Swifties in Toronto and beyond are gearing up for the biggest week of the year as the pop-country sensation’s six-show stint in the city draws ever closer.
In the lead up to her highly anticipated Eras Tour concerts, which are set to take place between Nov.14 and 23 at the Rogers Centre, Eras-themed event pop-ups, hotel suites, shopping experiences and more are appearing across the city as eager Swifties descend on the 6ix.
Whether you managed to snag tickets or not, your Eras experience shouldn’t have to begin and end with the show. Luckily, there’s plenty of opportunity to mingle with your fellow Swifties and to enjoy the very best of the city. So, make the most of the “Love Story” singer’s time in Toronto with this “Enchanted,” all things Taylor guide.
We rounded up some ideas for the ultimate Taylor Swift experience.
Start the day off in “Style” with a piping hot cup of coffee from the always quaint and ever-delicious Forget Me Not Cafe. With two locations tucked away in cozy corners of the Queen West neighbourhood these are the ultimate spots to soak up the city’s autumnal vibes, chat about everything Eras and sip on a “Lavender Haze” late.
Now that you’re energized from your morning fuel, it’s the perfect time for a spot of vintage shopping. Every Swiftie knows their favourite “Anti-Hero” never shies away from a flannel, so fill the “Blank Space” in your wardrobe with a trip to Black Market Vintage, which is walking distance from Forget Me Not, also in the Queen West area.
New fit in tow, it’s only right that your next visit is to Kops Records. Located just across the street from Black Market Vintage, Kops is the city’s oldest record store and one-stop-shop for all things music.
It is famous for carrying an eclectic mix of the weird and wonderful, with everything from timeless classics, to rare collectors items and sought-after vinyl from pop sensations. Shop Kop’s ever-growing collection, grab yourself a Taylor record, snap a pic and let everyone know about this “Gorgeous” Toronto staple.
While exploring the city, don’t forget to check out the playfully renamed “Taylor Swift Way” Downtown, which is replacing Blue Jays Way throughout November. On November 4th, Mayor Olivia Chow and other city staff unveiled 22 new street signs in honour of the pop star’s tour stop in Toronto.
Next on your “Enchanted” Eras adventure is Casa Loma. This historic castle in the north of the city is the perfect way to book-end a Toronto fairytale. Stroll its extravagant botanical gardens and expansive rooms, admire its sweeping views of the city, or lose yourself in a book from the library.
All the activity might have left you feeling a little peckish, so head over to 1 Kitchen Downtown for a bite to eat.
Known for its mouthwatering menu and light, bubbly atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to debrief on your day, plan your concert attire, and sip on, flavoursome “Delicate” beverages from its specially curated Eras Cocktail Menu.
Relish in the delight of an afternoon drink in the Folklore Lounge, listen to live music from a moss covered piano, and get excited for all things Eras.
It wouldn’t be “The Best Day” without a trip to the spa. Hit up Body Blitz, an award-winning therapeutic waters spa for women, with locations Downtown and in and Roncesvalles.
“Shake it Off” by treating yourself to a water circuit featuring a hot epsom salt pool, cold plunge pool and eucalyptus steam room, relax during a rejuvenating body and facial treatment and recharge with a chai tea or healthy smoothie.
Now, you’ve had a big few hours, but there’s one more thrill on the agenda. A night at the brilliantly reimagined, Downtown Bisha Hotel.
The coveted Toronto hotspot has transformed into a Swifties’ paradise, with every floor embodying a different era.
Sit back and relax in the “Lover Lounge,” get lost in a lobby with a great “Reputation,” and explore the “Folklore” floor modelled off the magical Eras Tour cabin.
Finally, treat yourself to a stay beyond your “Wildest Dreams” in one of the hotel’s themed Taylor Swift suites.
If you want to check out more Eras-themed ideas, visit Destination Toronto’s guide to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Toronto at destinationtoronto.com.
