Make the most of the city

Boxing Day is the perfect chance to dust off the skates, see a show and avoid crowds at the mall

Perk up from holiday stress and beat the winter blues by taking a fresh twist on Boxing Day. Dust off the skates, take in a comedy show or marvel at the works of master Lego builders. Here are 10 things to do around Toronto that don’t involve shopping.

Ripley’s Aquarium

Like the city itself, Ripley’s Aquarium never sleeps. Spend the day hanging with sharks, jellyfish, stingrays and thousands of other fascinating exotic specimens sure to leave you gaping. Ripleyaquariums.com

Second City

While some folks go shopping, the show must go on at Second City. Get ready to laugh out loud in real life with the boisterous holiday-themed comedy, Eat, Buy, Repeat, with clever sketches, songs and zany improvisation. Secondcity.com

Skate day

Lace up and burn those extra seasonal calories with a good skate. The seasonally decorated rink at Nathan Phillips Square is a timeless Boxing Day hit in the heart of downtown. Or, get invigorated with picturesque Lake Ontario as your backdrop at Harbourfront’s Natrel Rink. Nathanphillipssquareskaterentals.com; Harbourfrontcentre.com/venues /natrelrink

Riverdale Farm

Two cheers for fun and free! For those looking for a rural experience without leaving the city, head to Riverdale Farm and visit the animals (you’ll find goats, pigs and horses among them) and explore the idyllic pathways and pretty wooded areas. Call: 416-392-6794

Allan Gardens Conservatory

The lush botanical collection found inside the historical, glass-domed Palm House is sure to lift anyone’s spirits on a cold, wintery day. See an array of exotic plants, along with the Christmas Flower Show (running until mid-January). Toronto.ca

Ski day

With so many easily accessible ski hills near the GTA, Boxing Day is a great time to pack up the family and hit the slopes. After a day of runs, recharge at the chalet with cups of hot chocolate and some yummy, belly-pleasing eats. Toronto.ca

Legoland Discovery Centre

With Lego rides, a 4D cinema, racetracks, oodles of exhibits and a Duplo village, this mini indoor playground will thrill small and big Lego lovers alike.

There’s a café for when the munchies strike and, of course, a Lego store — you know, just in case. Legolanddiscoverycentre.ca /toronto

ROM

Holiday bliss is in full swing at the ROM this Boxing Day with an array of activities.

Check out the enchanting glass sculptures at the Chihuly exhibit while you still have the chance, view the stunning wildlife and landscape works at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year show and take part in special family-friendly, drop-in programming. Rom.on.ca

Winter hike

Grab your hiking boots or snowshoes and get invigorated in the great outdoors. For those seeking some peace and quiet this Boxing Day, a plethora of parks and trails in the GTA await. Make it a day trip by packing up the car and escaping the city to explore the trails a little farther out. Torontohiking.com

Toronto Zoo

Over at the Toronto Zoo, get half off admission on Boxing Day.

Visitors can take part in one of three Treats and Talks programs to learn about a variety of animals and watch them enjoy a special holiday treat. Torontozoo.com