top tourist spots toronto

30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author s Michael and Lana Law live in southern Ontario and enjoy frequent trips into Toronto for dining, shopping, and events.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario , is the largest city in Canada and also one of the most diverse. It's home to a dynamic mix of tourist attractions and memorable places to visit, from museums and galleries to the world-famous CN Tower. And, just a short drive away, is Niagara Falls .

You'll find no shortage of things to do, from the vibrant Entertainment District , featuring the latest musicals and fine dining, to the historic Distillery District , home to unique shops and restaurants set in incredibly restored buildings.

Toronto city center is relatively easy to navigate, with many of the top attractions within walking distance of each other, and a subway system to cover longer distances.

If you are visiting Toronto in winter, head indoors to explore the extensive PATH network of underground walkways that connect shopping, entertainment, and attractions. In summer, wander along the beautiful waterfront and enjoy Toronto's best beaches and parks .

For a complete look at how to spend your time and find interesting places to visit, see our list of top tourist attractions in Toronto.

1. The CN Tower

2. visit the royal ontario museum (rom), 3. ripley's aquarium of canada, 4. art gallery of ontario (ago), 5. day trip to niagara falls, 6. catch a show or dine in the entertainment district, 7. see the animals at the toronto zoo, 8. wander through st. lawrence market, 9. dine and shop in the distillery district, 10. tour casa loma, 11. city hall & nathan philips square, 12. shop at cf toronto eaton center, 13. watch the action at yonge dundas square, 14. see the stars at the toronto international film festival (tiff), 15. stroll through kensington market, 16. visit the aga khan museum, 17. enjoy nature at high park, 18. take a trip to toronto islands, 19. ontario science centre, 20. little italy, 21. head to the danforth for a taste of greece, 22. bata shoe museum, 23. harbourfront centre and toronto's waterfront, 24. black creek pioneer village, 25. hockey hall of fame, 26. graffiti alley, 27. rogers centre, 28. visit the cne, 29. go fishing, 30. winterlicious, where to stay in toronto for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to toronto, toronto, canada - climate chart, map of top-rated tourist attractions in toronto.

Highlights : Incredible views over Lake Ontario and the city; high-elevation dining; and a chance to walk outside, 365 meters above the ground.

Toronto's famous landmark, the 553-meter CN Tower , is one of Ontario's must-see attractions and also the most impossible to miss. Towering above the downtown, this Canadian icon can be seen from almost everywhere in the city.

You have the option of simply appreciating the building from the ground, or taking a trip up to one of the observation areas or restaurants for fabulous views over the city and Lake Ontario. The CN Tower, built between 1972 and 1976, was once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, but has long since been surpassed.

The highest viewing area on the CN Tower is from the Sky Pod at 447 meters above the city, with views that, on clear days, extend to Niagara Falls and New York State. Getting here requires taking two elevators.

Below this, at the top of the main elevator is the LookOut level at 346 meters, with floor-to-ceiling windows and the new Glass Floor , which looks down to the original Glass Floor, one floor below, where the Outdoor Sky Terrace is located. As the name suggests, the Glass Floor offers a bird's-eye view directly down over the city.

For those looking for a little more adventure, or perhaps a lot more adventure, there is the " Edge Walk. " This involves a hands-free walk on a 1.5-meter-wide ledge around the outside edge of the main pod, at an elevation of 365 meters. Participants are attached to a safety harness and rope.

Located at 351 meters is the revolving 360 Restaurant , featuring fine dining and some of the best views from a table anywhere in Toronto. 360 is open for lunch and dinner, and visitors who dine here also receive complimentary access to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels of the tower.

Basing yourself in the city center, preferably near the CN Tower, is the best option for exploring Toronto.

Address: 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Exceptional collections of art, culture, nature, and science in Canada's largest museum.

The Royal Ontario Museum , known as the ROM, is one of Canada's premier museums and one of the top tourist attractions in Ontario , with an international reputation for excellence.

It houses an outstanding collection, which covers natural history, art, and culture from a great variety of periods from all over the world. It is also well-known for featuring exhibitions from across the globe .

A controversial expansion in 2007 saw the addition of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal , a modern wing featuring glass and sharp angles, added on to a very traditional older building. It's now one of Toronto's most recognizable buildings.

Address: 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to over 20,000 marine mammals and an incredible underwater tunnel.

One of Toronto's newest top attractions is the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada near the base of the CN Tower . This fabulous facility displays all kinds of marine life and is one of the most popular things to do in Toronto for families.

The most impressive feature is the huge underwater tunnel with a moving sidewalk. You can watch the ocean world go by all around you as sharks glide past and sawfish linger on the tunnel roof above. This is a truly serene experience for all ages.

Another unexpected highlight is the jellyfish display, accented with creative lighting. Further on, touch tanks with stingrays and small sharks allow for a hands-on experience. And, for the engineering-minded, the building's open concept also allows for a look at the Life Support System and filtration equipment operating the facility.

Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A huge collection of incredible art with a Canadian focus, along with treasured pieces from around the world.

The renowned Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest museums in North America .

The collection of more than 95,000 pieces includes works from around the world, from European masterpieces to contemporary art, but also holds an impressive collection of Canadian Art, including a vast collection of works by the Group of Seven. A series of temporary exhibitions are mounted throughout the year.

The AGO occupies a unique-looking building, with a mix of older and modern architecture, on the west side of the city center. Next to the AGO is the hard-to-miss Ontario College of Art and Design, standing high above the street on stilts designed to look like pencils.

Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : An easy day trip to one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

If you have never been, a quick day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls is well worth the time. You can be standing on the edge of the falls in just over an hour.

A tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto is an easy way to see the falls if you don't want to drive yourself. Tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off and include a Niagara Cruise, which takes you up close to the wall of water tumbling that is the main Horseshoe Falls.

Tours also stop at some of the key sites in the area, including Whirlpool Rapids, the Floral Clock, and the beautiful little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Getting from Toronto to Niagara Falls is easier than you might think, with several different options available. A train (Go Train) runs to Niagara Falls from Union Station in summer, from late June to the start of September, as well as the Thanksgiving weekend in October. On weekends you can even take your bike on the train, and enjoy a bike ride along the Niagara Parkway.

If you have enough time, you may also want to consider spending the night at Niagara Falls to explore the downtown area and see the falls lit up at night.

Highlights : One of Toronto's top areas to see the latest shows, grab a meal, or go to a hockey or baseball game.

The Entertainment District in Toronto covers a large area of the city center and includes many of the city's top attractions, like the CN Tower , Scotiabank Arena , Rogers Centre , and many museums.

It's also known for fantastic dining , and most importantly, shows and performances. Most of the action is centered around King Street , between Spadina Avenue and University Avenue.

Toronto's answer to New York's Broadway, the Entertainment District comes to life in the evenings and is a great place for nightlife. This is the place to see major theater productions, including musicals, concerts, and other performing arts.

Some of the most prominent venues in this area are Roy Thomson Hall , home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Alexandra Theatre , which hosts the most current musicals.

Highlights : Canada's largest zoo, daily shows in the summer, and 10 kilometers of walking trails.

The Toronto Zoo has an outstanding and diverse collection, with approximately 5,000 animals. Some of the favorites include pygmy hippos, lions, tigers, giraffes, penguins, orangutans, and many more. The zoo is divided into several sections, each representing a major region of the globe.

Some of the other highlights at the Toronto Zoo include the Gorilla Rainforest; the Tundra Trek, featuring polar bears; and the Great Barrier Reef.

The Discovery Zone is a popular area with families, and during the summer months, a splash pad offers fun in the sun.

The zoo lies on the Rouge River about 40 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Address: 361A Old Finch Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's freshest meats, cheeses, and vegetable stands, all housed in a historical building from 1845.

The St. Lawrence Market houses a variety of vendors selling various food products, flowers, and specialty items. The St. Lawrence Hall was built in Toronto in 1850 and served as a public meeting place and a concert venue.

If you've been shopping or touring nearby, this is an excellent spot to stop in for a bite to eat or to relax with friends over a cup of coffee. In the summer, outdoor patios on elevated spaces allow you to soak up some of the warm sunshine.

The hall was restored in 1967 but has retained much of its old charm. The building provides a unique atmosphere for the market and is also occasionally used for film and television shoots. The interior features a grand staircase and a gas-lit chandelier.

Once you leave St. Lawrence Market, head north (away from the lake) up to Front Street and then head west for a block and a half to check out the architecturally stunning Gooderham building at Church Street. This building framed in front of the towers of downtown Toronto is an iconic picture of the city.

Address: 92 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Historical buildings, trendy restaurants, galleries, and shops, and home to Toronto's best Christmas market.

Toronto's Distillery District is a restored historic area, which has been transformed into a trendy entertainment and shopping district. Charming boutiques, galleries, artists' studios, and restaurants fill the old buildings. This is an interesting place to come during the day or evening and any time of year.

A variety of entertainment events are held here, but one of the most well-known is the annual Toronto Christmas Market . Wooden stalls all decorated for Christmas sell unique gifts; a huge Christmas tree stands in an open square; and cozy outdoor areas are set up, often with couches and large fire pits to gather around.

Restaurants offer outdoor dining despite the cold, with heat lamps and lap blankets. Hot chocolate is always readily available at this time of year.

Highlights : A turn-of-the-century Gothic castle with over 100 rooms, a secret tunnel, and gorgeous gardens with views of Toronto.

Standing in beautifully kept grounds, Casa Loma is an extraordinary building somewhat reminiscent of a medieval castle. It was originally constructed in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt, an eccentric Canadian multi-millionaire who was among the first to recognize and exploit the money-making potential of Niagara Falls .

With close to 100 rooms, including three dozen bathrooms, the house is now a museum. Visitors can take a look back in time to a period of European elegance and splendor. Canada's foremost castle is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and five acres of estate gardens .

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Unique architecture, summer concerts, a winter skating rink, and the city's famous Toronto sign.

Dominating the spacious Nathan Philips Square with its bronze sculpture, The Archer , by Henry Moore, is the still highly acclaimed new City Hall .

It was designed by the gifted Finnish architect Viljo Revell and built in 1965. City Hall consists of two arc-shaped high-rise blocks, 20 and 27 stories high respectively, wrapped around a lower central building topped by a flattened cupola.

In the square in front of City Hall is a man-made pond, which becomes a popular skating rink in winter and is where the often photographed Toronto sign is located. This is a beautiful area to visit in December, particularly at night, when it's decorated for the Christmas holidays.

Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Downtown Toronto's best mall, home to all the top retailers, plus a good food court.

The huge CF Toronto Eaton Center mall is located at the north end of the Central Business District. With its own subway station, this ultra-modern shopping complex extends over several blocks and is continually being renovated and enlarged.

Strangers can quite easily lose their way in the bewildering maze of department stores, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafeterias, and snack bars, which crowd the different levels above and below ground.

Eaton Center is connected to the Hudson Bay store via a skywalk and is also a stop on Toronto's subway system.

Address: 220 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A fun gathering place with huge digital billboards reminiscent of Times Square in New York.

This neon-lit public space is fashioned after New York's Times Square and is a popular gathering spot for Torontonians. The area is complete with seating areas, dancing fountains , and a stage where concerts take place in the summer.

Yonge Dundas Square is best enjoyed in the evening when the flashing neon signs come to life and the place develops a fun vibe. It is by far the best place in the city for people-watching . The surrounding streets are packed with restaurants , many of which have patios.

The square is accessible via Toronto's subway system, or you can park in the large underground parking lot directly beneath the square.

Address: 1 Dundas Street E, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Celebrity spotting and an incredible roster of first-run movies.

One of the highlights on Toronto's annual events calendar is the Toronto International Film Festival . Held each year in early September, this world-famous festival attracts some of the most famous names in film.

You can see a movie or simply hang around and hope to catch a glimpse of someone famous walking by. The weather in Toronto this time of year is still hot. Dining outside in the evening and relaxing on an outdoor patio is a major pastime, as limos drive by and photographers and press are out in full force.

The vibe in Toronto for this eleven-day event is electric. Throngs of people descend on the city. If you want to visit Toronto this time of year, book a hotel well in advance.

Highlights : Eclectic and unusual shops along with restaurants serving authentic international fare.

Kensington Market is an area of Toronto with a bohemian and multicultural feel.

On a typical summer's day, the smell of incense wafts through the air; music from a street-side musician can be heard; and the numerous retailers, who mostly operate out of old two-story brick homes, set up their goods on designated areas of their deck-covered lawns or on the sidewalks. This is a fantastic area for a stroll.

The shops, many of which display colorful murals and street art, sell everything from Tibetan blankets to jewelry, bags, purses, and vintage clothing, and there are even a couple of cheese shops.

Restaurants and coffee shops here offer a multicultural festival of choices that include Jamaican, Mexican, Tibetan, or more basic options like pizza or smoothies. You can also find natural food stores, tattoo shops, and fruit and vegetable stands.

Highlights : A priceless collection of Islamic Art in an architecturally stunning building.

The Aga Khan Museum is one of the best institutions devoted to Islamic Arts in North America. It is housed in a spectacular light-filled modern building with beautiful, peaceful surroundings consisting of large reflecting pools.

The permanent collection was first started in the 1950s by the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan and the Princess Catharine Aga Khan. You'll see spectacular items, including manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles, with pieces dating from the 9th right through to the 19th century. The items have been sourced across a wide geographic area from China to Spain.

In addition to the permanent collection, visiting exhibitions are showcased on the museum's second floor.

The museum's restaurant is one of Toronto's top dining destinations .

Address: 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails, ponds, sports facilities, a pool, a zoo, and beautiful gardens.

High Park is a huge green space with sunken gardens, hanging basket gardens, nature trails, natural ponds, and streams, easily ranking as one of the best parks in Toronto .

This 165-acre country property, originally owned by the Howards, was deeded to the City of Toronto in 1873. This deed came with the stipulation that the park was to remain "for the free use, benefit and enjoyment of the citizens of Toronto and it be called High Park."

Park Attractions: Within the park is the High Park Zoo , home to a number of animals, including bison; reindeer; llamas; wallabies; and Toronto's famous Capybara's, Bonnie and Clyde, who escaped from their enclosure and quickly rose to fame, developing their own social media platforms in 2016.

Other things to do and areas of interest in the park include swimming and wading pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a scenic train tour. The grounds also include 19th-century recreated gardens, a Coach House, and the Howards' Tomb.

For a week or 10 days in the spring, the sakura cherry trees burst into bloom and herald the start of warmer weather. This colorful spectacle is beloved by the citizens of Toronto, and it always attracts big crowds. The best place to see the trees is near the duck pond.

Annually, the Canadian Stage Company puts on a performance at the open-air theater in the park during the months of July and August, known as "Shakespeare in High Park."

Address: 1873 Bloor Street W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's best beaches, an amusement park for kids, a boardwalk, and a pier.

The ferry trip from Queen's Quay Terminal to the Toronto Islands, about a kilometer offshore, is the prelude to a thoroughly enjoyable outing.

Things to Do: There are lovely walks on the islands, as well as the opportunity for rowing, sailing, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

In summer, the Toronto Islands are the venue for numerous open-air events. In favorable weather, you'll be treated to a stunning view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry terminal on Ward's Island.

If it's hot during your visit—and don't be fooled, it does get hot in Toronto in the summer—the Toronto Islands are home to some of Toronto's best beaches.

They stretch for kilometers along the offshore islands, and the views from the beaches, along with the golden sands and crystal-clear waters, may have you thinking you are in the Caribbean. That is, until you step into the chilly waters of Lake Ontario and are instantly transported back to reality!

The Centreville Amusement Park is located on Centre Island , one of the Toronto Islands, and features a variety of children's rides.

The Toronto Islands Ferry Service runs from Queen's Quay and travels to each of the main Toronto Islands, and tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Highlights : An IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater and fascinating interactive displays for all ages.

The Ontario Science Center is a family-oriented attraction with many interesting exhibits to entertain children. It occupies a site overlooking the Don Valley, about 10 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Designed by the virtuoso architect Raymond Moriyama, this modern building was completed in 1969. The emphasis is very much on visitor participation, with 12 permanent exhibitions, a planetarium, and an IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater .

Visitors to the center are brought face to face with the latest developments in technology, telecommunications, optics, biology, physics, space travel and meteorology, and much more, all presented in an absorbing and imaginative way.

Address: 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Bustling summer patios, authentic Italian food stores, and a popular annual festival.

Toronto's multicultural mix makes it one of the most livable cities in North America . People from around the world have settled here to make this world-class city their home, and with them, they've brought the best of the old country.

Throughout the city, you'll find a number of ethnic enclaves. One of the more popular is Little Italy. Located roughly in the square lined by Dundas and Harbord Streets and Ossington and Bathurst Avenues, the main retail area of Little Italy exists along Collect Street.

This lively area hums with people strolling up and down the wide sidewalks, past Italian restaurants with popular patios (especially during a European soccer game). As you stroll along, keep an eye out for the statues of famous Italian Canadians along the Italian Walk of Fame.

Little Italy is also a good spot to buy imported food and cooking supplies direct from Italy.

Highlights : Toronto's best collection of Greek restaurants and food stores.

Another one of Toronto's famous ethnic enclaves, The Danforth, or as it's also known, Greektown , is the place to go for a taste of Greece. Running along Danforth Avenue from Chester Avenue through to Dewhurst Boulevard, the area has long been associated with the Greek diaspora.

Take a stroll along Danforth Avenue, and pop into any one of the restaurants, shops, and other retail outlets along the way. Some of the city's best Greek food can be found here. Grab a spot on a patio or, if the weather is cool, step inside and be transported to the warmth of the Greek Islands.

The area is home to the famous and well-loved Taste of the Danforth . Hopefully, you'll find yourself here in mid-August when, for a couple of days, the area becomes a giant outdoor restaurant.

Highlights : The largest collection of shoes in the world, including ones worn by celebrities.

Only 50 percent of the human race understands the need for a shoe museum. Those of the feminine persuasion (in case you hadn't figured it out!), will absolutely love the Bata Shoe Museum and its incredible displays of shoes and over 14,000 other artifacts.

All these and more are part of the world's largest collection of footwear-related items , tracing back over 4,500 years.

The museum has some very unique shoes worn by Indigenous people, 16th-century Italians, and of course, celebrities. The celebrity collection includes Elvis' blue patent loafers, Robert Redford's cowboy boots, Elton John's silver platform boots complete with a monogram, and Queen Victoria's ballroom slippers.

Of particular note for Canadians are Terry Fox's singular running shoe and Karen Kain's ballet slippers.

Address: 327 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails along the waterfront, views of the Toronto Islands, an ice rink in the winter.

Toronto, like many other cities along the Great Lakes, has done a good job of making its former industrial waterfront areas accessible to its inhabitants.

Harbourfront Centre itself is a performance venue that provides artistic programming all year long at its 10-acre waterfront campus. Indoor and outdoor stages showcase some of the city's most innovative performances.

The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area. The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area.

Come winter, the area doesn't hibernate, in fact, it remains quite lively, with one of Toronto's most scenic and popular ice-skating rinks .

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A recreated village from 1860, costumed interpreters, and a petting zoo.

One of the most popular things to do as a family in Toronto is to step back in time at the Black Creek Pioneer Village . As you walk through the gates, you'll be transported to village life in the 1860s.

It's not just historical buildings, of which you'll find over 40, costumed interpreters go through their daily routine of living life 160 years ago. Kids and grown-ups alike will enjoy interacting with these fun and friendly characters from the past.

In addition to the human participants, animals also get to play their part, too. Over 70 animals live here, and in many cases are happy for a pet or two.

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to the original Stanley Cup, a replica Montreal Canadiens dressing room, and interactive exhibits.

For hockey fans, a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame in downtown Toronto is a necessity. This is the place to learn about the all-time hockey greats: the players, the teams, and the games.

It also offers a chance to see the original 1893 Stanley Cup, along with a collection of important memorabilia, and an interactive display allows you to test your own hockey skills.

Be sure to step inside an exact replica of the Montreal Canadiens' dressing room from the Montreal Forum, view a display of 90 painted goalie masks, and check out the incredible collection of hockey cards.

Address: Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlight : Colorful artwork along the walls of a narrow laneway.

This long alley in Toronto will look familiar to Canadians who have watched the long-running TV comedy series, Rick Mercer Report . This is where he filmed his controversial news rants.

Even if you have never seen this show, this is an incredible area that seems to go on forever. Tourists love coming here, posing in painted doorways and windows, and taking selfies day and night.

Graffiti Alley runs parallel to, and between, Queens Street West and Richmond Street West from Spadina Avenue to Portland Street.

Highlight : A retractable roof allows for the sun and fresh air to flood in during summer baseball games.

Immediately adjacent to the CN Tower is Rogers Centre , a massive domed sports arena and home to the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB). The unique design includes a retractable roof, which slides back, allowing it to be opened in favorable weather.

This mega-structure was completed in 1989 and can accommodate tens of thousands of spectators and is also used as a venue for other major events, including concerts. The center also offers one-hour guided tours with a behind-the-scenes look at the facility.

Attached to Rogers Centre is the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel , with rooms that look out over the field. If you are in town to see a game, staying here is an extremely convenient option and a bit of a unique experience.

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Carnival rides, unique foods, midway games, concerts, and an airshow.

When mid to late August rolls around, kids (and some adults) get a bit twitchy in anticipation of the CNE rolling into town. The CNE, also known as the Canadian National Exhibition , is a two-week carnival of craziness that sets up on Toronto's waterfront.

Midway rides, arcade games, and popular musical acts are all part of the heady mix in the hot, humid August weather. In addition to the rides and entertainment, an airshow featuring the Canadian snowbirds, along with other historical planes, also takes place during the same timeframe.

It's not all about entertainment. The CNE is also renowned for its unique fried food offerings . Starting, and still continuing today, Tiny Tom Donuts started the trend that has now evolved (or not, depending on your perspective) to deep-fried butter, deep-fried Red Velvet Oreos, deep-fried corn dogs complete with a pickle, and most recently, deep-fried cheese curds.

Highlights : Easily accessible fishing spots along the shore and charters on Lake Ontario offer the chance to land the "big one."

Toronto, with its enviable lakefront position, is an ideal place to go fishing. Lake Ontario supports a wide assortment of denizens of the deep, including Chinook and coho salmon, rainbow trout, walleye (pickerel), northern pike, sheepshead, perch, and many others.

If you want to head offshore into the deep waters, consider a salmon charter . Although they can be relatively expensive, your captain and first mate will do their best to put you onto the fish.

There's nothing quite like the call of "fish on" and the screaming of fishing line as the fish takes the bait and runs. Depending on the time of year, you could find yourself battling a 30-pound behemoth.

If that's not in your budget, just head to one of the waterfront parks or the Toronto Islands with a casting rod and reel and a bit of bait. You'll definitely catch something, although it won't be as big as the fish caught on a charter. Note that if you're planning on fishing, you need a license, easily purchased online .

Read More: Top-Rated Fishing Lodges in Ontario

Highlight : Discounted multi-course meals at Toronto's best restaurants.

Should you find yourself in Toronto in the depths of winter during the first two weeks of February, don't despair, it's actually a pretty fun place to be. The saving grace for these dark, cold days is the two-week dining festival called Winterlicious .

At this time, over 200 of Toronto's best restaurants come to the rescue of the city's inhabitants and visitors by offering prix fixe (set price) menus for both lunch and dinner. Each menu consists of a starter, a main, and a dessert, and the restaurant usually has a couple of offerings for each.

The hardest part of Winterlicious is figuring out where to go—dining options are as diverse as the city itself, with meals across all cuisine types. Fortunately, the City of Toronto has a website that lists all the options .

The meals offer tremendous value versus what the restaurants would normally charge and are a great way to try out some of the places you've always wanted to go. Beverages are not included, and this is where the restauranteur makes their money back on the discounted food.

Winterlicious has a seasonal counterpart called Summerlicious that follows the same format. This event takes place during the last two weeks of August.

For sightseeing and entertainment, the best place to stay in Toronto is right downtown in the heart of the action. The hotels listed below are all highly rated and in good locations in Toronto's city center, within easy walking distance of many of the main attractions.

Luxury Hotels:

• At the top end of the luxury category is The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto , with a convenient, central location near the Entertainment and Financial Districts.
• The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto has a great location near the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and Rogers Center, and offers good views over Lake Ontario.
• Near Eaton Center Shopping Complex and Toronto's famous City Hall and winter skating rink is the Hilton Toronto . The hotel has an indoor/outdoor pool that is open all year long; rooms on the south side of the building have views of the CN Tower.
• The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is kitty-corner to the Hilton and faces Nathan Phillips Square. It's connected to Eaton Center via the underground PATH system.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The One King West Hotel & Residence offers very good value with a variety of rooms, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is located in the center of all the action and steps to great restaurants.
• At the top end of the mid-range selection is the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown on the waterfront. This is a great spot, particularly in summer, near many lakefront restaurants and an extensive waterfront pedestrian area and within walking distance of the CN Tower and other attractions. The hotel also has an outdoor pool.
• North of The Esplanade and within easy walking distance of the Financial District and many attractions is the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown, an IHG Hotel , another quality mid-range hotel.

Sightseeing:

• If you're looking for a thrilling new perspective on the city skyline, hop aboard a 7-minute helicopter tour over Toronto . During this whirlwind excursion, you'll see top landmarks including the CN Tower, Fort York, and the Canadian National Exhibition grounds. The adventure also includes both a printed and digital souvenir photo.

The best time to visit Toronto is in the summer, during the months of June, July, and August. At this time, the weather is warm and slightly humid, and the city is alive with festivals and celebrations. It's a great time to hit the beach; go camping near town; or enjoy a long, lingering dinner on the patio late into the evening.

September is very pleasant, with summer-like temperatures but without the crowds. You'll also have the added benefit of the Toronto Film Festival.

October finds cooler days and nights and the signs of fall, with leaf color change in the Don Valley and throughout the city's parks.

The spring months of April and May are cool but offer longer days, spring flowers, and blooming cherry trees in High Park.

The winter months of November, December, January, February, and March are cold and snowy. At this time of year, it's best to plan indoor activities.

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Places to Visit near Toronto : If you have time to explore areas outside the city, be sure to take a side trip to Niagara Falls , just a 1.5-hour drive away, and check out some other day trip destinations around Toronto . Within easy striking distance are some of Canada's top cities, including Ottawa and Montreal , just four to five hours away by car and easily accessible by train or short flights. For other ideas on what to see and do in the province, see our list of top attractions in Ontario .

Ontario's Outdoors : Between spring and fall, nature lovers may want to enjoy some hiking, canoeing, camping, or relaxing at a lodge in one of the many Ontario parks , or soaking up the outdoors from the comfort of one of Ontario's top fishing lodges .

Canadian Vacation Ideas: If you are coming to Canada for a short or extended vacation and arriving in Toronto, have a look at some of our Canadian itineraries to help plan the rest of your trip, or select a few of the highlights from our list of top tourist attractions in Canada .

More on Canada

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Toronto Islands Toronto Islands free

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Canada's biggest city, you can hop on a quick, 15-minute ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. Amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's mainland, this cluster of islands and islets provides a refreshing green oasis. The three interconnected islands – Centre, Ward's, and Algonquin – eliminate the need for constant boat transfers, allowing you to explore the entire area seamlessly. Each of these main islands offers a distinct experience, ensuring there is something unique to discover every time.

Centre Island lives up to its name by offering a variety of attractions, including picnic areas, beaches, sporting rentals and the Centreville Amusement Park. This park boasts more than 30 rides, a petting zoo and a charming boating lagoon. On the other hand, Ward and Algonquin provide a more relaxed atmosphere adorned with picturesque 1920s-style cottages and English gardens.

High Park High Park free

High Park is a true gem in the heart of Toronto, and it's no wonder it's often considered a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Spanning around 400 acres, this expansive park offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and a sanctuary of natural beauty.

One of the highlights of High Park is its lush green spaces and well-maintained gardens. Usually, during the spring, the park boasts an impressive collection of cherry blossom trees, which bloom in stunning colors, attracting crowds of admirers. High Park offers diverse habitats for nature enthusiasts, including serene ponds, wooded areas and even a small zoo. One of the park's most beloved features is Grenadier Pond, a calm body of water where visitors can enjoy fishing or unwind by its shores.

CN Tower CN Tower

Rising majestically amidst Toronto's stunning skyline, the CN Tower stands at an impressive height of 1,815 feet. The American Society of Civil Engineers hailed it as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Beyond its iconic stature, the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city below, creating a breathtaking vantage point for visitors.

You'll take an elevator to reach the four observation areas available to visitors, including the Glass Floor room (at 1,122 feet), the Main Observation Level (at 1,136 feet), the revolving 360 The Restaurant (at 1,150 feet) and the SkyPod, at 1,465 feet, one of the highest public observation areas in the world. Meanwhile, the EdgeWalk allows the daring to experience the world's highest hands-free external walk on a building. Connected via harness, participants can take a walk on a 5-foot-wide ledge encircling the top of the tower's main pod 116 stories above the ground. Tickets for the EdgeWalk start at of CA$199 (about $150) per person ages 13 and older also includes a keepsake video, printed photos, a certificate of achievement and a ticket to re-enter the tower.

Popular Tours

Toronto Beneath The Surface Walking Tour

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Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto with Boat, Lunch& Winery Stop

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Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional)

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St. Lawrence Market St. Lawrence Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by St. Urbain Bagels, where fresh wood-fired Montreal-style bagels are made daily. Don't forget to savor the bakery's irresistible, flaky pastry boureka. – Suzanna Alsayed

Nestled within Toronto's historic Old Town, St. Lawrence Market has played numerous roles since its inception in the 19th century. Evolving from a marketplace, it has served as a vibrant social hub and even housed the City Hall. The market tantalizes visitors with various delectable delights, ranging from gourmet cured meats to intricately handcrafted jewelry. The St. Lawrence Market comprises three distinct buildings: the South Market, the North Market and the illustrious St. Lawrence Hall.

Distillery District Distillery District free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Distillery District uniquely appeals to those on first dates, with couples often capturing precious moments in front of the heart-shaped sculpture adorning its entrance. – Suzanna Alsayed

In the early 1800s, the waterfront area of Toronto housed the esteemed Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which stood as Canada's largest distilling company. Fast-forward to the present day, and this historic neighborhood has transformed into a charming pedestrian-only enclave, surrounded by Victorian buildings and cobblestone pathways once traversed by horse-drawn carriages. Today, it brims with a vibrant tapestry of art galleries, performance venues, inviting cafes, tantalizing restaurants, patios and even a brewery. This captivating locale offers a genuine glimpse into Toronto's rich past.

Harbourfront Centre Harbourfront Centre free

Tucked away on the scenic banks of Lake Ontario, this expansive 10-acre attraction has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a neglected shipping terminal into a vibrant and upscale neighborhood. Once desolate warehouses have been revitalized, now housing captivating theaters and art galleries that exude a similar ambiance to renowned waterfront destinations like San Francisco 's Pier 39 and Baltimore's Inner Harbor .

The area boasts a myriad of culinary delights with numerous eateries to satisfy diverse palates. Serene pockets of green space dot the landscape, including the esteemed Toronto Music Garden, a harmonious collaboration shaped partly by the renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma. And if you're around during the summer, you can kick back on Sugar Beach, a former parking lot transformed into an urban beach.

Kensington Market Kensington Market free

For those who embrace a touch of vibrant chaos, Kensington Market is a captivating destination when visiting Toronto. Once a thriving Jewish neighborhood, this eclectic market began in the 1920s when families set up stands outside their homes to trade goods. Over time, it has evolved into a bustling marketplace that has expanded in size and cultural diversity.

This neighborhood is a hub for diverse culinary delights, unique products and cultural experiences. Wandering through the streets of Kensington Market, you'll encounter a tapestry of shops and restaurants offering various goods from Europe. For residents, this area provides a down-to-earth experience and serves as a compelling counterpoint to the luxurious aspects of Toronto, showcasing the city's authentic and less opulent side.

Hockey Hall of Fame Hockey Hall of Fame

No visit to Toronto, or even Canada in general, would be complete without immersing yourself in the world of hockey. Although hockey may not be the country's official sport, it holds an almost sacred status as the unofficial national pastime. If you have the chance, you should try to join the thousands of passionate Torontonians as they gather at Scotiabank Arena to cheer on the beloved Toronto Maple Leafs. Even if you visit during the summer months, you can still satisfy your hockey cravings by visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame, conveniently located just a block away from Union Station.

Spanning an impressive 65,000 square feet, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of memorabilia. Delve into the sport's rich history as you encounter iconic artifacts, including the original Stanley Cup, Max Bentley's cherished stick, and Terry Sawchuk's legendary goalie gear. As you explore the exhibits, take advantage of the opportunity to step into a faithful reproduction of the Montreal Canadiens locker room and marvel at the Puck Wall, adorned with more than 1,000 pucks gathered from tournaments worldwide.

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto

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Niagara Falls One Day Sightseeing Tour from Toronto

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Niagara Falls Day Tour From Toronto with Skip-the-Line Boat Ride

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Casa Loma Casa Loma

U.S. News Insider Tip: Experience the magic of a live orchestra at Casa Loma's gardens during its Symphony in the Gardens event, which takes place Monday evenings from June to September. – Suzanna Alsayed

Are you a fan of castles? So was Sir Henry Pellatt, a former soldier whose lifelong aspiration was to build a majestic castle overlooking the city of Toronto. Thus, the magnificent Casa Loma came into existence in 1914, a sprawling estate comprising 98 rooms. This architectural marvel took nearly three years to construct, requiring a staggering investment of more than $3.5 million.

Toronto Zoo Toronto Zoo

According to travelers, the Toronto Zoo is a hit with kids (and most adults). This sprawling facility in Scarborough is one of the largest zoos in the world, with more than 6 miles of walking trails spread over 700 acres and 3,000 animals (representing more than 300 species) calling this place home. The zoo is separated into seven geographic regions, including the Tundra Trek, Eurasia Wilds and an African Rainforest Pavilion. There are also a plethora of seasonal activities to engage in. Along with a ropes course, there's a carousel and the Zoomobile Ride, which takes you through some of the park's various regions, including the Tundra Trek, the Canadian Domain and Eurasia. The Discovery Zone is also a top attraction for families, housing a 2-acre water play area, theater and an interactive wildlife experience designed for kids.

Recent visitors were impressed with the zoo, but warned that it's large, so you'll need to wear proper walking shoes. The ticket prices were a common gripe among reviewers, as was the zoo's location – there are no subway stations nearby, but the No. 86A bus route stops close to the main entrance. Others complained of the expensive food prices (hence, if you are on a budget, you may want to bring your food for a picnic).

Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM) Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM)

Positioned on the northern edge of the University of Toronto campus, the Royal Ontario Museum (also referred to as the "ROM") is a must-visit for avid history enthusiasts. Since its establishment in 1914, the ROM has accumulated more than 13 million artifacts, making it Canada's largest museum of world cultures and natural history. Across its 40 gallery and exhibition spaces, the museum displays diverse relics, including dinosaur bones, ancient Roman sculptures, Chinese temple art, an exhibit on Canada's First Nations and other cultural objects from various parts of the world.

Careful planning is advised to make the most of your time here, as recent visitors note that the Royal Ontario Museum offers such a wealth of exhibits that you might easily lose track of time. However, travelers unanimously agree that the museum's diverse array of exhibits is a true treasure, making every minute spent there worthwhile. Families traveling with children need not worry about keeping the little ones engaged, as the ROM provides interactive experiences. Kids can explore the hands-on gallery to touch snakeskin, examine shark jaws up close, and even venture into a fox's den. The CIBC Discovery Gallery also allows youngsters to dress up in costumes and embark on exciting "dinosaur" bone excavations.

Nathan Phillips Square Nathan Phillips Square free

Nathan Phillips Square is a must-visit destination in Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown, this bustling public square – which was named in honor of a former Toronto mayor – offers a variety of experiences that make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The centrepiece of Nathan Phillips Square is the striking Toronto City Hall, an architectural masterpiece that showcases modernist design. Its distinctive curved towers and the elevated walkway known as the "podium roof" make it a prominent landmark on the city skyline. Visitors are encouraged to explore the City Hall's public spaces, including the council chambers and the mayor's office, to see Toronto's governance in action.

Ontario Science Centre Ontario Science Centre

For an immersive and engaging learning experience that goes beyond reading plaques, look no further than the Ontario Science Centre. This remarkable facility offers a multitude of interactive exhibits designed to maximize educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Step into the pilot's seat of a rocket chair, embark on a cosmic journey in the city's public planetarium and showcase your dance moves on a floor that converts energy into mesmerizing light displays. Delve into the Living Earth experience and feel the touch of a tornado or catch a glimpse of your future self with the Amazing Aging Machine. Before exploring, check the information area for any special events that day. The on-site IMAX theater screens various educational films, and the museum regularly presents captivating demonstrations on topics ranging from electricity to papermaking.

Recent visitors said that because there's so much to do, it's possible to spend the entire day at the Ontario Science Centre. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to plan and select the exhibits you wish to see in advance. This strategic approach will help you optimize your time and ensure you get to all the highlights. While most reviewers agreed a visit here is worthwhile if you've got young kids in tow, others found the science center to be lacking for teens and adults.

Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise

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7-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto

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Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Boat and Behind the Falls

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Fort York Fort York free

Fort York is prominent on the sightseeing itineraries of many tourists and history enthusiasts. Established in 1793, it is Toronto's most significant historical site, safeguarding the city from the late 18th century until the conclusion of World War II. Moreover, it serves as the birthplace of modern-day Toronto, as the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada relocated the capital from the border town of Niagara due to nearby war conflicts. Visitors can now explore the quarters of soldiers and officers, observe cannon firings and military drills and even participate in flag raisings.

As stated by recent visitors, you'll love this site if you're into history. According to select reviewers, you may want to skip Fort York if you don't consider yourself a history or military aficionado. While many acknowledged that the site was incredibly well-preserved and offered a cool glimpse into the past lives of the soldiers who used to live there, some didn't find it to be as stimulating as other attractions.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the incredible marine life and interactive exhibits that await you.

One of the standout features of this aquarium is its sheer size and diversity. With more than 20,000 aquatic animals representing more than 450 species, there's something to fascinate visitors of all ages. The variety of marine life is truly astounding, from graceful sharks and majestic rays to colourful tropical fish and playful sea turtles.

Yorkdale Shopping Mall Yorkdale Shopping Mall free

Yorkdale Mall is a premier shopping destination that attracts locals and tourists alike. Here, you'll find a wide selection of high-end and luxury brands, popular retailers and diverse dining options. With more than 250 stores, including flagship stores and exclusive boutiques, Yorkdale Mall is a shopper's paradise.

The mall also hosts additional attractions and entertainment options, including a movie theater, art installations, interactive exhibits and unique pop-up experiences.

Canada's Wonderland Canada's Wonderland

Canada's Wonderland is an amusement park located outside Toronto that offers many attractions and activities across more than 200 acres, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.

One of the main reasons to visit Canada's Wonderland is its incredible collection of exhilarating rides. Thrill-seekers can brave the intense drops and loops of rides like Leviathan, Behemoth and Ghoster Coaster. At the same time, those seeking a milder adventure can enjoy the diverse selection of family rides, the 20-acre Splash Works water park and other attractions throughout the park.

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The 15 best experiences in Toronto

Nov 26, 2022 • 7 min read

Toronto is fun in all seasons © FOTOGRAFIA INC.

From iconic monuments to food tours, interactive museums to sporting events, world-class shopping to peaceful nature, Toronto has something to offer just about any visitor. 

So many things, in fact, that planning a trip to this cosmopolitan city can feel pretty overwhelming if you are only coming for a short period of time . Let us help.

If you’re ready to explore, here’s what you shouldn’t miss when you visit Canada ’s largest city. 

1. Take in the views from the CN Tower

Once the tallest structure in the world, the CN Tower is a symbol of the city and one of the most visited places in Toronto. Ride the elevator to the main observation deck to take in views of Toronto’s skyline from 346m (1136ft). If you have a strong stomach you can ascend even higher to the 447m (1465ft) SkyPod – high enough that you can actually feel the tower swaying in the wind.

Detour: Seeing the views from the inside is great, but adventure seekers should consider the EdgeWalk, the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk. Secured by a harness, you’ll creep around the edge of the tower, 116 stories above the streets below. There is a wheelchair-accessible option for the EdgeWalk as well. 

2. Eat your way around Chinatown

Toronto’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and liveliest areas. Busy local markets and colorful neon signs make for plenty of visual stimulation – though you’ll want to explore the pan-Asian food vendors with your taste buds as well. Taste your way through servings of dumplings and dim sum, hot pot and pho, banh mi and buns – be sure to arrive hungry.

Detour: To take in Chinatown’s full scope, set out on a food tour. An expert guide will take you to a selection of favorite spots, with smaller portions meaning you can try a wide array of things. We recommend Culinary Adventure Co’s Chinatown + Kensington Market food tour.  

3. Catch a game

Toronto is home to multiple professional sports teams, with games taking place year-round. If you know your travel dates well in advance, see if you can score tickets to see the Raptors (basketball), Blue Jays (baseball) or Maple Leafs (hockey) play on home turf – then cheer along with the locals. 

4. Browse through St Lawrence Market

Historic St Lawrence Market looms large in Toronto. Sure, it’s a top tourist attraction – but it’s also where many locals still go to do their shopping. Here, you’ll find specialty food shops and local businesses, with the Saturday farmers' markets and Sunday antique market weekly highlights.

Detour: The second floor of the South Market houses the Market Gallery, a space for rotating exhibitions. Stop by to check out the creative happenings in this favorite landmark. 

5. Grab a drink in the Distillery District

Take a pass on the bars in Toronto’s downtown and head to the Distillery District . Known for arts, entertainment, dining and more, the neighborhood is centered around an old whiskey distillery, today filled by crowds continuing the tradition by seeking out tipples of all varieties. Try SpiritHouse for top-shelf cocktails, Mill Street Brewery for a pint of Canadian craft beer or El Catrin Destileria for a margarita during patio (warm-weather) season.

Planning tip: If you’re in town for the holidays, Toronto’s charming Winter Village Christmas Market takes over the Distillery District every year. 

6. Explore Kensington Market

In a city full of suits and skyscrapers, Kensington Market brings something quirkier. This proudly bohemian, appealing scruffy neighborhood boasts vintage shops, unique boutiques and varied art spaces. Don’t miss the famous “garden car,” with its herbs, flowers, tomato plants and even a lawn growing out of a painted (and permanently parked) sedan.

Planning tip: While most come here to shop, it’s also worth coming to eat at one (or more) of Kensington Market’s many international restaurants. The district is also adjacent to Chinatown, making for a great combination food tour.

7. Salute Canada’s hockey legends

Since hockey holds a place in every Canadian’s heart, the official Hockey Hall of Fame in the Financial District is a top destination for visitors. This family-friendly attraction holds the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world – including the Stanley Cup itself. Here, you can learn about the sport’s history, try your hand shooting against the world’s best goalies in an interactive exhibit and watch vintage footage from the video vault. 

8. Admire the cherry blossoms at High Park

Come spring, Toronto bursts into bloom with a display of cherry blossoms worthy of Japan. You’ll find the largest concentration of sakura cherry trees in town at High Park . 

Planning tip: Depending on the weather, cherry-blossom season can take place between the end of April into early May, and only lasts a week. Track the season by calling the Cherry Blossom Hotline (647-946-2547).

9. Celebrate with the city

Torontonians love nothing more than a good party. Annual extravaganzas include Toronto Pride and the world-famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), as well as the Toronto Jazz Festival , Toronto Caribbean Carnival , the arty Luminato Festival , Canadian Music Week and Nuit Blanche .

Planning tip: Since festivals always draw major crowds, ensure you plan and book well in advance if you time your trip to one of these events. 

10. Step onto a movie set at Casa Loma

While the scenic palace may never have housed royalty, Casa Loma has played home to a number of well-known movie stars over the years. Once the home of a financier, the building is today a tourist attraction, special event venue and movie set. Some 50 productions have filmed here; you might recognize the interior as the Xavier School from X-Men . 

11. Snap a selfie with street art 

Street art expresses Toronto’s creative spirit – and some of the best examples are in Graffiti Alley . Stretching some 400m (1000ft), this narrow street is covered with bold, bright artwork from some of the city’s top street artists. 

Detour: Graffiti Alley should be just the start of your street-art itinerary. Consider taking a free, self-guided ARTWORX-TO tour , put together by the city government and Driftscape, a community of arts organizations and artists. 

12. Ride a roller-coaster at Canada’s Wonderland

One of the best Toronto activities for kids is a day trip to Canada’s Wonderland . About 40 minutes outside of the city, this amusement park offers 17 roller coasters, a 20-acre water park, special live shows and seasonal-themed events like the Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Don’t miss the park’s famous funnel cake – although perhaps after you’ve taken a few stomach-churning coaster rides. 

13. Have a beach day 

Practically the size of an ocean, Lake Ontario provides for fabulous beach days – and you can see for yourself at one of the many beaches in and around Toronto . Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, have a picnic or pick up a game of volleyball, these public beaches are great places to join locals on a sunny summer day.

Detour: If you want to escape the city’s buzz, head to one of Toronto’s islands , which host four beaches, some with boat-rental concessions.

14. Get your footwear fix at the Bata Museum

One of Toronto’s most original museums features displays of towering high heels, shoes made of human hair and other outrageous footwear. With a collection of some 15,000 artifacts spanning 4500 years, the Bata Shoe Museum has the largest shoe collection in the entire world. 

15. Learn about the local Indigenous community 

Modern Toronto was built on the traditional territory of several Indigenous nations, and is home today to a sizable First Nations population. Visitors can experience Indigenous traditions – key Canadian culture – through art, food and celebrations. We recommend checking out what’s happening at the local government’s guide to Indigenous experiences in Toronto.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2022

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24 Best Things to Do in Toronto

By Stefanie Waldek

Given that Toronto is Canada’s most populous (and diverse) city, it should come as little surprise that there is a lot to do in town. Whether you’re looking to dive into the city's vast number of museums , take in nature in its parks, or sample the varied cuisines of Toronto's 250-plus ethnic groups, there is plenty to fill any itinerary. Our recommendation? Take it all in bit by bit. There’s always another chance to come back and see more.

Read our complete Toronto travel guide here .

Toronto Music Garden Arrow

This urban garden located in Toronto’s Harbourfront neighborhood is very accessible to tourists walking around downtown—and it has great views of the CN Tower. As for the garden itself: Yo-Yo Ma, the cello maestro, can put “landscape architect” on his resume after having collaborated on the Toronto Music Garden with professional landscape architect Julie Moir Messervy. For the project, the duo physically interpreted and manifested Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, the first of the composer’s six suites for unaccompanied cello, as a garden, using the piece’s six dance movements (Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuet, and Gigue) to create different sections of the green space. At the center is the Gigue (or Jig) section, a grassy amphitheater with a stage beneath a weeping willow tree where free classical music concerts are held each summer.

Art Gallery of Ontario Arrow

Established in 1900, the Art Gallery of Ontario has more than 90,000 items in its encyclopedic collection, which spans the last 2,000 years. Of particular note are its collections of Canadian and Indigenous art, though it also has notable works by European masters like Rembrandt, Auguste Rodin, and Pablo Picasso. The museum underwent a $276 million renovation by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry in 2008, his first work in his native city, doubling its exhibition space.

Harbourfront Centre Arrow

In 1972, the Canadian government began a massive revitalization project in Toronto to boost both local, national, and international tourism, transforming 100 acres of industrial waterfront into cultural, educational, and recreational attractions. Overseeing the operation was the Harbourfront Corporation, which became the Harbourfront Centre nonprofit in 1991. The organization was tasked with organizing cultural programming in the neighborhood—more specifically, in a 10-acre area right on the water—which is still its primary function today. And it’s quite successful: In non-pandemic years, Harbourfront Centre’s myriad venues and public spaces would host some 4,000 events each year, from summer writing festivals to the performing arts to art and architecture exhibitions, drawing in more than 17 million visitors. In the winter, there's even an ice skating rink.

Casa Loma Arrow

Canada might not be known for its castles, but Toronto is home to an unusual one that has become a beloved tourist attraction. Casa Loma is a 98-room château built by Canadian businessman Sir Henry Mill Pellatt in 1914, who went bankrupt shortly after completing his beloved home. Casa Loma now serves as a museum and a popular filming location, most notably serving as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngers in X-Men. Do the self-guided tour, which you can fly through at a clip, providing the place isn't packed; it can be tricky to rush past the crowds during busier times, especially in some of the smaller spaces, tunnels, and towers. Must-sees include secret passageways, gardens, and an underground pool.

Jessica Puckett

Anna Borges

Karthika Gupta

St. Lawrence Market Arrow

St. Lawrence Market is perhaps the most famous market in Toronto, and locals regularly shop its stalls for produce, meats, cheeses, and more. While the focus of your trip should be browsing the dozens of food stalls, it’s interesting to take a look at its architecture, too. Though the current main building was erected in 1902, part of the Old City Hall, which dates to 1845, was incorporated into it. There’s also The Market Kitchen, a cooking school and event space where you can take culinary classes or partake in special hands-on dinners that include shopping the market for ingredients.

Hockey Hall of Fame Arrow

If there’s anything Canadians are known for, it’s hockey. The sport is the most popular in the country, so it’s no surprise that its most populous city is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Established in 1943, the non-profit organization has been inducting legendary players and other hockey professionals to its ranks every year since 1945. Today, the Hall of Fame also functions as a museum and houses the Stanley Cup. The museum is a must-take pilgrimage for all hockey lovers, though its gift shop deserves a stop, too: Pick up a wide array of themed merch, from authentic NHL and Hall of Fame apparel to souvenirs, novelty items, and all manner of presents for the hockey fans in your life.

Kensington Market Arrow

Kensington Market is not actually a market, but a food-centric neighborhood in downtown Toronto. While the city at large is known for its diverse population, there’s perhaps no better place to witness that multiculturalism in such a concentrated area than here. Whatever type of food you’re in the mood for, from Ethiopian to Vietnamese to Jamaican, there’s probably a restaurant, grocery store, or hole-in-the-wall for it. Some favorites include Seven Lives Tacos Y Mariscos for stellar tacos and NU Bügel for Montreal-style bagels with Venezuelan toppings. Beyond all the food, there are also vintage shops, independent boutiques, and artists’ studios tucked into Victorian-style houses all throughout the neighborhood.

High Park Arrow

Toronto’s largest public park has 400 acres that range from manicured lawns to themed gardens to untouched nature. In addition to the greenery, there are a number of interactive activities, including a zoo, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rinks (or frozen ponds in winter), a dog run, and playgrounds. It’s a park designed for all Torontonians and visitors to use however they best see fit, whether for leisure, sport, or fitness.

Allan Gardens Conservatory Arrow

History, architecture, and plant life collide at Allan Gardens Conservatory, a park with a series of connected Victorian-era greenhouses in the center of Toronto with 16,000 square feet of space to hold its botanical collection. Though the Toronto Horticultural Society inaugurated a garden on the site in 1858, the central Palm House, designed by architect Robert McCallum, opened in 1910. Subsequent additions have expanded the gardens’ holdings to include a tropical house, an orchid house, a temperate house, an arid house, and a children’s conservatory. Because the gardens are enclosed and protected from the cold, they’re open 365 days a year. There’s also an (outdoor) arboretum with 55 species of trees, providing lovely green space for Torontonians. Catch the three seasonal floral shows for a multicolored spectacle: the Spring Hydrangea Show, the Fall Chrysanthemum Show, and the Winter Flower Show.

Aga Khan Museum Arrow

Set in a 17-acre park, the elegant Aga Khan Museum, designed by architect Fumihiko Maki and opened in 2014, is the first museum in North America dedicated to Islamic art. The Aga Khan Museum is named after the spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims, who funded the project with the mission to share the artistic and scientific contributions of global Muslim communities with the world. While the museum has a 1,000-piece permanent collection, it also hosts rotating exhibitions and special events; one notable recent exhibit addressed the role of female citizens of Saudi Arabia (and featured an installation made from women’s travel documents), while another—inspired by the 2003 destruction of the library at the University of Baghdad’s College of Fine Arts—featured an ever-evolving installation of books that were later donated to the college.

Bata Shoe Museum Arrow

When Sonja Bata began traveling the world in the 1940s, she didn’t collect postcards or trinkets: she collected shoes. Three decades later, she established the Bata Shoe Museum Foundation to create a permanent home for her collection and to promote its growth. The current museum, which opened in 1995, houses nearly 15,000 shoes and related objects spanning 4,500 years of shoe-making history, so there's plenty to see.

CN Tower Arrow

Toronto’s most iconic landmark is the 1,815-foot CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the world from 1976, when it was built, to 2007. While the tower does serve a purpose—its 335-foot antenna is used to broadcast television, radio, and cell signals—it’s also the most popular attraction in the city. The concrete megastructure is home to a number of observation decks, a restaurant with the highest wine cellar in the world (at 1,151 feet), and the EdgeWalk, a thrilling attraction that lets visitors walk outside the structure at 1,168 feet above street level. Tickets are required, with different packages providing different experiences.

TIFF Bell Lightbox Arrow

TIFF Bell Lightbox is not only the headquarters of the annual Toronto International Film Festival, but it’s also the city’s premier movie theater and entertainment complex, open to the public. Built in 2010, the modern facilities include five state-of-the-art cinemas, a restaurant, classrooms, a film reference library, gallery space, and a members’ lounge. Outside of the 10-day festival in September, TIFF Bell Lightbox screens new releases and runs thematic film programming year-round, focusing on anything from classic blockbusters to foreign indie films.

Toronto Islands Arrow

The Toronto Islands, located just offshore from downtown Toronto, are an 820-acre car-free haven. While 600 people live on the islands, the majority of visitors are day-trippers who come to enjoy the beaches, parks, gardens, yacht clubs, cafés, and a small amusement park for children. Seasonal activities include kayaking, picnicking, barbecuing, and outdoor yoga classes.

Tour Guys: Toronto Graffiti Tour Arrow

If you’re looking to learn about graffiti and street art rather than just snap selfies, look no further than the Tour Guys' casual yet informative walking tours throughout Toronto. On the Graffiti Tour, your small group (no more than 12 people) will head down Graffiti Alley, a hotspot for street artists. The guides do much more than point out highlights along the way. They dive into the history of the medium, explain technical terms, discuss current players in the Toronto scene, and talk about the legality of the art form.

Royal Ontario Museum Arrow

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop of a museum, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is your best bet. Originally established in 1912 as collection of five museums dedicated to archaeology, paleontology, mineralogy, zoology, and geology, ROM has since consolidated its efforts, covering everything from natural and cultural history to fine arts and design within the same massive space. It’s not often you can find dinosaur bones and fashion exhibitions within the same space. Be sure to spend a few minutes lingering outside the Queen's Park entrance, too, to best appreciate starchitect Daniel Libeskind's geometric marvel of a structure, dubbed the "Michael Lee-Chin Crystal," part of a multi-million dollar expansion to the museum, unveiled in 2007.

Bruce Bell Tours Arrow

Actor, comedian, historian, and proud Torontonian Bruce Bell leads this highly entertaining one-man show, which is a perfect excursion for those who don’t love cookie-cutter tours. You’ll meet your small group at the St. Lawrence Market—be sure to make reservations in advance—and travel on foot around the bustling building and the surrounding Old Town neighborhood.

Distillery District Arrow

A collection of 47 19th-century buildings that once comprised the Gooderham & Worts Distillery is now a major dining, shopping, and cultural hub in Toronto aptly called the Distillery District. Strolling through the neighborhood’s brick-paved pedestrian streets, visitors might feel as if they’ve been transported to Victorian-era Canada—the craftspeople who restored the old structures kept true to the original construction materials as much as possible. And while there are still breweries and distilleries here (including the Spirit of York Distillery and the Mill St. Brew Pub ), there are also restaurants, local-owned boutiques, and art galleries.

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20 Best Things to Do in Toronto, According to Local Experts

Culture, cuisine, and charm-filled neighborhoods are just the beginning of all Toronto has to offer.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

FrankvandenBergh/Getty Images

Toronto deserves its reputation as Canada’s most cosmopolitan city. Set on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, this diverse urban sprawl is well known for its vibrant culture that offers travelers world-class museums with incredible art collections, many diverse neighborhoods, charming small businesses, and one of the best culinary scenes around — with everything from Michelin-rated fine dining to food markets. When the sun goes down, locals and visitors mingle at the rooftop bars and hidden speakeasies. Outdoorsy types enjoy easy access to nature thanks to leafy parks and nearby islands that make for scenic day trips. 

These are the best things to do in Toronto, according to local experts. 

Meet the Expert

Bruce Bell is a Toronto historian and tour guide offering group walking tours and private excursions to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Harry Hollywood is the chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, a luxury property located in the Yorkville neighborhood. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Toronto

See the city from the CN Tower.

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Arguably the city’s most iconic landmark, the CN Tower was once the tallest structure in the world. Though it no longer holds the title, it still looms large over the city. On a clear day, the views from the top stretch all the way to Niagara Falls. At night, it’s illuminated with colorful lights.

Eat your way through St. Lawrence Market.

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is the oldest and largest food market in Toronto with more than 80 vendors. “It’s very multicultural and really reflects the city’s diverse population with many delicious dishes to try,” says Bruce Bell , Toronto historian and tour guide. He recommends “the world-famous peameal bacon sandwich.”

Explore the Distillery District.

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From 1837 to 1990, the Distillery District housed a large whiskey distillery. Today, it’s one of the coolest areas in the city. “The cobblestone streets are lined with hip cafés, restaurants, bars, and boutiques,” says Harry Hollywood, chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto . “It also hosts a festive winter village and holiday market in December.”  

See what’s on at the Harbourfront Centre.

Part of a massive citywide revitalization project in the early 1970s, the non-profit Harbourfront Centre puts on all sorts of public cultural events throughout the year, from international writing festivals to contemporary art exhibitions. The Harbourfront Centre also hosts courses and workshops ranging from glass blowing to jewelry making throughout the year. 

Take a Sunday stroll around Kensington Market.

Marcus Oleniuk/Toronto Star via Getty Images

“Kensington Market is actually a neighborhood rather than a market as its name suggests,” explains Hollywood. “It’s a lively, multicultural hub that blends diverse backgrounds and cuisines, from Caribbean and Mexican to Middle Eastern and Vietnamese.” On select Sundays, the area transforms into a pedestrian-only zone.  

Admire art from near and far at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

“The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) proudly showcases a broad array of talent, from Vincent van Gogh to Indigenous Canadian artists to renowned British sculptor Henry Moore,” says Hollywood. “It also provides educational programs and seminars, hosts global exhibitions, and actively engages with the surrounding community.” 

Tour Casa Loma, Toronto’s very own castle.

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Built by Sir Henry Pellatt in 1914, Toronto's historic hilltop castle, Casa Loma , showcases Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the city. Besides being a museum, it’s also an events venue and popular filming location. You might recognize it as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in X-Men.

Enjoy a concert at the Toronto Music Garden.

buzbuzzer/Getty Images

Designed in collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Toronto Music Garden is an idyllic green space with draping trees, grassy lawns, and waterfront views that hosts summer concerts and impromptu performances for locals and visitors on nice days. Even without live music, it’s still a beautiful place for a stroll. 

Get lost in the Royal Ontario Museum.

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Canada’s largest museum, the Royal Ontario Museum draws upwards of one million visitors each year who come to admire the staggering variety of artwork, cultural items, and natural history specimens. Learn more on one of the museum’s tours, like the climate change tour that explores the topic through the works and items found throughout the galleries. 

Bop around Queen Street West.

Queen Street West — a major east–west thoroughfare — and the surrounding area is a hub of trendy galleries, funky stores, cafés, and street art. “It’s kind of like Toronto’s answer to Brooklyn — very cool and dynamic with an indie spirit,” adds Bell. 

Related: The 21 Most Beautiful Places in Canada, Picturesque Islands and Remote Mountains Included

Snap some photos in Graffiti Alley.

Brakethrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Toronto has a really incredible legal street art scene. One of the best places to see tons of colorful murals — from depictions of fun characters to more political messages — is Rush Lane, better known as Graffiti Alley, just south of Queen Street West. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Take a day trip to the Toronto Islands.

The Toronto Islands is a collection of 15 islands in the western part of Lake Ontario. “Cars are prohibited, preserving a calm atmosphere for all,” says Hollywood. It’s a lovely place for a day trip to get outside, ride bikes, and go to the beach, especially in the warmer summer months. Families will want to visit the Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island (open seasonally). 

Go under the sea at Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto.

BrakeThrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Among the city’s star attractions for kids, parents, and really anyone with an interest in marine life, Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto boasts more than 20,000 aquatic animals, from sea urchins and harlequin tuskfish to spotted eagle rays and a giant Pacific octopus. It’s a popular spot for both school and family trips and offers many education programs and workshops for budding oceanographers. 

Learn all about Canada’s national winter sport at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Ice hockey is the national winter sport of Canada. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a recent convert, it’s worth visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame to learn about the history of the sport and its most famous players and see tons of cool memorabilia and NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup. 

Take a walk around High Park.

The ideal place to be on a nice day, Toronto’s largest public green space, High Park, covers 400 acres of recreational facilities (including an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and playgrounds), gardens, lakeside walking trails, and a mini zoo with llamas, buffalo, bison, deer, and peacocks.

See shoes in a whole new way at Bata Shoe Museum.

The Bata Shoe Museum displays the most extensive collection of footwear and related items in the world, with exhibitions ranging from a fascinating timeline that chronicles 4,500 years of footwear history to cutting-edge kicks of the future. Some highlights include red leather stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe and the Dalai Lama’s flip flops.

Dine at Alo.

Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images

Fans of fine dining who don’t mind splurging on a memorable meal should reserve a table at Alo , a Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux restaurant and culinary fixture that delights diners with contemporary French gastronomic tasting menus. The Dining Room serves a multi-course tasting menu that costs $225 per guest. 

Spend some time in the beautiful Yorkville neighborhood.

Lisa Stokes/Getty Images

The upscale Yorkville neighborhood is home to designer shops, ritzy restaurants, and five-star hotels — including both the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto and The Hazelton Hotel . Whether you plan to go for dinner, stay the night, or just stroll around, it’s a posh and pretty place to spend some time while in Toronto.

Learn about Canadian history at Fort York.

“First erected in the early 19th century, Fort York was later attacked by the Americans and rebuilt,” explains Bell. “Now preserved as a national historic site, it’s a great place to visit to get an idea of how the relations between Canada and the United States once were and the evolution of that relationship.” Admission is free, and you can learn more on a free guided tour. 

Shop until you drop at CF Toronto Eaton Centre.

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Located right in the middle of downtown Toronto, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre is a major shopping destination with hundreds of stores and places to eat. It’s also an unexpected place to peep art. Canadian artist Michael Snow created the eye-catching installation of 60 flying geese that hang from the glass ceiling. 

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto

With more than 2.9 million people, Toronto is the largest city in Canada, ensuring the capital of Ontario province offers plenty of things for visitors to see and do. The list of tourist attractions in Toronto includes world-class museums, great shopping, a smorgasbord of dining options, and summer and winter outdoors activities.

The city is known for its professional sports teams, including baseball’s Blue Jays and hockey’s Maple Leafs. Toronto is a vibrant city, with its large Chinatown, its restored Victorian buildings and its modern-day skyscrapers.

See also: Where to Stay in Toronto

18. Harbourfront Centre

Looking out over Lake Ontario, the huge waterfront complex lies just a stone’s throw from the CN Tower. Packed with art galleries and theaters, parks and outdoor stages; the Harbourfront Centre really is an amazing place to visit.

Once a derelict shipping terminal, the area was transformed into a thriving arts and culture center in the 90s with dozens of studios and venues now found alongside cafes and restaurants. Besides visiting its galleries or basking in beautiful views over the lake, visitors can attend one of the more than 4,000 cultural events, dance shows, and festivals held here each year.

17. Bata Shoe Museum

The Bata Shoe Museum takes you on a fascinating journey through over 4,500 years of footwear. Located in a specially designed shoebox-shaped building, its enthralling collection can be found just northwest of the University of Toronto’s St. George campus.

Founded in 1979, the museum impressively boasts over 13,000 shoes of all shapes, sizes, and styles. You can find jewel-encrusted slippers and chestnut-crushing clogs on show alongside Japanese geta, Inuit boots, and celebrity footwear. You can learn all about the history and evolution of shoe designs with so many amazing artifacts on display from all around the world.

16. Rogers Centre

Right next to the soaring CN Tower is another of Toronto’s main attractions and most recognizable landmarks: the Rogers Centre. Aside from being the home of Major League Baseball’s Toronto Blue Jays, it also hosts innumerable concerts, sporting events, and auto shows over the course of the year.

When it was completed in 1989, the state-of-the-art stadium was remarkably the first arena in the world to have a fully retractable dome roof. This lends it an electrifying atmosphere when the roof is closed and the Blue Jays go to bat. Besides watching a brilliant baseball game, you can also take tours around the stadium or attend one of its conventions, concerts or carnivals.

15. Ontario Science Centre

Home to all kinds of interesting and interactive exhibits, the excellent Ontario Science Centre can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive northeast of the center. A fun, family-friendly place to visit, it has plenty of hands-on activities and experiments that shine a light on the fields of science and technology.

Since being established in 1969, it has been a firm favorite with adults and children alike due to its informative yet engaging displays and live demonstrations. While some sections look at the human body and mind, others focus on the natural world around us or on scientific principles and theories with fun games and a fantastic planetarium also being on offer.

14. Kensington Market

A feast for the senses, the colorful and chaotic Kensington Market really is a delight to explore and perfectly encaptures the city’s multicultural make-up. Lined with shops, restaurants, and stands, the vibrant neighborhood lies just ten minutes’ drive west of the center.

Once mainly home to eastern European Jewish immigrants, the area is now incredibly diverse and has a laid back bohemian vibe. While strolling around its bustling streets you’ll come across fabulous public artworks and vintage stores with Jamaican, Mexican, and Tibetan eateries occupying graffiti-covered buildings. In addition, there are also stalls selling everything, from fresh produce and jewellery to souvenirs, with live music and street shows often taking place.

13. Black Creek Pioneer Village

A must for those interested in learning more about the history of the city and its surroundings, Black Creek Pioneer Village lies just half an hour’s drive northwest of the center. A popular place to visit, the huge open-air heritage museum shines a light on what rural life in Ontario was like during the early nineteenth century.

Founded in 1960, the village now has more than forty wonderfully well-restored historic buildings that include a church, blacksmiths, and schoolhouse among others. Aside from its informative displays and exhibitions, costumed re-enactors highlight how villagers would have lived and worked back in the day.

12. Toronto Zoo

Home to a huge array of animals from all over the world, Toronto Zoo certainly makes for a family-friendly day out. Located just half an hour’s drive to the east of town, it boasts everything from pandas and polar bears to rhinos, tigers, and gorillas.

First opened in 1974, the enormous zoo now impressively contains over 5,000 animals both large and small in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. While some areas and exhibits focus on Canada’s animals and ecosystems, others take you to Africa, Eurasia and Australasia. With so many beautiful animals and birds to see, Toronto Zoo is definitely not to be missed out on.

11. Art Gallery of Ontario

Another of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions is the marvelous Art Gallery of Ontario, which is located in the Grange Park neighborhood of downtown. One of the largest art museums in North America, it contains an extensive collection of paintings, photos, drawings, and sculptures.

First opened to the public in 1900, its artworks and exhibitions now occupy a striking modern complex. In total, there are over 95,000 unique pieces to peruse. Fine Inuit carvings and religious works are on show, alongside lovely landscape paintings by the influential Group of Seven, and masterpieces by European artists. In addition, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as talks, tours and workshops.

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

Toronto is ice hockey country and has been since 1917 with the founding of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It’s also home to the Hockey Hall of Fame, which makes it a must-see attraction for visitors who love this exciting sport.

Home to the prestigious Stanley Cup, the museum features the greatest players in this sport as well as explains its history through artifacts and film. It also has state-of-the-art interactive multi-media exhibits that allow visitors to project themselves playing against the professionals or to become play-by-play broadcasters.

9. Toronto Eaton Centre

Visitors can shop till they drop at Eaton Centre, Toronto’s premier shopping mall. Hungry visitors can take a break at one of the mall’s many restaurants, which range from fast foot to ethnic cuisine. Altogether, Eaton Centre has more than 235 stores and restaurants, right in Toronto’s city center.

This huge complex, which also contains offices, gets around a million visitors a week, making it the most popular attraction in Toronto. Unfortunately, visitors won’t be able to shop at Eaton’s, the department store chain for which it is named, since it is no longer in business.

8. High Park

High Park is for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors. Toronto’s largest public park has hiking trails, a playground for children, gardens and a zoo, among other amenities. It also has a waterfront since it is on Grenadier Pond filled with ducks and other marine birds; the best view is from the observation deck at Hillside Gardens.

For visitors who prefer more activity than walking the nature trails, the park also has an outdoor swimming pool, baseball diamonds and tennis courts. A “maple leaf” made up of flowers or other vegetation is considered the park’s most famous landmark.

7. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum says it’s one of Toronto’s favorite museums. With the variety of exhibitions it holds, it’s hard to dispute that claim. The museum combines natural history with world cultures, with exhibits ranging from dinosaurs and prehistoric peoples to textiles and biodiversity.

There are plenty of hands-on and interactive exhibits to increase visitors’ knowledge of the past and present. It is home to the largest collection of Chinese architectural exhibits outside of China, but also has extensive collections of artifacts from other countries, including Africa and the Middle East.

6. Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a Toronto landmark that’s hard to miss. It’s a huge castle that has stood out since the moment it was built on a hill in the early 20th century. Casa Loma was the dream of a wealthy man who always wanted to live in a castle, so he built one.

Casa Loma has 98 rooms and was the largest house in Toronto when it was built. It also has secret passageways, lovely gardens, a library, a hunting lodge and even an elevator. Three hundred people worked three years to construct this magnificent complex.

5. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Wow doesn’t begin to describe Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, which has 16,000 aquatic animals all swimming in one tank. The tank is not your ordinary home fish tank, however. It’s filled with more than 1.5 million gallons (5.7 million liters) of water.

Visitors observe all this marine life by walking through an underwater tunnel that is North America’s largest viewing tunnel. See sharks, sting rays and other sea life up close. The aquarium has more than 100 interactive exhibits to teach visitors more about marine life. Live shows starring the animals are presented every two hours.

4. Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands is another hot-spot recreation destination. Located just offshore a ferry ride away from Toronto proper, they are the only islands in this part of Lake Ontario. Since only a few vehicles are permitted, they are the largest urban car-free zone in North America.

Recreation opportunities abound, from swimming and kayaking to biking and Frisbee golf. Centerville, located on the largest island, Centre, is a 1900s style amusement park for children, complete with miniature railway and antique carousel. Toronto Islands also hosts annual arts and rock music festivals.

3. Distillery District

The Distillery District is the place for visitors to go when they want to experience the charm of Victorian Toronto. Set in the historic district just a short walk from downtown, this pedestrian-only shopping area centers around restored buildings that were once the Gooderman & Worts whiskey distillery.

Considered one of the hottest spots in Canada, visitors will find more than 80 retail shops, boutiques and eateries as well as art galleries and entertainment venues. The district hosts a number of events, including art shows and music festivals, throughout the year.

2. St. Lawrence Market

Travelers are shopping in history when they visit St. Lawrence Market, which has been a going concern on the site since 1803. Today it’s contained in three buildings, including one for specialty foods, another for a Saturday farmer’s market and a third that has retail shops.

The South Market is home to 120 shops selling specialty foods, such as brads and produce; Toronto’s cultural services are showcased on the second floor. The North Market hosts the Saturday farmer’s market that began in 1803; on Sundays it becomes an antique market. Built in 1850, the St. Lawrence Hall houses retail businesses.

1. CN Tower

Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, the CN Tower is Canada’s most recognizable icon. The communication tower was built from 1973 to 1976 by the railway company “Canadian National” and standing 553.33 meters (1,815.4 ft) tall was the tallest structure in the world for over 30 years until it was surpassed in height by the Burj Dubai.

A glass elevator takes visitors up to where they can look out from behind glass windows or from an outside observing area through a metal screen. Restaurant diners with reservations can avoid the queues for the observatory, and at night the lights from distant Rochester, New York are visible over the lake.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Toronto

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Reader interactions.

October 20, 2023 at 10:00 am

Visited CN tower,Royal Ontario museum, Casa loma,Ripley’s aquarium, Toronto eaton center, Last but not least the Niagara falls. Happy that I have covered 6 out of 10 best places in Toronto

September 15, 2018 at 9:03 am

Visited CN tower,Royal Ontario museum, Casa loma,Ripley’s aquarium, Toronto eaton center, Last but not least the Niagara falls. Happy that I have covered 6 out of 10 best places in Toronto.

Super visit….. Niagara Falls is a dream come true & it should be in the world’s wonder list since this is not a man made one.

November 29, 2017 at 4:45 am

Royal Ontario Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada are my favourite and couple of time i visit and and now planning to visit Niagara falls.

August 13, 2016 at 8:12 am

Much and much more to see but lovely start.,.. toronto a wonderful place 🙂

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The 12 best attractions in Toronto

The best attractions in Toronto include Frank Gehry-designed buildings, museums and plenty more

It seems obvious to state that Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is brimming with fantastic things to do. We're talking amazing museums , exquisite cuisine and some of the best nightlife in the entire Great White North. Not to mention the nature walks, which you can find right in the heart of the city (hello Balfour Park loop).

There’s nowhere else quite like it. Toronto is a city that manages to both preserve its areas of cultural importance and expand at a break-neck pace. Get ready to explore both the city’s rich heritage and its exciting future – here are our top picks of Toronto’s best attractions.

RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Toronto

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Best Toronto attractions

1.  Royal Ontario Museum

• Bloor Yorkville

From crystals to dinosaurs, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) covers it all, making it an essential stop on any kind of traveller’s itinerary. Originally opened in 1914, the ROM now houses numerous permanent collections and is always curating interesting feature exhibits. With the futuristic addition of the Michael Lee-Chin crystal in 2007, the ROM is an attraction that stands the test of time for visitors of all ages.

Time Out tip:  On average, it takes visitors 3-4 hours to explore all the rooms, so we recommend getting there a little early and prioritising the must-see collections. It might be worth taking a coffee break too. 

2.  The Distillery District

• The Distillery District

This is one of Toronto’s oldest i ndustrial neighbourhoods, with a modern, contemporary twist . The very hip Distillery District, comprised of the cluster of restored Victorian buildings that once operated as the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, has undergone one of the city’s greatest urban transformations, creating a unique European-esque walking district packed with restaurants, cafés, boutiques, galleries and more.

Time Out tip:  If you like discovering unique finds, pay a visit to the Distillery's finest local-run clothing boutiques and shops, where you’re bound to stumble on a cool décor piece or two.  

3.  Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

Immerse yourself in art and culture at one of the city’s most intriguing architectural landmarks. With a stunning expansion designed by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry, the AGO houses one of the largest art collections in North America. From Canadian artist collections and European classics to interactive workshops and classes, the AGO is a must-visit for any art-loving adventurer.    

Time Out tip: Once you've worked up a hefty appetite from all that pondering, you'll be spoilt for choice by the likes of China Town and Kensington Market, both within walking distance of the gallery. Whether it's dim sum, pho or a doner kebab you're after, we know a guy!

4.  Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

• Attractions
• Harbourfront

Ripley’s Aquarium in downtown Toronto takes the idea of ‘sleeping with the fishes’ very, very literally. One of the venue’s awesome events lets visitors spend the night amongst sharks, rays and tropical fish – and it isn’t the only cool program at Ripley’s. The aquarium also holds yoga sessions and live jazz nights, cementing it as one of the city’s hottest tourist destinations. 

Time Out tip:  To avoid the crowds, try arriving before 11 am and after 2 pm on weekdays. On weekends, begin your tour before 11 am or after 4 pm.  

5.  Evergreen Brick Works

An old brickworks heritage site turned into a hub for innovation, Evergreen Brick Works offers visitors a unique experience through demonstrations, exhibits and events. The complex is comprised of a variety of multipurpose buildings, including a large kilns-turned-gallery building, a garden market, a restaurant café and a bike shop, to name just a few. Focused on sustainability and creating green-friendly models of urban living, Evergreen Brick Works is an engaging destination for the ecologically inclined explorer.

Location perks:  The nature trail is the perfect way to enjoy a  morning hike or even a cycle. 

Time Out tip: Head over on a Saturday to catch Evergreen Brick Works' famous farmer's market in action. You'll find a wide variety of seasonal food stands with lots of fresh baked goods and vegan options to choose from.   

6.  Kensington Market

• Kensington Market

Kensington Market perfectly captures Toronto's melting-pot cultural makeup. Vibrant and diverse, it is home to eclectic second-hand vintage boutiques, bars, cafés and restaurants that fill up the area’s colourful streets, making this an ideal destination for exploring. Once a month during the summer, Pedestrian Sundays, a lively street party celebrating food, music and fun, takes over the streets.

Time Out tip: You'll come for the bohemian vibes, but stay for the market's street food fusion – we hear Golden Patty and Seven Lives are well worth trying.   

7.  Scarborough Bluffs

Stretching across 15 kilometres along Lake Ontario, the Scarborough Bluffs offer turquoise waters, sandy beaches and cascading cliffs that tend to deceive unknowing tourists. Photos from the Bluffs seem exotic and almost tropical, yet the destination is found right in the city’s east end. For adventurers and hiking enthusiasts, the Bluffs are a gorgeously imposing geological attraction.

Location perks:  When it comes to creating the perfect photo op., t here's nothing quite like the Bluffs  to commemorate your trip.  

8.  Toronto Islands

• Toronto Islands

Just a short ferry ride away from Toronto’s bustling downtown core sits a cluster of small islands, commonly known as Toronto Island. Consisting of a quaint amusement park, sandy beaches (including one that’s clothing-optional – yay to no tan lines!), shady knolls and biking trails, the Island is a great day-trip destination. Frequent ferry service is available from the main ferry terminal located on the city’s scenic harbourfront.

9.  Allan Gardens Conservatory

Fans of horticulture are sure to love this Victorian-era conservatory. Lush with plants and botanical features, this small yet impressive structure houses species from the tropics, the Mediterranean, Australia and elsewhere. If you find yourself in Toronto during the winter, escape from the city’s snowy slushy street and revel in the warm and fresh climate that the conservatory offers. You might even get to experience the annual Christmas flower show if you hit the city during the winter months.

10.  Ontario Science Centre

The Science Centre is all about interactive learning for kids and adults alike. Welcoming curiosity and creativity, this family-friendly attraction is dedicated to making science fun and promoting exploration and learning. The Science Centre offers unique experiences such as an indoor rainforest, science arcade and OMNIMAX® dome theatre, as well as a variety of exhibitions and demonstrations to keep you (and your brain) busy.

11.  High Park

Take a trip to Toronto’s largest park if you’re looking for a green getaway in the heart of the city. Since the late 1800s, High Park has been a destination for locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of picturesque vantage points, hiking trails, waterfront views, activities and more – there is even a small zoo within the park!

12.  CN Tower

With the world's tallest tower currently standing at 828 meters (2,717 feet) in Dubai, it's hard to believe that Canada once led the way in grounbreaking buildings. Yet it did. The CN Tower—arguably one of the world's most renowned silhouettes—was once the world’s tallest structure and it remains impressive today. Standing at 553 meters (that's 1,815 feet), this icon provides incomparable 360º views of the city, plus a revolving restaurant.

Time Out tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, strap into the EdgeWalk—the world’s highest hands-free walk, on a 1.5m-ledge, 356 meters (1167 feet) above the streets.

Worked up an appetite after all that touring?

The 20 best restaurants in Toronto

This food savvy city is quickly becoming a tourist destination for culinary connoisseurs and thrifty gourmands alike.

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Top Things to Do

30 Top Things to Do in Toronto

Toronto is filled with fun, interesting, unique, and exciting things to do whether you're on vacation or even if you call Toronto home. From the top of the CN Tower to the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world, these are 30 of the best activities and attractions the city has to offer.

See the Skyline from the Water

Toronto has a fantastic skyline, and the best way to enjoy it is from Lake Ontario. There are many ways to get out on the water during your visit to Toronto, whether you rent a kayak or take a stand-up paddleboarding tour. You can find rental shops like The Boat House on Toronto Island if you want to splash around in a kayak, or if you're feeling ambitious, you can embark on a five-hour paddling tour from Kew-Balmy Beach to Bluffers Park with Oceah Oceah .

Go Thrifting

Sometimes the best souvenir is found in a thrift shop, and Toronto has many to choose from. You can find costume jewelry at Courage My Love or peruse the past two hundred years of fashion at Gadabout , which sells items from the 19th century. And if you're looking for menswear, Kingpin's Hideaway boasts a fine collection of vintage suits, ascots, and fedoras.

See a Show at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Chris Fore/ Wikimedia Commons , CC BY 2.0   

Opened in 1913 as vaudeville theatres, the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre is the world's last double-decker theatre. The two auditoriums were built on top of the other and are beautiful and unique in design. While the Elgin Theatre is glitzy with a gold and red scheme, the Winter Garden Theatre is inspired by nature with columns sculpted to look like tree trunks and plants hanging from the ceiling. You can check the event calendar if you want to buy tickets to a performance, but there are also tours available , on which you will be able to learn more about the history of the theatre and get up close to artifacts like an original silent film projector from the early 19th century.

Eat and Shop in Little India

Getty Images/Krzysztof Dydynski

Toronto has a sizeable South-Asian community celebrated every day in the Little India neighborhood surrounding Gerrard Street. Here you can find more traditional Indian Cuisine at restaurants like Leela Indian Food Bar or try Desi Burger , which serves spicy burgers alongside sweet, creamy, and fruity drinks like faloodas and mango lassis. Shopping-wise, you can peruse beautiful sarees and kurtis at Nucreation or maybe find new copper dishes for your home at Kohinoor Kitchen Ware .

Visit Niagara Falls

If you haven't ticked Niagara Falls off your bucket list yet, you can't leave Toronto without taking a day trip to the magnificent waterfall, which is about 80 miles south on the other side of Lake Ontario. Around the main waterfall, there is plenty to do in town, whether you want to hit the casinos or go shopping. If the weather's right, consider taking a boat ride to get up close and personal with the waterfall's misty spray or enjoy the view from a distance at a restaurant with a view like Top of the Falls or Fallsview Dining .

Find Solitude on the Philosopher's Walk

At the University of Toronto, the Philosopher's Walk is a scenic footpath that will take you past some of the city's cultural landmarks like the Royal Ontario Museum, Royal Conservatory of Music, and Trinity College. Here, you'll also find the Queen Alexandra Gateway, built in 1906. With students bustling about, it's a great place to enjoy Toronto's academic atmosphere and get away from the crowds of tourists in the city's other popular hotspots. You'll find historical memorial plaques and a book quote on every bench along the path.

Hang Out in High Park

Stop by Toronto's largest public park to take advantage of hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, landscaped gardens, and an explosion of cherry blossoms in the spring. High Park is easily accessible by public transit and home to an outdoor public pool, a wading pool for kids, an ice rink, baseball diamonds, and Grenadier Restaurant .

Shop for Delicious Foods at St. Lawrence Market

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

The city's largest market is a definite must-do on any trip to Toronto and was even voted best food market by National Geographic. The South Market is home to over 120 specialty food vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to prepared foods, dairy, meat, and seafood. Saturdays in the summer, you'll find a bustling farmers' market at the North Building.

Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

 Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

Canada’s largest museum showcases everything from art and archaeology to natural science in over 30 galleries. Whether you’re interested in ancient Rome, Chinese temple art, dinosaurs, or Japanese culture (to name but a few), something at the Royal Ontario Museum will likely pique your interest.

Stop by the Art Gallery of Ontario

 Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

Wandering through the Art Gallery of Ontario , whether the permanent collection or a special exhibition, never gets old. Toronto is lucky to have one of the largest art museums in North America, with an array of more than 90,000 works of art. The collection comprises Canadian, European, contemporary art, photography, and more.

Shop Until You Drop

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

No matter what you’re looking for, be it clothing and accessories, housewares, vintage finds, books, art, kids’ stuff, or something for your pet, Toronto has it. The city is filled with diverse shopping areas, including Bloor-Yorkville , Yonge and Eglinton, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Kensington Market , Leslieville, and Queen Street West.

Wander the “Second Coolest Neighborhood in the World”

Toronto’s eclectic West Queen West neighborhood was named by Vogue in 2014 as the second coolest neighborhood in the world thanks to its vibrant mix of independent shops and boutiques, bars, a large concentration of art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. Start your exploration at Queen and Bathurst, heading west to Dufferin to take in everything this ‘hood offers. 

Stroll Through Allan Gardens Conservatory

Slip into a tropical oasis in the middle of the city with a visit to Allan Gardens Conservatory , where you’ll find six greenhouses filled with plants worldwide. The conservatory is open 365 days and always free to enter. Some highlights include the two tropical houses filled with a variety of orchids, bromeliads, and begonia and the Palm House filled with various palms, bananas, and tropical vines.

Spend a Day in the Distillery District

No visit to Toronto would be complete without a few hours (or even a whole day) spent exploring the historic Distillery District . Wander among Victorian-era buildings on pedestrian-only cobblestone streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area is also home to several art galleries, theaters, and artist workshops to explore. 

Head to the Toronto Islands

basslinegfx / Getty Images

Escape the city via ferry with a trip to the Toronto Islands . Whether you bring your bike (which you can take on the ferry) and explore on two wheels, relax by the water, hang out on the beach, have a picnic, or take the family to Centreville on Centre Island to check out the rides, there’s always something fun to do.

Hit the Beach

joelblit / Getty Images

Toronto is blessed with some great beaches , as evidenced by how busy they can get come summertime. Cherry Beach, Sunnyside, Ward’s Island Beach, Bluffer’s Beach, and Kew-Balmy Beach are some of the best for swimming or sunbathing. Depending on which beach you visit, there’s also the option for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Take in the Views From the CN Tower

When you head to the LookOut level of the CN Tower , you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the city. High-speed elevators whisk visitors to the top in just 58 seconds. Depending on your threshold for thrill-seeking, you can go one step further than the CN Tower’s LookOut Level or Glass Floor and try EdgeWalk . This adventure is the first of its kind in North America and has you doing a hands-free walk around the tower's main pod, 116 stories above the ground.

Explore Kensington Market

One of the most fun and eclectic neighborhoods to explore in Toronto has to be Kensington Market . Brimming with various vintage stores, a diverse array of restaurants and bars, food shops, and cafes, it’s easy to spend a whole day wandering, shopping, and eating through the vibrant area.

Check Out the Aga Khan Museum

bukharova/Getty Images

Aga Khan Museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of the Islamic world and how Muslim civilizations have contributed to world heritage. In addition to a vast permanent collection, the museum also offers workshops, rotating exhibitions, and special events.

Go to Evergreen Brick Works

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy 

Evergreen Brick Works is a year-round destination boasting a farmers’ market, skating rink, children’s garden, nature trails, ongoing events for the whole family, art, the Evergreen Garden Market, a bike shop, workshops, and much more.

Hear Live Music at Horseshoe Tavern

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

One of the best places in the city to see live music is the legendary Horseshoe Tavern , which has been going strong since 1947. The much-loved music venue has seen everyone from The Rolling Stones and The Tragically Hip to Blue Rodeo, Wilco, and Arcade Fire grace the stage. There’s usually something going on here every night of the week.

Hang Out at Harbourfront Centre

Harbourfront Centre’s 10-acre waterfront site is home to more than 30 spots to explore, including theaters, art galleries, parks, gardens, restaurants, and more. The multifaceted year-round venue attracts over 12 million repeat visitors each year and is well worth checking out at any time of year. Go skating by the lake in the winter, or head out for a paddleboard or kayak ride in the summer.

Visit Casa Loma

AndresGarciaM / Getty Images

There’s a castle right in the middle of Toronto. The former home of Canadian financier Sir Henry Pellatt, Casa Loma is one of the city’s most unique attractions and houses decorated with suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and beautiful five-acre estate gardens. There are usually events here throughout the year, both at the castle and on the castle grounds.

Head to the Hockey Hall of Fame

Love hockey? Then you might want to visit Toronto's Hockey Hall of Fame, home to the most extensive collection of hockey memorabilia in the world and the Stanley Cup. Visitors can also go one-on-one against life-size, animated versions of some of today's greatest goalies and shooters and watch hockey-themed movies.

Walk Around the Toronto Zoo

John Knight / Getty Images

Canada’s premier zoo is home to over 5,000 animals covering 450 species, including a wide range of creatures from around the world. The zoo is divided into seven geographic regions: Indo-Malaya, Africa, the Americas, Australasia, Eurasia, Canadian Domain, and the Tundra Trek. Animals are indoors in tropical pavilions or outdoors in environments that align with their natural habitat.

Explore Historic Fort York

a_berent / Getty Images

Established in 1793, Historic Fort York contains Canada's most extensive collection of original War of 1812 buildings and an 1813 battle. It's the ideal attraction for history buffs of all ages. Fort York is open year-round and offers tours, exhibits, period settings that take you back in time, and seasonal demonstrations.

See Some Undersea Life at Ripley’s Aquarium

Located at the base of the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada contains 135,000 square feet of interactive, underwater exhibits. This is the country's largest indoor aquarium and is home to many aquatic creatures, including jellyfish, sea turtles, countless colorful tropical fish, ancient giant lobsters, stingrays, and sharks. See the creatures swim above you via the underwater gallery.

Go on Some Rides at Canada’s Wonderland

Located just outside Toronto, Canada’s Wonderland is a sprawling amusement park featuring over 200 attractions and the 20-acre Splash Works water park. There are rides and attractions here for every age and level of thrill-seeking, including an area just for kids and some of the most thrilling rollercoasters in the country.

Hike or Camp in Rouge Park

You might be surprised to learn that you can camp right in Toronto. Rouge National Urban Park is a massive green space containing one of the region’s largest marshes, beautiful beaches, the city’s only campground, and numerous scenic hiking trails. The park offers guided walks, children’s programs, fishing, watersports, bird watching, and more.

Learn About Footwear at Bata Shoe Museum

A thousand shoes and related items are on display (from a collection consisting of over 13,000 artifacts) at the Bata Shoe Museum . The exhibition showcases over 4,500 years of history and includes Chinese bound foot shoes and ancient Egyptian sandals, to celebrity footwear, and nearly everything in between.

Ontario Heritage Trust. "Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre." Retrieved April 5, 2021

National Geographic. "Top 10 Food Markets." September 13, 2011

Vogue. "Global Street Style Report: Mapping Out the 15 Coolest Neighborhoods in the World." September 5, 2014

Harbourfront Centre. "The Heart of Toronto's Waterfront for 35 Years." Retrieved April 5, 2021

27 Toronto Tourist Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss

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These are Some of the Top Toronto Tourist Attractions!

Want to explore Toronto like a local? You got an Ontario boy right here at Ontario Away! Not only did Eric grow up north of Toronto, but we’ve lived and worked in Toronto in the past.

With family living there now, we go back very regularly. And boy, have we had some amazing adventures in Toronto.

From visiting the iconic CN Tower, venturing to the Toronto Islands, and exploring some of Toronto’s coolest neighbourhoods – like Kensington Market -, there is no shortage of things to see and do when you’re visiting the city.

So, to make it easy, our guide covers some of the best and most well-known tourist attractions that visitors should check out. If you want to play tourist, we’ve got you covered!

Toronto Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer for “patio season” in nice weather, fall for colours and nice temperature, but plenty of indoor/outdoor activities in winter!

Getting Around:  Toronto is relatively flat but sprawling. The TTC (buses, streetcars, and subway) is very useful for travelling distances.

Top Things to Do:  CN Tower , Royal Ontario Museum , the historic Distillery District , St. Lawrence Market for food!

Where to Stay:   One King West Hotel and Residence for a popular, upscale hotel downtown, Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre for a classic option, and Ace Hotel Toronto for a boutique hotel also close to Downtown.

Table of Contents

Top Toronto Tourist Attractions

Let’s dive into the top attractions around Toronto! You’ll notice that they are in no particular geographical order. That said, we did our best to give you the general locations/directions.

Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9

The Canadian National Tower (also commonly known as the CN Tower) is like the crown jewel of the Toronto skyline.

Built back in the 1970s, the CN Tower was at one point the tallest man-made structure! Standing 533 metres tall, the views from the top are absolutely incredible. You can see for many miles and even into the United States (on a good day)!

Once you take one of the speedy elevators to the main deck, there is lots to do up there! There is a famous glass floor for those brave enough to walk on. The view down to the ground is pretty dizzying.

There is a restaurant up there – 360 Restaurant – that is known for serving high-class dishes with local ingredients. The coolest part? The restaurant does a full rotation every hour, so you truly get views all over the city!

The CN Tower is known for the Edge Walk – a thrill-seeker experience where you hang off the edge of the outside of the building.

Lastly, you can take the elevator to the Sky Pod – one level higher for views of the city. Comes at an entry cost, though, so plan accordingly! Here is the official website for the CN Tower .

Our Tip: To make the most of your day in Toronto, you can hop on a guided Toronto evening experience to catch the sunset from atop the CN Tower.

The Distillery District

Location: Google Maps

Do you like beer, history, good food, and great photo spots? Great – it sounds like a visit to the Distillery District is for you!

Located to the east of downtown, this old industrial area was once home to many distilleries in the city – hence the name!

These days, the odd distillery still exists and is mixed in among the many shops, restaurants, coffee places, and breweries that have moved in!

You can do a Distillery District walking tour to learn about the rich history of the red-brick factories.

Pro Tip: If beer is what you are into, Toronto has a crazy vibrant beer scene. You can check it out on a  Beer and History Tour of the city. The good news? You’ll end up in the Distillery District!

The Distillery District is full of interesting art installations that draw crowds and make for great photographs. In the winter, the District is home to amazing light displays and a winter wonderland of Christmas market stalls (shown above in the photo).

The District is also home to one of our favourite classic breweries – Mill Street, known for its Signature Mill Street Organic Beer. During the warmer months, you can even sit outside and have a flight of beer for a great price!

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Kensington Market

Address for “The Garden Car”: 232 Augusta Ave #254, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7

You might have heard people talk about this hip and alternative area that you should walk through. It’s likely Kensington Market they’re referring to – and you should definitely check it out. 

Kensington is located to the west of Spadina Avenue, north of downtown, between College and Dundas Streets. It’s close to Chinatown if you want to see that too – we mention it below!

This urban jungle of graffiti, cool clothing shops, amazing restaurants, and markets, almost certainly has something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Kensington is a uniquely old and multicultural neighbourhood with a fascinating immigrant history about it. So it can be great to learn more about the history of Kensington Market on a guided tour !

You don’t even have to look for anything – just a wander through to experience the neighbourhood is enough.

You can’t miss things like the “Garden Car” – you’ll know it when you see it. Trust us.

Royal Ontario Museum

Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6

The Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM, for short) is located at Bloor Street and Avenue Road and has a history of displaying just a little bit of everything!

This makes sense – the ROM is the largest (and most visited) museum in Canada and one of the largest in North America.

Get your ROM Entry Ticket here .

With around 6 million pieces, the numerous galleries and exhibits feature things from spiders to art, culture to dinosaurs, and Rome!

Eric went as a kid years ago and remembers having an amazing time at the Royal Ontario Museum ! If you are getting there by subway, you can get off at – you guessed it – Museum Station!

Bata Shoe Museum

Address: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1W7

Do you like shoes? Like, do you really like shoes? Would a museum full of shoes make you happy? If so, the BATA Shoe Museum might be the place for you!

Located on Bloor Street just north of downtown, the museum has done an amazing job of collecting and showcasing footwear from all around the world.

We’ve never been but walked by many many times and always thought it looked super interesting. If you want to visit, get your BATA Shoe Museum entrance ticket .

“The Toronto Sign” at Nathan Phillips Square

Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N1

Travelling to Toronto and wanting to snap a photo as a souvenir? Of course, you do!

Head north from Lake Ontario to Nathan Phillips Square. Located on Queen Street West just west of Yonge, it’s here that you’ll find Toronto City Hall and the famous “Toronto Sign”.

During the day, the sign is often themed for various festivals or occasions. At night – it’s all lit up! Nathan Phillips Square is quite the gathering spot in the city. At New Year’s, the square is filled with concert stages and party-goers – Eric has even been a few times.

In the winter, the fountain you see in front of the sign turns into an ice skating rink which is free to use (but it costs a few dollars for skate rentals).

There are street food trucks and lots of tourist buses parked here since it’s a great place to start any Toronto sightseeing adventure.

To get your bearings and to learn all about Toronto’s busy core, try out a 2-Hour Guided Downtown Walking tour .

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9

As a newer attraction to the city’s line-up of awesome things to do, Ripley’s Aquarium has certainly made a splash in a short amount of time. See what we did there? Gotta love our aquarium puns!

The Aquarium is home to the longest underwater glass tunnel in North America – it extends through the “Dangerous Lagoon”. This is where you come face-to-face with some scary predators like sharks and eels.

In all, there are 9 different galleries and over 400 species to check out. You are sure to find something you enjoy! The place is so popular – they recommend visiting before 10 am or after 3 pm to beat the crowds.

If you are planning a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and know which day, consider a Ripley’s Aquarium “After Hours” ticket that is valid for a night visit after 7:00 pm. Crowds can be smaller and admission is actually reduced from the daily fare.

Fort York National Historic Site

Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9

Are you into learning about Toronto’s role in military history? Want to learn about how we beat the United States in the War of 1812?

That’s a true story – and you can learn all about it at Fort York. The grounds are located to the west of downtown – pinched between the Lake and Liberty Village under the Gardiner Expressway.

The historic site is actually one of the largest collections of 1812 wartime buildings. They even have cannon firings and daily tours that run frequently.

Some of the park’s grounds are free to roam through, but the exhibits and museums require admission. To learn more about visiting Fort York and the exhibits, visit the official Fort York website .

St. Lawrence Market

Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3

St. Lawrence Market is definitely a must-see when visiting the city. We went to the Market “playing tourist” when Lisa was visiting before she moved to Canada and it was an amazing experience.

The current building where it is located was opened in 1902! Inside, there are two floors – the main floor stretches the length of the main hall and the lower floor is just a portion of the length.

You’ll find an assortment of fresh produce, fresh meats and seafood, cheeses, prepared food, wine, trinkets, you name it!

There are samples at various counters and places to grab a bite to eat, so you definitely shouldn’t leave hungry.

You can experience the Market (and all our yummy food like Peameal bacon and butter tarts) on a Canadian Food Discovery tour !

If you are looking for very touristy Canadian souvenirs, there is also a place to buy them here.

Pro Tip:  The Market is located just to the east of downtown on Front Street – and you can check out  The Gooderham Building  for a great photo.

The Gooderham is that historic red-brick flatiron building at the intersection of Wellington Street and Front Street!

Steam Whistle Brewing & Biergarten

Address: 255 Bremner Blvd STALL 6, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9

All aboard the Steam train… to Steamwhistle! Located very close to Ripley’s Aquarium, the CN Tower, and the Rogers Centre, Steamwhistle has been a tourist magnet and popular brand in Toronto and Canada for two decades.

Founded back in 1998, Steamwhistle finds its home in the Roundhouse – an old red-brick railway repair depot used back in the day.

These days, you can tour the brewery or just belly up to the bar in their Tap Room or Biergarten for a pint of the classic pilsner that has made them one of the best-known beers in Canada.

To check out the brewery or to book a tour, check out the official website of Steamwhistle .

The Toronto Islands

Address for Ferry Terminal: 11 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto? Check out the Toronto Islands – that might help!

Located in Lake Ontario just off the shore across from downtown, “the Islands” as they are known are popular for their beaches, walking trails, and the historic Centreville Amusement Park.

We visited the Islands one beautiful summer day and had a wonderful day walking, eating, relaxing on the beach, and just taking in the views.

Lots of people explored the area by bike – and there’s a really popular guided bike tour that helps you get the most out of your visit.

Interesting fact: The Islands themselves actually have residents.

There is a ferry that leaves from the Ferry Terminal located on Queens Quay between Yonge and Bay Street. You can check out the Toronto Island ferry schedule here.

Alternatively, if you want a smaller tour of the harbour and surrounding islands, check out this Toronto Harbour boat cruise . You have to get off on the islands so the tour doubles as a water taxi – with amazing photos of the skyline!

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8

It’s a house? It’s a castle? No, it’s Casa Loma ! Built in the early 1900s and located in Toronto’s midtown, Casa Loma is a top tourist attraction for so many reasons.

This Gothic dream home was built by a wealthy Toronto businessman – Sir Henry Pellatt. After decades of history, the estate is now owned by the city and revered for its many art pieces and rich history.

Get your Entry Ticket for Toronto’s famous Casa Loma !

Due to the grand size of the estate and gardens, Casa Loma is also the place for many events, festivals, and even weddings throughout the year.

If you are visiting, you can buy a ticket to enter and hop on a guided tour to learn all about one of Toronto’s most famous attractions.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8

You can’t go to Canada and not discover the rich history of hockey! To do this, you should take a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame .

Located right downtown on Front Street, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a great attraction that is one part museum, part exhibit, part interactive games area, and much more.

Get your Hockey Hall of Fame ticket in advance here .

Eric has been there many times over the years since it was always a great place for a school to plan a field trip to. That said, there is plenty to do for adults as well. We just recently went with friends visiting Toronto (late 2023) and it was an absolute blast.

Not only can you test out your hockey skills in the interactive zones, but there’s a 3-D movie, tons of hockey memorabilia to see (like Crosby’s 2010 “Golden Goal” mitts and stick), and even a mock sports broadcaster booth.

The coolest part is – of course – the trophy hall where you will be able to see (and take a photo with) the current Stanley Cup (one of the oldest sport trophies in an organized league worldwide), the old versions of the cup, and all the other important trophies handed out each year in the NHL.

Hockey is a huge part of Canadian culture, so a stop is definitely worth your time if you’re interested. We had an absolute blast when we visited!

Dundas Square

Address: 1 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5B 2R8

If you are looking for “Times Square” but for Toronto – Dundas Square is it. From the street performers to the lights at night, the corner near Yonge and Dundas is a great place to experience Toronto in full swing in the evening.

Besides malls and restaurants, there isn’t much to do there, but you might want to pass through to snap a few photos in the evening!

It’s probably good to mention that the southwest corner is where you enter the Eaton Centre – a top attraction, but not good enough for its own place on the list.

It’s just a very nice mall that is pretty big and features some very popular shops. There are fountains and at Christmas, they have a tree and giant reindeer!

Scotiabank Arena – formerly Air Canada Centre

Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 2X2

If you are into sports, Toronto is an amazing sports city with very passionate fans across the professional leagues.

At the Scotiabank Arena (formerly called the Air Canada Centre) the Toronto Maple Leafs play ice hockey and the Toronto Raptors play basketball. The Arena is located closer to the water, just south of Union Station.

Leafs tickets can be quite expensive but are definitely worth the experience of watching professional-level hockey in Canada. Raptors tickets can be less expensive if you don’t mind sitting higher up in the stands!

Even watching the game at one of the sports bars nearby is an experience worthy of a visitor to Toronto! Here is the Scotiabank Arena website if you want to check out ticket availability and prices.

Art Gallery of Ontario

Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4

Located on Dundas Street West between Spadina and University Avenue, the Art Gallery of Ontario (or AGO , for short) is definitely an art lover’s paradise.

Featuring 95,000 works over 45,000 sq metres of space, this makes the AGO one of the largest galleries in all of North America.

The AGO was originally founded in the year 1900. Over the years, it has expanded to its current size and number of galleries.

The AGO hosts exhibitions and has many permanent galleries featuring everything from Canadian artwork to African sculptures to Baroque-era paintings. 

You can purchase a ticket for admission in advance . Keep in mind that the AGO is closed on Mondays!

Location: 43°39’10.6″N 79°23’52.3″W

There are many amazing Chinatowns around the world (San Francisco, for example) – and Chinatown in Toronto is no exception!

If you want to experience Toronto’s Chinatown, head over to Spadina between College Street and Queen Street West.

You’ll find open-air shops with all sorts of goods, amazing restaurants (with really good dim sum), and other places to grab sweet treats.

Chinatown itself is a neat experience and conveniently placed along Spadina. This makes it easy to wander through on the way to another attraction.

Toronto is a city that prides itself on its multiculturalism and ethnic diversity, so check it out!

Tip: Explore both Chinatown and Kensington Market on a guided tour !

Rogers Centre

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J1

Still thinking about sports? How about catching a baseball game? The Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre – physically located at the base of the CN Tower.

The Jays are the only Canadian team playing in Major League Baseball, so if you’re in Toronto anytime from April to September, Toronto is your only chance to catch baseball north of the border!

The nice thing about Jays games is that the summer weather means a great time out in the sunshine.

The other great thing about tickets at the Rogers Centre is that that they are still relatively inexpensive. You can go to a game for cheap and enjoy the game from decent seats!

Unlike at Scotiabank Arena, you can show up on game day, wait in line, and get tickets! It’s a franchise that isn’t too expensive yet (cough, the Leafs). Here’s the website for Jays tickets .

Woodbine Beach

Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6

Ah, Woodbine Beach – what can we say? It’s “home”. The beach is located in the neighbourhood called “The Beaches”.

The Beaches is in the city’s east end – and it’s actually where we lived when we lived in Toronto!

Woodbine Beach is a massive (and massively popular) sandy and rocky beach with access to swimming in Lake Ontario.

There is a boardwalk that runs for kilometres through Ashbridge’s Bay, other walking trails, parks, dog beaches, and wooded areas.

As for things to do, the summertime is busy with paddleboard renters, swimming, sunbathing, a few patios, and beach volleyball. The autumn is great for fall strolls along Lake Ontario.

The neighbourhood area along Queen Street East is full of restaurants, bars, and shops that you should check out.

It’s funny – the Beaches is where we worked on and grew our other travel site –  Penguin and Pia  – in its early days. How times have changed!

Queen Street West

Queen Street West is certainly where you can get some shopping done!

Located – you guessed it – along Queen Street West west of Yonge Street and extending well past Bathurst Street, Queen Street is also home to many amazing restaurants, hip bars and pubs, and coffee shops.

One of our favourite ramen places is on Queen Street West and Lisa misses it dearly from when we used to go for ramen lunch! Mmmm, noodles.

Harbourfront Centre

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8

If you are looking for things to do down near the waterfront, head to the Harbourfront Centre ! The Centre itself is actually an area of the pier described as a “cultural hub”.

This means that there are walking paths, performance stages, exhibits, restaurants, coffee shops, and much more.

There is always something going on down at the Harbourfront Centre. You can get great photos down by the lake, and the proximity to Amsterdam Brewhouse is also nice!

University of Toronto

Address: 27 King’s College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S

As one of the oldest universities in all of Canada and the oldest in Ontario, the University of Toronto has a great reputation on the world stage for academics.

Founded in 1827, the main campus (St. George Campus) is often like stepping into a time capsule.

This university has a huge main campus that sprawls for blocks and blocks between College Street and Bloor Street.

You can walk through, hop on a campus tour, and you might even find football going on at their Varsity Stadium!

Attractions Located Outside of Toronto

While this article is mainly about Toronto tourist attractions that are mainly located downtown or very close by, there are also a handful of awesome attractions that you might be interested in that are a bit further away! So, here are five.

We want to make it clear: these are NOT located in downtown Toronto. It would be in your best interest to have a car to reach these attractions given their distance.

That said, you can definitely consider some of these as a day or weekend trip in Ontario  if you’re up for it!

Toronto Zoo

Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7

Located out in the north end of Scarborough, the Toronto Zoo is renowned for its number of species – over 5,000!

The zoo itself is divided into 7 “areas” that showcase all different climates/regions where animal groups exist in the wild.

The Toronto Zoo was originally opened in the 1970s and today enjoys very high visitor numbers because of its commitment to research and ecological sustainability.

You can learn more about directions and admission prices at the official website of the Toronto Zoo .

Scarborough Bluffs

Address: 50 Bluffers Park, Scarborough, ON M1M 3W3

If Woodbine Beach and the parks in that area weren’t enough, you could drive out to Scarborough (east of the city).

Along the water’s edge, you’ll find large white cliffs – these are the Scarborough Bluffs. In the summer, the cliffs attract many visitors to the nearby parks and beaches.

In particular, you can plan a visit by heading to Scarborough Bluffs Park Beach or Bluffer’s Park Beach.

Canada’s Wonderland

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Maple, ON L6A 1S6

Canada’s Wonderland is the biggest and best amusement park in the country.

Located about 40 minutes north of downtown Toronto, Wonderland features roller coasters that crack numerous top 10 lists in the world for height or speed, among other things.

Just Google “Leviathan” – it’s the tallest in Canada and the 9th tallest in the world!

Eric grew up about 20 minutes north of Wonderland and so as a kid (and as a teenager, too) he would go to Wonderland on summer evenings when the crowds had died down.

You can also go in the spring or fall at reduced hours. These days, the place is busy and expensive – but definitely worth it if you like thrills and decent attractions.

Check out the official website for Canada’s Wonderland !

Ontario Science Centre

Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON M3C 1T3

Want to be entertained and learn a little bit, too? The Ontario Science Centre is where you should go!

Located to the northeast of the city along the Don Valley Parkway in North York, the Science Centre is known for its featured exhibits, interactive science displays, and an IMAX theatre.

They even have a rainforest area that is climate controlled to help grow different plants to discuss ecology.

All in all, the Science Centre is a great way to kill a few hours or entertain the kids if you want more ideas! Check out the official website of the Ontario Science Centre for directions and prices!

Niagara Falls

Address for Table Rock Welcome Centre: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2

Let’s be clear – Niagara Falls shouldn’t be on this list because it’s not “just a 45 minutes drive” from Toronto like the others. Niagara Falls is about 2.5 hours from downtown Toronto, depending on traffic.

So, if you want to explore Niagara Falls, you can go on a Niagara Falls day trip from Toronto  to make things easy if you don’t plan on heading down on your own.

We’ve written a whole guide on things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada as well as where to stay in Niagara Falls (including hotels for the best “Fallsview”)!

Things to Consider When Visiting Toronto

If you’re planning a visit to Toronto, here are a few other details you might want to know about before you arrive.

Best Time to Visit Toronto

The best time to visit Toronto will definitely vary based on what you want to see and do. The summer months are the warmest and when the famous “patio season” in Toronto is in full swing.

The shoulder months – like May – are cooler but definitely good for visiting. The fall can be tricky: September and October can be warm, but it may already be quite cold.

In this case, a few layers and a cup of coffee will have you enjoying the cool lake air with no problem.

The winter in Toronto is actually fine for a visit. Sure, it can be chilly – but, historically, the city doesn’t get as much snow as the surrounding areas.

There are plenty of indoor activities, such as museums, and there is outdoor skating across the city (especially in Nathan Phillips Square).

Getting Around Toronto

Since there is so much to see and do in Toronto, doing it all will take some planning.

While the city is basically all flat and walkable, the distances between attractions can be a little daunting.

You can hop on the TTC ( Toronto Transit ) and use the streetcars, buses, and subway lines to get around.

You might consider buying a Presto card (the rechargeable card you just tap) and just loading it with money at a machine.

Where to Stay in Toronto

If you’re visiting the city, there’s a good chance you need a place to sleep. Luckily, Toronto is packed with different accommodation styles – including many, many hotels.

Toronto accommodation can be on the pricey side, but choosing a location right Downtown (or close to Downtown) is definitely worth it.

The amount of time and money you’d spend on transit just to stay in a cheaper location farther from the more central areas (Downtown, Yonge-Bloor, Queen Street West, etc.) just isn’t worth it, in our opinion – especially if you’re only visiting for a few days.

⇒ Get started searching for Accommodations in Toronto here .

Toronto is home to many neighbourhoods that are good areas to stay. You should read our detailed guide on where to stay in Toronto if you want to learn more.

If you just want the spark notes for accommodations, One King West Hotel and Residence is a popular, upscale hotel located right in the heart of downtown.

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre is a classic chain option in/close to The Village, while the Ace Hotel Toronto is a boutique hotel close to the intersection at Queen-Spadina.

If you want a cozier style of accommodation, the Margie Townhome Suites is a nice guesthouse option.

For a longer stay, an aparthotel like Yonge Suites Furnished Apartments is centrally located and close to top attractions!

Toronto Sightseeing Tours

Speaking of getting around, planning what to see and how to get there can be a little overwhelming.

Luckily, Toronto is a diverse city with lots of different tours that show off its different sides. Here are some great ideas for Toronto tours that might interest you for your trip.

Popular Toronto Tours

• Toronto Biking Tour
• Downtown Toronto Walking Tour
• Toronto Harbour & Islands Boat Cruise
• Ultimate Toronto Day Tour

Related Articles

Oh, and if you planning an entire Toronto visit or you are looking for other places to visit in Ontario – we’ve got lots more about the city and the province!

• Our One Day in Toronto Itinerary
• 17 Day Trip from Toronto (+ How to Get There)
• 9 of our Favourite Coffee Shops in Toronto
• Great Bars in Downtown Toronto !
• Our Toronto Accommodation & Area Guide
• Great Ice Cream Across Toronto

And there you have it – some of the best Toronto tourist attractions out there! Obviously, there are a few things that we didn’t mention – but those “hidden gems” are for another post.

Toronto is an amazing city, a place we also call home, and a welcoming city for people of all backgrounds, colours, and languages!

We hope that you will have an amazing time exploring Toronto when you visit! Have you been before? What did you get to see or what did you miss? Get in touch and let us know!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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The top 10 attractions in Toronto

Things to do

Toronto’s motto isn’t ‘go big or go home,’ but that’s a good summary of their top attractions, which include the lofty CN Tower, the biggest indoor aquarium in Canada and the only full-sized castle in North America.

One of Canada's greatest landmarks and one of the seven wonders of the modern world, the CN Tower External Link Title has come to define the Toronto skyline. At 1,815 feet in height, this engineering wonder is hard to miss during any trip through the city. But you don't want to miss it. Beyond being a very cool building, the CN Tower is now home to quality dining and adventure activities. Take an elevator up to the revolving 360 Restaurant for world-class dining. Feeling a bit bold? Walk across the glass floor, only 2.5 inches thick, 113 storeys above the ground. Want an even bigger thrill? Travel up another 33 storeys to the Skypod lookout. Still not daring enough? Strap on a harness, head outside and walk along the building's edge with nothing but air between you and the ground, in the not-for-the-faint-of-heart EdgeWalk experience. This adrenaline-inducing activity is actually the world's highest 'hands-free walk,' so you can brag about that one to your friends.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum External Link Title is the biggest museum of world cultures and natural history in Canada. Located right in downtown Toronto, the museum houses exhibits that run the gamut from dinosaurs to ancient Egypt to Canada's First Nations. It's hard to categorize the, oh, six million-or-so objects the museum has in its collections, but trust us, you'll be able to find something you really enjoy. As you walk from floor to floor, past the 80-foot totem pole, you'll encounter art, history, archeology, mineralogy, geology, paleontology, zoology and elements of any other ology you could probably imagine. With something new to discover every time you visit, the 100-year-old museum is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Do you like the idea of coming face to face with a shark, separated only by a pane of glass? The Ripley's Aquarium of Canada External Link Title allows you to live that experience, while exposing you to another 16,000 marine animals hosted on site. It takes 5.7 million liters of water to host all of those animals, from southern stingrays, to 65-year-old giant lobsters, to giant pacific octopus, to nettle jellyfish. Explore life on the reef, walk under a dangerous lagoon, stick your head in an underwater viewing bubble, or take in a stingray dive show. Open 365 days a year, you can always turn to the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada for an exciting day--whether it's angelfish on Christmas, or a stingray on your birthday.

Distillery Historic District

Restaurants, boutiques, arts, and entertainment are The Distillery Historic District External Link Title 's claim to fame. This pedestrian-only village features more than 40 heritage buildings that now house everything a modern traveler might enjoy. New fashion can be found in restored, Victorian-era buildings; culinary inventions are hidden behind weathered red brick walls; and art galleries and performance venues host events year-round, ensuring that the old neighborhood is full of life. The sector gets its name from the Gooderham & Worts whiskey distillery, which used to occupy many of the buildings

The Art Gallery of Ontario

A remarkable 90,000 works of art live inside the walls of the Art Gallery of Ontario External Link Title , one of the biggest and best art museums in North America. Observe the lauded work of Canada's Group of Seven, part of the largest collection of Canadian art in the world. Then travel the globe, from the African Art Gallery to the extensive European collection, and travel back in time, from the Renaissance and Baroque eras to the present day. Photography, sculpture, graphic art, installations; Rubens, Goya, Picasso and Rembrandt; the AGO covers it all. Even the building is a work of art. World-renowned architect Frank Gehry, the man behind the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed an expansion to the AGO in 2008 that has earned a ton of acclaim. If you love art, there's no better place in the city to be.

Believe it or not, the only full-sized castle in North America is actually located in Toronto. Casa Loma External Link Title literally has everything you could want from a castle. There are turrets offering beautiful views of the city. There's a large library and nearly 100 rooms to peruse. There are secret passageways to explore, including an 800-foot tunnel to the stables and carriage house, the latter of which features an exhibit of vintage automobiles from the early 1900's. Plus it has five acres of gardens, full of beautiful flowers, sculptures and fountains. Plug in your headphones, listen to the digital audio guide, and roam around a castle in the city.

Hockey Hall of Fame

If the expression "when in Rome" were applied to Canada, it would probably have something to do with hockey. If you're not a 'strap on the skates and get out onto the ice' type of visitor, you may want to just pay a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame External Link Title . The sport that is often used to define our country is put on display, and 65,000 square feet are filled to the brim with artifacts, mementos and relics straight from the rink. Learn about the 388 members inducted into the Hall of Fame, and see the sticks, gloves, pucks and even nets from some of the greatest games ever played. Test your shooting and goalie skills with state-of-the-art games, see if you could make it as a play-by-play commentator, and grab a seat in a replica NHL dressing room. And, most important of all, touch the actual Stanley Cup.

Toronto Zoo

Does a baby panda get less cute as you age? We don't believe it does, which is why the Toronto Zoo External Link Title is worth visiting whether you're fourteen or forty. Over 5,000 animals from seven different regions (Indo-Malaya, Africa, the Americas, Australasia, Eurasia, Canadian Domain and the Tundra Trek) are housed in the zoo. In addition to the aforementioned giant pandas from China, you can see polar bears swim underwater, watch young gorillas practice their climbing, or follow seahorses and jellyfish as they swim around an artificial reef. This isn't a petting zoo; it's a gateway to the animal kingdom.

The Toronto Islands

You only need to travel 10 minutes from the city of Toronto to enter a completely different world. Hop on a ferry and embark on a journey to the Toronto Islands External Link Title , an attraction-filled destination where relaxation is the name of the game. There are no cars, so you're going to want to rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the chain of islands -- the three big ones being Centre, Ward's and Algonquin -- which are connected by a series of pathways and bridges. Along the water you'll find four awesome beaches, while summer cottages from the 1920s and impressive English gardens are one of the main draws on land. A maze on the islands serves to test your wits, while the haunted lighthouse tests your courage. From picnics, to paddleboats, to ponies, the Toronto Islands offer a great contrast to the busy city.

St. Lawrence Market

Right in the middle of Toronto's historic Old Town district you'll find one of the city's best foodie destinations: the St. Lawrence Market External Link Title . The market has existed in some form since 1803, and though the complex has evolved, it still contains an authentic farmer's market -- the best in the world according to a 2012 National Geographic article -- complete with specialty foods and restaurants for every taste. Treat your senses, as you see, smell, and sample fresh produce and cheese in the very same place vendors have been selling it for over two centuries. All of that history can be discovered in a little more depth during a walking tour of the complex, which also houses venues for business and social events and countless local artisans selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more. Check it out, Tuesday through Saturday.

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Home » North America » Toronto

The BEST Places to Visit in Toronto (2024 • Updated)

The razor sharp wit of Reddit suggests that the most engaging occupation of one’s time in Toronto is “A rail of coke off Rob Ford’s headstone”.

Alas, local governance has never officially approved it, and the questionable ethics of it seem to put off most families.

Thankfully, there are a great range of far more admissible places and activities to interact with in Toronto, and some of them are even (almost) as exciting!

In my EPIC guide to the  best places to visit in Toronto , I will be taking you through much more than just the ‘basic’ tourist attractions (like the ‘Are you sure we’re in Canada?’ Hockey Hall of Fame,  or the ‘queue like the English’ CN Tower). There is so much to explore in Toronto, and I’m gonna pick out the best, just for you…

…Let’s take a peek!

What are the BEST Places to Visit in Toronto?

Faqs on the best places to visit in toronto, final thoughts.

Have you found that your Toronto itinerary is meeker than a nun in a men’s first XI changing room? Then you’re going to need some extra spicy attractions to top it up. Read on fellow travellers…

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1. Ontario Science Centre

• Droves of interactive exhibits
• Rocket Chair
• Ageing Machine
• Touch a Tornado

What to do there: It’s seriously possible to spend an entire day exploring the whacky insides of the Ontario Science Centre, which makes it one of my top picks for places to visit in Toronto! You can check out an actual Moon rock, touch a tornado, and even investigate what you will look like in the ageing machine!

If you’re set on staying in Toronto , I wouldn’t miss this! The sheer quantity of information means that it is superb value for money too!

Why it’s awesome: The Museum is dedicated to educating, which makes it great for kids, and there is a superb array of interactive activities. Even adults will be impressed at the amount of information and spread of experiments that are accessible. Truly one of the most interesting places to go in Toronto.

2. CN Tower

• Iconic Toronto landmark
• Amazing views
• Tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere
• Thrilling activities

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous places in Toronto, the soaring CN Tower is a major sight on the city’s skyline. Built in the 1970s, it was the world’s tallest free-standing structure for many years. Today, it is still the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and is often classed as one of the Modern Seven Wonders of the World. A major sight on the Toronto skyline, the tower stands 553 metres (1,815 feet) tall in the heart of Downtown Toronto. The high observation deck provides incredible views across the city and beyond. If you’re here for a sneaky weekend , don’t put it down!

What to do there: Admire the towering structure from afar before riding one of the glass elevators to the observation deck. You can enjoy the terrific views as you ascend and get many great pictures from your high vantage point. If you’re feeling brave you can step out onto the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walkway that encircles the tower at some 356 metres (1,168 feet) above the ground. Don’t worry—you’re securely tethered! Dine on the tasty fare in the 360 Restaurant as you soak up the panoramic views.

3. The Toronto Islands

• Group of small islands in the scenic Lake Ontario
• Easy to access from the city
• Outdoor activities
• Relaxation and leisure

What to do there: Catch the 15-minute ferry service from Toronto Harbour to reach the Toronto Islands and spend a day walking around and crossing between the islands to explore. You can rent bicycles to travel around the islands. Bask in the sunshine on several sandy lakeside beaches, including the nudist beach at Hanlon’s Point, and swim in the refreshingly cool waters on a pleasant sunny day.

Relax in pretty parks and try a range of water-based activities, such as kayaking, boating, canoeing, and yachting. Kids can have fun at the play areas, the small kid-friendly farm, and the fun Centreville Amusement Park, which has a charming carousel and a cool mini train. Don’t miss seeing the historic lighthouse. Even the locals reckon this is one of the best things to do in Toronto !

Why it’s awesome: The Toronto Islands is a group of 15 small islands in the huge Lake Ontario, with bridges and walkways linking the islands. Regular ferries connect the city with the pedestrianised islands, and the islands are a popular day-trip destination from Toronto. There are diverse activities to enjoy as well as a variety of attractions to see. From beaches and parks to water sports and family-friendly attractions, the islands offer something for everyone.

4. Hockey Hall of Fame

• An essential Canadian attraction
• Home to the Stanley Cup
• Tons of Hockey Artefacts
• Top architecture

What to do there: The Hockey Hall of Fame is a quintessential Canadian attraction, which brings visitors from all over! Wander the halls, explore the trophy room and check out some exciting interactive displays. If you’re a big hockey fan, then this is sure to interest you, as it houses the largest publicly accessible collection of hockey memorabilia in the world! You should probably spend around 2 and a half hours here.

Why it’s awesome: There are serious quantities of hockey trivia hanging around. If you love hockey (or sports in general), then the Hockey Hall is sure to interest you. The top attractions include the Stanley Cup, Max Bentley’s stick and Terry Sawchuck’s goalie gear. If you’ve rented a saucy Airbnb downtown, you should be able to pop in, with no trouble!

5. Graffiti Alley

• Interesting street art
• Great photo opportunities
• No charge to enjoy
• Tucked-away colourful alleyway

Why it’s awesome: Located in the Fashion District, Toronto’s Graffiti Alley (officially called Rush Lane) is tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Stretching for almost three blocks, the alley is one of the most unusual things to do in Toronto. While many of the eye-catching pieces have remained the same for some time, there are often new additions to the vibrant walls along the narrow lane. It’s somewhat like an open-air art gallery full of imagination and expression. Even better, a visit won’t cost you a cent.

What to do there: Don’t forget your camera! You’re sure to want to snap plenty of pictures of the funky street art along Graffiti Alley—you’ll definitely be able to add lots of colour and funk to your Instagram feed! Look at the tags and you’ll notice that many famous local names in the street art scene have made their mark here, including Poser, Spud, Uber5000, and Skam.

6. Niagara Falls

• Iconic natural landmark
• Picturesque scenery
• Varied leisure options

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, the gigantic Niagara Falls attracts millions of visitors each and every year. The largest of three falls, the glorious Horseshoe Falls, sits on the border between Canada and the USA (with the other two falls located entirely within the US). Dropping some 57 metres (187 feet) and covering around 790 metres (2,590 feet) in width, it really is a jaw-dropping sight that is easy to get to from Toronto. As well as being one of the world’s most iconic and scenic places, the magnificent Niagara Falls is also a major source of hydroelectric power. There are various activities to enjoy in the area and it’s a terrific place for photography lovers. It’s the perfect way to get out of Downtown Toronto and see one of the most incredible natural tourist attractions close to the city.

What to do there: Gape in amazement at the spectacular waterfalls. Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged as you’re sure to want to take many awesome photographs from various angles. Take a stroll through the pretty Queen Victoria Park for more terrific vistas of both the Horseshoe Falls and the two cascades on the American side of the border. Pass historic war sites along the scenic Niagara River Recreational Trail, take an exciting ride on the cable car and chance your luck in one of the casinos.

If you’re planning on visiting the mighty Niagara Falls, why not stay at one of these epic lodges in Hamilton? It’s a great base for your adventure, with easy access to the falls and Lake Ontario.

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7. Royal Ontario Museum

• One of Canada’s most-visited museums
• Links with the University of Toronto
• Large collection of items
• Displays related to history, culture, art, natural history, and anthropology

Why it’s awesome: The Royal Ontario Museum (often abbreviated to ROM) has been open since 1914. It’s Canada’s biggest museum and also one of the biggest museums in North America. With more than 1 million visitors every year, it’s also one of the country’s most-visited museums. The huge collections span diverse themes; the museum has more than six million items spread through some 40 galleries and exhibition areas. From natural history and art to world cultures and interactive learning areas, there are plenty of opportunities to discover new facts about the world. The buildings are also interesting.

What to do there: See the different buildings of the Royal Ontario Museum, with the original Romanesque Revival building (complete with Gothic gargoyles, mosaics, and rounded windows) a striking contrast to the modern, gleaming Crystal. Allow plenty of time to explore the different sections. Younger visitors are often drawn to the exhibitions on dinosaurs and fossils and the wider natural history exhibits, and the hands-on displays and activities in the CIBC Discovery Gallery  are sure to inspire curious minds. Other displays include textiles, art, design, architecture, gemstones, old tools, pottery, ceremonial masks, sculptures, jewellery, manuscripts, religious items, and much more.

8. Black Creek Pioneer Village

• Experience Canada was in times gone by
• Many heritage buildings
• Watch artisans at work
• Period costumes and historical re-enactments

Why it’s awesome: The open-air heritage museum of Black Creek Pioneer Village is one of the best places to visit in Toronto for people interested in history. A Toronto must-see if you like seeing what life was like in yesteryear, the museum recreates life as it was in the 19 th century. Visitors can glimpse into the rural life of times long passed and there are numerous heritage buildings with period furnishings inside. People dress in period costumes to further bring the past to life and there are various demonstrations as well as explanations and activities.

What to do there: Step inside heritage buildings for a peek into the past. From Charles Irwin Weaver, Dickson’s Hill School, and Rose Blacksmith Shop, to Snider Workshop, the Half Way House Inn, and the Dominion Carriage Works, there are heaps to keep you busy and engaged at the Black Creek Pioneer Village. You can also visit places like an old shoemaker’s shop, a church, a firehouse, a doctor’s house, a cider mill, former private homes, a cemetery, and barns. See plants used for food (and medicines) in the Herb Garden, Berry Garden, and Kitchen Garden, and call by the beautiful Market Garden to see items grown for trade.

9. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

• Hindu place of worship
• Unique architecture
• Spiritual atmosphere
• Biggest Hindu mandir in Canada

Why it’s awesome: Located in Etobicoke, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was constructed in the early 2000s and officially opened in 2007. The biggest mandir in Canada, it was built from striking materials from across the globe, including Indian stone, Turkish limestone, and Italian marble. It was created in India and then later shipped to Canada where it was assembled by Indian workers.

Built according to details set out in ancient Hindu scriptures, it is a spiritual place where devotees go to pray and perform religious rituals. Surrounded by well-tended gardens, the complex also has a Heritage Museum and a carved wooden cultural centre referred to as a haveli. Open to visitors, it has some of the most stunning architectural details of the many points of interest in Toronto.

What to do there: Experience India as you explore Toronto, admiring the glorious hand-carved details of the spectacular Hindu complex. See the various shrines within the beautiful building, each with statues of various Hindu deities. Monks and laypeople offer prayers, songs, and material offerings to the statues throughout the day, with lots of ceremonial significance.

Look inside the eye-catching haveli, complete with grand columns engraved with mythological creatures, animals, symbols, gods, and goddesses. Pick up tasty vegetarian snacks from the onsite shop, learn more about the basics of Hinduism in the Heritage Museum, enjoy quiet moments in the meditation area, walk through the ornate gardens, and marvel at the domes, arches, pinnacles, and other stunning details.

10. High Park

• Green and leafy park
• Diverse leisure and recreational options
• Interesting monuments
• Picturesque setting

Why it’s awesome: One of the major outdoor hotspots in Toronto, the extensive High Park covers around 400 acres (161 hectares) and has natural areas as well as great leisure and recreation facilities. The terrain is hilly with two deep ravines, ponds, and forested areas. Various flora and fauna live in the park, including black oak trees, flowers, herons, ducks, and insects. There are picnic areas and sporting facilities, along with a small zoo, monuments and statues, nature trails, pretty gardens, and a museum. It’s a pleasant place to visit in Toronto with your family or significant other.

What to do there: Relax and stroll alongside the attractive Grenadier Pond, often said to be bottomless because it’s not possible to accurately gauge the depth because of all the mood below the water. Pass a few leisurely hours fishing in the shimmering pond, home to perch, carp, bass, and bluegill. You can either toss back anything you catch or cook up a fish feast. Feed the ducks at Upper Duck Pond, follow the nature trails, keeping your eyes open for wildlife, and wander through the charming cherry tree grove and hillside gardens.

11. Distillery District

• Gorgeous restored Victorian Buildings
• The Distillery District is a National Historic Site of Canada
• Diverse shops
• Many eateries

Why it’s awesome: Visiting the Distillery District is a Toronto must-do. It features the biggest collection of Victorian buildings in all of North America and is a National Historic Site of Canada. The area has many buildings that were previously part of the huge Gooderham and Worts Distillery, many of which have now been repurposed. The distillery, established in the 1830s, was once the world’s largest distillery. By the time the distillery finally finished operations in 1990, much of the area was derelict. After regeneration projects, today the area has diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants and is a popular place to visit in Toronto. Each year the area hosts the annual Toronto Christmas Market.

What to do there: Wander along the ten pedestrianised (and cycle-friendly) streets that make up the Distillery District, seeing old buildings like the 1873 Pure Spirits Building, the 1886 East Boiler House, the 1863 Malt House, the 1859 Stone Distillery, and the 1889 Tank House. Snap pictures of the towering chimney stack on top of the Boiler House, one of the major landmarks in Toronto.

Don’t worry if you have a feeling of déjà vu as you explore the Distillery District—numerous movies and TV shows have shot scenes in the atmospheric part of the city. Several interesting sculptures add to the ambience too. Shop till you drop in the diverse stores, including cool and quirky vintage boutiques, browse fresh produce and artisan treats in the weekly Sunday Market, peek inside trendy art galleries, and stop for refreshments in a cute café or top-class restaurant.

12. Canada’s Wonderland

• Biggest amusement park in Canada
• Many rides and attractions for all ages
• Dedicated areas for kids
• Fun water park to beat the heat

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1981, Canada’s Wonderland is the biggest theme park in Canada. Spread across 330 acres (134 hectares), the large amusement park has plenty for people of all ages. In addition to a wide assortment of rides, people can cool down in the warmer temperatures at the water park with slides, pools, a lazy river, wave pool, and cabanas where you can take some time out and chill. There are great shows to enjoy throughout the day and a wide assortment of places to eat and drink. A visit to Toronto’s Canada’s Wonderland promises to be a fun-filled day out, and there’s also an onsite resort if you want the thrills and giggles to last for longer. It’s a popular place for families, couples, and friends visiting Toronto.

What to do there: Brave Leviathan, one of Canada’s fastest and tallest roller coasters, strap into Flight Deck, the country’s first inverted coaster, and ride the long wooden coaster of the Mighty Canadian Minebuster. Feel the rush on rollercoasters like Behemoth, Wilde Beast, The Bat, and Time Warp, with rides like the Drop Tower, Psyclone, Shockwave, and Riptide also sure to get the adrenaline pumping. Kids can enjoy tamer rides like the Ghoster Coaster, Swing Time, Pumpkin Patch, and Frequent Flyers.

13. St. Paul’s Basilica

• Striking architecture
• Oldest Catholic church in Toronto
• Modelled on a church in Rome
• Serene and tranquil

Why it’s awesome: Built in 1889 and standing on the site of an earlier church, Toronto’s lovely St. Paul’s Basilica is the city’s oldest Catholic church. There used to be a school near the church too, meeting the educational and religious needs of the Irish immigrant community (who were predominantly Catholic). The Italian-like building was built to resemble Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. The insides are beautiful, with lots of religious artwork. Today, it is an active place of worship still as well as one of the most religious attractions in Toronto.

What to do there: Appreciate the Italian-esque building from the outside, complete with its soaring bell tower, religious statues, large roof-top cross, and grand columns. Step through the doorways to stand at the end of the sweeping nave, with colourful stained glass windows and many paintings to catch your eye. The ceilings are especially impressive. Take a few moments for some quiet reflection and, if you’re religious, visit the church for mass.

14. Chinatown

• One of the biggest Chinatowns in North America
• Home of Toronto’s first Chinese-run business
• Many places to sample delicious food
• Lively atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: Toronto’s vibrant Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in North America. A buzzing ethnic enclave, it can trace its immigrant roots back to the 1890s. One of the first Chinese-run businesses (a launderette) had previously opened in the area in the late 1870s and the first-known Chinese café opened in the early 1900s, with many others following. Today, it’s a great place for visitors to immerse themselves in a different culture and see a different side of the large Canadian city. It’s a top place to fully appreciate Toronto’s rich multi-cultural and multi-ethnic facets.

What to do there: Walk around Chinatown, absorbing the many sights and sounds among the bustling crowds. Admire art in Bau-Xi Gallery, with a wide selection of works by both national and international artists on display, stock up on Asian groceries in one of the area’s international stores and supermarkets, and take a peek inside the traditional herbal remedy shops. If you’re feeling weary from all your sightseeing, how about a traditional massage?

A few blocks away is Planet Traveler, one of the best hostels in Canada . We’d recommend staying here so you are close by and able to soak up all that Chinatown has to offer.

15. St. Michael’s Cemetery

• Hidden away and off the beaten track
• Large burial ground
• One of the oldest Catholic cemeteries in Toronto
• Atmospheric and peaceful

Why it’s awesome: Nestled behind towering buildings and shops in Toronto’s downtown is a hidden gem—the quiet and atmospheric St. Michael’s Cemetery. Although it could hardly be said to be small (it covers around 10 acres / 4 hectares), many people are unaware of the cemetery’s existence. One of the oldest Catholic cemeteries in Toronto, it was established in the mid-1800s due to the large numbers of Irish immigrants to the city who sadly passed away shortly after their arrival. Trees line the edges and there are neat rows of old graves, some beautifully ornamented and others rather plain.

What to do there: The cemetery is usually closed to the public, its entrance blocked by large gates, but you can still peer through the metal gates to get a sense of the size and serenity of the burial ground. Access is possible through gates of private homes, but this isn’t usually a realistic way of entering the grounds for most travellers. You may, however, strike it lucky and find somebody at the gate who is willing to let you look around and pay your respects to the deceased inside, or you can join a historical walking tour that includes access to the old burial ground. Among the graves there’s a small cluster of cross-shaped markers, marking the spot where a whole group of nuns was laid to rest.

16. Rogers Centre

• Major sports stadium
• The only Major League Baseball stadium in Canada
• Home of the Toronto Blue Jays
• Interesting architecture

Why it’s awesome: Sitting close to the shores of Lake Ontario, the Rogers Centre is a large multi-purpose stadium. It’s home to the Toronto Blue Jays (a Major Basketball League team). Built in the late 1980s, the stadium is noted for its fully retractable motorised roof and for being the first stadium of its kind in the world. During construction, many historic artefacts were discovered in the ground, including pottery and cannonballs. The stadium is used for various sporting events, including baseball, basketball, soccer, football, cricket, and tennis. It also hosts various shows and exhibitions and has seen diverse concerts over the years including Bon Jovi, the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, and Madonna.

What to do there: Buy tickets to watch a sporting event and cheer on your favourite team as you revel in the electric atmosphere. There’s no need to worry about missing a second of the action thanks to the gigantic video screen and TVs in the eateries. Several of the restaurants also offer terrific views of events. See stunning pieces of artwork throughout the complex, including the gleaming steel and glass The Art of the Possible, the fabulous Salmon Run fountain, and the joyful and golden The Audience. You can peek behind the scenes, and visit areas that are usually off-bounds to visitors, with a stadium tour. It’s a must on your Toronto Itinerary.

• Housed in a former church
• Major centre for the Hare Krishna movement
• Varied program of community events
• Top place to experience Hindu culture

Why it’s awesome: Iskcon is a great place to experience Hindu culture when you travel to Toronto. Housed in a former church, the historic building looks like many other Christian places of worship from the outside, with a tall bell tower and Gothic-like windows. Upon further inspection, however, it’s easy to spot flags flying from the top where you may expect to see crosses and a large sign that shows it’s a Hare Krishna place of worship. The International Society of Krishna Consciousness was first established in Toronto in 1969, eventually moving into its present home (after a number of setbacks) in 1975.

What to do there: Admire the beautiful building from the outside and go inside the temple to see colourful statues of various Hindu deities and learn more about the Hare Krishna movement. If you visit on a Tuesday evening you can join in with lively discussions on spirituality and enjoy a vegetarian dinner. The centre also runs classes to study ancient religious texts, yoga classes, cooking lessons, dramatic productions, and more.

18. Fort York National Historic Site

• Long history
• Built by Canadian troops and British soldiers
• Some of the oldest buildings in Toronto
• Interesting Museum

Why it’s awesome: One of the best places in Toronto for history lovers, Fort York National Historic Site dates back to the early 1800s. The defensive structure was built because of tensions between the British and Americans, and the British wished to protect their territories. The circular battery was built in 1811. In 1812 the USA declared war and Fort York was attacked in 1813. The fort was eventually captured and destroyed.

It was rebuilt in 1814 and the war subsequently ended. Defences were strengthened over later years when trouble seemed imminent. The fortress was restored in the early 1900s as a celebration of the incorporating of the city. It was opened as a museum in the 1930s. Today, some of the structures within the complex are among the oldest buildings in Toronto. Visitors can explore the once mighty fortress and see an array of artefacts and military memorabilia.

What to do there: Discover Ontario’s troubled and turbulent history as you wander around the once-powerful Fort York. Learn more about past battles and relations between Canada, the USA, and Britain and take tours to dig deeper into times gone by. See old barracks, munitions storage areas, storerooms, and gates, and step into reconstructed period rooms to experience the life of yesteryear. You can also see various exhibits, including weapons, pottery, and items recovered from a shipwreck. Relax in the Fort York Community Garden, pick up souvenirs in the museum store, and watch impressive displays (in the summer months) by the Fort York Guard.

19. The Entertainment District

• Excellent night scene
• Diverse cuisine
• Lively theatre district
• Popular with both locals and tourists

Why it’s awesome: The Entertainment District is, as the name suggests, one of the best places to visit in Toronto for fabulous nightlife. It also promises to be a fun visit during the daytime too! A previous industrial area, it went through a major transformation in the 1980s and is today a popular part of the city for anyone seeking leisure activities and fun. In addition to a wide array of restaurants, bars, and clubs, the area also boasts some excellent theatres, cinemas, and shops.

What to do there: Catch a top show in one of the theatres along King Street West or watch a movie at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Dine on the delicious global fare in one of the many restaurants, with something to appeal to all tastes and budgets. From French and Italian delicacies to Asian specialities and fast food, the Entertainment District is sure to satisfy your hunger. As night descends you can hop between cool bars, some of which feature live music, or dance the night away as the DJs keep the tunes spinning in one of the spirited nightclubs.

If you’ve ever wondered, is Toronto safe , rest assured that it was ranked the 4th safest city in North America. Make sure to take the necessary safety precautions as a traveller in particularly rowdy drinking areas at night, though, just as you would anywhere else.

20. Craigleigh Gardens Park

• Off the beaten track
• Impressive entrance
• Walking trails
• Dog-friendly area

Why it’s awesome: Close to the affluent Toronto neighbourhoods of Bayview and Bloor, Craigleigh Gardens Park is a lesser-visited park. Quiet and peaceful, the pretty park is a top place to escape the tourist crowds and spend some time outdoors. There’s an area where visitors can let dogs of the lead too, meaning that all visitors, human and canine, can enjoy the park. The park was once the site of a grand Victorian house. The home was demolished, however, in the 1920s and the gardens were turned into a lovely city park. The park covers 8.4 acres (3.4 hectares) and there’s lots of open space. There are also walking trails close to hand.

What to do there: Pass through the impressive Gothic gates to find yourself in a beautiful and quiet verdant park. Don’t be surprised if you spot very few other souls—it really is a hidden Toronto treasure! Stroll through the green expanse and let children run and play. Take a walk down the narrow Milkman’s Lane next to the park and explore the scenic ravine trail. The nearby area also has lots of elegant homes to admire as you daydream.

Get insured for your trip to Toronto!

Don’t forget your travel insurance when you travel. Canada might be super safe, but you just never know what might happen when you travel overseas!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what we’re usually asked about the top attractions and excursions in Toronto.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Toronto, Canada?

I would say the best places to visit in Toronto are undoubtedly the Toronto Islands, Niagara Falls, and the Ontario Science Centre. If you’re looking for attractions in the city, try the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Lawrence Market Street, and the photo opportunities of Graffiti Alley.

What are the Top Places to Visit in Downtown Toronto?

Downtown Toronto is packed full of great places! Try the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Graffiti Alley, St. Lawrence Market, the Distillery District and the Royal Ontario Museum! If you want something to entertain the kids, check out the Museum of Illusions, or a Blue Jays hockey game!

What are the Best Places to Visit in Toronto with Kids?

Kids will love Canada’s Wonderland, the Ripley Aquarium, and the Museum of illusions. If you have time, I’d recommend checking out the Ontario Museum of Science, which has enough to see to last the entire day! Going on a bike tour of the Toronto Islands is another great way to entertain the children.

What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto Canada?

The CN Tower is probably the top tourist attraction in Toronto (which means you might have to queue). Following that, the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Toronto Islands, and St. Lawrence Market are all top choices! There is so much to see and do in Toronto, so just take a stroll of the downtown, and you’ll find a surprising amount!

Toronto is a vibrant city with much to appeal to the senses. There are plenty of ways to have fun in Toronto; whether you’re into shopping, dining, sightseeing, or outdoor pursuits, you’ll find lots of ways to enjoy your Toronto visit.

Whether you want to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs, explore a variety of world cultures, or just explore heaps of coffee shops, there’s plenty to do when you visit Toronto.

Other fantastic places to visit in Toronto include the pretty Toronto Botanical Garden, the awesome Art Gallery of Toronto, Lawrence Market and City Hall, the romantic Allan Gardens Conservatory, and the lesser-visited Riverdale Park.

Don’t miss calling by Casa Loma too, one of the most unusual things to do in Toronto as well as exploring the city’s East End. As you can see, there’s plenty of variety when it comes to tourist attractions in Toronto.

Need more? Why not head out of town for the day and check out all the things to do in Hamilton?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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This list is amazing. Highlights the best things you can do in Toronto. Organized in an extremely informative way. Very helpful

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17 Epic Things to Do in Toronto (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in toronto: the 17 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Toronto during your next trip and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

With its skyscrapers , trendy neighborhoods , massive shopping center, its mini Times Square , and Chinatown , Toronto is often compared to its American cousin, New York .

And of course, let’s not forget the world famous Niagara Falls located nearby!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 17 best things to do in Toronto , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Toronto in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Toronto? Where to stay?

1. CN Tower

2. the royal ontario museum or rom, 3. the ripley’s aquarium of canada, 4. historic distillery district, 5. st lawrence market in toronto, 6. the art gallery of ontario, 7. kensington market, 8. chinatown, 9. casa loma, 10. the toronto islands, 11. high park, 12. eaton centre and dundas square, 13. ontario science centre, 14. other museums to visit in toronto, 15. fort york, 16. other cool activities in toronto, 17. niagara falls, how many days to visit toronto, one day in toronto, 2 days in toronto, 3 days in toronto, 4 or 5 days in toronto, where to stay in toronto, where to eat in toronto, getting to toronto, my thoughts on toronto, city pass toronto, tourist map of toronto, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visiting toronto: all must-see attractions.

CN Tower is Toronto’s main tourist attraction . Scaling it remains the best way to grab a first-hand impression of the city!

Standing tall at 533 meters , it reigned as the world’s tallest tower until the Burj Khalifa in Dubai snatched its crown. Nevertheless, it still remains the iconic symbol of Toronto .

Your first step will see you riding the glass elevator , whisking you up to a height of 346 meters in a mere 58 seconds.

This gives you access to a breathtaking panorama of the city . Brace yourself for a little thrill as you walk on the transparent glass floor .

If you haven’t had your fill, you can climb even higher , up to the second platform named SkyPod, but it’s an extra charge (so watch the type of ticket you buy). The second tier lies 33 floors above the first and offers an even more unobstructed view .

Finally, for the bravest souls, the CN Tower features a unique thrill – the EdgeWalk . With just a harness for safety, you can step out onto the exterior ledge that’s 1.5 meters wide . A truly breathtaking experience. However, given the steep price, be sure you won’t chicken out beforehand!

If you fancy it, you can also dine at the CN Tower . The restaurant is situated on a platform that rotates throughout the meal , ensuring you don’t miss a bit of Toronto’s night view. A fantastic idea for a couple’s activity in Toronto !

The CN Tower being the essential tourist spot in Toronto , you’d better book your tickets in advance on the official website .

I’d recommend going up the CN Tower just before sunset . It’s the finest spot in Toronto to catch this spectacle, followed by the city lit up in all its glory.

Given the entry fee to the tower (43$), to tour Toronto, it’s a lot more advantageous to get the Toronto City Pass . For just $110 plus taxes, the Toronto City Pass gets you into the CN Tower and four other top attractions, including the Royal Museum, the aquarium, Casa Loma, and either the Science Centre or the Zoo . It’s a fantastic deal to explore Toronto’s best spots and save some cash.

The City Pass lets you breeze past the queues and dive straight into the fun. To purchase the Toronto City Pass, just click here:

This is the second must-visit spot in Toronto .

The Royal Ontario Museum is famed for its very peculiar architecture , which has sparked some controversy. It comprises an old stone facade into which is embedded the new glass and aluminum structure , resembling a crystal.

Pretty unique, but it’ll make it hard for you to miss it! The ROM is Canada ‘s largest museum .

Inside, you’ll find rooms devoted to world cultures and natural history . The history of Canada’s First Nations is particularly well articulated. The Chinese and Japanese art collection is also worth a peek.

The pièce de résistance, for me, is undoubtedly the jaw-dropping dinosaur exhibit with an extraordinary collection of dinosaur fossils and artifacts. This museum is a must-do on a trip to Toronto , sure to charm both kids and adults.

Given the museum’s vastness, I’d recommend you to devote at least 3 hours to it. No need to fret about the explanations because they are provided in multiple languages. You’ll have no trouble understanding the fascinating details! And that’s a bonus point!

Entry is included in the Toronto City Pass .

Now you know what to do in Toronto when it rains!

Voyage Tips - Advice The museum often hosts Friday Night Live events. These parties take place on Friday evenings. You can dance to the beats of the hottest DJs within the museum itself . An original experience I strongly recommend. You can find the dates of the events on the official website.

If you wish to buy skip-the-line tickets for the museum (convenient for saving time!), you can grab them by clicking the green button below :

Best things to do in Toronto with family

After the dinosaurs and to stick with the animals, I suggest you take your kids to visit Ripley’s Aquarium . The entrance is also included in the Toronto City Pass .

With more than 16,000 creatures, it’s the largest aquarium in Canada . Through various galleries, you can admire numerous species of fresh and saltwater creatures .

You’ll also get to travel through the longest underwater tunnel in North America on a conveyor belt and admire sharks and octopuses just above your head.

Pools are also set up to let you touch horseshoe crabs, sharks, and rays .

While I’m not particularly fond of aquariums myself, I must admit that this one is exceptionally well done and offers a delightful and playful experience for children . Plan at least 1h30 for the visit.

The information for the visit can be found on the official Ripley’s Aquarium website .

Do you want to visit Ripley’s Aquarium during your Toronto tour?

As there is often a line at the ticket office, your best option is to buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance by clicking on the green button below. You’ll save a lot of time!

The Distillery District is a historic neighbourhood in Toronto, located right in the heart of Old Toronto . It is home to several red brick buildings, typical of the city.

Originally, the buildings belonged to one of the largest distilleries in the world, Gooderham and Worts.

Today the district has been rehabilitated into a pedestrian zone . You’ll find a multitude of trendy cafes, restaurants, quirky little shops and art galleries.

Of course, the tradition of the distillery is still very much alive and you can therefore try several types of local beers . The district is therefore the ideal place to go in Toronto for a drink and to taste local products.

During the Christmas period, the Distillery lights up and houses the Christmas market . A magical place not to be missed during your stay in Toronto .

It is also possible to book a guided tour of the Distillery District to learn more about its history:

And if you’re up for a more unique experience, you can also take the guided tour on a segway ! It’s a fun and exciting way to explore the city. To book your segway tour, simply click on the button below:

No matter the city you visit, you’ll always find a market to taste local products. And Toronto is no exception with the St. Lawrence market .

More than 200 years old , this indoor market is an authentic food market where you can find good fruits and vegetables as well as cheeses, bread and of course maple syrup. You can also eat on site if you wish.

Guided tours are also organized to learn more about its history and they of course include tastings. You can book yours by clicking on the button below :

If you’re interested in exploring the market, you’ll be glad to know that it has its own official website . Just keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays (the market itself, not the website 😋 ).

In 2012, St. Lawrence Market was voted the best market in the world by National Geographic. I told you it’s a must-see in Toronto !

The second museum to visit in Toronto after the Royal Museum is the Art Gallery , also known as AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario).

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) boasts an impressive collection of over 90,000 artefacts , making it one of North America’s most remarkable museums.

It presents a collection of very eclectic works ranging from Canadian to European art. All forms of art are also represented: photography, painting, sculpture or even graphic arts.

The museum also hosts many high-quality temporary exhibitions .

To buy your skip-the-line ticket for the “AGO” in Toronto, click on the green button below:

Kensington Market is one of the most popular and oldest neighborhoods to explore in Toronto .

This hippy, bohemian , chilled-out, and vintage neighborhood (well, a bit of everything really) is a super cool place to roam around. Here you’ll find plenty of thrift stores , boutiques selling goods from all around the world and even organic, vegetarian, and vegan restaurants .

Street art enthusiasts will also be in for a treat with the abundance of graffiti adorning the walls .

To admire this art, the most well-known spot is Graffiti Alley , just a ten-minute walk from Kensington Market. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some artists in action.

To make sure you don’t miss out on anything in the neighborhood, I recommend opting for a guided tour of Kensington Market .

This tour is really awesome because it also includes the Chinatown district (which I’ll talk about right after).

Right next to Kensington, you’ll find another vibrant and cosmopolitan neighborhood, Chinatown . It stretches from Spadina Avenue to Dundas West.

It’s the best place in Toronto to find exotic products and fruits and vegetables at unbeatable prices .

It’s also renowned for its excellent restaurants . Noodles, dumplings, chicken soup, and other Chinese delights await you.

Chinatown is also the place to go for the most affordable souvenirs in all of Toronto. Take advantage of it and stock up on magnets and postcards.

For an unusual and quite unique Toronto experience, head to Casa Loma , a true medieval-style castle .

Casa Loma , or “house on the hill,” has overlooked Toronto since 1914. A wealthy industrialist built it for the astronomical sum of 3.5 million dollars at the time. Sadly, his enjoyment was cut short because of his bankruptcy.

You can visit Casa Loma, and admission is actually included in the City Pass . Audio guides are available in multiple languages.

The view from the top of Casa Loma’s turrets is one of Toronto’s most beautiful. You’ll also get to explore the castle’s 100 rooms , including a massive library.

To top it all off, Casa Loma has a magnificently maintained 2-hectare garden with flower beds, sculptures, and fountains. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

If you don’t have a City Pass, you can purchase your Casa Loma admission ticket (including an audio guide) by clicking on this green button:

If you want to get away from the urban hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing moment , I recommend heading to the Toronto Islands .

They’re easily accessible by a quick 10-minute ferry ride from Queens Quay. There are about fifteen islands connected by bridges or accessible only by boat. The three largest ones are Centre Island, Algonquin Island, and Ward’s Island .

The ferry ride offers an unforgettable panorama of Toronto’s skyline, the CN Tower , and other tourist attractions in Toronto. If you take the return trip at night, it’s even more beautiful as everything is illuminated.

On the islands, you can fully immerse yourself in tranquility as cars are not allowed . The best way to get around is by renting a bike , so I recommend renting one for the day or half-day.

There are also bike tours of the islands available (including ferry transportation from Toronto). You’ll find all the info you need here :

Along the coast, you’ll find gorgeous beaches for picnicking and swimming. Inland, you can admire the numerous 1920s vacation homes and their lovely English gardens.

If you’d like, you can also take a boat tour around the islands. You can book this Toronto cruise directly below:

You can find all the information about getting to the islands and the activities to do there on this website .

No visit to Toronto would be complete without a visit to High Park, the city’s green lung .

This massive 160-hectare park is the perfect place to take a beautiful walk and relax on a bench after the city’s hustle and bustle.

And if you’re tired of walking, there’s a small train that goes around the park , a fun activity to do with kids in Toronto. They can also have a blast in the playgrounds and see the animals at the park’s free zoo .

Don’t forget to bring your picnic!

You’re going to Toronto?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Toronto 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Toronto on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Toronto.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Toronto, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Seville!

If you’re wondering where to go shopping in Toronto, it’s at the Eaton Centre that you’ll find it all.

The Eaton Centre is Toronto’s largest shopping mall . On multiple levels, you’ll find all the American brands (Abercrombie, American Eagle Outfitters, etc.) with nearly 300 stores, bars, and restaurants. Naturally, it’s a very popular place.

In the basement, an enormous food court awaits you if you’re feeling peckish. The hardest part will be deciding what to eat!

To make sure you don’t miss any of your favorite shops and fully indulge your credit card, check out the Eaton Centre’s website with the directory of all the stores.

If you enter or exit from the North side of the Eaton Centre , you’ll come across Dundas Square, Toronto’s “Times Square” . Smaller than the one in New York, but still worth a visit.

Still wondering what to do in Toronto ?

Since admission to the Ontario Science Centre is also included in the City Pass , it would be a shame to miss out during your stay in Toronto.

The museum covers topics such as nature, geology, science, music, and astronomy in a fun and interactive way.

You can, for example, touch many objects and conduct experiments in the Science Gallery or play the piano in a fountain, because why not? Children won’t be left out with an entire section of the museum dedicated to them.

If you want to learn more about access, prices, and hours of the Science Centre , check out the official website .

In addition to the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto offers a variety of other museums to explore :

• The Bata Shoe Museum (admission tickets available here!) on the history of shoes. It features an impressive collection of shoes from around the world.
• Little Canada , which reproduces all of Canada’s most famous sites and monuments in miniature scale: Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, Quebec …
• The MOCA – Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto
• The Aga Khan Museum on Islamic arts and culture
• The Textile Museum of Canada
• The MZTV Museum on the history of television
• The Gardiner Museum on ceramic art
• The Hockey Hall of Fame for hockey fans.

Continuing my Toronto guide with Fort York, one of the city’s few historic sites .

Built in 1793, it was designed to shield the harbor from enemy invasion during wartime. It was home to several military facilities , including a stone gunpowder store and wooden barracks.

Today, you can visit many of the original buildings and the brand new visitor center , which features an exhibition on the history of the Fort .

If you’re into history, it’s a must-see spot in Toronto.

I also suggest making the most of your Toronto visit by trying out one or more activities .

To get all the information and make your reservations , just click on the orange links :

• A hop-on-hop-off bus tour with 20 stops in the city. Your ticket also includes a free harbor cruise (available only from June to October).
• A harbor cruise with lunch, brunch, or dinner included to enjoy a fantastic meal while admiring the view of Toronto’s skyscrapers.
• A private guided walking tour with a local – Customize your itinerary and choose the duration: from 2 to 8 hours.
• A helicopter flight over Toronto
• A guided bike tour of downtown Toronto
• A night tour themed on ghosts 
• A beer-themed guided tour including stops at pubs in the St. Lawrence market and Distillery districts + tasting.

Best things to do around Toronto

By now, you should know what to visit in Toronto .

So, it’s time to go and explore the surroundings of Toronto with my selection of the most beautiful places to see nearby.

It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto where you’ll find one of the iconic attractions of any decent Canadian itinerary , and the most famous spot to see near Toronto: the Niagara Falls !

With their impressive and deafening flow , they’re unquestionably one of the must-see in Ontario . You’ll definitely be awed by the grandeur and beauty of the most powerful falls in North America .

The fastest way to get there is to rent a car . Once there, you absolutely must go on a cruise at the foot of the falls .

Given the line, I recommend booking in advance :

You also have the option to fly over the falls in a helicopter . Even if it’s a bit more expensive, it’s an unforgettable experience ! And hey, you don’t visit Niagara Falls every day 😄.

After the boat trip, ascend the Skylon Tower for a birds-eye view of the falls from its panoramic terrace. Tickets can be booked right here !

Finally, you can also take advantage of your falls visit to do 3 other really cool activities which also allow you to admire them from a different perspective:

• The “Journey Behind The Falls” activity (click here to book your tickets) to get to the viewing platform at the foot of the falls by going through tunnels, 40 meters underground.
• A zip line descent over the Niagara Gorge – Book directly here !
• Take a unique gondola suspended above the rapids of the falls.

If you’d rather not bother driving in the big city, consider opting for a day-long organized tour .

I’d point you towards GetYourGuide . It’s the easiest way to enjoy the day without any stress – everything’s sorted. They even pick you up straight from your hotel and drop you back off in the evening.

The day includes:

• The bus ride
• A visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake
• A photo stop along the Niagara Parkway
• The famous boat cruise to the heart of the Falls
• 3 hours of free time to wander and make the most of the day
• Optionally, you can even choose to live an extraordinary experience by flying over Niagara Falls in a helicopter!

Book in advance by clicking on the green button below:

I recommend you to spend 3 days in Toronto , especially if you want to include a visit to the Niagara Falls in this eastern Canada trip .

Moreover, if you’ve decided to visit Toronto in high-season, you’ll likely have to queue in front of the monuments, which can quickly shorten the list of things to see.

I can only recommend you to get the City Pass or skip-the-line tickets that I talked about to limit the loss of time.

I’ll explain how to visit Toronto in 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days below .

If you have one day to visit Toronto , here’s a great itinerary to discover the city’s must-see spots :

• Morning spent exploring different city districts: Kensington Market , Chinatown, and the Distillery district
• Lunch break at the St. Lawrence market
• Discovery of Ripley’s Aquarium
• Ascend the CN Tower just before sunset

If you’ve planned to stay in Toronto for 2 days , in addition to the previous itinerary, you’ll also be able to visit:

• Casa Loma to enjoy the view over Toronto from its turrets.
• The Royal Ontario Museum and its collection of dinosaur skeletons.
• Lunch break
• Spend the afternoon discovering the Toronto Islands

3 days in Toronto will allow you to get to know the city a bit more. According to the list in this top 17 of things to do in Toronto, you still have to see :

• The Art Gallery of Ontario
• The Science Centre or other museums that tickle your fancy
• Do a bit of shopping at the Eaton Centre
• A harbor cruise with lunch, brunch, or dinner included

Or, for this third day, I highly recommend taking a trip to the world-famous Niagara Falls ! If you opt for the organized tour that I introduced earlier, remember to book it in advance:

You’ll find this detailed 72-hour Toronto itinerary in my other dedicated article: Visiting Toronto in 3 Days .

If you have 4 or 5 days in Toronto , the best advice I can give you is to take your time . You’ll have the time to visit all the city’s points of interest + Niagara Falls without rushing!

It’s not so easy to find a hotel that offers good value for money in Toronto . To help you out, I’ve prepared a list of the best hotels depending on your budget.

One last tip: If the place you’re attracted to is available, book it right away . Demand is very high in the city, and the best accommodations disappear (very) quickly!

• The Clarence Park : This youth hostel is located a 10-minute walk from the CN Tower. Dormitory bed from €35 per night. Strong points: the location, the conviviality, curtains for dormitory beds, modernity. An excellent choice for budget accommodation in Toronto !
• Margie Townhome Suites : This guesthouse is located a 5-minute walk from the Eaton Centre. Cozy and pleasant rooms starting from €110. Strong points: the location, the calm, proximity to the metro.
• The Novotel Toronto Centre : Located right next to St. Lawrence Market. Contemporary and very spacious double rooms starting from €150. Strong points: indoor pool, location, excellent breakfast.
• One King West Hotel and Residence : Nestled in Old Toronto, a mere 5-minute walk from the St. Lawrence Market. This joint boasts modern, spacious and elegant suites, complete with stunning city views, starting from €190, with a breakfast option at €17. Strong points: Prime downtown location, top-notch bedding, and the breathtaking views.
• The Omni King Edward Hotel : For anyone looking to treat themselves during their Toronto escapade. This upscale hotel resides in the financial district, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Eaton Centre. Cosy double rooms with tasteful décor start from €300, with breakfast at an extra €23. Strong points: prime location, attentive staff, room décor, and comfort, as well as an excellent breakfast. A perfect choice for a luxury stay in Toronto or a romantic night with your partner !
• Bisha Hotel Toronto : A 5-star hotel just 500m from the CN Tower. This establishment boasts superb rooms designed by none other than star Lenny Kravitz’s designer studio. Starting at a cool €390. Strong points: the infinity pool on the rooftop with views of the CN Tower, the hotel’s excellent restaurants, and an ideal location. The best hotel in Toronto for a luxury stay !

You may have noticed, staying in downtown Toronto isn’t exactly cheap, but that’s to be expected given it’s a bustling Canadian tourist hub.

If you’re looking to save a bit and don’t mind staying a bit further out, hotels near the Toronto Airport (about 17km from downtown) generally offer lower rates.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport
• Best Western Plus Travel Hotel Toronto Airport
• Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Airport
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre

• Canoe : Located in the heart of the business district, on the 54th floor of a high-rise. It offers a spectacular view of the city. The restaurant serves regional Canadian cuisine and local wines. The dishes are carefully prepared and beautifully presented.
• The Keg : A Canadian restaurant chain with several locations in Toronto. The Keg is a steakhouse that offers a wide variety of excellent quality meats. The service is great, and the décor is nice.
• Sunset Grill : Located on Richmond Street, near the Eaton Centre. This diner is known for its typical Canadian brunch with pancakes, sausages, bacon, etc. It’s also the perfect place to grab a sandwich or a bagel for a quick lunch. The food is high quality, and the portions are generous, enough to keep you going all day. Great value for money.
• Carisma : If you fancy a break from typical Canadian fare, you might want to try Carisma. This Italian restaurant (run by “real” Italians) offers dishes made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Everything is delicious.

You can get to Toronto directly by plane from France . Most of the flights go straight through.

If you fancy visiting Ontario and Eastern Canada, it’s an awesome launch pad . From there, you can head up to Ottawa , Montreal , and Quebec to tick off the rest of your travel list .

If you’re coming from Montreal , you can drive to Toronto in around 5 hours 40 minutes .

There’s also an express bus service that links the two cities, taking about 6 hours for around $30 .

Finally, you can also reach the city by train . Expect at least a 5-hour journey for the fastest one (though they’re few and far between), with prices starting from $67 .

I really enjoyed visiting Toronto, a city that skillfully blends an American vibe with its skyscrapers and a deeply ingrained Canadian culture .

The city is super cosmopolitan, and it’s a real treat to soak up various atmospheres throughout the day: hipster in Kensington, local at the St. Lawrence market and in the Distillery District, American at the base of the CN Tower, historic at Fort York, and Asian in Chinatown.

Of course, climbing to the top of the CN Tower is a lasting memory from my Toronto trip, and I was particularly impressed by the Niagara Falls.

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Toronto, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.

You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Best Attractions in Toronto

If you are planning a trip to Canada, don't miss Toronto! It is the largest and one of the most vibrant cities in Canada. There is a lot to explore in Toronto. If you're visiting for the first time, you may find it difficult to narrow down the top tourist attractions in Toronto .

Every neighbourhood of Toronto has its own story. There are many hidden gems and tourist attractions in Toronto. As Canadian travel experts, Canadian Train Vacations is here to help you. We have curated a comprehensive list of the best attractions in Toronto. If you love to travel and explore, the following places should be on your itinerary.

1. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is home to a range of exquisite cultural and historical pieces collected from all over the world.

All three levels of this magnificent place, locally called “The ROM,” are rife with treasures organized into more than 20 galleries — like the new Willner Madge Gallery, Dawn of Life or the Sir Christopher Ondaatje South Asian Gallery or Life in Crisis: The Schad Gallery of Biodiversity. And that’s not all! Be sure to check out the limited-time exhibits, such as Psychedelics (on until March 9, 2024). 

The museum is located at 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario. You can easily reach here by bus, cab, or public transportation. General admission is $23 CAD for adults and $14 CAD for children ages four to 14.

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

2. See the animals at the Toronto Zoo 

The zoo is one of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto. If you love wildlife, you should visit the Toronto Zoo. Spread over 10km, it is a great place to walk and explore. It features a unique polar bear habitat and an African penguin exhibit. From alpacas to giraffes, there's a lot to see here.

Orangutans of Gunung Leuser: Guardians of the Rainforest is a brand-new outdoor habitat for Sumatran orangutans, whose conservation status changed from Endangered to Critically Endangered in 2017. Why? Palm oil harvesting is destroying the rainforests they call home. In addition to protecting these amazing mammals, the Toronto Zoo has taken a leadership stance on raising awareness about palm oil. 

Other reasons people love going to the Toronto Zoo: The Wild Rouge Zipline, the Conservation Carousel, and the Tundra Air Ride. If you get tired of walking, hop on the Zoomobile for a tour.

We recommend at least two hours to explore the zoo. Admission is $24.50 for adults and $15.50 for children.

#1 Travel tip: See the animals being fed at the zoo

For the best experience at the Toronto zoo, be sure to see if there are any feeding times scheduled during your visit.

3. Enjoy the View from CN Tower

Built between 1972 and 1976, the CN Tower was once the tallest building in the world, at 553 meters tall. It is the most famous tourist destination in Toronto. It can be enjoyed from the ground, but the view from the top is simply breathtaking. You can even download a free viewfinder app so you know what are looking at in all directions.

There is also a revolving restaurant at the top for dining and lunches. The 360 Restaurant completes a full rotation every 72 minutes. The menu focuses on local and sustainable ingredients and recipes from across Canada, including Indigenous dishes. It is popular so you should reserve ahead.

The CN Tower is located at 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario.

It is open from 9 AM to 9 PM every day. Entry fees start at $53 but depend on what activities you want to do, such as the EdgeWalk, the outdoor walkway around the observation deck.

4. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario 

The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the major attractions in Toronto. It is home to a large collection of artwork dating back centuries. The building is an architectural masterpiece in itself.

More than 95,000 works of art are held in the collections at the AGO, as it is locally called, from European masterpieces to work by emerging Indigenous artists, Group of Seven to Western and Central Africa, historic to modern to contemporary. You can get lost in here for hours, transported through the art in the regular collections and in the many special exhibits featured throughout the year.

Don’t miss the AGO Shop — it has some of the coolest gifts and souvenirs I have ever seen.

Located at 317 Dundas St W, it is easily accessible by public transportation.

TIP : If you want to skip the line to enter the museum, prepurchase a day pass for $25 CAD or an annual pass for $35 CAD.

5. Eat at Kensington Market 

You're bound to get hungry after exploring all the tourist attractions in Toronto, Canada. It's time to head to Kensington Market, just west of downtown Toronto. This multicultural neighbourhood offers various food shops and restaurants which serve cuisines from all over the world.

There are lots of little places you pick up a snack to walk around with — empanadas maybe or a burrito or something with bacon. Or put together a picnic from Global Cheese or Sanagan’s meat and head to Bellevue Park. If you want to sit for a while, check out Trinity Common, a popular pub, especially with the hipster crowd, for smash burgers and fries that go oh-so well with craft beer. And I have never left Kensington Market without stopping at Wanda’s Pie in the Sky.

Additionally, you can explore the beautiful shops that sell vintage items. You will want approximately two to three hours to explore this neighbourhood, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

TIP : Admission is free, as it is a public neighbourhood, but we recommend around $50 CAD/couple for a meal.

#2 Travel tip: Make reservations for dinner

Toronto is a top foodie destination and home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Be sure to make reservations at any places you want to try to avoid disappointment.

6. Witness Marine Life at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

The aquarium is also one of the most popular tourist places in Toronto. It is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the country. It is home to about 450 different fish species and other sea animals.

The Dangerous Lagoon is one of the most exciting features at Ripley’s. Board the moving sidewalk through a clear tunnel in the tank while sharks, stingrays and other lagoon inhabitants swim over your head. You may even be lucky to see staff feeding the fish twice a day.

It will take you 2-3 hours to explore the aquarium. Tickets cost $44 CAD for adults and $20 for youth ages six to 13, and $12.50 for children ages two to five.

7. Take a Selfie at the Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions opened in 2018. It is one of the new family attractions in Toronto, Canada. It is fun for both adults and kids alike. The museum features an elaborate series of illusions, along with their explanations.

Illusion rooms, installations, images and holograms, this is one place you will want to be sure you have a fully charged phone so you can take lots of weird and wonderful photos. There are selfie points along the way, and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Toronto.

It is located at 132 Front Street East. Tickets are $23.50 CAD.

8. Go Down Memory Lane with Bata Shoe Museum

If you're interested in the history of shoes, visit the Bata Shoe Museum. Shoes are much more interesting that you might think, not only in terms of fashion but also culture. Special exhibits include In Bloom: Flowers and Footwear and Obsessed: How Shoes Became Objects of Desire .

It is located just across from the Royal Ontario Museum. You can gain access to the museum for just $14 CAD.

TIP : Check out the outside of the building as well. The building is shaped like a shoebox.

9. Learn About Hockey at the Hockey Hall of Fame 

Hockey is an extremely famous sport in Canada, which makes this a must-visit tourist destination in Toronto for all sports fans. Housed in a heritage building that was formerly a bank, Hockey Hall of Fame is spread over 65,000 square feet. It’s big! It even has a replica of the Montreal Canadiens dressing room.

See interesting exhibits about the sports and try fun interactive displays. For example, follow the evolution of goalie masks or try your skills at broadcasting or play the latest hockey video games. It is also the home of the Stanley Cup, the NHL's biggest trophy.

The retail shop has everything a hockey fan could want. And where do you go for snacks when you visit the Hockey Hall of Fame? Tim Horton’s, of course! Horton, a former hockey star, founded the famous coffee franchise and a special edition Tim’s is located next door to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

You can get a ticket to the Hockey Hall of Fame for $20 CAD.

10. Go Down Memory Lane at St. Lawrence Market

Named the best food market in the world in 2012, this famous tourist destination in Toronto has been operating since the early 1800s. Apart from buying the freshest and best produce, you can also explore several cuisines at this market and everything you need to make it. Caviar, fresh oysters, croissants, sausages, cheese by the slab — you name it and they probably have it, plus all the condiments and sauces, and even the kitchenware to prepare it.

Don’t feel like cooking? There are so many ready-to-eat options. From Indian to Ukrainian, there's something for every palate. Try a Toronto classic peameal bacon sandwich — basic and fancied-up versions are available. And don’t miss the lower level, where you’ll find many more delicious choices, like cabbage rolls and pierogies. Inside tables are at premium especially on weekends, but you can also take your to-go boxes outside to the picnic tables.

And when you're done eating, go upstairs to explore the art gallery. The market also hosts a public kitchen for special cooking classes and is home to St Lawrence Hall, where you can catch exhibitions and live performances.

TIP : Hiring a tour guide gives interesting insights into the vendors and the area's history.

11. Get answers at Ontario Science Centre

The first interactive museum of its kind in the world, this place is specially designed for all those interested in science. It is one of the best family attractions in Toronto. There are live experiments, demonstrations, planetariums and games to explore and enjoy.

What people love about this place is that it’s hands-on: not only you learn about science, but you also get to try things out and see how they work in the Science Arcade and Innovation Centre. Underwater adventures bring Captain Nemo to Life and the space exhibit makes sense of meteorites, black holes and cosmic rays. Plus, there’s a rainforest, a Canadian forest and a domed IMAX theatre. 

The entire tour of the place will take you about two hours. 

TIP : We recommend you book tickets online to skip the lines, especially during school holidays. A ticket costs $22 CAD.

12. Shop at Toronto Eaton Centre

No trip is complete without shopping! Toronto Eaton Centre is a shopper's paradise that's located in the middle of downtown Toronto. Home to the world's best luxury brands, flagship stores, restaurants and movie theatres, Eaton Centre is an iconic structure that's known as one of the best tourist places in Toronto . It receives approximately 50 million visitors every year.

Dozens of dining spots await, especially in the food court area, but my favourite is Trattoria Mercatto for a pizza and the cannolo I can never resist.

You can reach this place easily by taking any public transport — there are subway stations at either end of the complex.

TIP : Don't miss the 115-foot long pedestrian bridge between Eaton Centre and Hudson's Bay Company building. It's an architectural gem.

13. Wander Through the Distillery District 

This quaint village-like area gets its name from the fact that it once housed the largest distillery of the British empire. With nearly 50 Victorian buildings, this is a national heritage site. Now home to some of Toronto's best art galleries, boutiques, bars, restaurants, studios, and shops, Distillery District is one of the top 5 attractions in Toronto .

One of my favourite spots is El Catrin Destileria, with its beautiful patio and excellent tapas and margaritas. Soma Chocolate shop is a must-stop for me (just follow your nose), and I always wander through Bergo Designs check out the great gifts and gadgets.

Among the various festivals held throughout the year, the Toronto Christmas Market attracts the most visitors. It is set up like a German-style outdoor market, complete with mulled wine and carollers.

TIP : Distillery District covers13 acres and is a pedestrian-only area. Wear comfortable shoes!

14. Feel Regal at Casa Loma 

Casa Loma in Midtown Toronto is an almost 200,000-square-foot mansion designed like a castle in Gothic Revival-style. It was built between 1911 and 1914 to be the home of financier Sir Henry Pellatt. It has an interesting history and served several functions before being converted into a museum that sees at least 650,000 visitors a year.

 The castle has three floors that include 100 rooms, grand washrooms, towers, secret pathways and underground tunnels. When you see Casa Loma in all its splendour, you will understand why it is a popular location for movie and television filming, weddings and private events.

TIP: You can also visit the well-maintained stables and estate gardens — five acres of impeccable gardens and a patio restaurant for casual meals during the summer. Fine dining is also available for dinner by reservation only in the Blueblood Steakhouse, where steaks are listed on the menu like wine with the origin along with the name and ounces.

Casa Loma is open from 9.30 AM to 5 PM and a ticket costs $40 CAD.

15. Walk Through the Aga Khan Museum

Constructed by Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan and Princess Catharine Aga Khan in the 1950s, this museum is completely devoted to Islamic Arts. It is the largest museum for Islamic Arts in North America. The museum is located in serene surroundings in the northern part of city and has a reflecting pool all around it. 

The museum and gardens are one of the most beautiful, peaceful places in the city and very much a place to learn and experience Islamic culture and civilization. Until October 23, 2023 visit the Aga Khan Museum to see an inspiring exhibition celebrating Rumi, one of history's most famous poets, on the 750th anniversary of his passing. 

There is also a restaurant that provides a fine dining experience. Diwan is one of Chef Mark McEwan’s restaurants and features modern Middle Eastern cuisine. It is open for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 

An entry ticket costs $20 CAD and the museum is open 10 AM - 5.30 PM, Sunday-Tuesday.

TIP : Post-Covid, Museum entry has been more restricted. We recommend you book tickets online to avoid any inconvenience.

16. Take a Stroll around Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands is a chain of several islands along Lake Ontario. One of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto, there's a lot that one can do, such as water sports, fishing, boating, bird watching, picnics and even visiting art galleries and shops. It also offers stunning views of the Toronto skyline.

Many people bring their own bikes on the ferry, along with their kids and their dogs. Centreville amusement park, with its 30 rides and attractions, is a popular family spot in the summer. Centre Island Beach is great fun on a sunny day.

TIP : No private vehicles are allowed on the island, so you can catch a passenger ferry from Jack Leyton Ferry Terminal. Rent a bike to explore the islands.

17. Explore Old City Hall 

The Old City Hall is a Romanesque-style building that's over a century old. It was very close to demolition, but activists saved the historic site. Now the city hall serves as a museum and a war memorial. There is a lot you can uncover if you love architecture and history.

For example, the façade is mostly sandstone and if you look closely, you will see carvings of animals and humans. Between 1899 and 1917, the clock tower was the tallest structure in Canada.

TIP: If possible, carry just the basics in your bags. The security check at the entry is quite thorough and you will have to pass through metal detectors.

18. Take a Trip to Niagara Falls

The list of the top 10 attractions in Toronto is incomplete without the famous Niagara Falls. Just 90 minutes away from Toronto, Niagara falls is a group of three waterfalls that lie on the border of Ontario and New York state (USA). As expected, you will be greeted with stunning views, exciting trails and hikes, guided tours, and plenty of staying and eating options nearby.

The Journey Behind the Falls is an opportunity to see the falls from inside out via tunnels that lead to observation points. It’s pretty exciting when you consider how much water is crashing down.

TIP : Helicopter rides can be easily arranged to get the best views.

19. Stroll through High Park 

If you want to explore the greener side of Toronto, you should check out High Park. One of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto, this place is favoured by families with children or elderly members — and dogs!

It is Toronto's largest urban park and includes a large playground, swimming pool, diverse vegetation, walking trails, and so much more. Genadier Pond has an observation deck so you can watch the birds. The picnic area has tables and lots of space, as well as the Grenadier Café, a summer-only snack and drinks stand.

High Park Zoo is a small, family friendly place that was established in the 1893 for deer. Fast forward 120 years, the Zoo’s eleven paddocks are home to bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle, emus and sheep. In 2016, two High Park capybaras, Bonnie and Clyde, made the news when they escaped and launched a massive search (they were found safe).

TIP : During April-May, the park blooms with cherry blossoms.

20. Visit Black Creek Pioneer Village

This is a one-of-a-kind village that showcases Toronto during the 1860s. Historic buildings, unique stables and sheds, picturesque gardens and trade exhibits - Black Creek gives you a real immersive experience of rural life in the 19th century.

Take a tour with costumed guide for the best insight and be prepared to walk on boardwalks and dirt roads. If you’re lucky, there may be some baby animals on the farm.

An entry ticket costs $15 CAD and it stays open from 11.00 AM - 4PM

TIP : You will have to pre-book a tour online till March 2023. Do check their website for more changes in entry rules.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

21. take a tour of steam whistle brewery.

Located close to Ripley's Aquarium, this is one of the most quirky and lively places in Toronto. Founded in 1998, this brewery was developed from a national historic site - The John Street Roundhouse building. This roundhouse used to serve as a depot for the Canadian Pacific Railway steam locomotive. So, grab a pint of Steam Whistle and take a tour around the area or kick back and relax at the Taproom.

You can also enjoy a meal alongside that crisp Steam Whistle Pilsner at the Biergärten Restaurant, featuring contemporary Canadian cuisine. Reservations are recommended.

22. Relax at Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day. This beach is along Lake Ontario and offers a perfect blend of relaxation and revelry. The 3-km-long shore is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, beach volleyball, picnics and an Olympic-sized pool.

Woodbine Beach is located in an area locally known as “The Beaches” and the people who live here love it here. Restaurants and cafes all along Queen Street provide plenty of options for lunch or dinner.

TIP : The beach can get noisy and crowded as it is one of the popular outdoor attractions in Toronto. If you need a breather, you can walk across to the calm and scenic Woodbine Park. Or keep walking east and take in the lakefront scenery all the way to Kew-Balmy Beach and Kew Gardens, a lovely park with a gazebo that started as a farm in the 1850s.

23. Catch the Vibe at Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is often called the Times Square of Toronto. Known for fast-fashion shops, affordable eateries, street performances and its giant screens, you can easily spend 2-3 hours here without realising it. It's a perfect snapshot of Toronto city life and comes alive once the sun sets.

Because of its location at the north end of Eaton Centre, this is a great spot to include on a shopping itinerary. Grab a coffee and settle in for some people watching or catch a movie if you really want to give your feet a break. Some of the restaurants here big and busy — Jack Astor’s, Red Lobster, Joey Eaton Centre, 3 Brewers — all lots of fun. If you want something really special, check performance calendar at Jazz Bistro and make a dinner reservation.

24. Head Over To Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Toronto and offers delightful stories in every nook and corner. Curl up at a restaurant with warm dim sum, brothy noodles or spicy chops — there are so many choices. My favourites: Rol San for all-day dim sum and Mother’s Dumplings, which has dumplings and whole lot more.

Shop the outdoor stalls for hard-to-find produce and unique housewares, all at really great prices.

Given its prime location, you can easily reach Chinatown by taking any mode of transportation.

25. Unwind at Harbourfront Centre

An iconic cultural destination, Harbourfront Centre hosts several art exhibits, food festivals, live music and dance shows. The water-front complex, located at 235 Queens Quay West, hosts around 4000 events in a year. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery is also right there and well worth stop for art fans.

Apart from the art scene, you can also relax in one of the many inviting cafes and restaurants in and around the centre — like Boxcar Social with its bacon croquettes and shrimp on toast, or the Goodman Pub and Kitchen, for fish and chips and burgers. Or you can grab an ice cream and go to the beach! HTO Park is right near Harbourfront Centre and has a sandy beach with umbrellas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i not miss in toronto.

You should not miss the CN Tower when you're in Toronto. It is one of the most iconic and remarkable buildings in Toronto that provides a bird's eye view of the city.

What is the most visited place in Toronto?

Some of the famous tourist destinations in Toronto are the CN Tower, Casa Loma, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley's Aquarium.

What is Toronto best known for?

Toronto is best known as a Canadian metropolis. It has sky-high buildings with a waterfront. The city's vibe is vibrant and full of energy, with a good mix of historic and modern establishments.

How many days are enough for Toronto?

You must spend at least 4-5 days in Toronto. There is a lot to see and explore in this capital city of Ontario. You will thoroughly enjoy your time here.

Where can I go when I'm bored in Toronto?

There are many famous tourist destinations in Toronto. You can see the animals at the Toronto Zoo, feed the fishes at Ripley's Aquarium, or stroll through the Distillery District. You will never be bored in this city!

About the author: Carolyn Camilleri is a Contributing Writer with Fresh tracks Canada. A magazine writer and editor since 1996, she loves the discovery that comes from travel. Her work has appeared in several Canadian travel publications, including Where Victoria, Harbour...   Read more

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40 Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto (Local Guide)

Table of Contents

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Toronto, Canada?

I’ve got you covered! 

If you are struggling to choose what to do in Toronto, then I don’t blame you – the city is huge! It can be overwhelming to choose what to fit into your Toronto itinerary, especially if you only have limited time to spend in the city. 

I grew up in Toronto and still visit regularly to see my family, so I consider myself an expert on all things Toronto. 

Over the years, I’ve explored the whole city, and now I’ve picked out some of the most fun things to do in Downtown Toronto – so you can make the most of your trip! 

Let’s dive in. 

✅ Get a chance to explore the vibrant city of Toronto with this Private Tour of the City!

Best Things to Do in Downtown Toronto

1. Kensington Market Toronto

Kensington Market is located in the heart of Toronto and is known for having many independent shops, vibrant murals, and delicious food! 

Kensington Market has a fun bohemian vibe and is a great place to shop and eat in downtown Toronto. You can find vintage thrift stores, art galleries, and hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up mouth-watering international cuisine. 

If you visit on the last Sunday of the month (May – October), you will find street parties and festivals at the Kensington Market. 

🍔 Savor the diverse culinary delights of Toronto’s Kensington Market on this flavorful food tour!

2. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is the largest museum in Canada. It showcases art, world culture, and natural history. 

The museum hosts a world-class collection of over six million objects and specimens, which are displayed across 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. 

I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 hours here to make the most of your visit.

The museum is the least crowded on weekday afternoons, and tickets cost $26 CAD ($19 USD) for adults and $16 CAD ($12 USD) for children. 

🗿 Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s best tourist destinations! Book your tickets here!

3. CN Tower 

I can’t write about what to do in Downtown Toronto without mentioning the CN Tower! It is the most iconic landmark in the city. 

The CN Tower is a 553.3m high (1,815.3 ft) tower in Downtown Toronto. It once held the record for being the tallest tower in the world, but that title now goes to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai . The CN Tower is still the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

The tower has several observation decks and a revolving restaurant. 

For a unique experience, you can try the edge walk ! This incredible activity lets you walk around the edge of the tower at 116 stories above Toronto with nothing but a harness to secure you! 

🍁 Explore Toronto’s top attractions, including the CN Tower, on this Best of Toronto Tour with a scenic Harbour Cruise.

4. Nathan Phillips Square 

Nathan Phillips Square is a large open square in Downtown Toronto. It is home to the famous Toronto sign, which you have probably seen on social media. 

Taking pictures with the sign is one of the best things to do in Toronto for free. The sign lights up in different colors and looks really cool at night. 

5. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley encompasses three city blocks. It is a great place to wander and admire interesting street art. It’s also an excellent place to get some fun photos and sometimes the location for small street festivals and pop-ups. 

Graffiti Alley is in Toronto’s fashion district, parallel to the trendy stretch of Queen Street West.

6. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is an iconic food market home to 120 vendors, merchants, and artisans. 

It’s a great place to grab some tasty treats, and you will find everything from fresh pasta to maple syrup crepes and bacon sandwiches. 

The best way to experience the market is to come here on a weekend morning and grab some breakfast before heading off to explore the rest of the city. 

There are also great food tours available that include a visit to St. Lawrence Market. 

7. Art Gallery Of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario has a collection of more than 90,000 works of art. It is among the most well-known and distinguished art museums in North America. 

The museum is huge, and there is a lot to see, so I recommend you set aside at least 2 or 3 hours to appreciate it properly. 

The building itself is really cool, too. So even if you are not a fan of art museums, it is still worth popping by for a photo. 

🎨 Save time and avoid hassle by booking your tickets in advance to one of the most popular Toronto attractions, the Art Gallery of Ontario Here!

8. Take The Ferry To The Toronto Islands

This is one of my favorite activities in Toronto! The Toronto Islands are located in Lake Ontario, just offshore from Downtown Toronto.

Ferries to the Toronto Islands operate year-round out of Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. The average ferry trip takes around 15 minutes one way. 

You can see some incredible city views from the ferry deck, which makes the ferry ride even more worthwhile. 

Spending time on the islands is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Toronto. There are 15 islands, but the most interesting ones are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point.

9. Distillery District

Toronto’s historic Distillery District is full of brick-lined streets and beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings. It is one of the most hip places to visit in Downtown Toronto. 

The district is closed to traffic and is just a few minutes walk from downtown. 

In the Distillery District, you will find quirky bars and cafes, boutique fashion stores, independent art galleries, and lots of other unique establishments.

🚶 Immerse yourself in Toronto’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture with this captivating walking tour of the Distillery District.

10. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Downtown Toronto. 

The aquarium holds around 5.7 million liters (1.25 million gallons) of water and replicates different habitats from around the world. 

The aquarium houses more than 20,000 fish and 450 different species of other sea creatures, so there is plenty to see.

I recommend spending around 3 hours here to give yourself time to see everything. 

11. Hockey Hall Of Fame  

The Hockey Hall Of Fame is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Canada is famous for ice hockey, and this interactive museum pays tribute to players, teams, memorabilia, and trophies. 

It’s a fun place to spend a couple of hours, especially if you are a big hockey fan!

🏒 Avoid long lines by booking your ticket to the Hockey Hall of Fame in advance! Get a chance to see the greatest collection of artifacts from around the world!

12. Toronto International Film Festival 

The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in the world, attracting over 480,000 people every year.

The festival occurs annually at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in Downtown Toronto.

Toronto usually schedules the festival for September, which lasts for 11 days. If you are in the city during the festival, you should definitely attend a screening at the festival! 

Tickets are available from the official TIFF website . 

13. The Elgin & Winter Garden Theatres

The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres are two theatres vertically stacked on top of each other in Toronto. The Winter Garden Theatre is located seven stories above the Elgin Theatre. They hold the impressive distinction of being the only remaining Edwardian-stacked theatres in the world.

The interiors of the theatres are beautiful, and upstairs, you will find a unique botanical rooftop garden that blooms year-round. 

You can catch a show here or take a guided tour of the theatres on Mondays and Saturdays. 

14. The Eaton Centre 

The Eaton Centre is a large shopping mall in Downtown Toronto. It’s a great place to go if you love to shop and since the entire shopping mall is indoors, it’s one of the best things to do in Downtown Toronto in winter.

There are more than 250 stores and restaurants, making it one of North America’s busiest malls. 

Also, the food court is huge with lots of options, so it’s a good place to come for a cheap lunch. 

15. Second City Comedy Club

If you are looking for fun activities in Toronto for adults, comedy clubs are a great way to spend a night out.

The best comedy club in Downtown Toronto is Second City Comedy Club. 

This comedy club showcases live improv and sketch comedy shows every night. It’s even hosted performances from super-famous comedians like Steve Carell and Tina Fey. 

16. The Harbourfront Centre

The Harbourfront Centre is a beautiful waterfront park in Toronto. It hosts thousands of different cultural events and activities throughout the year. 

It’s also a great place to go in the evening for arguably the best sunset in all of Toronto! 

There are some good food stalls and coffee shops here, too. 

17. HTO Park 

The HTO Park is a park/urban beach right next to the Harbourfront Centre. 

The park includes grassy hills, a long sand beach extending along the water’s edge, stationary yellow shade umbrellas, and lounge chairs. 

As far as beaches go, it’s not the prettiest in the world, but it is a nice place to relax in Toronto on a sunny afternoon. 

18. Bike Along The Martin Goodman Trail

If you are feeling active during your trip to Toronto, consider going for a bike ride along the Martin Goodman Trail. 

The trail is around 30 km (18.6 miles) and stretches along Toronto’s harbourfront. It takes around 2 hours to cycle the entire trail. 

Bike Share Toronto has bike-sharing stations along the trail where you can easily rent a bike for the day. 

19. Rogers Centre

The Rogers Centre is an iconic sports stadium located at the base of the CN Tower. It is home to the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team and hosts many other events throughout the year, including concerts, conventions, circuses, and even monster truck shows! 

There is an in-house hotel and Hard-Rock Cafe within the stadium, so it’s a great place to stay if you are in town for a Blue Jays game. 

20. Watch One Of Toronto’s Local Sports Teams 

If you are a sports fan and are wondering what to do in Downtown Toronto, then why not catch a game? 

Toronto is home to a few different sports teams. The Toronto Raptors are the only Canadian NBA team. The Toronto Maple Leafs are the local hockey team, and the Blue Jays are a Major League baseball team.   

Watching a local sports team can be a really fun way to engage with a new city, even if you don’t usually support that team. 

🏒 Get a chance to witness thrilling on-ice action by watching the Toronto Maple Leafs, one of the NHL’s most iconic teams in the heart of Toronto.

21. Watch The National Ballet Of Canada

The National Ballet of Canada was founded in 1951 and is comprised of 70 dancers, plus its own orchestra. They perform classical ballets such as the Nutcracker and Swan Lake while also embracing some newer contemporary ballets. 

You can watch the National Ballet of Canada at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. There is a ticket office here, or you can buy tickets online beforehand. 

22. Roy Thomson Hall

The Roy Thomson Hall is a concert hall located in Downtown Toronto in the city’s entertainment district. It’s a great place to watch the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. 

You’ll find a few concerts and symphonies here every week, but even if you don’t end up seeing a show, the building is impressive and worth stopping by to see! 

23. Day Trip To Niagara Falls 

A trip to Niagara Falls is one of the best day trips you can take from Toronto . 

Niagara Falls is just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, and there are several convenient ways to get there . 

Taking a day trip to Niagara Falls is a bucket list item for many people, so if you have never been, take advantage of being so close by and add it to your Toronto itinerary!

🍁 Get a chance to see the famous Niagara Falls up close by going on this Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto!

24. Toronto Botanical Garden

The Toronto Botanical Garden has 17 themed gardens spread across 4 acres. 

The gardens are enjoyable to wander around, especially on a sunny afternoon. They provide a great break from the hectic atmosphere of Toronto’s city center. 

The gardens are free to enter, and it is actually easy to find parking nearby. 

25. Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a Gothic-style castle/mansion on a hill overlooking Toronto. 

The castle is a popular place to take photos as it provides a stunning backdrop for pictures. 

Inside the castle, you can explore three floors of beautifully decorated rooms, as well as some exhibits on Canadian history. 

This is one of the nicest castles you will ever find in a big city and showcases an interesting combination of ancient architecture and modern technology.

26. Bata Shoe Museum 

The Bata Shoe Museum is a unique tourist attraction in Toronto. The museum displays over a thousand shoes and related shoe artifacts chosen from a collection of nearly 15,000 objects. 

Fashion buffs will love this museum as it has so much interesting information about the development, style, and fashion lore of shoes. 

You can see everything from French chestnut-crushing boots to bear fur shoes to glamorous designer high heels. 

I recommend spending an hour or two here, as that should be enough time to see everything and read all the information. 

👟 From ancient Egyptian sandals to celebrity stilettos, the Bata Shoe Museum got it all! Book your ticket in advance here!

27. Ontario Science Centre

The Ontario Science Centre is an interactive science museum with over 500 exhibits and live science demonstrations. 

It’s a great place to go during the winter or when it is raining. Kids will also love it here because there is plenty to keep them entertained for a few hours. 

Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours here as there is a lot to see and do! 

28. Toronto Zoo 

Toronto Zoo is home to over 5,000 animals and is one of the most diverse zoos in the world. 

The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation, so you can feel good that your money is going towards conservation projects and protecting animals in the wild. 

There are many animal species from around the world at the Toronto Zoo. You can see bears, pandas, giraffes, monkeys, and many more. You can also book an animal encounter to get up close and personal with the wildlife. 

I recommend spending at least 3 hours here as there is a lot to see. 

29. MZTV Museum Of Television & Archive

The MZTV Museum is the world’s most comprehensive collection of television receivers. Here, you can learn all about the history of the technology behind TV. 

The museum is extremely informative and interactive and has a huge collection of different TVs from the past. 

The ticket price is around $12 CAD (~$9 USD), and the museum also offers guided tours. 

30. High Park 

High Park is a beautiful outdoor space in Toronto with well-maintained gardens, a greenhouse, and a mini-zoo within its grounds. 

The park is located to the west of Downtown Toronto and is a nice place to take a walk and just relax for an hour or two. 

If you are visiting Toronto in the fall, then this is an especially nice place to come and admire the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. 

31. Take A Food Tour

Food tours are walking tours of the city that focus on letting you try a variety of the city’s best eats. Food tours are not only a great way to fill your stomach but are also one of the best ways to explore some hidden gems of the city. 

There is a wide variety of food available in Toronto, as it is one of the world’s most diverse cities and has influences from many different countries.

Some of the best places to experience Toronto’s foodie scene are Chinatown, Kensington Market, Little Italy, St. Lawrence Market, and Little India. 

🥞 Experience the best of Toronto’s Food Scene with this tour! It is my favorite food tour in Toronto!

32. Old Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Toronto, dating back to 1878. It’s also one of the most cool coolest places in Downtown Toronto. 

Chinatown is a fun place to go on a night out since the street is lit up in neon red, and there are some great karaoke bars to check out! 

Chinatown is also a great place to go when you are hungry. There are some lovely teahouses and lots of excellent restaurants serving authentic noodles and dumplings. 

33. Yoga Space

If you need to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while, then pop into Yoga Space. This downtown yoga studio offers over 60 drop-in classes every week and even has an onsite therapeutic wellness center.

The staff are welcoming, and many of the sessions are suitable for beginners. 

34. Go Bar Hopping

Downtown Toronto has great nightlife, and there are loads of great places to go for a drink. For a fun night out, you can spend an evening bar hopping around some of the city’s hippest cocktail bars. 

Some of the most popular cocktail bars are Bar Chef, Mother Cocktail Bar, The Library Bar, Famous Last Words, and Midnight Market. 

35. Elmwood Spa

Elmwood Spa is an urban oasis in the heart of Downtown Toronto. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax during your trip. 

The spa offers a range of different treatments, including facials, relaxing massages, and hot stone massages. You’ll also find a swimming pool , whirlpool, and steam room to relax in. 

If you are hungry, there is also a really nice onsite restaurant. 

36. Market 707

Market 707 is a funky little food market made up of old, repurposed shipping containers. Each of the containers is now home to local restaurants and independent businesses. 

You can find everything here, from poutine and grilled cheese sandwiches to unique international dishes like Afghan bean stews!

37. Bicycle Tours

Taking a bike tour of Toronto is a really fun way to explore the city. There are several great bike routes and lots of great tours to choose from. 

I love bike tours as they are a great way to see the city from a different perspective, as well as a good way to get some exercise during your vacation! 

🚲 Have a fun morning bike trip on the Toronto Islands and discover this unique neighborhood with this tour.

38. Helicopter Tour Over Toronto

If you really want to treat yourself, then I recommend taking a helicopter tour over Downtown Toronto . 

Helicopter tours are unique experiences that you will never forget. There’s no doubt that seeing the city’s iconic skyline from the air will probably be the best part of your trip to Toronto. 

Taking a helicopter tour is also one of the best things to do in Toronto Downtown at night, as seeing the city all lit up is simply magical. 

🚁 Soar above Toronto’s iconic skyline and take in breathtaking aerial views on this unforgettable helicopter tour.

39. Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is Toronto’s answer to New York’s Times Square. It’s a busy square in Downtown Toronto with bright lights and big screens. There are even occasional events held here, such as dance performances and art displays. 

You don’t need to spend a lot of time here, but it’s a fun place to hang out for a while and people-watch.

40. Aga Khan Museum

The Aga Khan Museum is located just 15 minutes from Downtown Toronto. The museum is dedicated to Islamic/Persian Art and Muslim culture. 

The building and surrounding grounds are gorgeous and give off calming vibes in contrast to the rest of Downtown Toronto. 

The museum offers guided tours with guides who are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the art. 

FAQs: Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto

How do i spend a day in downtown toronto.

Depending on your interests and budget, you could spend a day in downtown Toronto exploring museums, biking around the city, shopping at the famous Eaton Centre, taking a food tour of Kensington Market, or taking in the views from the iconic CN Tower. There are so many fun ways to spend your time!

What should I not miss in Toronto?

There are a lot of must-see attractions in Toronto that you shouldn’t miss! These include the iconic CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, the incredible Art Gallery of Ontario, the Harbourfront Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and so many more. There is a lot to see in Toronto, and there are more than enough unmissable attractions to keep you busy.

What is downtown Toronto known for?

Downtown Toronto is known for its incredible range of attractions, from cultural hotspots like the Distillery District and the Royal Ontario Museum to shopping destinations like the Eaton Centre and Kensington Market. It’s also home to major sports venues, such as the Rogers Centre and the CN Tower.

Wrap-Up: Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto

There are so many awesome things to do in Downtown Toronto. You could easily spend weeks here and still not get to them all. 

Whether you want to explore museums, eat your way around the city, relax at the waterfront, shop ‘til you drop, or get your adrenaline pumping on the CN Tower’s edge walk, there is something in Toronto to suit everyone! 

When you get hungry after all that sightseeing, be sure to check out the best places to eat in Toronto for all budgets for my top restaurant recommendations!

Read More About Things To Do in Toronto:

• 3 Best Toronto Helicopter Tours for Aerial Views
• Dog Sledding in Toronto: 8 Best Places & Tours
• 15 Best Places to Go Kayaking Near Toronto
• 53 Best Day Trips From Toronto
• The Best Toronto Food Tours: Reviews of the Top 10 for Travellers
• The 12 Best Places to Go Apple Picking Near Toronto
• Ultimate Guide to the Beaches Neighbourhood, Toronto
• Where to Eat in Toronto: For All Budgets
• Visit the Scarborough Bluffs: The Best Hiking Trails & Beaches in Toronto
• 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Balconies
• How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls: 7 Best Ways for an Epic Day Trip
• 21 Best Road Trips in Ontario from Toronto
• 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Private Hot Tubs
• Best Time to Visit Toronto (from a Canadian)
• Is Toronto Worth Visiting: A Local’s Opinion
• These 5 Christmas Tree Farms Near Toronto Are Dog Friendly

More about Toronto, Canada:

• Is Toronto a Province? A Local Weighs In!
• What is the Cost of Living in Toronto?
• Living in Toronto vs. Chicago: Which is the Better City?
• Living in Toronto vs. Montreal: Which City is Right for You?
• Living in Ottawa vs. Toronto: Which City is Right for You?
• 30 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto: Beyond the CN Tower
• 55 Fun Facts About Toronto, Canada + Interesting Facts!
• Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Toronto?

Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

This small town near Toronto with European vibes is Canada's top summer vacay spot for 2024

D reaming of a little summer escape? You may want to head to this enchanting small town near Toronto . The destination was recently named the top summer vacay spot in Canada for 2024 and with its European vibes and charming streets, it's easy to see why.

Airbnb recently revealed its 2024 summer travel trends for Canadians in a press release, from overseas excursions to provincial adventures.

The company told Narcity that this Ontario small town , located near Toronto, is the top trending domestic destination for Canadians this summer.

At just two hours from the city, it's a charming place to escape for a day or longer and enjoy some summer sun.

Blue Mountain Village, located near Collingwood, is a pedestrian village brimming with European charm. The four-season destination features cobblestone streets, cute shops, eateries, outdoor activities and more.

During the summer months, you can hike along scenic trails, ride a giant water tricycle around a pond, ride the open-air gondola, speed through a forest on a mountain coaster and more.

The Village is located close to Scandinave Spa , so you can also pop over there for some rest and relaxation.

One other Ontario destination made it to the top 10 trending domestic destinations for Canadians this summer. St. Catharines features sparkling waters, delicious restaurants and more, making it an idyllic spot for a warm-weather vacay.

Here is the full list of Airbnb's trending domestic summer destinations for Canadians:

• Blue Mountain, Ontario
• La Haute-Gaspésie, Québec
• Québec City, Québec
• Mont-Tremblant, Québec
• Dieppe, New Brunswick
• Hubbards, Nova Scotia
• St. Catharines, Ontario
• Kananaskis, Alberta
• Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador
• Edmundston, New Brunswick

Happy travels!

Blue Mountain Village

www.instagram.com

Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON

Blue Mountain Village website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.