What's Open on Simcoe Day in Toronto (2026): Your Guide to the August Long Weekend
The August Long Weekend in Toronto has most stores open with others being closed.
Planning to spend the August long weekend in Toronto? Whether you're visiting the city or enjoying a staycation, there's plenty to do on Simcoe Day (Civic Holiday), Monday, August 3, 2026.
While banks and government offices are generally closed, many of Toronto's biggest attractions, restaurants, parks, and shopping centres are open for the holiday. Here's everything you need to know before you head out.
Family Attractions Open on Simcoe Day
Many of Toronto's most popular attractions remain open throughout the Civic Holiday weekend.
Some favourites include:
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada – https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/canada/
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – https://www.rom.on.ca/
Casa Loma – https://casaloma.ca/
Toronto Zoo – https://www.torontozoo.com/
Hockey Hall of Fame – https://www.hhof.com/
Little Canada – https://little-canada.ca/
Looking Glass Adventures!- https://www.lookingglassadventures.com
Tip: Civic Holiday is one of Toronto's busiest weekends of the summer, so purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Looking for an Indoor Adventure?
If you're hoping to escape the summer heat—or just want to try something completely different—an escape room is the perfect holiday activity.
At Looking Glass Adventures, every booking is private to your group, making it ideal for:
Families
Friends
Date nights
Visitors exploring Toronto
Birthday celebrations
Team outings
Choose from four award-winning immersive escape room experiences, each packed with detailed sets, clever puzzles, and unforgettable stories.
🎟 Book your adventure: https://lookingglassadventures.com
Long weekends fill up quickly, so we recommend reserving your game ahead of time!
Pro-tip- If you’re entertaining the idea of walking in, we might have space earlier in the day- just call 647 498 5596 and we can let you know what might be open!
Parks & Outdoor Activities
Toronto's beautiful parks and green spaces are open if you're looking to enjoy the sunshine.
Great places to explore include:
High Park – https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/high-park/
High Park Zoo – https://www.highparkzoo.ca/
Riverdale Farm – https://riverdalefarmtoronto.ca/
Toronto Islands – https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/
Trillium Park – https://www.ontarioplace.com/en/parks/trillium-park/
Distillery Historic District – https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/
These are perfect for picnics, walks, family outings, and soaking up the long weekend atmosphere. Currently for August 2026, ferry rides to the Toronto Islands are free for students, kids and seniors!
Shopping
Many of Toronto's major shopping centres are open, although some may operate with modified holiday hours.
Check out:
CF Toronto Eaton Centre – https://shops.cadillacfairview.com/property/cf-toronto-eaton-centre
Yorkdale Shopping Centre – https://yorkdale.com/
CF Sherway Gardens – https://shops.cadillacfairview.com/property/cf-sherway-gardens
Scarborough Town Centre – https://scarboroughtowncentre.com/
Shops at Don Mills – https://shopsatdonmills.ca/ (our favourite!)
It's always a good idea to check each mall's website before heading out.
Restaurants & Patios
Most Toronto restaurants, cafés, breweries, and patios remain open throughout the Civic Holiday weekend.
If you're visiting Looking Glass Adventures, you're just steps away from some fantastic local dining options on the Danforth. Our favourite family friendly restaurant is Astoria!
Need inspiration?
👉 Check out our guide: https://www.lookingglassadventures.com/blog//best-restaurants-near-danforth-toronto
Grocery Stores
Need to grab supplies for a barbecue or cottage trip?
Many grocery stores remain open on Simcoe Day, though hours may vary by location. It's worth checking your neighbourhood store before heading out.
What's Closed?
Expect these services to be closed on Simcoe Day:
Banks
Canada Post
Most government offices
ServiceOntario locations
Service Canada offices
Many public libraries
The TTC runs on a holiday schedule, while GO Transit generally operates on a Saturday schedule.
Is Simcoe Day a Statutory Holiday?
Fun Fact… Interestingly, Simcoe Day is not an official statutory holiday in Ontario. It's a municipal civic holiday observed by many employers and municipalities, including Toronto, where it's named in honour of John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada.
Make the Most of Your Long Weekend
Whether you're exploring a museum, enjoying a patio lunch, relaxing in one of Toronto's parks, or solving puzzles with friends and family, there's no shortage of ways to spend Simcoe Day in Toronto.
If you're looking for an unforgettable indoor activity, we'd love to welcome you to Looking Glass Adventures.
✔️ Air-conditioned
✔️ Private games only
✔️ Family-friendly
✔️ Four immersive adventures
✔️ Just steps from the TTC
Book your escape today: https://lookingglassadventures.com
