indicate at checkout if you require a pair.*** **Highlights** **Ferocious Rapids -** Trek along this winding riverbank with tumultuous rapids forming the river's path **A Forgotten River -** This river is teeming with life and beauty, how could anyone forget that! **Little-Known Crown Land Hike -** Hike through the unknown where the trail comes and goes. We doubt you'll see anybody else out there. **Event cost: $60+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/historic-winter-2026)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Black Grapes - Celebrating Black Voices in Wine

Sunnybrook - Don River ADVANCED Hike 🌻