Filming the fifth season of critically acclaimed TV drama Suits, Sarah Rafferty, who plays the witty Donna Paulsen, has also taken on the role of Torontonian in stride. Complete with weekend getaways, enjoying the Toronto foodie scene and of course, her beauty must-haves, Sarah dishes on everything she loves about her second home.

What are some of your favourite spots in the city?

I could go on and on. My absolute favourite place to take the kids on the weekend is The Evergreen Brickworks and of course we go via bike through the beautiful Ravines. In the summer, the garden at Casa Loma is stunning. We love the AGO, not only for the collections and the kid-friendly activities, but the Frank Gehry architecture is a must see. Of course, travelling to the top of The CN Tower never gets old.

Toronto is also great for foodies. My favourite restaurant is The Harbord room (best burger I’ve ever had…hands down). I was also recently treated to an amazing and truly Canadian culinary experience at Actinolite. And when we need a little “staycation,” we go to The Shangri La Hotel. You can dine at Momofuku, relax in the beautiful Hammam spa and feel totally transported to another place and time.

What aspects of Toronto do you love most?

The lovely people who live in it! In June I was invited by Amopé Canada to kick off an event in Yonge Dundas Square where the Guinness World Records title was set for most pedicures. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet, and in some cases re-meet, such enthusiastic and generous fans of our show. The residents of Toronto have really embraced us and it feels amazing. It’s been such a joy to shoot Suits here.

What do you do to unwind in your down time?

Travel, explore and enjoy the great outdoors with my family. We recently spent weekends in Georgian Bay, Blue Mountain, Prince Edward County and Muskoka. Within Canada, but a little farther away, I look forward to visiting Quebec City, Montreal, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.

Any beauty rituals you swear by?

Laughter is the best beauty regimen, with sleep coming in a very close second place.

Can you share with us some of your must-have beauty products?

In the summer, I’m all about sun protection and hair frizz management so I count the Rag and Bone hat I just bought at Holt Renfrew as a beauty product. One of my favorite SPFs for the face is Jan Marni SPF 30. And I love make up such as Laura Mercier or a moisturizer like Strivectin that includes SPF. If I want to occasionally fake a tan, then a little Sally Hansen “Airbrush Legs” make up mixed with moisturizer is great. I wash it all off at the end of the day with Neutrogena Naturals Purifying cleanser, and go to bed deep conditioning my hair with Kerastase Serum Nuit. Also, at the event in YD square, I was introduced to Amopé’s pedi perfect product. It’s a great way to get your feet beach and sandal ready.

Tell us about other projects you’ve got on the go!

I am honoured to be an ambassador for Plan Canada’s Because I am a Girl Initiative. This summer, Plan Canada launched #LemonChallenge4Change in support of girls’ rights. You can learn more at becauseiamagirl.ca/lemonchallenge.