Hovercrafts are coming to Toronto. Yes, really.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here!

Good afternoon and Happy Mother’s Day!
Whether you’re brunching with mom, texting her while watching the Leafs game, or just sending a last-minute flower emoji… today’s your reminder: call her.

In today’s edition: hovercrafts hit the lake, a century-old palm house makes a comeback, Leafs test our blood pressure, and it’s time for Doors Open Toronto!

Let’s get to it!

THE DIGEST

🛳️ Hovercraft Service Nears Launch: Hoverlink has secured a 30-year agreement with Ports Toronto to operate a hovercraft service between Billy Bishop Airport and Port Weller in St. Catharines. The 30-minute, all-weather trips aim to alleviate QEW congestion by removing up to 8,000 cars daily.

🚇 Don Valley Bridge Takes Shape: Construction is underway on the massive Don Valley Crossing Bridge, a 38-metre-tall bridge that will carry the Ontario Line subway across the Don Valley. Slated to become a new city landmark, it promises skyline views rivaling the Bloor Viaduct.

🌸 Allan Gardens Palm House Reopens: After years of restoration, the iconic Palm House at Allan Gardens Conservatory is set to reopen on May 14. First built in 1910, the Edwardian-style glass dome has undergone major upgrades to preserve its historic charm while modernizing its systems for future generations.

🚧 Ontario Breaks Ground on First SMR: Ontario has commenced construction on Canada's first small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington nuclear site, marking a significant step in the province's clean energy strategy. This project aims to address the anticipated 75% increase in Ontario's electricity demand by 2050.

🏒 Panthers Rally in OT Thriller: Brad Marchand scored the overtime winner on Friday to lift the Florida Panthers to a 5–4 victory over the Leafs in Game 3. The win narrows Toronto’s series lead to 2–1. The next game is tonight at 7:30pm.

🏝️ Toronto Considers Island Link Options: Toronto is exploring proposals for a fixed link to the Toronto Islands, including options like a pedestrian bridge, tunnel, or gondola. The goal is to improve access and reduce reliance on the current ferry system.

🐺 Toronto Approves Downtown Coyote Plan: Toronto City Council has approved a new action plan to address a surge in coyote incidents in Liberty Village and Fort York. The plan includes enhanced 311 reporting, increased fines for feeding wildlife, improved waste management, and a potential reproductive control strategy. Residents express concerns over the plan's effectiveness, citing continued attacks on pets.

TORONTO THEN AND NOW:
The Toronto Board of Trade Building

The Toronto Board of Trade Building, completed in 1892 at the corner of Front and Yonge Streets, was once one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks. It was one of the city’s first skyscrapers, standing at seven stories with a Romanesque Revival style. Despite its architectural significance and prominent location, the building was criticized for poor lighting and ventilation. It was eventually demolished in 1958.

THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO: THE ‘INSIDER’ SCOOP

LAST DAY! Cherry Blossom Season at Colborne Lodge - Celebrate Cherry Blossom season at Colborne Lodge with historical exhibits. May 11, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: 11 Colborne Lodge Dr

Doors Open Toronto - Unlock Toronto’s hidden gems during Doors Open Toronto, a once-a-year weekend where over 150 of the city’s most fascinating buildings—spanning history, culture, architecture, and the arts—welcome you inside. May 24 & 25, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (unless otherwise noted per location)
Location: Across Toronto (click link above)

Cake Decorating and Buttercream Flower Cake Class - Celebrate Mother’s Day by decorating your own stunning buttercream flower cake in Le Dolci’s hands-on masterclass—perfect for intermediate bakers who want to skip straight to the fun.
May 11 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (arrive 15 minutes early to set up)
Location: Le Dolci Culinary Classroom, 12 Sousa Mendes St

Kensington Flea - Shop, snack, and stroll your way through Kensington Flea, a lively outdoor market held every weekend in Kensington Market featuring local artisans, vintage finds, indie brands, and delicious eats—all celebrating Toronto’s creative spirit.
Every Saturday, Sunday & Holiday Monday until October 26, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location: Kensington Market, 216 Augusta Ave

Nature in Brilliant Colour - Immerse yourself in the spectacular Nature in Brilliant Colour exhibit at the ROM, a sensory-rich journey through the rainbow that showcases over 200 natural specimens, dazzling projections, and dynamic soundscapes celebrating the meaning and power of colour in the natural world.
Every Sunday until August 17, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queens Park

​Jazz Night - Unwind with smooth rhythms and handcrafted cocktails at Jazz Night in the Junction, where My HOUSE Lounge blends live music, intimate vibes, and soulful energy for a weekly escape into Toronto’s vibrant jazz scene.
Every Friday from April 18 – October 31, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: My HOUSE Lounge & Events, 2882 Dundas St W

RECOS: Things you will love
 
🏒 Leafs: We all know we’re winning the cup!
🛶 Ontario: 170 Unusual Things To See In Ontario.
🥇 Running: Track and record your stats like a champ.
🚇 TTC: Read this during your commute.

InsiderToronto might collect an affiliate fee on these items

VIDEO OF THE WEEK

This Toronto neighbourhood declared itself a republic!

Here is the link: Click here to watch

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here!