With COVID-19 precautions shutting down many of the events and activities we love, this summer promises to be an unusual one, to say the least. But don't despair! Resourceful minds across the city have been at work crafting some unique drive-through experiences. Here's a look at a few we're excited about.

Take a drive on the wild side

The Toronto Zoo is offering a Scenic Safari for cars, so you can experience the world's fauna from the comfort and safety of your Audi. Tours last about an hour, and come with audio commentary from zoo staff. You’ll hear all about the animals as you head by the rhinos in Indo-Malaya, past the lion cave in Africa, and on through the Americas and Eurasia. Family fun!

Our tip? Act fast! The (big) cat’s out of the bag, and tours are booking up quickly — keep checking the Zoo’s website as new dates are added.

Starry-eyed about art

Longing for culture? The highly anticipated Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit is still opening in June. Only now, you'll encounter over 400 works by the Dutch master in what some call the world's first drive-in art exhibit — the organizers are making the most of their enviable 600,000 cubic feet of real estate at 1 Yonge Street.

A preview by Lonely Planet says "visitors can drive into the warehouse, switch off their engines and get swept up in the Dutch painter's masterpieces, including Sunflowers, Starry Night and The Bedroom." Instead of craning for a glimpse of a small oil painting at a traditional museum, however, your Audi will be surrounded by multi-sensory, multi-story projections. We can’t wait.

Fun, uh, finds a way

For an unforgettable family outing or date, you can catch the Indian River Reptile Zoo's Dinosaur Drive-Thru, just a short drive from Peterborough. There, you'll see dozens of animatronic dinosaurs, including a giant Tyrannosaurus rex named Scotty. Remember: if Jurassic Park taught us anything, stay absolutely still if it comes after you.

Tickets cost only $15 per vehicle, and best of all, proceeds from sales help support the good work of the sanctuary for abandoned reptiles.

What else are you excited for this summer? Let us know on social with #LoveTO