What To Do Between TMU Classes: Off-Campus Edition

If you find yourself with a big gap between your classes, and don’t feel like going back home or want a little bit of excitement during your day, you’ve come to the right place! The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) campus is right in the heart of downtown Toronto, which means there’s a lot to do if you’re looking to fill time between classes, no matter what your interests are.

Distance from TMU: 17-minute walk or 15-minute ride on the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) (external link, opens in new window)  streetcar 

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) (external link, opens in new window)  is an art museum that’s close to campus, and is a great spot to visit if you have a couple of hours between your classes. They have paintings, sculptures and photography from all throughout history for anyone who is interested in art, or even those who are looking to experience it for the first time. The best part is that individuals under the age of 25 can get free admission to the gallery (external link, opens in new window) . Even if you don’t have time to see the whole museum in one visit, you can go again and see what you missed!

Distance from TMU: just minutes away from campus!

The CF Toronto Eaton Centre (external link, opens in new window)  shopping mall is right across the street from our campus. If you’re a shopper (like me!), this is a dream come true. The Eaton Centre is a great place to window shop, treat yourself or look for gifts if you have some time between classes. There’s a store for everyone, no matter what you’re looking for. It’s also a great place to walk around and get some steps in if it’s a little chilly outside. Just remember not to buy anything too big if you’re going back to class afterwards!

Distance from TMU: varies — the possibilities are endless!

There is so much to see and do in the city of Toronto. I have been living here for almost four years and there’s still a lot I’d like to explore. The good news is that if you have a big gap between classes, there are many different places you can visit to walk around, eat and shop. One of my personal favourites is Kensington Market (external link, opens in new window) , which is just about 25 minutes away on the streetcar. There are several cool stores here selling thrifted clothing and handmade goods, as well as eateries to grab a quick bite or a more wholesome meal. Queen West (external link, opens in new window)  is also fun for shopping and eating. It’s about 12 minutes away on the TTC subway or a 20-minute walk from campus. You can also venture out to the St. Lawrence Market (external link, opens in new window)  or Entertainment District (external link, opens in new window)  if you have the time!

Distance from TMU: 10-minute walk

Sometimes fall and winter can get dreary with all of the rain, snow and cold temperatures. If you want a little bit of spring, walk over to Allan Gardens (external link, opens in new window) ! Allan Gardens has five greenhouses featuring different types of flowers and plants. There’s even a koi pond! It’s the perfect place to appreciate some greenery between lectures.

Distance from TMU: varies — there are so many options depending on how far you’re willing to go.

One of the unarguable facts about TMU is that there are so many options for food and coffee around campus. There are your standard chain favourites, but also many cool local and independent places to check out. If you only have a limited amount of time, there’s coffee shops like Page One (external link, opens in new window)  and Mast Coffee (external link, opens in new window)  to grab a quick drink to keep you fueled. If you have a bit more time, and are looking for a yummy meal to get you through your next classes, there are plenty of options like Salad King (external link, opens in new window)  and Hokkaido Ramen Santouka (external link, opens in new window) .

Distance from TMU: 6-minute walk

I included this purely because I doubt there are many universities that can say there’s an IKEA (external link, opens in new window)  just steps away from their campus. I don’t know about you, but I could spend hours browsing at IKEA. If you’re like me, then you’re in luck! The downtown Toronto IKEA (external link, opens in new window)  is right in the city, which means it’s smaller than your typical store, but it still has showrooms to browse and a spot to get their famous Swedish meatballs (and other goodies) if you’re feeling a little snacky. Be careful what you buy, because bringing some new furniture to your next class might be a little difficult. As you can see, there truly are endless possibilities when it comes to keeping busy off campus! There are so many spots to check out, that you might not even get to everything by the time you’ve finished your degree. But, that just means you have to take advantage of being in the city while you can!

Until next time, 

Jenna