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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.

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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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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

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

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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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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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Toronto's top 10 attractions

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 553 metres in height, this engineering wonder is hard to miss during any trip through the city and you don't want to miss it. Beyond being a very cool building you can 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 take a thrilling 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 striking main entrance to the museum, known as The Crystal and designed by Michael Lee Chin, will draw you in right away. Inside, 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 25-metre 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 litres 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 in safety 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 an angelfish on Christmas Day, 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 traveller 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 neighbourhood 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' art collective, 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 and Toronto-born Frank Gehry, the man behind the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed an expansion to the AGO in 2008 that has earned critical 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 explore. There are secret passageways to discover, including a 245-metre tunnel to the stables and carriage house, the latter of which features an exhibit of vintage cars 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 ice hockey. If you've never seen a game before, you may want to pay a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame External Link Title to get up to speed with Canada's favourite sport. Ice hockey is often used to define Canada and it's here on display, with 65,000 square feet 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.

Rouge National Urban Park

Rouge National Park External Link Title is Toronto's own slice of paradise and Canada's only urban National Park. It is an ecologically protected zone in the Greater Toronto area that straddles cities including Toronto, Markham, Pickering and the Township of Uxbrigde. At a total of 79.1 square km of land, Rouge National Park is an excellent day spent out of the city to reconnect with nature. The options are endless at Rouge, where you can find yourself cycling, hiking, swimming, kayaking, camping External Link Title , and so much more.

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 beautiful 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 while still enjoying the view of the skyline!

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, jewellery, and more. Check it out, from Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Central Canada Travel packages

Niagara Hiking - DeLuxe    External Link Title

From CAD 1,875 per person (double occupancy)

5 days / 4 nights

This tour is based in Niagara-on-the-Lake at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel and features hikes along the southern section of Ontario’s Bruce Trail amongst tender-fruit orchards and wineries. There’s also a wealth of Canadian history, access to theatre at the Shaw Festival, and a day visiting world-famous Niagara Falls.

St. Lawrence River Cruising    External Link Title

From CAD 4,045 per person

7 days / 6 nights

Sail between picturesque communities and get to know the magic of the magnificent St. Lawrence River on this 7-day small-ship cruise.

Algonquin Explorer    External Link Title

From CAD 895 per person

4 days / 3 nights

Step out of the city & experience the best of “up north” in Algonquin;  it will give you a taste of “up north” within easy drive of Toronto.

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16 Cool Facts About Toronto's Must-See Attractions

Here’s what you probably didn’t know about toronto’s most iconic attractions and neighbourhoods..

Ever been in the presence of a Martian meteorite or taken a walk through a blockbuster movie set? In Toronto, you can. There’s probably a thing or two you didn’t know about our city’s popular landmarks and neighbourhoods, each with an interesting story to tell.

1. The CN Tower weathers all storms

Towering over the city at 1,815 ft, the CN Tower  is Toronto’s landmark attraction and is famous for offering unparalleled views of the city.

A little-known tidbit is that as the tallest structure in the city, it’s no stranger to lightning. In fact, it gets struck around 75 times per year. Do a quick CN Tower search on Instagram, and you’ll come across jaw-dropping photos of the gorgeous occurrence.

Thankfully, the Tower’s build is more than equipped to handle it, with electrons easily flowing through and causing zero damage—just incredibly cool photos. Who knows, next time you visit, maybe lightning will strike. Buy CN Tower tickets online .

Where to eat nearby

The CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant  serves fine Canadian cuisine paired with an outstanding, revolving view of Toronto.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses 12 sharks

Among the 16,000 marine animals at  Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada  live 12 impressive sharks. That’s right, 12. You must be thinking, what do they eat? Surprisingly, the Aquarium only feeds them three times per week due to their naturally slow metabolisms.

The building is also made with special shielding to protect the sharks from disturbances via the electrical systems. When the sharks are happy, everyone’s happy. Buy tickets for Ripley’s Aquarium  online and see their magnificence in person.  

Grab a quick bite at Ripley’s Café, or enjoy casual eats and arcade games across the street at  The Rec Room .

3. The Royal Ontario Museum displays Martian meteorites

Is there life on Mars? Who knows! What we do know is that there are meteorites at  the ROM , three of which are Martian.

Meteorites (or space rocks) are surprisingly common, with over 100 having landed on Earth to date, some even originating from the moon. Buy ROM tickets online  and find the meteorites at the Earth’s Treasures department during your next visit or browse  the ROM’s online database .

Head down the street to  Cibo Wine Bar  for delicious Italian cuisine, an exquisite selection of wine and a lively, rustic ambiance.

4. The Art Gallery of Ontario owns one of Toronto’s most popular pieces

Before Yayoi Kusama’s  Let’s Survive Forever  enchanted the city, one of  the AGO’s  most popular acquisitions was Henry Moore’s  Large Two Forms . In fact, it’s considered one of Toronto’s most photographed works of art.

The avant-garde, corporeal structure is the largest of Henry Moore’s sculptures displayed at the museum. Find it at the AGO’s rear, in Grange Park. Buy AGO tickets online .

Fill up at the AGO’s very own  AGO Bistro , designed by Frank Gehry. The seasonal menu incorporates only the freshest ingredients sourced locally.  

5. The Toronto Islands have the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes

If you love history, then this 200-year-old monument is for you. And if you’re in search of ghosts for Halloween, here’s a good place to start. 

The Gibraltar Point Beach Lighthouse  is one of Toronto’s oldest buildings dating back to 1809, and is also supposedly haunted by its first keeper, John Paul Radelmüller. As the story goes, he disappeared under mysterious circumstances and still guards the lighthouse to this day.

Ferries to the island depart from Queens Quay daily. Buy ferry tickets online . 

Grab a bite with a view at  Island Café , directly across the Ward’s Island ferry dock.

6. The Distillery Historic District has a reputation for ghost sightings

Speaking of ghosts, they seem to have a pattern of haunting Toronto’s oldest locations.  The Distillery District  is a pedestrian-only neighbourhood known for once housing the largest distillery in Canada (Gooderham & Worts), and with buildings dating back to the 1830s, ghost sightings have been reported by locals and tourists alike.

In fact, they’re so common that they’ve inspired a handful of haunted Distillery District tours, including a haunted Segway tour with Go Tours Canada  and  haunted walks . Why not try this fun alternative to your usual Halloween party?

Also see:   Get into the Spooky Spirit with a Ghost Tour of the Distillery Historic District

Enjoy authentic Mexican eats surrounded by eclectic and stylish décor at  El Catrin .  

7. St. Lawrence Market was Toronto’s first public market

Originally called Market Square,  St. Lawrence Market ’s inception was due to an increase in York’s (Toronto’s) population. Settlers decided it was time to open a proper market to feed their growing city.

It immediately became  the  city centre where locals would convene and hold social celebrations. Nearly 200 years later, St. Lawrence Market thrives as a culinary hub where foodies gather for local and artisanal eats. And as far as we know, no ghost sightings yet.

Also see:   The Must-Eats of Toronto’s Historic St. Lawrence Market

The Market overflows with scrumptious food options at every turn and hosts  food tours . Try the Peameal Bacon, a local favourite. Or take a sandwich tour around the market .

8. The Hockey Hall of Fame has an interactive model rink

Looking to brush up on your hockey skills? Face up against Carey Price and Frederik Anderson to practice your slapshots at the  Hockey Hall of Fame .

We should probably mention that you’ll be playing against virtual versions of the hockey legends—still cool, nonetheless! Practice your technique with a real puck and stick inside of an immersive model rink as the virtual goalies protect their nets. Buy Hockey Hall of Fame tickets online .

Steps away from the Hockey Hall of Fame is  The Bottom Line , a yummy sports bar owned and operated by former NHL-er Wayne Cowley.

9. Casa Loma moonlights as a blockbuster movie set

Casa Loma  is primarily known for being North America’s only castle. Built in 1914, its beautiful Gothic revival design, immaculate flower gardens and overall opulence can’t be found anywhere else.

For this reason, it’s become a prime location for film shoots, some of which are Hollywood hits. You may recognize it in  X-Men ,  Chicago  and most recently,  Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World . Keep that in mind during your next visit as you walk through Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. Buy Casa Loma tickets online .

For a meal as regal as Casa Loma itself, try  Blue Blood Steakhouse , located in the castle. Opt for the decadent meat and seafood dishes.  

10. The Toronto Zoo began with a single deer

It’s hard to imagine that  the largest zoo in Canada  and the third largest in the world, with over 5,000 animals, started with one deer.

It’s true! At some point in the early 1890s, Daniel Lamb was gifted a deer, which prompted him to open Cabbagetown’s Riverdale Zoo. And the rest is history.

Today, the zoo has over 2.87 km 2  of walking trails within seven geographic areas. From the African Savannah to the Gorilla Rainforest, safely explore the zoo by foot or by car. Buy Toronto Zoo tickets online .

There are ample  food options on-site , including favourites like burgers and beavertails.

11. The Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square got a makeover

Nathan Phillips Square’s iconic Toronto Sign  wasn’t originally built to be a permanent city fixture. Created solely for the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games, the 3D installation became so popular and well-received that Toronto decided to keep it.

Except it wasn’t constructed to last more than a couple of years. It fared pretty well considering Toronto’s winters but was replaced by a more durable sign in September 2020 and updated again in September 2022.

The current vinyl wrap is an artwork titled  Rekindle  by artist Joseph Sagaj. The new wrap was created in recognition of UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages, which focuses on the rights of Indigenous language speakers worldwide.

Treat yourself to  The Chase , a scenic rooftop restaurant that serves fine, fresh cuisine in a beautiful setting.  

12. Kensington Market was originally a Jewish market

Previously known as The Jewish Market,  Kensington Market  was predominantly inhabited by Toronto’s Jewish community (around 60,000 people) for the first half of the 20 th  century. A go-to market for the city’s immigrants, they often frequented the locally-owned shops for rare imports from around the world.

Eventually, the Jewish community migrated north, and Kensington attracted Caribbean immigrants instead. However, Kensington’s Jewish roots are still present among the many synagogues throughout the area.

It’s hard to name just one spot, as Kensington is filled with culinary gems. Local favourites include  Seven Lives  (tacos),  Rasta Pasta  (Jamaican-Italian fusion) and  Otto’s Berlin Döner  (German street food). 

Also see:   Iconic Eats of Kensington Market

13. The Scarborough Bluffs conceal an Ancient Greek theatre

Hidden along the  Scarborough Bluffs  is  Guild Park and Gardens , a beautiful sculptural garden filled with Toronto’s salvaged architecture from times past and dreamy rose bushes.

You’ll feel like you’re walking among Ancient Greek and Roman relics when in actuality, they’re remnants from Toronto’s ornate historical buildings that were demolished. The best part of the garden is the Bank of Toronto’s salvaged archways, set up to mimic a Greek theatre.

You can also overlook Lake Ontario and the rest of the Bluffs from the garden’s cliffs.

Also see:   How to Spend a Day at the Scarborough Bluffs

Treat yourself to traditional Italian cuisine at  Il Fresco , just a 5-minute drive or bus ride away.   

14. Yonge-Dundas Square sees 100,000 people daily

Bright, electric, lively and poignant. There are as many adjectives to describe Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square as there are people. Oh, and did we mention entertaining?

If you need a jolt, spark of inspiration or simply something to see—there’s usually an event going on—head to the Square. It’s Canada’s busiest intersection, with 100,000 people crossing it on the regular.

Surrounded by major landmarks like  Ed Mirvish Theatre  and the  CF Toronto Eaton Centre , the intersection’s popularity is no surprise. Plus, there’s free Wi-Fi.

Head to  Don Don Izakaya  for delicious and shareable Japanese-inspired plates and one of the best Sake selections in town.

Also see:   An East Asian Food Tour along Yonge Street  

15. The Ontario Science Centre brings flying to new heights

At the  Ontario Science Centre ’s Above & Beyond: An Interactive Flight exhibition, you can learn about the history of air and space travel. The exhibit features immersive and hands-on activities, including riding a space elevator or being the pilot of a jet! 

While you’re there, explore the other interactive exhibits as well (over 500 of them), including an immersive, hyper-realistic rainforest. 

Grab a bite at one of the many eateries within the Ontario Science Centre, or head to  Hakka Garden  for Indian-Chinese fusion.

16. Wonderland’s Wonder Mountain wears many hats

Canada’s Wonderland ’s Wonder Mountain is more than just the theme park’s showpiece landmark. When it was first built, the Mountain was equipped with beacons up top to alert low-altitude planes from Vaughan’s nearby airport.

Nowadays, the beacons are gone, but the Mountain still serves as an air conditioner for the theme park. The chilled water loop that circulates from within the Mountain flows 30,000 gallons of water per minute, sending air to Wonderland’s restaurants, arcades, shops and more. Call it the world’s coolest air conditioner. Buy Canada's Wonderland tickets online .

Wonderland itself is  filled with eclectic food , from burgers, hot dogs and funnel cake, to Mexican eats, gourmet Mac and Cheese, beavertails and more.

Save On Entry With The Toronto Museum Pass

The Toronto Museum Pass is the best way to visit up to seven museums for one exclusive price. Explore iconic Toronto landmarks and immerse yourself in centuries of art, history and culture.

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Places To Visit In Toronto – Top 35+ Toronto Attractions

If you are looking for places to visit in Toronto, we got your back! Toronto is all about art, culture, multicultural experiences, food, green urban spaces, museums, sports, and friendly locals (like us, eh). So what’s not to love?

As you know, Road Trip Ontario is based in Toronto and locals (one of us born and bred), we’ve put together the top places to visit in Toronto + hidden gems. A whopping 35+ of the best Toronto attractions to familiarize you with the city we call home.

Usually, we plan day trips and weekend getaways from Toronto –– but whether you’re a Canadian, a local Torontonian, here for a game, a concert, a show or a tourist passing through, you’ll find that there’s so much to discover in this city. Oh, and once you’ve explored everything on this list, why not consider an epic day trip from Toronto ?

Toronto History

• Toronto, the most densely populated city in Canada and the capital of Ontario, has gained a reputation for being the nation’s most renowned city. This may be why many of us Torontonians believe that Toronto is Canada.
• Despite its immense size, acclaim, and the sentiment of its residents, Toronto is not the capital of Canada – that honour is reserved for Ottawa, where the country’s federal government is based.
• The name Toronto has a long history, dating back to 1675 when it appeared on maps as a water channel between Lake Simcoe and Couchiching. Over time, the name made its way south to a fort on the banks of the Humber River known as Fort Toronto. This was the first settlement in the area and ultimately lent its name to the modern city of Toronto.
• The Mohawk people referred to the channel connecting Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching as “Tkaronto,” meaning “where there are trees standing in the water”. This channel, now known as “The Narrows,” has been documented since 1615, when Samuel de Champlain recorded it.
• If you want to sound like a local, don’t pronounce the second “T” like “Turonno”

Getting To Toronto

Toronto has two international airports: Toronto Pearson International and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Toronto Pearson is Canada’s busiest airport and offers connections to each continent.

The quickest and most budget-friendly way of travelling from the airport to Toronto is with the UP Express (Union-Pearson Express), which departs from Terminal 1. Alternatively, you could take a taxi, Uber, or public transportation.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is minutes from Toronto’s downtown core and located on the Toronto Islands. Travellers can take a brief ferry or walk through the underground tunnel under Lake Ontario. Both Porter Airlines and Air Canada offer flights from this airport.

You can get to Toronto by train from other parts of Ontario and neighbouring provinces using GO Transit, VIA Rail, and AMTRAK + VIA Rail if coming from the USA.

Driving to Toronto from nearby areas is easy, with Highways 2, 401, 407, and the Queen Elizabeth Way + Gardner Expressway. Additionally, if you wish to cross the border, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie, and Windsor are the closest points of entry.

Situated between two Toronto Subway Stations and accessible through the underground PATH, the Gray Coach Terminal, now known as the Toronto Coach Terminal, is the city’s central hub for Coach Canada, Greyhound Canada, and Ontario Northland bus lines.

Getting Around Toronto

Full disclosure, it takes an hour to get from Toronto to Toronto by car in any direction. Our 5th season is construction. Driving is a nightmare as great and necessary as construction is for a continuously growing city. The best way to get around Toronto is by walking, biking, or using the streetcar (tram) and subway (train).

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) which operates the city’s trains, buses and streetcars, offers Day Passes – available at all subway stations. This allows unlimited rides on all TTC transit within 24 hours. This pass is especially affordable for those who plan to make a few trips during their stay.

For those who want to explore the city in style, Bike Share has several bike stations scattered around the city so visitors can explore the city quickly and effectively.

Hop-on-hop-off-bus

An efficient and popular way to see many of the city’s attractions is on one of the many sightseeing tours like the hop-on-hop-off bus tour , which provides tourists with an inexpensive and convenient way of visiting Toronto’s most popular attractions.

Many tour operators offer narrated tours in languages other than English, including Spanish, French, Mandarin, and Japanese, to mention a few.

Top Things to See in Toronto (Day 1)

Before we get started, Toronto is the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples. It is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Like most of our itineraries, we use the CN Tower as our starting point. Since Toronto is a big city, we’ll logistically divide destinations based on their proximity to each other, from the CN Tower, and what you can fit within a day.

1. CN Tower (The most popular of all places to visit in Toronto)

Wanting to get a birds-eye view of Toronto? Then head on over to the famous CN Tower. Standing at 553.3 meters high, it’s the tallest free-standing building in the Western Hemisphere and the ninth tallest in the world.  

While this Toronto tourist attraction can be seen from almost anywhere in the downtown area, the best view is definitely from the Sky Pod. At 447 meters high, you’ll be able to see as far as Niagara Falls on a clear day. If you’re looking for a more death-defying experience, stroll along the 365-meter-high “Edge Walk.” 

 After the sightseeing, why not grab a bite to eat at the 360-degree revolving restaurant?

2. Rogers Centre

Rogers Centre (aka SkyDome, its former name that most of us still call it) is a multi-purpose stadium home to the Toronto Blue Jays. Opened in 1989, this iconic stadium is the world’s first fully retractable roof stadium and is a symbol of Toronto’s sporty side.

The Rogers Centre has hosted numerous major events, including the 1993 World Series and the 2009 World Baseball Classic. Many cultural and musical events occur annually if a game isn’t on.

3. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

In downtown Toronto, near the CN Tower, sits the underwater world that is Ripley’s Aquarium. With over 20 000 marine and freshwater specimens, there is no shortage of mesmerizing water animals to spot. 

The underwater tunnel is the perfect place to observe these creatures – you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to an entirely different world. There are also interactive displays, touch tanks and many other educational opportunities, making the Ripley Aquarium one of the must-see places in Toronto for families.

4. Toronto Railway Museum

Toronto Railway Museum is a great place to discover the history of Toronto’s railroads and railway industry. The museum has two permanent exhibitions – one is dedicated to the Railways of Toronto, and the other is to the Working Railway.

It also features many interesting displays, including a 1940s Pullman Station, a railway post office, and collections of artifacts from the days of steam.

5. Steam Whistle Biergärten

Steam Whistle Biergärten, located in the historic Roundhouse Park, offers a wide selection of Steam Whistle’s craft beer, local spirits and delicious eats. The 20,000-square-foot courtyard with a giant fireplace and plenty of seating is open daily from May to October and hosts various events throughout the summer months.

The beer selection includes house-made lagers, IPAs, ciders and more. It also has a full bar offering wine and cocktails. In addition, there is a selection of food items such as wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads and more.

6. Amsterdam Brewhouse

Amsterdam BrewHouse is a great and popular beer-inspired place to visit in Toronto that’s located by the lake and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. Amsterdam Brewhouse has a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits and an array of delicious food options to pair it with.

With up to 15 different beers on tap, including some hard-to-find seasonal specialties. Amsterdam Brewhouse has a great atmosphere and, during the summer, can have long lineups of people trying to get in, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Toronto.

7. Harbourfront Centre

Harbourfront Centre is a non-profit cultural organization and landmark on Toronto’s waterfront founded in 1972. The Centre presents over 4,000 events year-round with access to leading Canadian and international artists in music, theatre, dance, literature, visual arts, family programming and more.

With four galleries, a craft & design store, a public promenade, an outdoor stage and several outdoor sites for festivals and special events, there is a good chance that something will be happening during your visit.

Things To See In Toronto | East Of The CN Tower

8. scotiabank arena.

Scotiabank Arena, formerly known as the Air Canada Centre, is an indoor arena home to the Toronto Raptors (2019 world champions! “WE THE NORTH!”) and the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The arena is owned and operated by the Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment business division, which also owns both teams.

9. Fairmont Royal York

The Fairmont Royal York is a historic, AAA/CAA four-diamond luxury hotel and is one of the city’s iconic landmarks. The hotel has over 1,000 rooms and suites and offers various services and amenities, including upscale dining, meeting and banquet facilities, a fitness centre and spa, salon services, and event spaces.

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

Speaking of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Canadians love their sport – especially ice hockey! If you are a fan of this sport or want to learn more about it, you must head to the Hockey Hall of Fame. This museum holds all types of memorabilia – from players’ jerseys and kits to the famous Stanley Cup. 

Coming to this museum is one of the best things to do in Toronto with kids. Besides browsing the exhibitions, you can test your ice hockey skills. This hall of fame offers interactive games where you can shoot pucks at a digital goalie – or try and be the goalie if you’re up for it. And yes, you can try these games out even if you’re an adult.

11. Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building) + Berczy Park

The Gooderham Building and Berczy Park are two awesome downtown landmarks en route to St. Lawrence Market and The Distillery District. The Gooderham Building, commonly known as the Flatiron Building, is a notable Victorian Era building in the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood that has existed since 1892.

Behind the Flatiron Building is Berczy Park, which is on this list simply because it has the coolest 2-tiered fountain with dog and cat sculptures.

12. The Cathedral Church of St. James

The Cathedral Church of St. James is the oldest Anglican church in Toronto. Established in 1797, it was the first Anglican church in Upper Canada and served as the original seat of the diocese of Toronto.

The building is an example of Gothic Revival architecture, built from local stone in the 1830s and features a 137-foot-high tower and spire, making it a prominent landmark in the city.

13. St. Lawrence Market

This public market on the southwest corner of Front and Lower Jarvis Street is filled with vendors. The sights, smell, and grand interior contribute to a charming atmosphere. If you find yourself in St Lawrence Market, sample some delicious foods or treat yourself (or a friend) to a gift or two. 

This spot is a Toronto must-do, even if you’re just visiting Toronto for the weekend.

14. Distillery District

Whether you love a craft beer, a glass of wine or good old G&T, you’ll find it in this industrial Toronto neighbourhood. Taking a segway tour is a great way to explore the area. But if you’re planning on sampling some (boozy) goods, then a walking tour might be the smarter option. 

Distillery District is known for its hip, broody atmosphere, which makes it the perfect place for a host of events. During the warmer months, there’s the Music City Summer series and a weekly Sunday market. Otherwise, there’s a host of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes waiting to be discovered.

Toronto Places To Visit | North Of The CN Tower (Day 2)

King street.

From the CN Tower, we head North to King Street. Within the downtown core, King Street is a major cultural and entertainment hub (Entertainment District). It contains many shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, live theatres, movie theatres, concert halls, the Toronto International Film Festival and other businesses.

15. Roy Thomson Hall

Roy Thomson Hall is home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and hosts many other performances and special events throughout the year. The acoustics and architecture of the hall have made it a popular venue for both classical and popular music acts, as well as comedy and stage performances.

Canadian architect Arthur Erickson designed the building, which can seat 2 630 and was completed in 1982.

16. Princess of Wales Theatre

The historic Princess of Wales Theatre is a 1,000-seat theatre built in 1893 and is the oldest in Canada. Canadian impresario George William Ross originally owned the building, but Mirvish Productions owns it.

Although the theatre was originally built as a vaudeville house –– This type of light entertainment was popular from the mid-1890s to the early 1930s and comprised a range of performers, including magicians, acrobats, comedians, trained animals, jugglers, singers, and dancers, each act lasting for approximately 10-15 minutes)

It has since hosted numerous theatrical productions, concerts and events and is one of the most renowned theatres in the city.

17. TIFF Bell Lightbox

TIFF Bell Lightbox is an entertainment venue, the headquarters of the Toronto International Film Festival, and a multi-screen cinema complex with five screens. It opened on September 12, 2010, as the permanent home of the Toronto International Film Festival.

When the TIFF isn’t taking over Toronto in September, The TIFF Bell Lightbox also features regular film screenings, lectures, discussions, festivals, workshops, and year-round installations.

The complex includes two restaurants, a lounge, galleries, a gift shop, and learning and rental spaces.

Queen Street

As we continue north, we hit Queen Street at the centre of the Fashion District. It is one of the busiest streets in the downtown area, lined with an eclectic mix of stores, from high-end fashion boutiques, thrift shops, bars and restaurants.

18. Campbell House Museum

Campbell House Museum houses various artifacts relating to Sir William Campbell’s and his family’s lives. The museum is not only a beautiful historical landmark with a grandiose Georgian-style home; it was built in 1822 by William Campbell, one of Toronto’s foremost architects and builders.

The museum offers a variety of tours, where you can explore the house and learn about its history. In addition, many events and programs are held throughout the year that offers educational and interactive activities.

It is also rumoured that the house may also be haunted.

19. Osgoode Hall

Osgoode Hall is an iconic building in the heart of Toronto built in 1829. The first Law Society of Upper Canada initially occupied it, but today it serves as a historic landmark and museum.

The building is Neo-Classical architecture, with two large towers on either side of the main entrance. The building’s facade is adorned with several sculptural details, such as the figure of Lady Justice above the entrance and the grand pillars that flank the entranceway.

Visitors are welcomed with a majestic grand staircase leading up to the main entrance.

20. Toronto City Hall + Toronto Sign + Nathan Phillips Square

If you ever wondered where to find that multi-coloured ‘Toronto’ sign you’ve seen on social media? Well, Nathan Phillips Square is where you’ll find it! But that’s not the only reason to visit Toronto’s urban plaza.

This square hosts several events throughout the year, such as a New Year’s Eve party and the Cavalcade of Lights Festival. Located in the center, you’ll find a sizable, man-made pond (in the summer) that doubles as an ice skating rink in the winter months.

21. Toronto Old City Hall

Toronto Old City Hall is an architectural landmark built from 1889 to 1899 and was once the home of the city’s municipal government for nearly a century. The building is one of Canada’s most prominent examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and is a National Historic.

22. Eaton Centre 

The Eaton Centre is the city’s only mega shopping destination. With 230 national and international retailers, it offers shoppers an abundance of shopping opportunities and entertainment options. In addition, the Eaton Centre caters to its visitors with various dining selections.

23. Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is an iconic landmark in Toronto, comparable to the iconic Times Square in New York City –– but on a smaller scale. The area is always bustling with tourists and locals, enjoying the open space and eclectic atmosphere. The vivid LCDs illuminate the square and capture the electrifying energy of downtown Toronto.

24. Little Canada

Don’t let the miniature size of the Little Canada exhibits discourage you from visiting – the amount of detail and work they have included in each little location is incredible! From the parliament buildings in Little Ottawa to the Little Bay of Fundy with its own tide schedule, much attention has been paid to each element they have included.

Except for the CN Tower, the exhibits are built on a standard train model scale of 1:87. Its impressive size in real life is mirrored in the Little Canada world, where they had to adopt a 1:160 scale to fit in the building.

If you fall in love with the display, you can even leave yourself in the Little Canada world! Using the Littlization Station, a 360-degree photo is taken to create a Little Me replica reflecting every aspect of you and your appearance on the day of your visit. This includes your hairstyle, the clothing you’re wearing, and even your pose.  The final ¾” Little Me can be placed in the exhibit of your choice or have a miniature version of yourself made to display at home.

Learn more here: Discover Little Canada: Travel The Nation Coast To Coast Right In The Heart of Toronto

25. Art Gallery of Ontario

Calling all art lovers. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO for short) and its 95 000 art piece collections are calling your name! From contemporary art to Renaissance masterpieces, you’ll get to admire various artworks from across the globe. 

When you’re not ambling through the galleries, you can partake in one of the interesting workshops and grab a bite to eat at the AGO Bistro.

26. Graffiti Alley

This is a Toronto must-see for tourists and locals alike. Running parallel to Queens Street West and Richmond Street West lies an alleyway with a kaleidoscope of colours. This is the place to go if you want to see a more alternative side of the art scene!

27. Kensington Market

Mixed in with Chinatown, Kensington Market is a historic, bustling, eclectic and diverse community home to immigrants and locals for more than 100 years. The area is full of colourful shops, cafes, restaurants, and markets of all kinds, making it one of the city’s most vibrant and interesting places to explore.

This is one of our favourite spots in the city and a great place to find unique original items, whether new or used and grab a bite or a beer at Kensington Brewery.

Toronto Attractions | Further North Of The CN Tower (Day 3)

28. university of toronto campus.

If you want a Harry Potter-type experience, start the day at the University of Toronto Campus.

In 1827, King’s College was established, making it the first university of higher learning in Upper Canada. The University of Toronto is home to twelve distinct colleges, with two satellite campuses in Scarborough and Mississauga.

29. Royal Ontario Museum

At first glance, the Royal Ontario Museum presents a contradictory sight. Jutting out from the building’s midsection is the museum’s most recent addition – an architectural masterpiece resembling a crystalline structure made of glass and aluminum. On either side stands the original museum’s walls which were done in Italianate and Neo-Romanesque architecture. 

Once you step through the front doors, you’ll be transported into a natural history, art and culture world. Ever seen an Egyptian sarcophagus or a real-life meteorite collection? You can see that and so much more at this must-see attraction in Toronto.

30. Yorkville

Recently named one of the hippest and most vibrant neighbourhoods in Toronto, Yorkville is known as a quiet, posh residential area which has evolved into one of Toronto’s trendiest hotspots. From high-end boutiques to outdoor art and trendy cafes and eateries.

One of the most popular and iconic spots in Yorkville is the Mink Mile. This stretch of Bloor Street is lined with some of the most luxurious stores in Toronto, such as Coach, Burberry, and Harry Rosen.

31. Bata Shoe Museum

At the Bata Shoe Museum, you can explore their unique collection of more than 13,000 shoes and footwear-related artifacts. The museum is home to some of the world’s oldest and most unusual footwear.

From ancient Egyptian sandals to modern high-heeled stilettos, you can learn about the history of shoe making and its social importance. With interactive displays to guided tours with experienced curators, this is a great stop for shoe and fashion enthusiasts.

32. Casa Loma (One of the top Toronto Attractions)

Ever dreamed of building your own ostentatious, medieval-style castle? Perhaps you won’t get to do it in this lifetime, but you can certainly imagine what it would be like during a tour of Casa Loma. 

This 98-bedroom castle was built in the early 1900s for Sir Henry Pellatt , a Canadian multi-millionaire. When you’re not exploring the secret passageways, towers and decorated suites, you can stroll about the sprawling 5-acre garden.

Places To Go In Toronto | East Of The CN Tower

33. fort york national historic site.

Fort York National Historic Site is home to the nation’s largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings. It was established as long ago as 1793 to protect the harbour from an American invasion.

The fort is open to the public seven days a week and offers a variety of activities, including guided tours, educational programs and interactive exhibits. During the summer months, regular re-enactments of battles take place in and around the fort, allowing visitors to experience a piece of history first-hand.

34. BMO Field

BMO Field, located at Exhibition Place in Toronto, is home to the Toronto Football Club (Toronto FC) and the Toronto Argonauts (CFL). With 30,000 people, the field can host other large-scale events, such as outdoor concerts.

35. The Exhibition Place, aka The Ex

The Ex is an age-old summertime attraction in Toronto and is the largest fair in all of Canada. it covers 200 acres of land with over 800 exhibitions and games, including bowling, bumper cars, carnival rides, video arcades, and so much more

They also have classic fair food like cotton candy, candied apples, popcorn, and extreme food items such as fried crickets or hotdog-flavoured ice cream.

Where To Go In Toronto | South Of The CN Tower

36. toronto islands.

Where to go in Toronto? Well, all you have to do is look out at the small cluster of islands off the shore of downtown Toronto. This small archipelago is one of North America’s largest urban car-free communities (well, besides the handful of service vehicles).

There are plenty of things to do while visiting the Toronto Islands, such as rowing, sailing, cycling and walking. During the summer, the Toronto Islands host many outdoor events like music festivals. There’s also the Centreville Amusement Park if you’re looking for some exhilarating fun. 

While you can easily tour the islands on your own, taking a guided bike or boat tour of the Toronto harbour and several islands is a great way to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. When you’re on any islands, look back at the mainland – on clear days, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Toronto skyline.

More Time In Toronto, More Toronto Attractions (Day 4 and Beyond)

37. allan gardens – toronto botanical garden.

With almost four acres of land and 17 gardens the size of cities, there’s plenty to be seen. There are also numerous trails to meander along – you could easily spend an entire day amongst the flowers. 

The Toronto Botanical Garden is run by a non-profit organization that aims to educate and inspire visitors through its wonderfully designed garden spaces. You should pop into the seasonal cafe for a sweet treat when you’re not admiring the flowers. 

38. Ontario Science Centre 

The Ontario Science Centre is one of the must-do Toronto activities – it’s bubbling with curiosity, inspiration and creativity. Be prepared; a lot is going on at this Toronto attraction. 

You’ll be able to interact with exhibits, get hands-on with science experiments or observe a live presentation. If your kid wants to become an astronaut or scientist one day, send them on over to the impressive KidSpark – a place of fun and learning. 

Over and above this, there are several outdoor displays too! You’ll never have a dull moment at this attraction.

39. Rouge National Urban Park

This is a great place to go in Toronto if you want to escape the city bustle. With no entrance fees and only an hour’s drive sitting between you and this Toronto must-see, what’s stopping you from enjoying this tranquil spot? 

This urban national park boasts an array of animal species and terrains. You can sunbathe on the beaches of Lake Ontario, paddle along the river, or explore the dense forests. Other activities include camping, hiking along the trails, fishing in the marshland and learning about some of Canada’s oldest known indigenous sites. 

If you’re looking to get further away from the city, consider heading further north, where you can hike in Huntsville or spend the weekend camping .

Where To Stay In Toronto + Map

Final thoughts: top toronto places to visit.

When it comes to top places to visit, you can see why Toronto should be top of the list. This city is truly fantastic and has something for everyone – whether you’re a foodie, sports enthusiast or art lover. We might be a tad biased, but we truly want you to love our city as much as we do.

If you know of any other hidden gems in Toronto and think they should be included in this list, drop a comment below – We’d love to hear from you!

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The World As I See It

One Ontario lady with a passion for travel and inspiring others to get outdoors and explore more

• Canada / Ontario / Toronto / Travel

Guide to the 40 Best Places to Visit in Toronto

by Stephanie · Published December 31, 2022 · Updated March 3, 2023

One of the best places to visit in Canada is Toronto! It’s the capital of Ontario and is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world. So, if you’re looking for cities in North America that offer a slice of every other country, then Toronto is it! Plus, there is a ton of things to do in Toronto! The city offers travellers something to suit everyone’s interests. You’ll find parks, festivals, and diverse restaurants. That’s on top of all the Toronto tourist attractions!

As Canada’s largest city, planning a trip to Toronto can be daunting. Book your flight or plan your next road trip to Toronto now! Because I’ve rounded up the best places to visit in Toronto for you! Plus, in this Toronto travel guide you’ll learn where to stay, shop, get around, and more!

Top Toronto Attractions

Growing up in the Toronto I didn’t go to many of the top attractions in the city. As often happens with locals. Well, that’s changed and I still return to many of the top tourist attractions in Toronto now! Below you’ll find a list of the top attractions that are a must for first-time visitors to Toronto!

This post contains affiliate links. By booking through these links I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Dominating the city skyline is the CN Tower . Towering over 1800 feet, it’s one of the top attractions in Toronto for many reasons!

I still remember stories from my father when he watched and photographed the tower being built in the 1970s! Originally the CN Tower was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. However, the world caught up but it’s still in the top 10!

As one of the best places to visit in Ontario , the CN Tower is a must! It offers an assortment of experiences. Plus, it offers one of the best views in Toronto over Lake Ontario and the city!

The CN Tower is home to a glass floor you can walk upon as well as two observation decks. The first is at over 1,000 feet and the second, called the SkyPod, is one of the highest observation platforms in the world at 1,465 feet. In addition, there’s the 360Restaurant. The restaurant offers fine dining above the city with revolving views.

If you’re looking for crazy things to do in Toronto then try the CN Tower Edge Walk! At over 1,000 feet it is the world’s highest hands-free full-circle walk! Adventure seekers are harnessed up and encouraged to push their limits. You’ll find yourself outside the tower on a five-foot ledge where you can lean out over the city below!

Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON

Yonge & Dundas Square

Renunciant of Times Square in New York City, Yonge and Dundas Square is a Toronto landmark! Surrounded by flashy jumbo screen billboards, you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants around the square too. Right next door is the Toronto Eaton Centre!

The intersection in downtown Toronto was revitalized in the 1990s. It’s now a vibrant public space that hosts plenty of free concerts, community events, and even movies.

Plus, if you’re looking for sightseeing tours in Toronto, the square is a hotspot for them! You can jump aboard the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour here. This tour is great for first time visitors to Toronto and even for locals! I learned so much when I took the tour. You can hop on or off at the various stops, which include the top sights, museums, and places in Toronto. Plus, you’ll learn various interesting stories about the city too!

Address: 1 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON

Did you know that there is a castle in Toronto? It’s true! Perched atop a hill downtown stands Casa Loma. The castle was built in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt and his family. Inspired by castles in Europe, this grand abode is home to nearly 100 rooms, 30 bathrooms, and a library with 10,000 books!

Casa Loma is now a museum with period pieces showcasing the opulence of the time. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of the castle. Wander through secret passageways, check out the views of the gardens, and attend some of the incredible events.

In the summer there’s live music and outdoor dinner parties at the castle. However, one of the best times to visit is in December! Casa Loma is transformed into an enchanted wonderland for the holidays with Christmas lights and décor. Be sure to add Casa Loma to your itinerary if you’re planning to spend Christmas in Toronto !

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON

Royal Ontario Museum

One of the largest museums in North America is located in downtown Toronto! The Royal Ontario Museum is affectionately called the ROM by locals. Plus, it’s considered one of the best museums in Toronto!

The Royal Ontario Museum is home to a collection of over 10 million pieces. As the largest museum in Canada, the ROM showcases art, specimens of natural history, and cultural objects from around the world. You can easily spend the whole day exploring its 40 different galleries and exhibit spaces!

With a sprawling building and millions of pieces to see, the museum is overwhelming. Not only in its collection but also in the architecture too! However, there are a few top places to visit in the ROM.

One of the best exhibits is the Age of the Dinosaurs! Here you’ll meet life-sized dinosaurs including Gordo the Barosaurus. He’s 27 metres long and is the largest real fossil dinosaur skeleton mounted in Canada! Another must, especially for kids, is the Bat Cave! Visitors can wander through a replica of a Jamaican cave that’s dark and filled with the sounds and models of bats!

The museum is also home to meteorites, precious gem stones and galleries representing ancient cultures form around the world. I highly recommend the Egypt, Greece, and Chinese Temple Art Galleries.

Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON

Nathan Phillips Square & Toronto Sign

In the heart of the city is Nathan Phillips Square. It’s one of the best places to visit in Toronto!

Named in honour of a former mayor, the square is located at the intersection of Queen Street West and Bay Street. You’ll find many Toronto landmarks here, including the new City Hall, Old City Hall, and the Toronto Sign! Plus, if you’re hungry, there are always plenty of food trucks around.

Nathan Phillips Square is now home to one of the top tourist attractions in Toronto. The Toronto Sign was created for the 2015 Pan American Games. And one of the top things to do in Toronto is grab a selfie with the sign! Plus, the sign lights up at night! Depending on when you visit, the sign lights up differently for various events, sports games, and holidays.

In the summer the square is all abuzz with tourists and locals playing chess. In the winter the square takes on a whole new feel! The large fountain at its centre becomes a free skating rink, which is one of the best things to do in February . Plus, for the holidays there’s a massive Christmas tree and one of the city’s many Christmas Markets.

Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON

Graffiti Alley

I’m a huge fan of street art and seek it out wherever I travel! And one of the best places to find street art in Ontario is in Toronto!

While the city is filled with awesome places to find street art , one place is now a top attraction. The place is Graffiti Alley. The alleyway is located just south of Queen Street West and is also known as Rush Lane. In addition, it’s conveniently marked on Google Maps too!

Graffiti Alley runs from Portland Street west to Spadina. While I don’t recommend wandering back alleys in big cities, this is one that’s frequented by tourists, photographers, and even locals.

Running 1000 feet long, the alley is filled with a wide assortment of graffiti and murals. The street art covers entire buildings, back doors to businesses, and more! One of my favourite murals in Graffiti Alley is a massive building that’s painted in a colourful underwater theme. It has funny fish, seaweed, and plenty of places for selfies!

Another incredible piece is very Canadian. Covering one side of a building, the mural features all things Canadian including famous people like Gord Downie, as well as iconic buildings, and even animals!

Covering back doors and entire buildings is some of the coolest street art in Toronto! Pieces include realistic portraits, retro cartoon characters, and so much more! There’s even a whole building painted in a colorful underwater theme! Plus, one large mural is considered one of the most Canadian murals ever! It features iconic people and places in the country!

Are you torn between which top Canadian city to visit? In my guide Montreal vs Toronto I’ll dive into which city is the best to visit.

Best Places to Visit in Toronto

Filled with fun activities, there are tons of awesome places to go in Toronto! Some of the best places to visit are neighbourhoods, each one unique. Toronto is also home to a wealth of museums, historic sites, and parks too!

Visit the Toronto Islands

Escape the concrete jungle of the city with a trip to the Toronto Islands! As one of the best places to visit in Toronto, the Islands offer plenty of fun things to do. Plus, the ferry terminal is located right downtown. The short 15-minute ferry ride is only $8.70 return.

The Toronto Islands are a group of islands in the city’s harbour. They are connected by bridges and pathways. Ward’s Island is primarily residential and full of adorable homes. Centre Island is home to one of the city’s top tourist attractions in the summer, Centreville Amusement Park. The amusement park has rides, places to eat, and more. Centreville is a great place in Toronto for families!

If you’re looking for things to do in Toronto in the summer, head to the Islands! You can rent bikes to tour around. There is also expansive parkland that are perfect for picnics. Or you can visit one of the seasonal cafes. Plus, the Toronto Islands are home to numerous beaches! Along with bike rentals, you can rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.

One of Canada’s oldest lighthouses sits on the Islands too! Built in the early 1800s, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is noted as one of Ontario’s haunted places. Located on Hanlan’s Island, along with the lighthouse, there’s also sand dunes and a nudist beach nearby.

To learn more about the Toronto Islands check out my guide here .

Art Gallery of Ontario

Whether you’re an art lover or looking for things to do in Toronto in the rain, head over to the AGO! The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the best galleries in Toronto. It’s home to over 120,000 pieces of art!

Visitors will find a wide assortment of art that includes pieces created by Canadian, Indigenous artists, European masters, and more! Some of my favourite artists, like the Group of Seven, have art in the AGO.

The building is an art piece itself! It features sweeping staircases to the Galleria Italia, which is shaped like a ship’s hull. Plus, there’s also a bistro and an espresso bar inside. Be sure to pop into the espresso bar for awesome views!

Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON

Distillery District

One of the best places to visit in Toronto is the Distillery Historic District! The complex was once the largest distillery in the British Empire. With its red bricked buildings and cobblestone streets, it’s one of the many places that feels like Europe in Ontario !

The Distillery District has seen a lot of changes over the years. But now it’s an incredible pedestrian only neighbourhood filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and more!

A couple of my favourite places to eat and drink in the city are here! For coffee head to one of the coolest Balzac’s locations. Or to feed your hunger pop into one of Toronto’s best Mexican restaurants, El Catrin. In addition, to pull from its history, there’s still a distillery within the area, Spirit of York Distillery.

Along with all the great places to shop and dine in the district, there are numerous art installations too! A couple of the most famous ones are the love locks sign and the big red heart at one of the entrances.

Various events and festivals take place in the Distillery District throughout the year. One of the most popular is the world-famous Toronto Christmas Market, now known as the Distillery Winter Village.

Kensington Market

One of my favourite Toronto neighbourhoods is Kensington Market. This quirky neighbourhood is one of the most unique places in Toronto.

Kensington Market is located between College and Dundas Street West and flanked by Bathurst and Spadina. If you’re looking for an artsy and vibrant vibe, this is your place!

The area is filled with incredible street art, cute cafes, as well as fun shops and restaurants. One of Toronto’s quirkiest attractions can be found here. The Garden Car sits along the main street, Augusta Avenue. This abandoned car is now a work of art! Covered in spray paint and sprouting plants, the Kensington Garden Car is a must see!

The area is a great area for those visiting Toronto on a budget. There area some great budget-friendly accommodations and cheap street food. Plus, during spring through fall the market area goes pedestrian only on the last Sunday of the month. You’ll find a variety of people selling thrift finds, antiques, handcrafted jewelry, and more.

Rouge National Urban Park

Toronto is home to Canada’s first and only national urban park. Covering 7,500 hectares, Rouge National Urban Park is a must visit in Toronto, especially for nature lovers! The park starts down at Lake Ontario and sweeps north, past Highway 401 and up to Markham. It also covers the area around the Toronto Zoo.

Rouge National Urban Park is free to visit, which is incredible considering its size and opportunities for adventure! The park is home to various landscapes and over ten different hiking trails.

The Rouge Marsh Trail is a gem and also one of the best boardwalk trails in Ontario ! It’s located in the southern portion of the park, where it meets Lake Ontario. Part of the trail passes through the largest remaining wetland in Toronto! Plus, the trail connects to the Waterfront Trail and the Pan Am Path.

Local Tip: If you want to learn more about the park you can download The Rouge App for free! The app provides information about the park’s trails, wildlife, and points of interest. Plus, you can even earn hiking badges!

Hockey Hall of Fame

Canada is known as the birthplace of hockey! So, no visit to Toronto is complete without a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

The museum has moved a number of times since its creation in 1943. Now, the Hockey Hall of Fame is located within the old Bank of Montreal Building. The building’s original façade can still be seen from inside Brookfield Place.

Both a museum and a hall of fame, it showcases the history of ice hockey. It’s home to 15 different exhibits that share the stories over teams, iconic players, and is filled with tons of memorabilia. Along with other NHL trophies, it’s also home to the Stanley Cup!

This is no boring museum! Walking in you’ll meet a nine-foot statue of Gordie Howe. There’s also a to-scale replica of the Canadiens’ dressing room and a bunch of fun interactive activities.

Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON

Bata Shoe Museum

I still remember my first pair of Bata boots as a kid! Whether you’re a fan of shoes or looking for fun places to visit in Toronto, head over to the Bata Shoe Museum.

The Bata Shoe Museum is home to roughly 15,000 pieces! It has the largest collection of shoes and footwear related items in the world! With a collection spanning 4,500 years, it’s impressive to see.

This unique Toronto attraction is set within a stunning building. Throughout you’ll find fun and unusual footwear. There are Dutch clogs, ancient Egyptian sandals, Chinese bound foot shoes, and so much more!

Address: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON

Aga Khan Museum

Outside the downtown core, in Toronto’s North York district is one of the most unique museums in the city. The Aga Khan Museum is the first museum dedicated to the Islamic arts in North America. And it will astound you! I know I was blown away on my first visit.

The museum showcases Islamic art, Iranian art, as well as Muslim culture across the globe. They have collection of rare pieces that celebrate art in a variety of forms. This is so much more than an Islamic arts museum, it’s a museum of human history that spans centuries!

Inside you’ll find a permanent collection on the first floor. Be sure to pop into the Bellerive Room. This interesting space is filled with awesome ceramics. The second features new exhibits. During my visit there were incredible books, scrolls and manuscripts from the Silk Road. One piece was a Chinese 1,000-year-old prayer sheet.

Plus, throughout the year the museum has pop ups that include live entertainment, poetry sessions, and even classes.

Beyond the interior collection, the building itself is a work of modern art. Out front are formal gardens and granite-lined pools that are worth exploring.

Address: 77 Wynford Dr, North York, ON

Fort York National Historic Site

To get a glimpse into the city’s history head to Fort York National Historic Site. This 43 acre landmark sits downtown amongst towering skyscrapers.

As one of the best places to visit in Toronto for history, the site is noted for being the birthplace of the city. The fort dates to the War of 1812 and is now a museum and historic site of Canada. It’s home to the largest collection of War of 1812 buildings in the country. Along with these seven original buildings there is a part of the 1813 battlefield, a visitors’ centre and more!

To make museums and historic sites more accessible, Fort York is now free to visit!

Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON

Scarborough Bluffs

Just 30 minutes outside downtown Toronto is a place that will make you feel like you’re in England! The Scarborough Bluffs are a 15 km stretch of incredible cliffs that look like the white cliffs of Dover.

Rising up nearly 300 feet out of Lake Ontario, these brilliant white cliffs are a must visit! The Scarborough Bluffs run through nine different parks. Each park is unique!

There are winding hiking trails along the top of the cliffs as well as at their base. You’ll also find numerous gardens to wander and even a beautiful beach! Every park offers incredible views, either out over the lake or up at the cliffs themselves.

One of my favourites of the Scarborough Bluffs parks is Guild Park. This beautiful park is home to remnants of over 60 historic buildings from Toronto and elsewhere in Ontario. Each piece is artfully placed amongst intricate gardens. It’s one of the top photography spots in Toronto!

St. Lawrence Market

Another one of the best places to visit in Toronto is St. Lawrence Market! The market dates to 1803 and is the oldest in the city.

Sitting on Front Street, St. Lawrence Market is one of the most beloved Toronto landmarks! The market features over 120 merchant that sell a variety of goods including food and crafts. However, it’s best known for its food!

You’ll find a wide assortment of baked goods, meat, fresh produce, and so much more! The building also contains one of my favourite breakfast spots in Toronto, Paddington’s Pump.

With Toronto being a diverse city, it’s no surprise that the market offers various international cuisine too. There’s everything from Portuguese to Sushi!

If you’re a foodie then you’ll love this St. Lawrence Market Food Tour ! It features some of the best Toronto foods and drinks. Along with tastings you’ll learn more about the city, it’s food scene, and the St. Lawrence Market.

Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON

Free Things to do in Toronto

Toronto is an expensive city to travel to. However, don’t let that deter you! There are tons of free things to do in Toronto Canada that will help keep you on a budget! Along with free activities in Toronto, there are lots of free places to visit. Plus, many museums offer free days or nights!

Allan Gardens Conservatory

One of my favourite places in Toronto is Allan Gardens! This is one of the best hidden gems in the city ! Plus, it’s free to visit!

Allan Gardens is one of the oldest parks in Toronto. This downtown green oasis has a dog park, playground, and the stunning conservatory.

The Allan Gardens Conservatory is made up of six greenhouses. Each one is unique. There’s a tropical one, an arid one, and even one dedicated to orchids. Visitors can stroll through this Victorian-inspired building and fawn over all the beautiful flowers and foliage.

The main building, the Palm House, is like walking into Eden! It’s filled with giant banana palms and winding stone pathways. Inside the greenhouses is a vast array of colourful flowers, from bromeliads to hibiscus. There’s also koi and turtle ponds.

Local Tip: Be sure to check out their list of events to see what’s going on while you’re in town! The Conservatory hosts a variety of events and incredible displays throughout the year.

The Bentway

Toronto is home to some interesting places. Many of them created with the help of creative minds working with ordinary cityscapes. One of these places is The Bentway.

The area under the Gardiner Expressway was transformed into an urban public park. That park is called The Bentway. It’s a fusion of many things. It’s a public space where recreation and art collide.

Running from the Fort York Visitor Centre to Bastion Street, the Bentway is full of free things to do in Toronto! Throughout the space are numerous murals. Many of them massive, like the Love Letters to the Great Lakes. It stands on one of the 50 feet tall pillars that holds up the highway.

Along with murals and other art, the Bentway features numerous recreational opportunities throughout the year. In the summer you can roller skate and in the winter, you can ice skate! The over 700-foot skate trail is free to use. Plus, on Friday nights they offer free skate rentals!

Evergreen Brickworks

How would you like to visit a now beautiful place in Toronto that was once a former landfill? If you’re looking for free places to go in Toronto then I recommend a visit to Evergreen Brickworks!

Set on the grounds of an old brick factory, it’s now filled with interesting attractions. Evergreen Brickworks is home to Toronto’s largest farmers’ market that’s held year-round. There’s also an Artisan and Vintage Market once a month. Or you can pop in to their café.

Evergreen Brickworks is also home to a sprawling network of winding trails. You can enjoy floating boardwalks, watch hawks fly overhead, and climb the hill for an epic view of Toronto’s skyline!

It’s located within the Lower Don River Valley. Plus, many of the trails link up to others that spread throughout the city. One of my favourites is the Beltline Trail!

The park offers a variety of landscapes like marsh and scrubland. In the background is the incredible old brickworks building.

In the winter, Evergreen Brickworks is home to one of the coolest free ice-skating rinks in Toronto!

Local Tip: For those traveling to Toronto without a car take the TTC to the Davisville subway station, then take the southbound 28 bus.

Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON

Often called the Central Park of Toronto, High Park is one of the best places to visit in Toronto! Whether you’re looking for a moment of peace in the city or crave exploring the outdoors, it’s ideal.

High Park covers 400 acres right in the heart of Toronto. The park runs north from Lake Ontario, up to Bloor Street. Plus, there’s even an easy access point via a Subway stop!

There is so much to do and see in High Park! Along with gardens and walking trails, there’s plenty of parkland kept in its natural state. You’ll find small ponds, tree-lined paths, and various wildlife including lots of birds!

One of the top things to do in Toronto in the spring is visit High Park! The park is filled with some of the best cherry blossom trees in the city ! If you’re keen on seeing them in bloom, plan your visit for late April or early May.

The Park is wonderful all year round! In the summer you can enjoy picnics or check out the blooming gardens. It’s also a great place to take in the fall colours in Toronto!

Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON

Queen’s Park

In 1860 Queen’s Park opened, making it older than Canada itself! This beautiful oval park is home to majestic old trees, various historic statues, and the Ontario’s Legislative Building.

It’s also full of shady spots to relax on a warm summer day. As well as cherry blossom trees in the spring!

The main feature of the park is the Ontario’s Legislative Building. This grand building, from 1892, houses the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

The building is made up of varying architectural styles. Within are stunning stained-glass windows as well as historic pieces of Canada’s past. During your visit I highly recommend taking one of their free tours !

They offer a handful of tours, there’s an Art and Architecture Tour and a Building Tour that are free. Plus, you can also enjoy an Afternoon Tea and Tour for $45!

Address: 111 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON

Toronto Botanical Gardens

If you’re visit Toronto in the summer then I highly recommend a visit to the Toronto Botanical Gardens!

Covering nearly 4 acres, the Toronto Botanical Gardens is free to visit. However, please note that there is paid parking on site.

This award-winning space is filled with 17 different themed gardens that have over 4500 plants, representing over 2600 species. You can also book a free guided tour to learn more about the gardens and different plants.

There’s also a gift shop, seasonal café, as well as various classes for both kids and adults.

It’s also connected to another beautiful spot in Toronto, Edwards Gardens. You can hike quite a distance here, as the botanical gardens are link to other green spaces and trails in Toronto.

Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto, ON

Take Advantage of Doors Open Toronto

The inception of the Doors Open concept started in France. Toronto began the first city to offer the event in North America, in 2000.

Now, every May Doors Open Toronto offers visitors free access to many places that are otherwise not open to the public. The event takes place, usually during the last weekend in May. Dozens of the city’s historic sites, buildings, and strange places invite the public in for behind the scenes tours.

Some interesting places that have been open include Old City Hall, Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, and inactive subway stations. However, one of my favourites was the Arts & Letters Club. This private artists’ club conjures up images of Hogwarts!

This awesome free event will help you find many of the city’s hidden gems !

Best Things to do in Toronto for Kids

For those looking for family-friendly activities in Toronto you’ll find plenty! There’s a long list of things your kids will love to do in the city. Plus, many of these places and attractions offer fun educational experiences that the littles won’t even realize their learning!

Toronto Zoo

If your family loves animals then you’ll love the Toronto Zoo! Spread out over 700 acres, the zoo is home to over 5000 animals representing 500 different species.

The Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada. You can easily spend all day there!

There are numerous pavilions and outdoor spaces housing animals by region. The zoo has an Americas, Australasia, Tundra, and Canadian domain to name a few. Check the schedule of keeper talks when you arrive and try and plan to visit one or two. Keeper talks are held throughout the day at various exhibits. You’ll learn about the species, conservation efforts, and even get to see some in action.

The zoo has a handful of places to eat on site, or you can pack a picnic. There’s also a waterpark open during the summer and a Christmas market in the winter.

Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON

Ontario Science Centre

One of the best places to visit with kids in Toronto is the Ontario Science Centre! This incredible museum lets kids, and adults, learn through play!

The Ontario Science Centre is the World’s first interactive science museum! It features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that allow for hands on learning.

You can play scientist for a day by examining meteorites, wander a real-life rainforest, and so much more! The museum also boasts live science demonstrations and shows. Plus, there’s an IMAX theatre!

The museum opened in 1969 and I still fondly remember all of my visits as a kid growing up in Toronto!

Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Looking for fun things to do in Toronto with kids? In the shadow of the CN Tower sits a magical underwater world that children and adults will love!

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is filled with over 5 million litres of water! In that water you’ll find 20,000 aquatic animals. There’s a long list of cute and unusual species at the aquarium. You’ll find sea turtles, sharks, an over 65-year-old giant lobster, and so much more!

This massive aquarium will entertain you for hours! Along with numerous galleries there are over 100 interactive exhibits. One of the coolest is a large touch tank full of stingrays. It’s also home to the longest underwater viewing tunnel in North America, called the Dangerous Lagoon. Step atop a moving walkway that will take you through the water. The Lagoon is filled with various types of sharks swimming overhead and colourful fish lurking in the rocks.

The aquarium also does daily live dive shows that are fun to watch. Plus, pop by the Planet Jellies exhibit! Here, you’ll find weird and wonderful species of jellyfish. One of which, the Pacific Sea Nettles, is the most photographed!

Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON

Black Creek Pioneer Village

Step back in time at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This living history museum is a recreation of a country village in the 1860s.

Black Creek Pioneer Village is home to 40 historic buildings, gardens, heritage animal breeds, and more! You’ll meet staff dressed in period costumes that showcase various trades that were prominent in Ontario during the 1860s. Plus, you’ll even get to enjoy some hands-on activities!

Some of the buildings include a general store, blacksmith’s shop, farm buildings, a grist mill, and a one-room schoolhouse. Throughout the buildings visitors will find a large collection of artifacts.

This is a great place to bring the family and learn about life before the conveniences of today!

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, ON

Little Canada

One of the newest attractions in Toronto that’s fit for kids is Little Canada ! Though I won’t judge if you go alone, it’s that cool!

Little Canada is a detailed crafted exhibit that reduces Canada into a massive miniature layout! The miniature layout features many of the top landmarks and sights in Canada. There’s everything from sprawling cityscapes to epic natural scenery.

This growing attraction currently has a Little Toronto, Little Niagara, Little Golden Horseshoe, and Little Ottawa. Plus, soon you’ll be able to see Little Rockies, Little East Coast, and more!

Kids and adults alike will love the coolest feature at Little Canada. You can be a part of it all! When you visit you can choose to be scanned and 3D printed into a little you!

Address: 10 Dundas St E Basement2, Toronto, ON

Attend the CNE

Toronto is home to hundreds of festivals and events every year! One of the grandest is the Canadian National Exhibition, known to locals as The Ex! It dates back nearly 150 years and started as most harvest festivals do – celebrating agriculture. A lot has changed but it’s still the biggest annual fair in Canada!

While there are still exhibitions revolving around agriculture there’s so much more now! Visitors will find displays of arts and crafts, culture, and a ton of fun. There’s live music, gaming, and a giant midway. One of the most popular rides is the Sky Ride. Suspended in the air on a lift you’ll travel over the CNE grounds and be rewarded with epic views of the city!

Another fun feature of The Ex is the food! Every year the vendors top themselves with crazy concoctions! There’s everything from colour changing soda to ketchup flavoured ice cream!

Address: 210 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON

Canada’s Wonderland

Little kids and big kids will love the over 200 attractions at Canada’s Wonderland! This massive amusement park is located in the northern area of the Greater Toronto Area, also known as the GTA.

Covering over 300 acres, the park features 17 roller coasters, dozens of places to eat, a 20-acre water park, two kid’s areas, and more! There are also live shows and famous characters wandering the park.

Plus, Canada’s Wonderland is fun all year long! Beyond the seasonal rides, it’s one of the best places to spend Canada Day in Ontario thanks to its epic fireworks display. If you’re looking for places to visit in the fall then check out their Halloween Haunt.

For those looking for places to visit in Toronto in winter then you’ll love WinterFest! The park transforms into a winter wonderland of festive fun, lights, and so much more!

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON

More Fun Things to do in Toronto

There are endless amazing things to see in Toronto, places to go, and events to attend! Whether you’re seeking to add more entertainment to your Toronto visit or some culture, I’ve got more things to do in Toronto for you!

Woodbine Beach

A popular summer spot in the city is the beach! Yes, there are plenty of beaches in Toronto.

Set on a striking curve at the end of Woodbine Avenue is Woodbine Beach Park. Covering over 35 acres, the park is great for picnics and hiking. There’s an incredible boardwalk that stretches along Lake Ontario. It connects to two other trails, including the Martin Goodman Trail. The park also has beach volleyball courts, a restaurant, fitness equipment, and a snack bar.

The park is also home to one of the best places to visit in Toronto for hitting the sand! Woodbine Beach is the largest of the beaches in the Beaches neighbourhood. Plus, it’s been blue flag certified every year since 2005!

Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON

Toronto International Film Festival

Lights, camera, action! One of the biggest and coolest festivals in Toronto is the Toronto International Film Festival!

The festival, also known as TIFF, takes place annually during the second week of September. For nearly 50 years, celebrities, film makers, and the like descend on the city.

The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the world’s largest publicly attended film festivals! It has its very own location, the TIFF Bell Lightbox, where many of the films and talks take place. However, with hundreds of films, they are also shown at various venues throughout Toronto.

Along with a range of incredible films, the festival puts on numerous talks and panel discussions that you can attend!

Catch the stars on the red carpet, enjoy a film, or attend one of the other festival events. Part of King Street West is transformed into Festival Street. Here, you can watch free movies, groove to live music, and enjoy other fun sights.

Attend a Maple Leafs Game

Fans of the NHL will want to add attending a Toronto Maple Leafs game to their Toronto list! Winning 13 Stanley Cups over their time, the Leafs are one of the most famous Canadian sports teams.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the oldest hockey teams. They started back in 1917! The season runs from October through April. If you’re visiting during one of their at home games, be sure to grab tickets.

They play at the Scotiabank Arena, which is located right downtown. And don’t worry about getting tickets far in advance. They save 200 tickets to drop one to two days before the game.

Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON

Attend a Blue Jays Game

The only Major League Baseball team located outside of the United States is the Blue Jays. So, if you’re visiting Toronto during the summer, consider attending a Jays game!

Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre, located right downtown in the shadow of the CN Tower. However, as most of us locals, we still call it the SkyDome.

This incredible sports complex features a retractable roof! If you’re visiting on a hot day, be sure to pack a baseball cap to try and avoid the beating of the hot sun.

Another tip if you’re on a budget is to eat before you go. Drinks and food is crazy expensive but there are plenty of great restaurants nearby.

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON

Take in a Theater Show

If culture and theatre is what you’re after then visit Toronto’s Entertainment District. Many of the city’s top theatres can be found here like Princess of Wales Theatre and Roy Thomson Hall.

Toronto is home to many more theatres found throughout the city. A couple of other great ones are the Ed Mirvish Theatre and the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre.

All the big shows like Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, and Cats have played in Toronto. If you’re looking something off the beaten path, you’ll find plenty of performances to choose from. There’s a play for everyone, from musicals to comical plays.

Beyond theatre, you can also enjoy concerts and ballet too!

Local Tip: Want cheap theatre tickets? Call the theatre on the day of the show for rush tickets. These are discounted tickets and most likely available Tuesday through Thursday. Plus, Mirvish offers rush seats for almost all of their shows!

Go on a Ghost Walk

With a rich and dark history, its no surprise there are so many haunted places in Toronto!

Ghosts lurk in buildings like the Old City Hall, the Mackenzie House, and many more. If you’re looking for fun activities in Toronto for adults, consider going on a ghost walk!

The best part is, it doesn’t have to be Halloween for you to enjoy one of the ghost tours that take place in the city. Tours run throughout the year and provide an interesting take on the city’s history and its people.

The best ghost tour in Toronto is the Original Haunted Walk. Led by lantern light, your guide will take you on a walking tour of some of Toronto’s haunted sites.

Explore The Path

One of the weirdest things to do in Toronto is get lost in The Path! Don’t worry, even locals get mixed up!

The Path is an underground network below the streets of Toronto. It’s made up of over 28 kms of large walkways and tunnels. Covering nearly 4 million square feet, The Path is the largest underground shopping complex in the world!

You can travel throughout downtown Toronto, from Union Station up to the Eaton Centre. It connects over 75 buildings and is home to over 1,200 shops and restaurants.

So, if you’re looking to travel through the city and avoid rain or snow, then head below the streets and explore The Path!

Indulge in the Toronto Coffee Culture

I’m a caffeine nut! So, it’s no surprise that one of my favourite things to do in Toronto is enjoy its many cafes!

While many head to Tim Hortons, I recommend checking out all the small, independent cafes. There are so many fabulous coffee shops in Toronto! Whether you’re looking for colourful places that scream Instagram or a quiet place to fuel up, there’s a café for you.

Some of my favourite coffee shops include Dineen Coffee and Balzac’s, which have multiple locations. Each one unique! Other top choices include Fika, Purple Penguin, and Maman.

There are endless cafes and coffee shops throughout the city. However, two of the best neighbourhoods for coffee shops are Kensington Market and Leslieville.

Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls

There are so many things to do in Toronto! However, if you have time, I highly recommend planning a day trip to Niagara Falls. And it’s easier than you think!

Niagara Falls is one of the best places to visit near Toronto! Noted as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it’s only an hour and a half drive away.

Along with the Horseshoe Falls, there are tons of awesome attractions in the area. A few top things to do in Niagara Falls include Journey Behind the Falls, eat at the Skylon Tower, and Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. Or if you’re looking for fun and wacky, head to Clifton Hill. Here you’ll find a wax museum, unique mini-golf courses, and more!

If you’re visit Toronto without a car, you can still get to Niagara Falls. You can buy weekend tickets for $35 that include round-trip travel on the GO Train and two days of access to WEGO, which is a hop-on hop-off bus running in Niagara Falls.

Getting Around to All the Best Places to Visit in Toronto

If it’s your first time visiting, rest assured, Toronto is pretty easy to navigate. Toronto’s metro system, dubbed the TTC, covers subway lines, buses, and street cars. The current price for a single fare is $3.25 (2022). You can purchase a Presto Day Pass for $13.50, which gets you unlimited use.

Transit in Toronto is expensive. That’s why I recommend staying right downtown. The city is very walkable and laid out on a grid pattern.

Toronto is also very bike-friendly. There are extensive Bike Share sites where you can rent a bike for the day or longer. Prices for 24 hours is $7 and for 72 hours it’s $15.

Save with a CityPASS

A great savings hack when visiting Toronto is to buy a CityPASS! If you’re going to be visiting the top Toronto attractions then you can save roughly $70 CAD.

The pass is $105.97 for adults and $72.92 for children. It gets you into the CN Tower, Casa Loma, the Royal Ontario Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and either Toronto Zoo or Ontario Science Centre.

You can purchase your CityPASS online and have a year to activate it. Once activated you have 9 days to use it.

Where to Stay in Toronto

Visitors will find endless options for places to stay in Toronto. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there’s a hotel for you! However, I highly recommend staying in the downtown Toronto and along the subway line to get around easily.

The Clarence Park – If you’re travelling to Toronto on a budget, check out Clarence Park. This hostel has a great location! It’s only a 10-minute walk from the CN Tower and offers both dorm and private rooms.

The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar – A low to mid-range option that also has a great location is The Rex Hotel! Along with being Toronto’s longest running jazz bar it’s a hotel. It’s located downtown on Queen Street West and has a restaurant.

Holiday Inn Downtown Centre – This downtown Holiday Inn is a great mid-range option. It’s located close to Allan Gardens. Amenities include a restaurant, indoor pool, and fitness room.

Pantages Hotel – Another great mid-range hotel is the Pantages Hotel. It’s a 2-minute walk to the Eaton Centre and has chic spacious rooms. The hotel also features a Japanese spa and martini bar.

Fairmont Royal York – It’s one of the most haunted hotels in Ontario. However, the Fairmont Royal York offers luxury and an excellent location. The hotel is across the street from Union Station and has 3 unique places to dine.

Hotel X – Stay in the literal lap of luxury at Hotel X! This 5 star hotel has spacious suites with epic views of the Toronto skyline and waterfront. It has a great location next to the CNE. Amenities are endless and include a rooftop bar and pool, restaurant, fitness centre, and spa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toronto

When planning your Toronto vacation you’ll likely have a few questions. Below you’ll find quick answers to top questions about visiting Toronto!

Where is Toronto located? – Toronto Canada is located in southern Ontario. It’s the capital city of the Ontario and short 1.5 hour flight from New York

Is Toronto worth visiting? – Yes, Toronto is worth visiting! There is so much to do and see in Toronto!

What is Toronto known for? – Toronto is known as the largest city in Canada. Plus, Toronto is known for being one of the most multicultural cities in the world!

How far is Toronto from Niagara Falls? – Toronto is approximately 130 km from Niagara Falls. It’s only a 1.5 drive and makes for an easy day trip!

Fun Things to do in Toronto – CN Tower, Graffiti Alley, Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Sign, St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, Distillery District, Toronto Islands, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

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I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

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Wow. So many great things to see and do in Toronto. I do believe I would enjoy the Distillery District! Putting many of the places on my list for when I finally visit.

The Distillery District is such a fabulous place to visit in Toronto! I hope you’re able to visit soon!

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35 Best & Fun Things To Do In Toronto (Canada)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 23, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

The largest city in Canada, Toronto has become one of the biggest travel destinations in all of North America.

No matter what time of year you come, you can expect to see something amazing when you’re in Toronto.

These are the 35 best things to do while in Toronto, Canada.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Royal Ontario Museum

Javen / Shutterstock

If you want to take a dive into the past when you’re in Toronto, you should come to the Royal Ontario Museum .

This is one of the best things to do in Toronto for those with an interest in different aspects of history, science, and art.

With millions of items in more than three dozen galleries, you can see why the Royal Ontario Museum is such a beloved institution.

At the Royal Ontario Museum, you can see things that are both historic and prehistoric.

You can see pieces from first-century Japan as well as dinosaur bones.

This gives visitors an excellent glimpse into the past, even before there were any humans around.

There are also amazing temporary exhibitions, such as “Fayum Mummy Portraits” and “In the Age of Rembrandt.”

If you’re looking for what to do while in Toronto that’s related to learning, you should come to the Royal Ontario Museum.

Any remotely curious mind will have a great time here.

This museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Admission is $23 for adults, $14 for children, and $18 for seniors, students, and youths.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

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

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

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Having an aquatic experience can be one of the best parts of your trip to Toronto, Canada.

Ripley’s Aquarium is one of many Toronto attractions you don’t want to miss.

Those who love seeing and learning about fish and other water-loving species have to come here.

At Ripley’s Aquarium, which opened in 2013, there are hundreds of different species for you to marvel at.

You can also come for special events such as Friday Night Jazz.

You’ll be swimming in possibilities when you come to Ripley’s Aquarium.

Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the best places for fun when you’re in Toronto, especially if you’re with your family.

This aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

There are different ticketing options.

Express Anytime Tickets can be used once each, for up to a year after the ticket was purchased.

These are $39 for adults, $26 for youths (age 6 to 13), $13 for children (3-5) and $26 for seniors.

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

3. The Art Gallery of Ontario

V. Ben / Shutterstock

When you’re in a city like Toronto, Canada, you need to visit at least one art gallery.

A perfect example of this is The Art Gallery of Ontario .

When you’re here, you can feast your eyes of some of the finest art you’ve ever seen.

The Art of Gallery of Ontario has been around for more than a century.

This time has been used well, as the curators of this gallery have brought in fantastic pieces that go back thousands of years ago.

You don’t have to be an art collector to know about the greatness of some of the artists showcased here, such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet.

Going to the Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the top things to do in Toronto.

This gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday and from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Admission is $25 for adults 25 and older and free for everyone else.

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

4. CN Tower

When people think of Toronto, they tend to think of the CN Tower .

This has become not only one of the most iconic monuments of Canada but of North America.

It’s a piece of architectural genius that only gets better when you step inside and make your way up to the top.

At the CN Tower, you can see the city like never before.

Given that it’s more than 1,800 feet high, CN Tower can be a serious rush to experience.

As you gaze down upon Toronto, you can think about all the other visitors who’ve done the same since this tower’s opening in 1976.

The CN Tower should be immediately on your radar when you come to Toronto, Canada.

Given its size and fame, there’s no chance you won’t consider it.

The CN Tower is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Admission prices can vary based on activity.

Address:  301 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2T6, Canada

5. Niagara Falls

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Even if you’ve already seen Niagara Falls from the U.S. side, it’s still great to experience from Toronto.

The sensations of the falls are magnificent to experience in terms of sound, sight, and feeling.

Being in Canada gives you a very special exposure to Niagara Falls.

Of the three falls that go along the Niagara River, Canada hosts significant portions of the biggest, Horseshoe Falls.

You can go on a boat tour to get even closer.

It is worth a warning that you might get pretty wet. But this is definitely what to do if you’re interested in waterfalls.

Coming to Niagara Falls is a huge part of visiting Toronto.

You can have some of the best fun of your trip by being near these falls.

Sightseeing with nature like this is an awesome part of any travel experience.

6. Toronto Botanical Garden

vvita / Shutterstock

You don’t have to be a florist or a botanist in order to see that plants are beautiful.

Toronto Botanical Garden is one of the nicest places to visit in Toronto, Canada.

You can see all kinds of amazing plants and enjoy a supremely well-cared-for environment for them to flourish.

Toronto Botanical Garden was opened more than 60 years ago.

It contained 17 different gardens, so you can really see a lot of plant life.

You can see perennials, hedges, fruit trees, and more.

Younger members can also have fun, as Toronto Botanical Garden offers things like the Teaching Garden.

Just going for a walk among all the plants at Toronto Botanical Garden can be a highlight of your trip.

If you’re looking for fun as well as peace of mind, you should come to Toronto Botanical Garden.

It’s open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There is no admission charge for the gardens.

Address:  777 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2, Canada

7. Casa Loma

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Castles are some of the coolest tourist attractions you can ever visit.

Toronto, Canada has an amazing one in the form of Casa Loma .

With its Gothic Revival architecture and rich history, Casa Loma continues to be one of the best parts of Toronto.

Casa Loma, which first opened as a residence in 1914, has been a museum since 1937.

There are plenty of things to see at Casa Loma, including stables and gardens.

The entire complex is amazing to navigate through.

You might feel you’ve gone at least a century into the past.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Toronto, you should definitely come to Casa Loma.

This museum is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $32.49 for adults, $27.32 for youths (age 14-17) and seniors, and $22.15 for children.

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

8. The Second City Toronto

The Second City Toronto

Comedy aficionados know how big “ Second City ” in Toronto is.

The likes of Mike Myers, Gilda Radner grew to fame with help from Second City Toronto.

One of the most fun things to do in Toronto is to come to a show and get ready to laugh your head off.

Like its sister venues in Hollywood and Chicago , Second City Toronto is all about piling on the laughs in the highest dose possible.

Shows like “Take Me Out to the Improv” have people in the aisles with laughter.

You can also make your evening complete by getting a meal at Wayne Gretzky’s adjacent restaurant.

Being able to laugh is one of the greatest feelings, and Second City Toronto provides you with laughter to a very high degree.

Performances last for about one hour and 45 minutes. An intermission is also included.

Address:  51 Mercer St, Toronto, ON M5V 9G9, Canada

9. Distillery Historic District

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Don’t scroll by this because you don’t have any interest in whiskey.

While the Distillery Historic District in Toronto, Canada does have a rich, whiskey-based heritage, due to the inclusion of what was the Gooderham and Worts Whiskey Distillery, it’s a place for all sorts of tourists needs, from satisfying a hunger for food to one for shopping.

Restaurants are a big part of what makes coming to the Distillery Historic District so much fun.

You can enjoy a beyond-satisfying burger at Mill St. Brewery, some ceviche at El Catrin, and even some ice cream at Greg’s Ice Cream.

Shopaholics will be delighted to know about some of the shops that are available, including Crimson & Clover, Hatley, and Red Canoe.

The Distillery Historic District is also a premier place for experiencing culture in Toronto.

There are lovely galleries and live performances.

Around since 2003, Distillery Historic District has positioned itself as one of the most unique places to visit when in Toronto.

Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3C4, Canada

Check out this Distillery Historic District walking tour!

Planning a trip to Montreal? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Montreal !

10. Centre Island

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Although you might not think of islands when you think of Toronto, the city actually lays claim to 13.

Surrounded by the waters of Lake Ontario, these are all worth visiting.

However, if you’re looking for the most worthwhile island experience, you should go to Centre Island .

At Centre Island, you can find fun at just about any corner.

You can enjoy a beach day there, have a picnic, or explore the gardens, including Franklin’s Children’s Garden.

If you have younger children, you’ll have to come to Centerville Amusement Park.

This is great for preschoolers, as the rides are quite mild.

Centre Island brings in all sorts of visitors and helps to make your Toronto, Canada experience even more fun.

When the weather is right, you can have an even greater time there.

Plan a trip to Centre Island if you want to see just how Toronto has to show you.

11. Bata Shoe Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

If you’re in Toronto and you love shopping, you have to come to Yorkville for a shopping spree of a lifetime.

While you’re there, you also need to check out Bata Shoe Museum .

It turns out those things you wear on your feet every day have a lot of history behind them.

Throughout the ages, cultures have worn shoes for different purposes.

Bata Shoe Museum shows how Asian cultures, indigenous American ones, and more have handled their respective weather and terrain conditions through shoes.

Exhibitions of influential people’s footwear show and even more how much shoes can help complete a person’s look.

Bata Shoe Museum is one of the coolest Toronto attractions for those who love fashion.

This museum is open daily, from Monday to Wednesday and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission costs $14, except on Thursday, when you can choose how much you pay.

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

12. St. Lawrence Market

Francesco Cantone / Shutterstock

Great markets are about the people and the product equally.

At St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, Canada, you can see more than 100 vendors in a place with more than two centuries of history.

You’ll be able to keep yourself very occupied, given how many excellent stands there are.

St. Lawrence Market is one of the top markets in North America.

If you’re even a little hungry, you need to come here and decide what will best satisfy your cravings.

Seafood, fruits, pastries, and plenty more can be experienced.

There’s also an art gallery to explore and Sunday antiquing events.

If you want to have fun and see a Toronto institution, you should come to St. Lawrence Market.

It’s become one of the top places to go in the city for good reason.

St. Lawrence Market is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

13. Hockey Hall of Fame

Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock

Even if you’re not able to attend the actual hockey championship, you can still see the Stanley Cup trophy when you’re in Toronto, Canada.

One of the most fun activities is to come to the Hockey Hall of Fame , which houses this sought-after trophy.

This is also a great place to learn about hockey and some of the greats behind the sport.

Some of the players who’ve been inducted in the Hockey Hall of Fame since its founding in 1943 include Gordie Howe, Wayne Gretzky, and Igor Larionov.

You can also see pieces of classic hockey memorabilia and see a film at the TSN Theatre.

Hockey is one of the most exciting sports, and this museum shows why it’s so beloved, especially in Toronto.

If you’re looking for things to do in downtown Toronto, you should come to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

This museum is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is $20 for adults, $14 for youths (age 4 to 13), and $16 for seniors.

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

14. West Queen West

Atomazul / Shutterstock

West Queen West is a neighborhood that has redefined trendy when it comes to Toronto.

In this section of the city, you can feel like you’re experiencing luxury at a new level.

If you do things right, you should be coming home with stories of unforgettable meals and purchases that you just have to show off right away.

Some of the restaurants at West Queen West can seem humble, but the flavors are simply mindblowing.

You need to check out eateries like Oyster Bar, Poutini’s House of Poutine, and Ravi Soups.

Then, there’s the shopping.

If you want great new clothes, then you need to spend some time in stores like Anthropologie and ZANE.

There are also plenty of impressive art galleries to check out.

West Queen West spoils Toronto locals and tourists with awesome places to visit.

If you’re looking for things to do during a weekend in Toronto, you should come to West Quen West.

There are so many great points of interest to peek your head into when in West Queen West.

15. Ontario Science Centre

Ontario Science Centre

One of the coolest parts of Toronto is the Ontario Science Centre .

Located near downtown Toronto, this museum has been an integral part of the city when it comes to explaining the wonders of science to children.

A family day at the Ontario Science Centre can be your children’s gateway into all sorts of fascinating subjects.

Some of the best parts of the Ontario Science Centre, opened in 1961, are its planetarium, the AstraZeneca Human Edge, with its climbing wall and more, and the rain forest recreation of The Living Earth.

Even adult visitors can have their minds opened up by their time here.

It’s especially fun to take in a screening at the Imax Theater.

Coming to the Ontario Science Centre is one of the best things to do in Toronto.

The museum is open from Sunday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is $22 for adults, $16 for youths, seniors, and students, and $13 for children, age 3 to 12.

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

16. Toronto Zoo

Lester Balajadia / Shutterstock

Biodiversity is of Toronto’s greatest features.

While the animals of the Toronto Zoo aren’t all native to Canada, they are all given an enviable living situation thanks to all of the care they’re given.

One of the top things to do in Toronto is to come to the zoo.

Some of the great creatures you can see at the Toronto Zoo include lions, rhinos, and pythons.

There are animals from all sorts of continents, including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

When you’re here, you can really see what goes into the best conservation efforts.

The unique species and great customer experience help to make the Toronto Zoo one of the top parts of any visit.

The zoo is open from Friday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Admission is $29 for adults, $24 for seniors, and $19 for children, age 3 to 12.

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

17. MZTV Museum of Television & Archive

MZTV Museum of Television

This Toronto, Ontario, museum is less about the art of television, such as the shows, and more about the science of it.

You can see how television has evolved as a piece of equipment.

Sets that are now seen as primitive were once cutting-edge, and your experience here will hopefully give you a greater appreciation for them.

Some of the biggest attractions at the MZTV Museum of Television & Archive include a set owned by Marilyn Monroe, a set that was debuted at the 1939 World’s Fair in New York , and all kinds of retro sets.

There are so many neat things to see here.

If you want to get a very deep television education, you need to visit this museum.

Coming to the MZTV Museum of Television & Archive will let you see just how much progress television technology has made since its inception.

This museum is open from Tuesday to Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for children 12 and younger.

Address:  64 Jefferson Ave, Toronto, ON M6K 1Y4, Canada

18. Toronto Greeters

Nick Beer / Shutterstock

No, this isn’t the name of a new sports team.

Toronto Greeters are people in the city who act as personal ambassadors.

Tourists who are looking for what to do will have some highly satisfying answers thanks to the efforts of the Toronto Greeters.

The Toronto Greeters can give you all sorts of travel tips , from where to eat to what events are going on while you’re in the city.

You can be taken around different distinct neighborhoods and see what could’ve gone undiscovered.

Many of these guides are multilingual, to help make guests of all backgrounds feel secure.

The Greeters might not be available when you arrive, so it’s important to book their services in advance.

Talk about what you want out of your trip so you can find the best guide possible.

This is a great way to see even more points of interest around Toronto.

19. High Park

GuilhermeMesquita / Shutterstock

A highpoint of your time in Toronto, Canada can be going to High Park .

It’s downtown Toronto’s biggest park, but its acreage isn’t the only reason why people come here.

High Park has become one of the top experiences for anyone in Toronto due to how much splendor and how many activities are available.

At High Park, you can enjoy playgrounds with your kids, the High Park Zoo with your family, and playing sports with your friends.

If you’re looking for what to do in Toronto, Canada that will give you some fresh air, this should be on the top of your list.

Coming to High Park is seriously awesome, especially for anyone who loves the outdoors.

This can be one of the best points of interest you see during your entire Toronto visit.

High Park is open 24/7.

Address:  1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada

20. Kensington Market

This isn’t another great market in Toronto, Canada.

Instead, Kensington Market is another great Toronto neighborhood.

This neighborhood showcases some of the best of Toronto diversity, both in its people and in its businesses.

For more than a century, immigrants from countries like Ireland and Scotland, as well as those with Chinese heritage and people from Central America and Africa, have found a new home in Kensington Market.

This is well reflected by the array of restaurants and shops to check out.

Adventurous travelers will find the tourist attractions of Kensington Market are plentiful.

Visiting Kensington Market is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Toronto.

You can go on a multi-cultural tour in just one neighborhood in one city.

This is one of the best cities in Toronto, and it should be appreciated to the greatest possible degree.

21. Food Tours

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If you’re wanting to really see what sort of food Toronto, Canada has to offer, you should go on a food tour.

Great ones are provided by The Culinary Adventure Company .

You can try foods that will amaze you with delicious flavor profiles that you might have never considered before.

Different regions of Toronto are highlighted during the company’s food tours.

You can try tours of Chinatown, Little India, Kensington, and more.

There are also tours like the Escape The City™ Canoe Paddle + Dining Adventure, which brings you out on the water for the first part of the tour, before being treated to an amazing meal at Toronto Islands.

You shouldn’t want anything but the best when it comes to getting food while on vacation.

One of the top parts of being in Toronto is going on food tours.

Prices can vary depending on what tour you take part in.

Address:  92 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada

22. Old Chinatown

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You might not realize just how many Chinatowns there are. Toronto actually has more than one.

However, the one we’re referring to, Old Chinatown, is near downtown Toronto.

This is one of the biggest Toronto attractions when it comes to showing the value of different cultures coming together.

In terms of size, Old Chinatown stretches out quite far.

It also stretches pretty far in terms of where its populace comes from, with residents from Hong Kong, southern and mainland China, Vietnam and Thailand.

You can also expect to get a great eastern-based meal and explore some of the most interesting shops in the whole city.

Old Chinatown is one of the best places to see in Toronto, Canada.

You can enjoy the cultural diversity, such as the various customs.

There are also excellent businesses to be found throughout this area.

Address: Spadina and Dundas, Toronto, Ontario M5T 2E9, Canada

23. The Yoga Sanctuary

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Going on vacation can be relaxing, but it can also be stressful.

Even in a city as wonderful as Toronto, Canada, there’s the urge to take a break and center yourself.

The Yoga Sanctuary is one of the best options for anyone who’s just needing a breather.

There are two Yoga Sanctuary locations, both in downtown Toronto.

Instruction is offered on all sorts of yoga, from Vinyasa to Hatha.

After a busy week of sightseeing and food-tasting, it can be great to come into places like this and let go.

Even if you’ve never thought once thought of doing yoga, The Yoga Sanctuary will welcome you with open, very flexible arms.

You can come back from your trip feeling even more relieved.

Both locations are open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address 1:  1 Wood St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2N4, Canada

Address 2:  95 Danforth Ave 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2, Canada

24. The Lockhart

The Lockhart

Whether you live and breathe “Harry Potter” or don’t know anything about it outside that it’s about a boy wizard, you can have a great time at The Lockhart .

This is a Toronto, Canada bar that brings you into the world of Hogwarts without so much as the wave of a wand.

Just taking a glance at the menu of The Lockhart will have you giddy.

There’s Better Beer, a spin on “Butterbeer,” a staple from the world of Hogwarts.

There are also snacks, like house-made chocolate frogs.

Those looking for unique stuff to do while in Toronto should find visiting The Lockhart to be a magical experience.

Diehard Potter-heads will have an especially great time.

This bar is open from Tuesday to Wednesday, from 5 p.m. to 12:30 p.m., Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for brunch and then 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Address:  1479 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y8, Canada

25. Elmwood Spa

Elmwood Spa

Another great place to unwind when you’re in Canada is at Elmwood Spa .

This is the perfect place to retreat for when you want some peace and quiet and soothing.

Elmwood Spa gives its guests a break from constant activities.

Going to a spa means treating your body to maximum pampering and your mind to maximum relaxation.

Elmwood Spa offers some of the most luxurious activities in Toronto, including manicures and pedicures, massages, and facials.

Bodies of all kinds can have a wonderful stay at Elmwood Spa.

Toronto attractions like Elmwood Spa are just what you need if you’ve been tuckered out by all of your sightseeing.

This spa is open from Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Prices vary based on the services used.

Address:  18 Elm St, Toronto, ON M5G 1G7, Canada

26. Market 707

There’s nothing quite like the pleasure of getting food from an outdoor stand.

Market 707 takes things into a very novel direction.

The stands here are made from former shipping containers, making them some of the coolest eateries in Canada.

This area confirms this city in Canada as one of the best places to travel when it comes to eating.

Some of the great types of cuisine they offer are Japanese, Afghan, and Jamaican.

You can also find clothing shops and other retailers in the area.

This could be one of the top 10 most memorable dining and shopping experiences you’ve ever had.

Market 707 is what to see if you want to see recycling done on a major scale.

You can typically patron most stands until 7 p.m.

Take a look in advance to see which stands would be most up your alley.

Address:  707 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 2W6, Canada

27. Taxidermy Classes

SomTaste / Shutterstock

Have you ever looked at a stuffed, non-toy bear and thought about what all goes into that?

Coming to Canada gives you a great chance to find out through comprehensive taxidermy classes.

Hosted by Teta Kika, these “ Casual Taxidermy ” classes will give you some great stories when you come home.

These classes use rats as subjects.

You’ll be taught about every step, from the first incision to the very end.

You’ll also have the option of putting your finished product in fun costumes, but you’ll need to provide these yourself.

It might not be the best thing to do right before eating a big meal, but “Casual Taxidermy” can teach you a very specialized skill and also let you express yourself creatively.

You can find classes during the weekend, but you’ll need to make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

28. Toronto Bicycle Tours

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In a big city like Toronto, there can’t just be cars as a means of transportation.

One of the best ways to get around the city is on a bike.

Toronto Bicycle Tours give you the chance to both get some exercise and learn all about the city.

All kinds of journeys are available through Toronto Bicycle Tours.

There’s “The Heart of Downtown,” “Round the City,” “Island Twilight” and more.

Riders of all ages can have a blast on these tours as they explore the sights of Toronto.

Toronto Bicycle Tours are a pleasure as soon as you start pedaling.

You can take in so many great sights and really see just how neat this city is.

Tours are available every day, starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m.

Prices can vary based on the tour you can take.

Address:  275 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 2W5, Canada

29. Graffiti Alley

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If you think that graffiti is nothing but people just spraypainting crude illustrations, you need to take a trip to Graffiti Alley.

This is one of the best parts of Toronto, Canada.

It shows how much skill is required for making street art that really pops.

Running for little over half a mile, Graffiti Alley is like a bunch of smaller pieces that come to be one huge one.

Some of its more complex than others, but each part is as essential as the one before and/or after it.

You can also greatly appreciate how much color it brings into the surroundings.

Taking in Graffiti Alley with the right amount of focus can be enough to shift your view of street art for the better.

Using outdoor spaces as canvasses, these artists have produced some of the most dynamic pieces in all of Toronto.

The next time you’re near a spraypaint can, think of how much potential is inside it.

Address: 753 Queen St W (Alley btwn Queen & Richmond street), Toronto, ON M6J, Canada

30. Princess of Wales Theatre

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Live entertainment is one of the best parts of coming to Canada.

Princess of Wales Theatre hasn’t been around for even thirty years, but it’s definitely one of the city’s best theaters.

You can see stellar plays in one of the most beautifully designed theaters in Canada.

The curation of the Princess of Wales Theatre is phenomenal.

Not only do you have the quality of performances, with shows such as “Phantom of the Opera” and “Miss Saigon” but you also have art pieces, such as murals, decorating the space.

Princess fo Wales Theatre treats you to the cultural experience of your dreams.

At Princess of Wales Theatre, you can enjoy the richness of live theater and be won over by the pristine architecture.

Look at the schedule for when you’ll be in town and see what shows you’ll be able to catch.

It’s a place you must see if you love culture.

Address:  300 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1J2, Canada

31. Eaton Centre

Those looking for a seriously great shopping experience in Canada should come to Eaton Centre .

This is one of Toronto’s greatest tourist attractions for the volume of businesses it offers.

Whether you want to pick up some delightful mementos or have a great meal, Eaton Centre is where to go.

Stores that are at Eaton Centre include Aldo Accessories, Ann Taylor, and Banana Republic Men.

There’s also dining to be enjoyed at places like Duke of Richmond, Fast Fresh Foods, and Habitant at Nordstrom.

Additionally, there are some great artistic designs to be found here, including the famous hanging fiberglass geese Flight Stop sculptures.

Eaton Centre goes much further than your average mall.

It gives you pleasure not only when you’re browsing the stores, but also when you’re walking from one to the next.

Eaton Centre is open from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., from Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and from Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Address:  220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 2H1, Canada

32. Black Creek Pioneer Village

Time machines might not yet be part of our world, but you can experience a bygone era of Canada when you come to Black Creek Pioneer Village .

This is a museum that puts you in the shoes of someone living in the 19th century.

You can really get a sense of what people did to get by during these rougher times.

The various Heritage Buildings are some of the best parts of coming up to Black Creek Pioneer Village during the weekend.

These include Dickson’s Hill School, Harness Shop & Saddlery, and Broom Maker’s Shop.

There are also very entertaining reenactments as well as animal encounters at Farmyard Friends.

Black Creek Pioneer Village is one of the top tourist attractions in Canada.

It’s open between April 27 and December 23.

Admission is $15 for adults, $11 for children, age five to 14, and $12 for seniors and students, age 15 and up.

Address:  1000 Murray Ross Pkwy, North York, ON M3J 2P3, Canada

33. Rogers Centre

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Formerly known as the Skydome, Rogers Centre is where Major League Baseball’s Toronto Bluejays play.

However, it’s not just for baseball, as you can also see football games, concerts, and more here.

If you’re looking for one of the top ways to take in an event, do it at the Rogers Centre.

The size and design of Rogers Centre must be addressed.

This arena has a roof that opens and closes and 53,506 fans can be held here at a time.

In addition to events, you can also come here for special tours to see all around the complex.

The Rogers Centre is an arena like you’ve never experienced.

It also hosts some of the most exciting events you’ve likely ever experienced.

Coming here can absolutely be one of your highlights of visiting Canada.

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

34. Midfield Wine Bar

Midfield Wine Bar

Going to a wine bar is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the wine.

The flavors are increased by being in an environment that puts you at ease.

At Midfield Wine Bar , you can have a top-notch wine bar experience.

Located in the neighborhood of Little Portugal, Midfield gives you all kinds of wine to purchase by the glass as well as by the bottle.

Whether you lean towards red, white, sparkling or otherwise, they’ll have you covered.

If you work up an appetite, you’ll have amazing tapas to try, such as marinated eggplant and scallop crudo.

Midfield isn’t a place for just throwing back drinks and wolfing down food.

It’s for savoring things, from the wine, to the tapas, to the moment as a whole.

Midfield is open from Sunday to Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m, on Thursday, from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., on Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturday from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Address:  1434 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y7, Canada

35. Textile Museum of Canada

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Archaeological discoveries indicate that the use of textiles goes back many millennia, even before there were any written recordings.

While not all of textile history can be traced, the Textile Museum of Canada does an excellent job of showing how important these materials are.

You can see how textiles are important for clothing, decoration, and more.

The artistry of textiles is greatly explored.

Through exhibitions like “Textile Storytellers” and “Diligence and Elegance: The Nature of Japanese Textiles” shows how many threads go into the history of textiles.

You might even be inspired to start sewing your own garments or decorative items, such as quilts.

The Textile Museum of Canada gives you all kinds of reasons to embrace textiles as much as you can.

This museum is open from Thursday to Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

It’s $15 for general admission, $6 for youths (age 6 to 18), $6 for students, and $10 for seniors.

Families of five with no more than two adults can get in for $30.

Additionally, Wednesday from 5 to 8 offers a “pay-what-you-can ” deal, which is definitely a travel hack to keep in mind.

Address:  55 Centre Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 2H5, Canada

Start Planning Your Trip To Toronto

Visiting Toronto, Canada is something you must do if you want to see one of the most unique cities in North America.

Come up for a weekend or longer and you’ll see a city of sports, food, and culture.

This city awaits your presence, and it wants to show you all it’s got.

Best Places to Visit in Toronto: Amazing Toronto Attractions

Posted on Published: August 16, 2021  - Last updated: March 15, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , City Guides , Greater Toronto Area , Ontario , Travel Guides

Coming up with a list of the best places to visit in Toronto is no easy task. There are just so many amazing places to see in Toronto. But, you may only have a limited amount of time in the city. Even if you have only a day or two or three in Toronto, I want you to be able to have the best experience possible. So, I’ve narrowed it down for you. These are the best places to visit in Toronto as written by a local (me!).

You see, there are a lot of Toronto tourist attractions, a lot of cool neighborhoods in Toronto, and a lot of fun things to do in Toronto. This is the short list you need with only the essentials. This is your “must do in Toronto” list. And if you’re visiting Toronto in the winter season, check out our guide to the best things to do in Toronto in winter .

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

This is exactly what I’d plan if I were taking a friend around Toronto for the first time. If you’d rather be shown around the city by an expert tour guide, check out my list of the top Toronto tours . If you’re visiting for a lot longer than a few days, feel free to check out my list of the top 150 things to do in Toronto and the GTA that will keep you busy!

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Toronto

When you travel to Toronto, you’ll want an accommodation that’s convenient, comfortable, and fits your personal budget. Even though I am local to the area, I’ve spent the night at lots of hotels for staycations in Toronto. After all, it’s fun to have a getaway in the city, even if it’s so familiar! Here are the best places to stay in Toronto, organized from hostels and budget to luxury properties.

Best Hostel in Toronto: HI Toronto Hostel

If you love staying at hostels when you travel, definitely check in to the HI Toronto Hostel . It’s in a fantastic location within a short subway ride or walking distance of most tourist attractions and popular neighborhoods.

There are both shared and private rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, linens and towels. There’s an on-site bar where you can meet your fellow hostel guests and there’s even live music on many evenings. Check out more reviews of the HI Toronto Hostel by travelers who have stayed there.

Best Budget Hotel in Toronto: The Novotel Toronto Centre

The Novotel Toronto Centre is a fantastic choice that will fit your budget without skimping on any aspects that would affect the enjoyability of your trip. You’re within a 10 minute walk of Toronto’s Union Station, so it’s a great location for your holiday. There’s free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, and an indoor pool, hot tub, and spa. It’s a boutique style hotel with many modern amenities but stays within a budget price. Check out more reviews of the Novotel Toronto Centre written by fellow travelers.

Best Medium Budget Hotel in Toronto: Delta Hotels by Marriott

Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto is one of the best places to stay in Toronto. Justin and I spent the night here on New Year’s Eve a few years ago when it first opened. The location was perfect and within walking distance of most attractions and restaurants. There’s free Wi-Fi, an indoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness centre, and yoga studio. SOCO Kitchen is the on-site restaurant and bar, and we enjoyed having some beer and cocktails before retreating back to our room. Please check out more reviews of the Delta Toronto by fellow travelers.

Best Luxury Hotel in Toronto: The St. Regis Toronto

The St. Regis Toronto is one of the most luxurious hotels in Toronto. It’s a 5 star hotel with sweeping Toronto skyline views from its spacious rooms. Not only are the rooms fabulous in every way, but there’s an invigorating two-level spa facility with treatments, a juice bar, indoor pool, and fitness centre. It’s elegant, modern, and naturally, it has the perfect location in the city in the middle of all the action. Read more reviews by fellow travelers who have stayed there. Treat yourself.

Kensington Market and West Queen West

Kensington Market and West Queen West are among the coolest neighborhoods in the world , so you must make some time in your day to wander around both of them. First, Kensington Market is a neighborhood just beyond Chinatown bordered by College St, Bathurst St, Dundas St W, and Spadina. West Queen West is a section of Queen Street West just southwest of Kensington Market. I’ve grouped both of these neighborhoods together because you can easily wander around both of them one right after the other.

How can I best describe Kensington Market? It’s diverse, eclectic, and just plain cool. You’ll find vintage and second hand shops. There are craft stores, art shops, and graffiti covering most of the walls. Many of the buildings are painted bright colors, including one of my favorite cafes, FIKA. You can take a walking tour of Kensington Market for the best introduction from a local guide, and it also includes stops in Chinatown, too.

There are also tons of different cuisines from many different cultures, like Mexican, Jamaican, German, and Colombian. Visit during Pedestrian Sundays and the neighborhood blocks off traffic and you can walk everywhere you’d like. There’s often live music and dancing in the streets.

West Queen West is also a really cool place to wander around. There are lots of boutiques featuring one-of-a-kind, handmade, and locally produced items. There are tons of restaurants and cafes, art galleries, and street art. One of the cities most famous parks, Trinity-Bellwoods Park, is also located in West Queen West. Groups of friends love gathering beneath trees and on picnic blankets in the park on nice, sunny days. Chances are that you’ll find at least a drum circle or two.

Best Places to Visit in Toronto: The Distillery District

The Distillery District is another unique neighborhood in Toronto that belongs on your list of the best places to visit in Toronto. Pedestrian cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and local businesses all contribute to its charms.

The Distillery District was once home to the  Gooderham & Worts Distillery , which represents the largest and best preserved collection of Victorian Industrial Architecture in North America. This revitalized pedestrian-only city block has boutiques, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and microbreweries. Take a walking tour of the Distillery District to find some of its hidden gems and secrets.

The Distillery District is also home to the annual Toronto Christmas Market , which is a much beloved holiday tradition in the city. The Toronto Christmas Market is exactly what you would expect of a European Christmas Market, except that it’s in Canada.

It’s a mostly free event (there is a small charge on busier weekend dates for crowd control). If you’re visiting Toronto in November or December, this Christmas Market is a must do in Toronto. Furthermore, here’s a listing of the best Christmas events in Toronto .

Must Do in Toronto: Street Art Tour

Discovering all of the street art is one of the best free things to do in Toronto. I’ve visited the city on many occasions specifically to hunt down new works of street art. Graffiti art and street art is constantly changing in Toronto. New art comes and goes as new ones are painted over the old ones.

I’m always amazed at all of the new colorful and vibrant works of art splashed across walls, buildings, and down narrow alleyways. When you’re looking for places to see in Toronto, I’m sure you’ll easily stumble upon at least a few works of graffiti art without even trying.

Here’s my Toronto street art tour that you can follow for a walking tour of Toronto graffiti art. Some of the best places for street art in Toronto include Graffiti Alley (the most famous one), Underpass Park , and the Dundas West Open Air Museum (street art all along Dundas Street West).

If you’re a fan of public art and you’re visiting in January or February, you might be interested to learn more about Winter Stations. Winter Stations is an annual public art exhibit in the east end of Toronto near Woodbine Beach.

There are several interesting and interactive displays built to withstand the harsh elements off Lake Ontario in the winter. All of the Winter Stations use the beach’s lifeguard stations as their foundation to build something truly unique, and many times they put forth powerful messages, too.

Places to See in Toronto: Toronto Island

Toronto Island is one of the best places to visit in Toronto, and it only requires a short ferry ride to check it out. It’s always good to have a little escape from the chaos of the city. Toronto Island is a place for rest and relaxation, whether you want to wander around the walking paths or try your hand at an outdoor activity like biking or paddle boarding. Discover a whole new side of Toronto on this Toronto Islands sunset canoe tour .

One of the best parts of visiting Toronto Island is the ferry ride. You can enjoy one of the best views of the Toronto city skyline from the ferry, including the iconic CN Tower. Enjoy skyline views from the island itself, too. There are often times some interesting outdoor festivals taking place at Toronto Island, such as the Festival of India & Yoga Meltdown or the Wanderlust Festival . As an added interesting fact, Toronto Island is home to one of the most haunted places in Ontario , the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. You’ve been warned!

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

One of the best places to visit in Toronto is the Royal Ontario Museum (or ROM for short).  You’ll instantly be amazed by the intriguing exterior architecture. There are also stellar international exhibits, wonderful permanent collections, art, natural history, and culture.

It’s a world class museum. In terms of Toronto tourist attractions, it’s one of the best. You’ll notice that I don’t include too many popular attractions on this list, but this is one that every museum lover needs to visit.

If you’re visiting places in Toronto on a Friday, the ROM has a Friday Night Live series throughout various part s of the year. This event turns the museum into a big party with delicious eats, bass beats, and interactive experiences. You won’t want to miss it.

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

For art fans, another must do Toronto attraction is the Art Gallery of Ontario (or AGO for short). It’s one of the largest art museums in North America with huge exhibition spaces, an artists-in-residence program, event space, an awesome gift shop, and so much more. Justin and I visited the AGO a few years back for their incredible David Bowie Is exhibition (from before he sadly passed away), which definitely did not disappoint.

Its permanent collection features over 98,000 works from the first century to modern art of the present day. You can see art from all over the world, including Canadian artists, First Nations artists, and international artists. The AGO is one of the best places to visit in Toronto if you’re looking for some peace and quiet while learning a thing or two. Add the AGO to your list if you’re an art or museum fan.

Toronto Tourist Attractions: Allan Gardens

Allan Gardens is my favorite garden in all of Toronto (and there are lots of gardens in Toronto !), and it’s surprising how few locals know about this wonderful space. It’s right in the heart of downtown Toronto, and these greenhouses and gardens are completely free to visit. You’ll also catch some glimpses of history here as its cast iron and glass domed Palm House was constructed in 1910.

Allan Gardens is known for its vast collection of exotic plants, seasonal flowers, and cacti. You’ll find flowering plants and palms extending up towards the sky. I wouldn’t be surprised if you spend at least an hour strolling through the greenhouses, which make for a great escape on a chilly day, too. For fans of gardens and greenhouses, it’s not to be missed. It’s certainly high on my list of Toronto places to visit.

Toronto Places to Visit: High Park

High Park is a huge green space in the west end of the city, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Toronto. It’s like a smaller version of New York City’s Central Park. There are walking paths, huge trees, places for kids to play, and even a Japanese garden.

In May, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and High Park becomes a popular spot for viewing these beautiful flowers. You can see many swans, geese, and ducks down by the water. High Park is a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Scarborough Bluffs and Bluffer’s Park

The Scarborough Bluffs are a hidden gem in Toronto offering spectacular scenery of Lake Ontario and towering, rugged cliffs. It might be a little bit of a trek to get there in Scarborough, east of Toronto, but it’s so worth it. It’s one of the best places to visit in Toronto. It reminds me a bit of the Caribbean (the turquoise waters) and a bit of England (those cliffs!).

You can visit the Scarborough Bluffs from up above the cliffs and down below them. There are some walking paths around the park down below and even a Blue Flag Beach for the summer months. The Scarborough Bluffs are among the top of all Toronto tourist attractions to add to your bucket list.

Toronto Restaurants and Cafes for Every Taste

Toronto is thought to be one of the most multicultural and diverse cities in the world. More than 140 languages are spoken in Toronto. There are loads of cultural neighborhoods (Greektown, Chinatown, Little Italy, Portugal Village, Little India), but you’ll find people of all different cultural backgrounds living together for the most part. As there are so many different cultures in Toronto, this means that we have a massive variety of restaurants and cuisines to sample.

As I follow a vegan diet, I tend to dine at a lot of Toronto vegan restaurants . Even within entirely plant-based restaurants, you’ll find a variety of cuisines. Then, it’s really easy to find vegan meals as many different ethnicities have naturally vegan or vegetarian dishes, like Ethiopian food or Lebanese cuisine.

Toronto also has an excellent coffee scene with loads of independently owned cafes on practically every corner. Here are some of my favorite Toronto coffee shops so you can plan accordingly.

Furthermore, if you’re a craft beer fan, there are microbreweries and craft breweries all over Toronto. Yes, you’ll likely sample some craft beer in the Distillery District, but there are so many great local brews to try all over the city. I suggest taking this craft beer tour (here’s my full review ) if you’d like to discover the best local beer with a local guide.

Attractions to Skip: Ripley’s Aquarium

I don’t tend to be too negative on the blog as I’d much rather tell you about all of the best places to visit in Toronto, not the worst. But, I am an advocate for the animals and I’ve always been pretty vocal about animal attractions that are not good for wildlife. Do yourself and animals the favor and don’t visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

I wrote an article a few years ago about Why I’ll Never Visit Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto , and I suggest that you read it before you think about going there. And then I hope that you choose to visit a different museum or attraction instead. I’ve included many stats and statistics in that article, but here are a few reasons why I don’t recommend going to Ripley’s Aquarium:

• Many fish that arrive at aquariums are victims of wildlife trafficking, taken from the oceans (only 5% of tropical fish are bred in captivity). 80% of marine fish die in transport.
• Removing fish from the ocean can make coral reefs become unbalanced and can have grave environmental consequences, like coral bleaching
• Endangered sharks were taken from the wild off the coast of South Carolina to be held prisoner at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
• They have touch tanks at Ripley’s Aquarium, which can be extremely stressful to marinelife
• It’s debatable whether aquariums are educational for children because we are not witnessing wildlife in their natural habitats, and it would be more beneficial to watch a Netflix documentary
• It’s super expensive to go here, and you’d be better off treating yourself to multiple other experiences around the city that aren’t harmful to animals

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More Ontario Travel Guides

Want to visit more Ontario cities and towns? Why not make  a road trip  out of it! Here are some more southern Ontario travel guides that you might find helpful.

• Fun Things to Do in London, Ontario
• Unique Things to Do in Windsor, Ontario
• 5 Incredible Ways to Experience Niagara Falls
• Top Things to Do in Dundas, Ontario
• Fun Things to Do in Brantford, Ontario

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Thursday 14th of July 2016

We think this list is really well done, shows lots of great spots in Toronto! Theres a lot of places in Toronto that not many know about, So I started Lokafy, to bridge the gap between travelers and locals. Lokafy is currently only in Toronto, NYC and Paris. Basically the idea is that you can meet locals who share your interests. So if you’re into music and you’re travelling to Toronto, you can meet a musician from Toronto. While seeing the city, you get to know each other, exchange cultural differences and generally get to feel like they are living there! check it out!

Tuesday 2nd of February 2016

Excellent post. I've only been to Toronto once and remembered going to Toronto Island. It was perfect! We rented bikes and had an awesome time. Wish I could go back there soon.

Tuesday 15th of December 2015

So much love for this city. I lived there for 8 years but visit now from the UK. When I take off from Pearson I definitely have a few tears! I grew up in the High Park area so for me that wins; the park itself is amazing all year round but ice skating on Grenadier Pond is a highlight.. and tobogganing down the big hill! I also love the Distillery District for food, and the islands for a cycle ride away from the madness. Back for a few days in June, I can't wait! Great post. X

Sunday 6th of December 2015

Thank you for hosting anothet great link-up! Have a nice Sunday!

This may seem a bit morbid to some BUT Mount Pleasant Cemetery is absolutely gorgeous park area, so peaceful and only minutes away from Young and Bloor. It really seems like more of a park, many people run there and walk their dogs etc. It is especially nice in the spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom!

*source native Torontonian now living in Amsterdam

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ELLE Escapes: Toronto

Along the way, I enlisted a guide from the Toronto Society of Architects to point out the city’s fascinating blend of old-school British style and boundary-pushing modern construction. With his help—and some off-the-path exploring of my own—I discovered spots I’m eager to revisit on my next trip up north. The below recommendations are far from an exhaustive guide to an always-evolving city, but they offer a hand-picked entry point for the Ontario beacon—particularly if you only have a few days to spare. Whether you’re planning a trip for TIFF later this year or traveling earlier to avoid the lanyard-adorned crowds, here are a few worthy gems for the journey.

What to See

Kensington market.

One of the most popular neighborhoods in downtown Toronto, Kensington has a eclectic appeal that residents and visitors have enjoyed for decades, as numerous immigrant communities have moved in and through the charming storefronts, each leaving a permanent footprint on the makeup and attitude of the area. Set aside a few hours to meander amongst the wall murals and aging Victorian homes while stopping by specialty food purveyors, cafés and restaurants, arts spaces, and clothing boutiques. Vintage hounds, in particular, will find much to discover (and adore) from Courage My Love , Flamingo Vintage , funky costume mainstay Exile , and numerous other thrifty depots. Get caffeinated at Moonbeam Coffee , Jimmy’s Coffee , or Fika before you begin your stroll. Once you get hungry, stop for under-$10 Canadian steamed dumplings at Mother’s Dumplings , fish tacos at Seven Lives , or some cheese and charcuterie at Cheese Magic .

The Distillery District

Officially opened in 2003, the Distillery District is a pedestrian-only zone southeast of downtown Toronto, and the home of numerous red-brick Victorian buildings that housed the former Gooderham & Worts Distillery, once the largest distillery in the British Empire. Eventually abandoned in the 1990s, the area’s owners decided to reinvent the neighborhood as a stronghold for arts and culture while preserving the historic look and feel. Today, visitors can explore cobblestoned streets lined with bars and restaurants, shops and offices, art galleries, and theaters. Sip a coffee from Arvo Coffee before a classic combo of beer, burgers, and poutine from Mill St. Brew Pub , then peruse art at your leisure: Thompson Landry Gallery , Arta Gallery , and Corkin Gallery are all apparent local favorites. If you’ve budgeted for another shopping spree after your Kensington Market vintage finds, swing by Gotstyle for elegant finds (and a personal styling session), or pick up Canadian-crafted home décor, clothing, and jewelry at Distill .

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum ’s jagged crystal-inspired entrance, fused to the classic brick-and-stone exterior, is a love-it-or-hate-it sight for many Torontonians, but there’s no question that what awaits you inside is a wonder to behold. The ROM is Canada’s largest museum, and the sheer number of treasures on offer is almost overwhelming, mixing tiny artifacts of ancient civilizations with jaw-dropping dinosaur skeletons. (A delight for my husband and me, especially when our guide presented us with a dino tooth to balance on our palms.) Daily tours are free upon admission, and I highly recommend joining one—unless you’d prefer to get lost amongst the suits of armor and mummy sarcophagi, which, truth be told, sounds just as fun.

Khaite Minnie Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trench Coat

Argent Vesey Blouse

Loewe Anagram Appliquéd High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans

Where to eat.

A cozy-meets-industrial spot with exposed materials and an outdoor patio nestled in Harbord Village, Rasa serves sharable global-fusion bites and entrées for a leisurely but delicious course-by-course delight. Sample the chopped salad with chickpeas, grilled octopus with green mole, and the lamb dumplings with vindaloo, but make sure not to stuff yourself ahead of dessert: The sticky bun with cream cheese anglaise and candied bacon was a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy, one I’m still dreaming about months later.

Piano Piano

Ever considered slicing your pizza not with a roller but a pair of personal scissors? At Piano Piano , that’s the (Instagram-ready) norm. A multi-location staple in Toronto, Piano Piano serves sleek-but-classic Italian fare for lunch and dinner in four different spots throughout the city, with each interior dreamed up by a Toronto-based designer. The name, which comes from the Italian phrase “piano piano va lontano,” meaning “slowly slowly we go further,” matches the relax-and-enjoy-yourself attitude of the restaurant itself. Pizza is a clear hero here—I particularly enjoyed The People’s Champ, a prosciutto-and-arugula-adorned pie—but pasta, meat, and fish are equally celebrated. If you’re dining in a group, be sure to consider the Dinner for Two or Family options, which allow you to taste the “greatest hits” for a fixed price.

The ideal spot for an upscale date night with sweeping views of the Toronto skyline, Canoe rests on the 54th floor of the TD Centre, allowing visitors a picturesque look at the CN Tower and surrounding city landmarks. But the looks aren’t the only draw to one of Canada’s most acclaimed restaurants. Canoe serves so-called “haute Canadiana” cuisine, presenting elegant spins on timeless national dishes. The menu is seasonal, adapting to whatever’s fresh and flavorful—fish, mushrooms, meats, and vegetables sourced from throughout Canada—but expect an always-genius raw bar alongside a rotating tasting menu. With a well-stocked wine list and plenty of hand-crafted cocktails with which to whet your appetite, Canoe does everything it can to match the hype.

Jacquemus La Robe Bari Dress Pale Yellow

Schutz Heloise Metallic Nappa Sandal

Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie Siren And Gold

Where to drink, mother cocktail bar.

One of the most celebrated cocktail bars in Toronto—if not all of Canada— Mother uses its on-site fermentation room to shake up unique (and beautiful to behold) delicacies. Unexpected ingredients like horseradish, black garlic, caramelized yogurt, candy cap mushrooms, and bee pollen intermingle with indulgent spirits and liqueurs to make a visit to Mother feel like its own multi-course meal. The excellent bar menu means you can stay for a real multi-course meal, too. Start with sourdough bread with red miso butter, then pair udon noodles or jerk chicken karaage with your drink of choice. Or craft your own cocktail with Mother’s Symbiosis experience, in which you select a base spirit and a seasonal ingredient, then inform the bartender of your palate, and they’ll whip up something to your liking. Those who prefer a non-alcoholic option won’t feel forgotten, either: Bee pollen lemonade and seasonal kombucha give the same nuanced flavor without the hangover.

Cry Baby Gallery

A not-to-be-missed culture-and-cocktails synthesis, Cry Baby Gallery in Toronto’s Little Portugal is indeed an art gallery, featuring exhibitions that “ [bridge] the gap between fine art and street art .” But those in search of refreshments can find a New York-style speakeasy hidden in the building, where the cocktails are a work of art unto themselves. The bar is first-come, first-serve, so head to the dim, neon-lit industrial space in the rear of the gallery to snag a chair (and a spicy margarita) before the crowd shuffles in.

Atop the roof of the W Toronto hotel rests the bohemian-chic, greenery-adorned Skylight , a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and cocktail lounge. The food itself is great—I’d recommend the pistachio-crusted kebabs with sides of saffron dill rice and hummus—but the cocktails are another major draw to the vibrant space, particularly if you prefer your dinner with a show. Select drinks, such as the mezcal and sherry-forward High Park, come served in a smoke-filled glass display case, which—once lifted—evaporates to reveal the candy-colored, delicately garnished drink inside.

Alaïa Open-Back Stretch-Jersey Midi Dress

L’Agence Solene Open Toe Mule

Astrid & Miyu Molten Large Hoops in Gold

Where to stay.

Colorful and contemporary with a playful, nightlife-inspired aesthetic, the W Toronto enjoys a prime spot in the ritzy neighborhood of Yorkville, where brands such as Chanel and Christian Dior have planted brick-and-mortar stores in the buzzy shopping and dining scene. (For a multi-brand luxury shopping experience in the area, I recommend The Webster, which, for your sake, hopefully still has the perfect Khaite shirtdress in stock.) On the ground level is Public School, a coffeehouse-meets-bar with a grab-and-go section as well as refined seated options; upstairs is The Living Room, the lobby-meets-restaurant where fellow guests can convene for afternoon tea, craft cocktails, and a champagne-dispensing vending machine; and on the roof is the aforementioned Mediterranean spot Skylight. Stylish jewel-toned suites featuring trendy geometric designs make the W’s accommodations feel plush but fashionable.

Shangri-La Toronto

Classic elegance defines the Shangri-La Toronto , a five-star beacon in the midst of the action downtown. Guest suites merge the hotel brand’s signature East Asian-influenced décor with indulgent amenities: skyline views, heated marble floors, deep-soaking tubs, and in-room iPads to get the temperature and lighting just right. A 20-meter lap pool rests beneath a glass roof in the 9,000-square-foot health and fitness area, where you’ll find top-of-the-line gym equipment alongside a sauna and steam room. (But carve out additional time for the Miraj Hammam Spa , an award-winning wellness space where you can enjoy personalized massages, clean-beauty facials, and full-body contouring.) Catch a film in the 42-seat movie screening room, and book a reservation at the ground-floor Italian restaurant, bosk . Each fall, the accomplished bartenders develop a new speciality cocktail menu with ingredients inspired by cinema classics and the year’s favorite fest films. I tried “The Sound of Music,” a fizzy confection served in a Erlenmeyer flask-like container atop a mound of moss and fake flowers.

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

An undeniably accessible locale, the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is positioned in the center of downtown. An enclosed waterfall garden (complete with an urban bee-keeping program) greets guests as they arrive in the spacious lobby, where they can grab a coffee at Dual Citizen before heading downstairs to discover an entrance to Toronto’s interconnected PATH web of walkable tunnels. Up on the 43rd floor, the Club Lounge is a sleek spot to answer emails or indulge in an appetizer or two. (The sunset views, in particular, are well worth the trip upstairs.) For book lovers like myself, a bonus draw to Sheraton properties is the brand’s ongoing partnership with Reese’s Book Club , which stocks select hotels with exclusive pop-up Lobby Libraries, where readers can shop hand-picked titles, experience gatherings with fellow enthusiasts (including BookTok meet-ups), and attend author and community events.

Elwood Clothing Oversized Core Crewneck

Elwood Clothing Core Sweatpant

Parker Clay Caroline Small Tote Bag

Beauty picks.

DIME Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Hydration is an absolute essential when traveling, and I’ve fallen in love with the simplicity and effectiveness of Dime’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which makes my skin feel soothed and soft after one tiny dropper of product. The little bottle is easy to stash away in your carry-on, meaning you can bring it out whenever your skin needs a mid-flight boost.

Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen

During my Toronto visit, I stopped by Formula Fig , part of a chain of skincare-obsessed facilities in Vancouver, Toronto, and Los Angeles that offer facials and injectables in a slick watermelon-green treatment space. My assigned facialist recommended I pick up a few Dr. Loretta products—such as this urban antioxidant sunscreen—to protect my face without irritating my flush-prone skin. A key bonus: This sunscreen doesn’t leave behind a white cast, so you can apply liberally without creating a ghost-like complexion.

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Liquid Foundation

My holy grail product for multiple years running, the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Liquid Foundation has the effortless feel of a skin tint but the coverage of a much more powerful product. Particularly when I’m sprinting between stops in a packed itinerary, I want to know my foundation is going to last amongst the sweat, smog, and (occasional film-induced) tears. With one pump of this little tube, I never have to worry.

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11 Must-Knows When Visiting Toronto For The First Time

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Visiting Toronto? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Is Toronto worth visiting? That answer is a huge YES! As one of the biggest cities in North America (bigger than every US city besides New York and LA), Toronto has plenty to offer visitors checking out Ontario.

Having grown up north of Toronto as well as living and working in Toronto for a while, we like to think we know a thing or two about Canada’s largest city!

Toronto tourism is always booming – especially in the warm summer months but even in the dead of winter!

Table of Contents

General Information About Toronto

As the capital of Ontario and Canada’s largest city, Toronto has a lot to live up to! This diverse city of over 2.5 million people is bustling with life everywhere you look.

The city sits right on the shores of Lake Ontario – which is great for boating but creates interesting climate/weather all year round!

Now, keep in mind that in this post we are talking about just the city of Toronto. Toronto is part of a larger area called the GTA – or the Greater Toronto Area – which includes the city core and the surrounding regions of Peel, Durham, Halton, and York.

For your visit, you don’t really need to know about these areas if you are sticking to the city centre of Toronto.

That said, the next biggest cities in the surrounding area are Mississauga, Brampton, and Markham. Some people even include Hamilton in this mix – and then it gets even more complicated!

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A Brief History Lesson On Toronto

Toronto actually has a long history behind it. First a settlement by Indigenous Peoples, it was part of a trading route that led to other lakes in the north of the province.

The French settled there, then the British, and it was made the capital of Upper Canada to be called “York”. There was a Fort built – Fort York – but then it was attacked and sacked by Americans in 1812 (but then we burnt down the White House).

The city grew as immigrants settled in from abroad and eventually the city became “Toronto” in 1834 (before Canada was even a country).

Since then, it has grown out over time – essentially eating up smaller neighbourhoods as it went to become Canada’s economic and cultural powerhouse that it is today.

You can revisit some of the most historic elements of Toronto when you check out St. Lawrence Market , Old City Hall, and Queen’s Park .

Safety While Visiting Toronto

As far as large cities go, there is no guarantee for complete safety. Having said that, Toronto is considered a very safe city to live in and visit. The downtown core especially is a safe area.

However, as a visitor to Toronto (as with any place you are unfamiliar with) you should watch your pockets – especially on the TTC (public transit, see below) and at tourist attractions.

Besides that, watch out for bikes and streetcars when you cross the roads – and follow the pedestrian signals or else you might get a fine for jaywalking!

While it’s completely safe to be out at night – do be mindful of your surroundings depending on the areas you are going out in.

If you stick to the Entertainment District, Queen Street, or Ossington, it’s a safe bet there will be plenty of other people around.

Weather and Climate in Toronto

Largely because of the lake, Toronto has four distinct seasons that you can experience. That said, the seasonal temperature fluctuation can basically go from -30 degrees Celsius in the cold of January winter to +35 degrees Celsius in the summer in August.

Another thing to remember is that Toronto summer is nicer in May and June as opposed to July and August. Toronto is notorious for humid heat in the summer so you may sweat even if you are in the shade!

As we said, the best time to visit Toronto would be the early summer or even in the fall. September and October can be cooler but September still has the chance of some residual summer heat.

You also get the beautiful autumn colours on the trees which some people pay big money to see!

Flying Into Toronto Airports

If you are visiting Toronto from far away, there’s a good chance that you will be flying in.

Toronto has two main airports that most passengers use: Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. We’ll dive into which is which below:

Pearson International Airport

With the airport code YYZ, Pearson is the largest/busiest airport in all of Canada. While the airport handles domestic flights, it is the main hub for international destinations.

If you need to learn more about Pearson, you can check out Pearson’s website here .

Now, keep in mind that Pearson is NOT close to downtown Toronto. The airport is located in Mississauga which is outside the city centre. However, you have a few options to get to downtown/the city centre.

You can take a cab or airport shuttle to your hotel but this option can be expensive. Luckily, if you are heading downtown (to then go to a hotel or take public transit to another place in the city) you have one great option: The UP Express Train.

The UP Express – a Union-Pearson Train – is super easy to take between Terminal 1 and Union Station. You can buy tickets ahead of time online, on your phone, or in person at the machines or kiosks.

You can also get a Presto Card (used for Toronto transit), load it up, and use it for the UP. We will cover the Presto Card below…

The UP only opened a few years ago and we’ve already taken it countless times. Eric grew up in a time when the UP didn’t exist so the fact that there’s a direct train link between downtown Toronto and the airport is awesome (and makes loads of sense).

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

With the airport code YTZ, Toronto also has Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. This small island airport flies Porter Airlines and Air Canada to short/medium distance flights to the US (New York, Chicago) and other places in Ontario/Canada.

If you do somehow fly into Billy Bishop, you can take the ferry from the island or walk (in a tunnel) from the airport to the mainland which is downtown Toronto.

You can learn more about Billy Bishop here . Eric has flown through Billy Bishop a handful of times and it’s been really nice each time. It’s a small, well-functioning airport!

Getting To/Around Toronto

To get to Toronto, you have a few options: you can drive, take the bus, or take the train – either the ViaRail or the GO (regional Ontario train).

If you have rented a car and are driving, downtown Toronto is encased by a highway “box” of four major routes:

• the 401 runs east-west at the north end of the city,
• the Highway 404/Don Valley Parkway runs north-south to the east,
• the Gardiner Expressway runs along the waterfront at the south,
• and Highway 427 runs north-south on the west side of the city.

The main transport hub is Union Station which is right downtown on Front Street.

This massive hub (which is basically always somehow under renovation) is the busiest station in Canada and handles passengers heading every which way on buses, regional, and long-distance trains. You can check out more information about Union here .

Public Transportation (the TTC)

Once you are in Toronto, you will have the experience of riding the TTC. The “Toronto Transit Commission” is responsible for public transportation in Toronto.

Lovingly known as the TTC, it will get you from A to B eventually. We say this because the system is prone to delays for a variety of reasons. That said, it’s reliable most of the time.

The TTC is made up of the subway, buses, and streetcars. The subway is good for going north-south across downtown, while the streetcars and buses fill in the gaps on major streets.

Toronto is basically a giant grid system so it’s pretty easy to get around if you have your bearings about you.

When you get on transit (or go through a paid gate to enter the subway), you can now just tap your contactless card (way to get with the times, Toronto).

The other more permanent solution is the Presto Card – the official tap card of the system and a few other transit systems in Ontario.

If you plan on using it more than a few times, you might opt to buy a Presto at a vending machine (for a small fee) and load it with money (minimum $10.00).

To use the Presto, just tap to get “on” the subway, streetcar, or bus and tap again if you transfer between modes of transportation.

Presto card users get to use the “two-hour transfer” rule meaning that from the first tap you have two hours to basically get on and off and go in any direction you want – all for the price of one fare.

Just tap each time you change vehicles or directions. Fares are not based on distance so you don’t have to tap “off” or out of the system again.

You can learn more about TTC fares and schedules and learn about the Presto Card .

You can also still use cash to pay for tickets but only when there is a manned payment box on the bus or in the subway station.

If you do pay with cash or a method that is not Presto, remember to take your paper “transfer”. It’s your Proof of Payment for the ride.

Driving in Toronto

Driving in Toronto isn’t terrible since it’s a big grid – but it can get pretty congested in the morning and afternoon (after work). Parking downtown can also be expensive.

You also have the option to take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Toronto is a big city with lots of drivers usually available.

The Neighbourhoods of Toronto

Toronto is known to be a “city of neighbourhoods” in the sense that you can walk from one and into another and feel like you’ve switched countries let alone the street.

We’ll mention below just how diverse Toronto is – but it shows in the areas around the city!

Each neighbourhood or district in Toronto has its own vibe and borders. We explain a handful of the popular ones below so you can see what’s in each one:

• The Danforth (Greektown) – an international hub of food and shops
• Liberty Village – residential area in West End with restaurants
• Distillery District – red brick factory area with breweries and shops
• The Beaches – trendy and residential in the East end with the beach
• Leslieville – also trendy area with shops, cafes, in the East End
• Cabbagetown – a historic and residential area
• The Annex – student area with trendy and cheap eats
• Kensington Market – eclectic market area with food and shops
• Chinatown – the quintessential Chinese-influenced area on Spadina
• Queen Street West – good for shopping and food
• King West – great for restaurants and bars
• Entertainment District – best clubs, sports, bars, theatres, etc
• Toronto Islands – green space with residents and amusement park
• and many more!

Culture / Language in Toronto

For those who live there, it’s no secret: Toronto is a diverse city. How diverse? Toronto has been named the most diverse city in the world with over 200 nationalities represented, 140 languages, and 51% of residents being born outside of Canada.

It’s no wonder that there are so many little international pockets all over the city: Little Italy, Koreatown, etc.

The language spoken in Toronto is English, but French is also an official language of Canada. That said, you are more likely to hear literally any other language in a Toronto coffee shop before you hear French. Seriously.

That said, one time in a coffee shop in The Beaches Lisa ended up having a brief conversation with a woman in her native language – German!

The woman (who also lived in Toronto) was so surprised to hear German spoken that wasn’t her young kids.

Toronto Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars

This rich culture and diversity are certainly represented in the available food around the city. Toronto has a booming food scene – and you will get to experience it if you head to Toronto.

You can basically find any cuisine from across the world in Toronto – and that is not an exaggeration.

That said, Toronto is known for its brunch culture. There are brunch places everywhere – and the weekend mornings are sacred brunch time.

If you are heading for brunch be sure to be early or expect to wait a bit! There are loads of great brunch places and we will write a whole post on them soon!

Toronto also has a strong coffee culture. Canadians (in general) drink a lot of coffee compared to other countries so cafes are a very common occurrence around the city.

You can try Tim Hortons – the classic Canadian brand – but explore the city for tiny coffee shops… they pop out of everywhere!

Finally, Toronto has a strong bar/pub/club culture – being a massive city. The Entertainment District is a good place to start if you are looking for a place to go out for drinks or dancing.

There are other pockets to go out in (like Ossington) but generally, you’ll find bars all over the city. We really like Bar Hop (shown above) for food pints and food!

Read More: Our Favourite Bars in Downtown Toronto

Paying and Tipping In Toronto

While you are out in Toronto, it’s a good idea to know how paying and tipping work in Canada/the city.

You can use cash in the city but basically everywhere accepts cards. In fact, it’s arguably the preferred method these days.

In Canada, tipping is expected for service. At a restaurant, the amount is generally 15% of the bill but it’s not unheard of to tip higher for really good service.

Sometimes large groups have tip automatically added to the bill so watch for that. Even poor service gets a tip – but a lower amount. No tip would be very rude.

You can also tip at the bar by tossing a dollar or two to the bartender for drinks – price depending, of course. Tipping well at the bar might mean you get drinks faster all night long… just sayin’.

Sports and Entertainment in Toronto

If you are looking for things to do in Toronto, you will not have a shortage of options. From sports to festivals and bars and theatre, you will find something to suit all interests!

Toronto is a huge sports city – with hockey ( Maple Leafs ) and basketball ( Raptors ) at Scotiabank Arena , baseball ( Blue Jays ) at the Rogers Centre, and soccer ( Toronto FC ) being the most popular sports.

They also have a Canadian football team, Lacrosse team, and smaller sports leagues/levels.

In short, it can be expensive to watch live sports (especially Leafs). Jays tickets are still affordable if you sit up high.

If you just go to the bar to eat, drink, and watch the game among locals you will have a fun time all the same.

As for other things to do – we have a whole post on this. That said, there are many museums in Toronto like the Royal Ontario Museum , the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Art Gallery of Ontario , and more.

There are many theatres and musical venues as well like the Princess of Wales Theatre , Massey Hall, The Danforth Music Hall, and the Opera House – to name just a handful!

Related Articles

If you are looking for more articles about Toronto, you might find these interesting:

• Spending One Perfect Day in Toronto!
• Top Things to Do in Toronto
• A Guide On Where to Stay in Toronto
• Coffee Shops All Over Toronto
• Some Favourite Toronto Downtown Bars

And there you have it – our guide on things to know before visiting Toronto. Of course, we could have dove into each in more detail – but we will leave those for other posts!

Hopefully, you’ve learned a bit more about the city and look forward to exploring it. Let us know how that goes!

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 Best Things to Do in Canada

24 Fun Things to Do in Toronto in the Winter

January 10, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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As Canada’s largest city, there are lots of things to do in Toronto in the winter months. From sledding down hills and shopping at Christmas markets to skating outdoors or visiting a world-class museum, there’s no reason to be bored during a Toronto winter.

There is reason to be cold, however. After all, this is Canada, and from December to March, temperatures are almost guaranteed to be below zero, with the lowest temperatures reaching -30. So, make sure you pack some warm clothes and dress appropriately so you can enjoy one of the many things to do in Toronto in the winter.

Please note that some links contained in this article and throughout our website are affiliate links. By purchasing something through these links, we earn a very small commission that helps to keep this website alive.

1. See Toronto from the CN Tower

Since the CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline and is one of the most iconic attractions in the country, your first visit to Toronto just isn’t complete without a trip to the top. Standing 553 metres in height, the CN Tower is still the second tallest free-standing structure in the world and offers spectacular views of the city and Lake Ontario from the main lookout point at 346 metres. However, you can also walk on the glass floor or pay extra for a trip to the SkyPod, which sits at 447 metres. If you’d rather sit down for a meal, you can enjoy revolving views from the 360 Restaurant.

Last but not least, those looking for extra thrills will want to consider the EdgeWalk, the highest external walk in the world. At 116 Storeys above Toronto, strapped into a cable system, you can walk hands-free around the CN Tower.

2. Go Skating

As with most Canadian cities, outdoor skating is one of the top things to do in the winter. Whether you go skating on a neighbourhood rink or on a frozen pond, it’s an iconic way to enjoy the winter in Canada . In Toronto, there are many places to enjoy a skate, and one of the most popular options is to go skating at the Bentway Trail, which is a 1.5 km figure-eight skating trail that runs under the Gardiner Expressway. It is very popular with skaters of all ages and experience levels and features an on-site village that offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for everyone to enjoy. For those without skates, you can rent them for free on Thursdays or on other days for $5-$10.

Another popular place to go skating in Toronto is Nathan Phillips Square. Located in the heart of Toronto, it is almost as iconic as the CN Tower. It has hosted many of the city’s events, concerts, special displays, and farmers’ markets throughout the years, and during the winter in Toronto, it also features an outdoor skating rink surrounded by skyscrapers.

Last but not least, if you want iconic views to go along with your outdoor skating experience, try the Harbourfront Centre’s skating rink, which features views of the CN Tower, and the lake, and is home to live music and stunning light displays on Saturdays. They also offer skate rentals.

3. Go Sledding

Another popular Canadian winter activity is sledding. All you do is get a sled, climb to the top of a hill, and slide down. It can be a lot of fun, but keep in mind that it is not without its risk and you really should start off with small hills void of obstacles.

One of the most popular places to go sledding in Toronto is Riverdale Park, which is near Danforth and Broadview Ave. With its steep slopes, convenient location, and stunning skyline views, this hill is popular with people of all ages. If you want fewer crowds, another option is Trinity Bellwoods Park.

4. Go for a Wintery Walk

Another wonderful thing to do during the winter months is to simply go for a stroll, preferably somewhere with snow-covered trees. That might seem hard in a place like Toronto, but it can be done. One of the most popular places to go for a winter walk is Glen Stewart Ravine. The trail is only 1.5 kilometres in length and consists of wooden boardwalks, dirt paths, and staircases, many of which are covered in snow during the winter months.

5. Visit the Toronto Christmas Market

When it comes to the Christmas season, people seem to love Christmas markets, and when it comes to Toronto, it’s hard to beat the Toronto Christmas Market located in the Distillery District of Toronto. Not only is this one of the most beautiful destinations within the city, but it’s also ranked as one of the top Christmas markets in the world. Admire the festive light canopies, decorations, and 50-foot Christmas tree from the cobblestone streets of this historic neighbourhood.

This area is also home to many restaurants and pubs, so it doubles as a great place to have lunch or dinner as well.

6. Nathan Phillips Square Holiday Fair

While Nathan Phillips Square is known for its outdoor ice skating (we mentioned it above), it’s also known for the Holiday Fair, which takes place in December. This fair features a 60-foot-high Christmas tree with more than 500,000 twinkling lights as well as many stalls featuring local craftspeople and artists selling a wide range of unique products, holiday-themed rides, games, and a photo booth with Santa. It’s right in the heart of downtown Toronto, making it easy for both visitors and locals to take part.

7. Experience Terra Lumina at the Toronto Zoo

Terra Lumina is an experience that takes place at night at the Toronto Zoo, featuring a 1.5 km walking path that travels into the future and back. Your journey begins when a portal carries you into the luminescent wonders of the year 2099, a time when humans and nature have learned to live in harmony.

You’ll be transported into an inspiring story featuring vibrant lighting, multimedia effects, breathtaking video projections and an original score to an enchanted world filled with possibility. This is a year-round activity.

8. Eat your way through St. Lawrence Market

Known as one of the best food markets in the world, St. Lawrence Market is a great place to chow down. Created in 1803, it’s one of the oldest markets in Canada and features more than 120 local vendors who sell everything from fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, spices, cheese, and lots of other unique products.

9. Go Shopping at the Toronto Eaton Centre

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Eaton Centre is one of the top attractions in Toronto, as well as the busiest mall in North America, spanning two blocks and featuring more than 250 retail stores.

The Eaton Centre was modelled after the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy, boasting vaulted glass ceilings, multi-level walkways, and a beautiful sculpture of a flock of geese created by the Canadian artist Michael Snow hanging from the ceiling. During the Christmas season, the mall is also decorated with twinkling reindeer sculptures and a stunning 108-foot-tall Christmas tree, which also happens to be the highest in Canada.

Lastly, the mall is a great place to get a bite to eat, featuring a wide array of food, such as steakhouses, fast food restaurants, Japanese, Thai, and more.

10. Casa Loma in the Winter

If you love castles, Casa Loma should be high on your list. This Gothic Revival-Styled mansion is located in mid-town Toronto and is a very popular attraction year-round. It was built as a private home at the turn of the 20th century by Sir Henry Pellatt but has since been transformed into a museum that you can tour around.

Explore all the beautiful rooms, secret passageways, sweeping staircases, and lookout towers, while admiring the architecture that has been featured in many photo shoots, TV shows, and of course, fancy weddings. However, during the Christmas season, Casa Loma turns its gardens into a winter wonderland with dazzling decorations and light displays.

11. Kensington Market

One of the coolest neighbourhoods in Toronto is Kensington Market, which is home to loads of little cafes, decades-old vintage stores, bars, charming boutique shops, record shops, and authentic ethnic restaurants. Kensington has long been the artists’ hub of Toronto, so it’s quite an eclectic and lively place to be.

Perhaps the main reason to visit Kensington Market, besides people-watching, is for the food. If you want to truly get a taste of it, you might want to join a guided food tour , but if you’d rather be on your own and enjoy full-size meals, some popular options include Seven Lives Tacos Y Mariscos (Mexican), Pow Wow Cafe (Native American), and the Dirty Bird Chicken and Waffles, just to name a few. There’s also FIKA Cafe if you’re looking for coffee, Kensington Brewing Company for beer, and Moo Frites if you’re looking for the best French fries that money can buy.

12. Explore the street arts at Graffiti Alley

Graffiti has come a long way these days and is now often a tourist attraction in and of itself. If you like street art as much as we do, you’ll want to head to Graffiti Alley, a kilometre-long alley located between Spadina Ave and Portland Street, which is known for its beautiful and iconic street art. Full of colour and creativity, this alley normally attracts crowds. In the winter, however, you’ll see far fewer people, making it a great winter activity. If you’d rather learn more about the area and the art, you can also join a tour with the Tour Guys.

13. Toronto Island in the Winter

If you make it up to the top of the CN Tower, you’ll notice a big island in Lake Ontario. This is Toronto Island and it’s accessible by ferry, even during the winter in Toronto. In the summer months, it’s a popular place to go boating, hiking, biking, kayaking, and even swimming. In the winter, however, it’s a wonderful place for scenic winter walks and cross-country skiing, offering beautiful trails with views of the city. It’s also a great place to snap winter photos, with beautiful frozen lagoons and amazing skyline views, especially during sunset.

If you’re looking to go during the winter, you’ll want to take the 15-minute ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal as this is the only route running during the cold months. If you need to rent skis, you’ll want to do so before you get to the Toronto Islands. One good place to rent skis is Mountain Equipment Company.

14. Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame

If you’re a hockey fan, you definitely don’t want to miss a visit to the stunning Hockey Hall of Fame , which features exhibits about players, teams, National Hockey League (NHL) records, memorabilia and NHL trophies, including being the permanent home of the Stanley Cup. Housed inside the beautiful historic Bank of Montreal building, visitors can admire memorabilia from their favourite players, get a photo with the Stanley Cup, or enjoy many interactive activities, such as facing off against famous hockey players in a shoot-out simulation.

15. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

As much as we love outdoor winter activities, sometimes you just want to be somewhere warm. If you’re looking for somewhere warm and interesting, visit the Royal Ontario Museum , the largest museum in Canada. Explore both the natural world and humankind’s cultural past through world-renowned collections and innovative programs and galleries.

With more than six million items and 40 galleries, the museum’s diverse collections of world culture and natural history amuse and educate more than one million visitors each year. The museum contains a collection of dinosaurs, minerals and meteorites, including the world’s largest collection of fossils from the Burgess Shale with more than 150,000 specimens. It also houses an extensive art collection, including Canadian, African, Near Eastern, East Asian, and European, and also features a collection of design and fine art, including clothing, interior, and product design, especially Art Deco.

We would recommend spending a half day here at minimum.

16. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

For those into art, escape the cold and enter the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) to see more than 95,000 works from artists all around the world. This massive 45,000-square-foot complex features beautiful paintings, contemporary artworks, interactive exhibits, and intricate sculptures. If you happen to be there on a Wednesday, admission is free in the evening.

17. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

If you’re into aquatic life, you’ll probably want to check out Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, which is super close to the CN Tower. While we’re always hesitant to promote aquariums, we didn’t want to leave out one of Toronto’s top attractions, which features more than 20,000 aquatic specimens from over 450 species, making it the largest indoor aquarium in Canada.

Want more facts? Check out our guide to the best Toronto Facts !

18. Visit the Museum of Illusions

This unique attraction is a place where nothing is as it seems and where the unbelievable is indeed reality. It might sound surreal but the Museum of Illusions fuses fun and entertainment with education and learning, featuring over 80 illusions, holograms, installations and exhibits.

Test your sense of balance while navigating their Vortex tunnel, unleash your inner Einstein while solving games, and experience the laws of gravity and size ratio through their Tilted and even upside-down rooms. Whether you’re looking to broaden your knowledge and perspective, or simply looking for a fun indoor adventure, this museum has something for everyone.

19. Ontario Science Centre

For those looking for even more fascination, check out the Ontario Science Centre , a science museum that houses more than 500 interactive exhibits, featuring geology, astronomical science, anatomy, music, and technology. The Science Centre is a space where visitors of all ages can learn through play and discover ways to think like a scientist every day.

Guided by the belief that science, technology and innovation will help us shape a better future, the Ontario Science Centre and its team of scientists, educators and exhibition creators conceive, develop, design and build world-class exhibitions, award-winning educational programs and innovative science learning experiences.

In addition to the incredible exhibits, the Ontario Science Centre also houses Toronto’s only public planetarium and Ontario’s only IMAX® Dome theatre (film tickets sold separately).

20. Take a Tour

With so much tourism taking place in Toronto, there are so many Toronto tours to choose from. Whether you’re visiting the city or even living in the city, perhaps you’d like to learn more about the city while trying out different food on a walking food tour. Maybe you’d like to skip out to Niagara Falls to see them during the winter months.

21. Warm Up in a Cafe

Where there are lots of people, you’ll find lots of coffee shops. After all, everyone loves their java jolt, especially on winter days when few things compare to holding a warm mug. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of amazing Toronto coffee shops and cafes. Whether you’re looking for a latte, a hot chocolate, or just a great cup of coffee, there’s something for everyone.

Where you go will depend on where you are but some options to consider include The Library Specialty Coffee (highly ranked and flavourful), Balzac’s Coffee (inspired by authentic cafes in Paris), and FIKA Cafe (cozy, cute, and lots of art).

22. Watch the Toronto Maple Leafs

For a truly iconic Toronto winter experience, watch the historic Toronto Maple Leafs play hockey at the Scotiabank Arena. As one of the original size NHL teams, there’s lots of history with this team, even though they haven’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967.

However, watching a game in Toronto is certainly not cheap. If you use a marketplace app like GameTime, you can usually score tickets in the highest part of the arena for under $100.

23. Enjoy a Concert or Show

Like most major cities, another great thing to do in the winter is to go inside and watch a concert or a show. As the entertainment capital of Canada, Toronto has many venues and loads of live performances throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to see a concert, a theatre production, a ballet or a musical act, there’s something for everyone in Toronto. Some of the big venues include the Scotiabank Arena, Four Seasons Centre, Budweiser Stage at Ontario Place, and Danforth Music Hall.

24. Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Although Niagara Falls is not in Toronto, it’s only 130 kilometres away. In less than two hours, you can drive (or take a bus) to one of the most iconic natural attractions in the entire country. Home to one of the world’s largest waterfalls, Niagara Falls is an incredible site to see in the winter months and has MUCH fewer crowds. There are many different ways to get the best views of Niagara Falls , but even if you want to spend more time, there are lots of things to do in Niagara Falls , including the Bird Kingdom, the Butterfly Conservatory, and so much more.

Don’t have a car? No problem! Join one of the many guided day trips to Niagara Falls !

Save Money with the Toronto City PASS !

If any of these attractions are on your bucket list, you might want to consider purchasing the Toronto City PASS , which lets you visit up to five of Toronto’s most popular attractions and save 40% on admission prices. The pass stays valid for nine days after being activated, giving you plenty of time to explore, and includes the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Casa Loma, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Toronto Zoo or Ontario Science Centre.

Want More Canadian Travel Guides ?

While Toronto has enough to keep you busy for weeks, there’s much more to the second-largest country on Earth. For more things to do in Canada, check out these travel guides below:

• Things to Do in Ottawa
• Things to Do in Sudbury
• Things to Do in Hamilton
• Things to Do in Mississauga
• Things to Do in London, Ontario
• Experience The Canadian Canoe Route

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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18 Best Places to Visit in Toronto in Summer

Summer is the perfect time to visit Toronto, the largest city in Canada and a mosaic of cultures. With its vibrant atmosphere, warm weather and endless activities, Toronto is a top destination for anyone looking to make the most of their summer.

However, with so many things to see and do, planning your time in the city is very important. With our expert team of Canadian insiders, let's explore some of the  best places to visit in Toronto during the summer  so you can make the most of your vacation.

It's essential to plan ahead. Toronto is a bustling metropolis that attracts millions of visitors every year. During the summer months, the city comes alive with festivals, events and activities. While this makes for an exciting and vibrant atmosphere, it also means that things can get quite crowded. Plan ahead so you can experience all that Toronto offers, avoid crowds and make the most of your time in the city.

1. Visit the Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a group of 15 small islands all linked together and located just a short ferry ride from the city. These islands are a great escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto. They have several beaches, including Hanlan's Point Beach, known for its clothing-optional policy in one section of the beach (clothing is required in the other sections of the beach). The islands also offer plenty of cycling, hiking and picnicking opportunities.

Visitors can take a ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal to visit the islands. The ferry trip takes around 15 minutes and is a fun, scenic part of the adventure. The island is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is mild and the beaches are open. The ferry fee is around $8 for adults, and the amusement park and petting zoo have separate admission fees.

2. Explore Rouge Park

Rouge National Urban Park is the largest urban park in North America. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the great outdoors in Toronto. The park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails, birdwatching and fishing. The park is home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes and over 270 species of birds. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is summer when the weather is mild and the trails are dry. The park is free to visit, and visitors can spend a whole day exploring the park's different hiking trails and activities. It is easily accessible by public transportation on the TTC or GO Transit.

3. Visit Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs is a stretch of coastline that offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario. The bluffs are a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Several parks along the bluffs, including Bluffer's Park, are known for their large sandy beaches. Visitors can also hike along the bluffs and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Bluffs are a great place to enjoy a picnic or BBQ and watch the sunset. There's a parking lot available for visitors, and the area is accessible by public transportation. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can grab a bite.

4. The EdgeWalk at the CN Tower

The CN Tower is one of Toronto's most iconic landmarks and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city's skyline. The tower offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck, located at a height of 1,136 feet. Visitors can also take the EdgeWalk, a thrilling outdoor walkway around the tower's edge. The EdgeWalk is open year-round, but summer is the best time to visit when the weather is mild. Tickets for EdgeWalk start at $199. Visitors can also dine in the tower's revolving 360 Restaurant, which offers contemporary Canadian cuisine and panoramic views of the city.

5. Take in the City Skyline from a Boat

Another great way to experience the Toronto's skyline is by taking a boat tour of Toronto Harbour. It’s a great way to see the city's landmarks from a different perspective. Several tour companies offer boat tours in the day time. Visitors can also take a sunset or evening tour to experience the city's lights. Some boat tour companies also offer dinner cruises where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the city.

6. Stroll Through High Park

High Park is a large park located in the west end of Toronto and is a great place to spend a summer day. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing and swimming. There is also a zoo, playgrounds, sports fields, pool, dog park, gardens and several ponds, including Grenadier Pond. Visitors can also stroll through the park's gardens and enjoy the beautiful flowers and plants. High Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is summer when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom.

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.

7. Visit a Botanical Garden

Toronto is home to some beautiful botanical gardens, including the Allan Gardens Conservatory with its gorgeous exotic plants and flowers. The gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy nature. This is also a popular spot for picnics. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the gardens to learn about the different plants and flowers on display. The gardens are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer.

8. Kayak Around the Lake

Kayaking on Lake Ontario is a unique way to experience Toronto's natural beauty and see the city's skyline and waterfront. It is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air while taking in the views. Several companies offer kayak rentals, lessons and guided tours. Guided tours are a popular way to learn about the history and ecology of the lake. Visitors with kayaking experience can also rent a kayak and explore the lake at their own pace.

9. Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) on the Island

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is another fun way to explore Toronto's waterways and get some exercise in the outdoors. Visitors can rent a board, paddle around the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Visitors can also take a guided tour and learn about the history and ecology of the island. Stand Up Paddle Boarding is a fun activity for people of all ages and skill levels.

10. Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic neighbourhood located just east of downtown Toronto. The district is home to various shops, where you’ll find chocolate, clothing, shoes, home décor, kitchenware and unique gifts, as well as wonderful art. The Distillery District also has some excellent and popular restaurants, perfect for grabbing a bite and sampling some local cuisines. Several festivals and events take place throughout the summer, making it a wonderful destination for culture and entertainment. Stroll through the district, enjoy the beautiful architecture and pick up souvenirs from local shops.

Travel tip: make time to shop

Toronto is premiere shopping destination, offering both large malls with global brands, luxury boutigues, and trendy neighbourhoods with local designers and artisans.

11. Bus Tours

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to see the city and get around to all the different attractions. It's also a great option if you're short on time and want to see as much as possible. Visitors can get on and off the bus at different stops and visit the attractions that interest them. The bus tour provides commentary on the history and culture of the city, making it a great way to learn about Toronto while seeing the sights. The bus tour covers all the main attractions in the city and is a convenient way to get around.

12. Electric Island

Electric Island is a popular summer music festival that takes place at various locations. In 2023, the July events are at Hanlan’s Point on Toronto Island and the August events are at Woodbine Park. The festival features a lineup of electronic music acts and food vendors. It is an exciting way to experience the city's lively nightlife and beautiful views of Lake Ontario. The festival takes place on multiple summer dates so visitors can plan their trip accordingly.

13. Harbourfront Concerts

The Harbourfront Centre hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the summer, making it an ideal place to catch some live music. The concerts feature a wide range of music genres and are the perfect way to experience the city's diverse culture. Visitors can enjoy live music while taking in the beautiful views of the lake and city skyline. The concerts are in an open-air venue, providing a great atmosphere to enjoy live music in the summer.

14. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto's most popular tourist attractions. It's a top-rate place to learn about the city's history and culture and features a wide range of natural history, world cultures, and art exhibits. Visitors can see dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and contemporary art, as well as an exciting lineup of special exhibits, such as Being and Belonging: Contemporary Women Artists from the Islamic World and Beyond, a bold exhibition exploring the perspective of 25 women artists spanning West Africa to Southeast Asia or living in diaspora (on until November 19, 2023). The museum is also an ideal place to spend a rainy day.

15. Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is another must-see destination for art lovers. The gallery features a wide array of works from local and international artists. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and other works of historic, modern and contemporary art. The gallery also features a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year that draw art fans from all over the world, such as Cassatt-McNicoll: Impressionists Between Worlds (until Sept 4) or Feels Like Home (until May 2024). The AGO also has an excellent gift shop.

16. Visit the Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is a unique and interactive experience perfect for families. The museum features a variety of illusions and optical tricks that will keep visitors entertained for hours. You can take pictures with optical illusions and learn about the science behind them. The museum also features a collection of holograms, infinity rooms and other interactive exhibits. It’s also a good choice on a rainy day or for anyone looking for an interactive and entertaining experience.

17. Toronto Food Tour

Food tours are a wonderful way to explore Toronto and learn about the city's diverse culinary scene. Food tours takes visitors on a culinary journey to some of the city's best restaurants and food trucks. They always include lots of interesting culinary information and city history, and you can sample various local dishes. Several companies offer guided food tours, including some that focus on Kensington Market.

18. Pedestrian Sundays at Kensington

On the last Sunday of each month from the end of May until the end of October, the Kensington Market area closes its streets to cars and becomes a pedestrian-only zone. It’s a great way to experience the neighbourhood's vibrant atmosphere and diverse culture. Visitors can stroll through the market and enjoy the street performers, live music, eclectic shops and so many great restaurants and food vendors. It's a perfect opportunity to explore the area and discover the city’s hidden gems — and it’s one of the top things to do in Toronto in summer.

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Famous food in toronto.

Our team of local experts at Canadian Train vacations have tried many of the foods that Toronto offers. The city is known for its diverse culinary scene, and there's something for everyone to enjoy. Some popular local dishes include:

Poutine - Poutine is a dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. It's a popular Canadian dish that originated in Quebec but can now be found all over Canada. It's a great comfort food found at many fast-food restaurants, trucks, and pubs.

Butter Tarts - Butter tarts are a traditional Canadian pastry with a flaky pastry crust filled with butter, sugar, and eggs. They are a sweet treat found at many bakeries and cafes in Toronto.

Smoked Meat Sandwiches - Smoked meat sandwiches are popular in Toronto, with many delis and restaurants offering their version of the sandwich. The meat is usually made from slow-smoked beef brisket seasoned with various spices and is typically served on rye bread with mustard.

World Cuisines - Toronto is a diverse city, and it's reflected in the food. There are many immigrant neighbourhoods in Toronto where visitors can find authentic food from around the world. Some of the most popular ethnic cuisines in Toronto include Chinese, Indian, Italian, Middle Eastern, Japanese and Caribbean.

Toronto Street Food - Toronto has a thriving street food scene, with many food trucks and street vendors offering various foods. Visitors can find everything from traditional hot dogs, hamburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches to Thai, Mexican and Indian. Street food is a great way to try different foods while exploring the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit in toronto.

CN Tower, Toronto Islands, Scarborough Bluffs, High Park, Royal Ontario Museum, and Art Gallery of Ontario are considered top attractions in Toronto.

What is there to do in Toronto in the summertime?

Outdoor activities include hiking, swimming, picnicking, visiting beaches and parks, festivals and concerts, food tours, and much more.

Is Toronto good in the summer?

Toronto is a great place to visit during the summer, with mild weather and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Which month is the hottest in Toronto?

July is considered the hottest month in Toronto, with temperatures around 77-86˚F.

How should I dress for summer in Toronto?

Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Opt for shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Is Toronto too hot in the summer?

During the summer months, the weather in Toronto can be quite uncomfortable, with high temperatures, humidity and occasional smoggy conditions. The temperature can vary greatly, ranging from a low of 68°F to a high of 95°F (20°C to 35°C).

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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14 Best Weekend Getaways from Toronto

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Feb 15, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law live in Southern Ontario and enjoy visiting destinations within easy reach of Toronto.

Toronto is an amazing place to live, but sometimes it's nice to escape from the familiar, and experience new places. If you want to see more of Ontario, it's easy to plan weekend escapes.

Toronto is also a gateway city, with direct flights from destinations around the globe. Visitors can use the city as a jumping-off point for excursions to nearby towns and natural areas.

You can find some of Ontario's most charming small towns within a couple of hours of the city, and within a five-hour radius of Toronto are world-class cities, peaceful rural areas, cultural hot spots, and amazing outdoor areas.

While most people only think about getaways to other areas of Ontario, Toronto is also within striking distance of Quebec and Upstate New York .

Skiers and boarders will be pleased to know that many ski resorts can be found within a few hours of Toronto , and these are some of the most popular weekend getaways from Toronto in the winter.

For ideas on weekend trips, in both summer and winter, see our list of the best weekend getaways from Toronto.

1. Niagara Falls

2. algonquin provincial park, 3. niagara-on-the-lake, 5. blue mountain and collingwood, 7. prince edward county, 8. stratford, 11. wasaga beach, 12. rochester, 13. montreal, 14. syracuse.

Niagara Falls is perhaps the easiest weekend getaway from Toronto and the most popular. Only 1.5 hours down the QEW Highway, this natural wonder is Ontario's most visited attraction and something everyone should see.

Niagara Falls themselves provide hours of discovery, whether it's just a glimpse over the side and a stroll along the gorge, or a tour down beneath the falls, where you can truly appreciate the splendor and power of the falls as the ground shakes beneath you.

Other activities to incorporate into your weekend getaway include a Hornblower Niagara cruise to the base of the falls, a jet boat ride through the rapids, or a visit to the sights and sounds of Clifton Hill.

At night, the falls are lit up in different colors. A stroll along the gorge with the cascading water reflecting the pink or blue lights makes for a romantic evening.

Accommodation in Niagara Falls is plentiful and easy to find. Falls view rooms are the best option and definitely worth the higher price. Dining options are extensive and varied, making it easy to find something to suit your taste and budget.

Getting from Toronto to Niagara Falls is easy. You can drive yourself, take a tour, or use public transportation.

If you are craving a bit of peace and quiet, escape the city and head to the wilds of Algonquin Provincial Park. Immerse yourself in nature and recharge. This is the perfect place for families, couples, groups, or adventuresome solo travelers.

Depending on where your interests lie, you can rent a canoe and set out for a paddle, lace up your hiking boots and head out on some of Algonquin's hiking trails , or sit in your Muskoka chair and watch the loons glide by.

Accommodation options include camping under old-growth white pine trees in the backcountry or along the lakeshore at one of the park's campgrounds , staying at a luxury lodge, or renting a rustic cabin.

You can also find interesting things to do in the nearby town of Hunstville , which also has a number of lovely resorts. Huntsville is just 30 minutes from the park gates.

Algonquin park is just over three hours north of Toronto and easily reached by a divided highway for a majority of the drive.

For a romantic weekend getaway, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake . This charming town, known for its colonial-style architecture, was once the capital of Upper Canada.

Check into a luxury hotel, like the Prince of Wales Hotel , or a historical bed and breakfast. Park the car and wander the main street, do a bit of window shopping, and then stop for lunch or dinner.

If you are here in season, check out the Shaw Festival . Two theaters in town showcase an impressive roster of shows from April right through until December .

Walkable from town is the Fort George National Historic Site , a reconstructed military base dating from 1812. Interpreters in period costume reenact daily life from the time period; the highlight is the firing of ancient muskets.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is just over 1.5 hours from Toronto .

The cute town of Elora has just about everything you need for a great weekend getaway close to Toronto.

Historic Metcalfe Street is packed with shops selling clothing, gifts, and one-of-a-kind items from local artisans. Many of the retail establishments are housed in beautifully restored buildings from the 19 th century complete with creaky, old floors.

Cozy restaurants serve innovative local fare with the freshest ingredients from farms nearby. You can either dine on Metcalfe Street and do a bit of people watching, or if you prefer a more sedate pace, grab a seat on a patio overlooking the river.

Looking for that ideal piece of art to hang on the wall? Elora has some wonderful galleries showcasing well-known local artists, along with up-and-coming artists.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to be sure to visit the Elora Gorge located a short distance from town. Here, the Grand River flows through a narrow chasm with sheer walls reaching up nearly 80 feet.

Long a favorite four-season weekend getaway destination, Blue Mountain and the nearby town of Collingwood are the ideal places for just about anyone. Families come here to enjoy the extensive list of activities, and couples come here for romantic escapes .

In winter, Blue Mountain Ski Resort and other nearby hills satisfy the need for speed for those who like to swish down the slopes. Spend your days skiing and at night dining beside a roaring fire in one of the many fine restaurants.

Come spring, hikers and mountain bikers take to the trails that crisscross the Niagara Escarpment. In the summer, enjoy the nearby orchards and world-famous Elvis Festival. When cooler temperatures start to creep in again, head to the hills for a kaleidoscope of colors as the trees change.

Blue Mountain has a pedestrian-only town area at the base of the ski hill. Here, you'll find a small lake, an assortment of shops, and restaurants with outdoor patios in the summer.

In nearby Collingwood , Hurontario Street is where the action is. Great dining, shopping, and entertainment options are just a short stroll from one another. This is also a good place to find more affordable accommodation options.

Around Christmas, Collingwood puts on a good show for visitors. You may even run into some reindeer as you walk around downtown. Check the town's calendar to see what's going on before you arrive.

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Ontario

A weekend getaway to Muskoka, with its towering pine trees, clear lakes, beautiful beaches , and rocky shorelines, is almost a rite of passage for Torontonians.

Pack up the car and head to one of the many provincial parks with your friends and set up camp or go for a hike. Some of the popular provincial parks in the area are Algonquin , Six Mile , Arrowhead , and Hardy Lake .

Alternatively, rent a cottage for the weekend and enjoy a few more creature comforts, like electricity and running water.

Perhaps the easiest option is to check into a luxury resort and be pampered with fine linens, attentive service, and great dining.

As you drive around be sure to stop in at Don's Bakery in Bala for a sweet treat. Also in town is the famous Kee to Bala performance venue, where top bands perform nightly in the summer.

Weekend getaway activities in Muskoka generally involve water, and things to do include swimming, water skiing, tubing, jet skiing, and just cruising around the lake. A more sedate way to enjoy the water is to take a cruise from Gravenhurst on Lake Muskoka ; one of the highlights is a trip past the sumptuous cottages of Millionaire's Row.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Gravenhurst

Prince Edward County is a popular weekend getaway for good reason. Just a two-hour drive from Toronto , this bucolic countryside is dotted with small towns and rolling hills.

Check into a cozy bed and breakfast and let your stress melt away. Go shopping at the galleries in Picton then grab some freshly made cheese at Black River Cheese in Milford.

Dining in Prince Edward County ranges from small, exclusive restaurants, run by chefs relocated from Toronto, right through to the local favorites serving homemade fare.

In the summer, nearby Sandbanks Provincial Park is a fun place to visit. Run down the sand dunes flowing right into the clear waters of Lake Ontario or simply lounge on the beach.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Prince Edward County

Culture vultures will want to head directly to Stratford to revel in the multitude of theater options. This medium-sized town is all about entertainment, with four stages throughout the city hosting productions from the Stratford Festival .

The season runs from April to November . Should your interests lie more towards modern music, Stratford is also the former home of music legend Justin Bieber.

Check into your bed and breakfast, luxury hotel, or other accommodation and then wander around the city, where you'll find a beautiful riverfront area and spectacular gardens. As one of the best small towns in Ontario , Stratford has a thriving culinary scene, just talk to your hotel to find out where the hottest chefs have set up shop.

To make your weekend getaway a bit more international, cross the border into the United States and head to Buffalo. This welcoming city has much going for it, and some of the recent waterfront improvements in the Canalside area make it a great destination.

The city is a hot spot for dining. Local chefs have been reinventing the culinary scene, and you'll find some great places offering innovative and interesting dishes from around the world.

If you stay downtown, Buffalo is a very walkable city. If the distances are a bit far for your liking, hop on the free tram that runs down Main Street.

A trip to Buffalo from Toronto would not be complete without a bit of shopping. The best shopping can be had at the Galleria Mall along with the shops at and surrounding the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls . Be sure to stock up on your duty free items before heading back to Canada.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Buffalo

A bit further afield, but still well within a great weekend or long weekend getaway, is Ottawa. Canada's capital city is chock-full of attractions that every Canadian should see: the Parliament Buildings, the Rideau Canal , Canadian War Museum, and the National Gallery of Canada just to name a few.

Ottawa is a well-laid-out city and very walkable. Stay downtown if you can and park your car for the weekend. You'll be able to wander past all these iconic sights, eventually making your way over to Byward Market area. Here, you'll find the city's best restaurants, shops, and pedestrian-only areas with street performers.

Ottawa is an easy drive from Toronto, it usually takes just over four hours. Alternatively, you can take the train, the travel time is about the same, and it is much more relaxing.

If you are a sports fan and have always wanted to experience a US college football or basketball game, with its passionate locals cheering the team on, check the schedule for the Syracuse University Orange teams. Tickets are cheap, and you'll almost be guaranteed to have a good time.

Fun times are in store on a summer weekend getaway to Wasaga Beach. This beach town has a lively vibe, and every weekend in the summer something is going on. If the weather is nice count on big crowds and incredible people watching.

Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world , and its sandy shoreline and shallow, warm waters are ideal for families. This is one of the best beaches in Ontario .

Off the beach, you'll find a wonderful selection of hiking, biking, and walking trails that wind their way through the sand dunes just back from the beach.

Accommodation in town is generally at independent small hotels and bed and breakfasts. These places book up early on summer weekends, so plan ahead.

Rochester may not be on your radar as a weekend getaway from Toronto, but it should be. This small city will surprise you. Where else can you find a massive 85-foot waterfall tumbling off a cliff in the center of downtown?

The city is bursting with fine museums, including the world-famous Eastman Museum & Mansion, the Memorial Art Gallery, the Strong National Museum of Play, and the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House. These are just a few of the things to do in Rochester .

Rochester has an array of fine-dining options along with funky and fun places, too. For dinner check out The Club Room in a beautifully restored warehouse space; grab breakfast at the Highland Park Diner on your way out of the city back to Toronto.

Rochester is less than three hours from Toronto on divided highways the entire way.

For a bit of Quebec on your weekend getaway, visit Montreal . This world-class city has everything you need to enjoy yourself - a trendy restaurant scene, historical districts, designer boutiques, galleries, and, of course, world-famous bagels.

Stay in Old Montreal , down by the river, where you'll find boutique hotels housed in renovated warehouses dating from the 19 th century. Old Montreal is a wonderful area with narrow, twisty streets that are a joy to wander both day and night. Duck in for a coffee or espresso if it's cold, or if you are visiting in the summer, grab a seat on an outdoor patio.

From downtown Toronto, you can take the train to Montreal . The trip takes about five hours and is stress-free. You'll arrive right in the heart of the action in downtown Montreal. Driving is also an option and only takes about 30 minutes longer.

Just over an hour farther along the same highway to Rochester is Syracuse. This college town is a lively place, with a youthful vibe, that always has something going on. Catch a game of football or basketball and cheer on the Orange, enjoy some shopping at Destiny USA shopping mall, or explore the city's museums and other attractions .

Syracuse has a revitalized downtown that is easily walkable, with historic buildings dating from the 19 th century. In this same area are funky and fun restaurants, try Pastabilities for dinner, Modern Malt for breakfast, and grab a donut at Glazed and Confused for the road trip home.

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Day Trips Less Than 2 Hours From Toronto

Toronto, Canada, is a fabulous city, but if you have some extra time, why not visit some of the other cities and towns near Toronto in Southern Ontario? From the stunning spectacle of Niagara Falls to the small-town charm of Elora and Stratford, the region surrounding Toronto is worth exploring.

Check out the places you can visit, all within a two-hour drive from Toronto, that offer visitors a wide range of experiences.

Niagara Falls

Helen Filatova/CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons

One of the world's natural wonders, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from around the world. If you're in Toronto, Niagara Falls is an easy day trip . It is about 80 miles away. The famous  Maid of the Mist  boat that sails around the falls can be a thrilling adventure, although it is only seasonally available from April to November.

Jordan and the Niagara Wine Region

 ChristopheLedent/Getty Images

About 70 miles from Toronto, the Niagara wine region offers visitors dozens of wineries. This region is famous for its ice wine. Check out spectacular natural surroundings via the Bruce Trail . Jordan is one of the charming towns among many in the area.

You can take a wine tour by bike, car, or  Air  Bus . Or, visit Cave Spring Cellars , a scenic winery with a restaurant, spa, resort, and shopping.

Collingwood

Bert Hoferichter/Getty Images

Located on Georgian Bay, Collingwood, about 90 miles from Toronto, underwent a major restoration in the late 90s. Today it is popular year-round, with skiing Blue Mountain in the winter, and hiking, biking, golfing , and boating in the summer. Lovers of the outdoors will especially enjoy the Collingwood area and consider  Scenic Caves Nature Adventures .

Wasaga Beach

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Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world, with eight miles of sandy shoreline and glorious sunsets. Wasaga Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status for its efforts to manage its shoreline according to international environmental standards.

In addition to beach activities, there is hiking and bird watching, as well as family-friendly cultural and historic events that commemorate the War of 1812 through tours and museums.

For people looking to extend their day trip to Wasaga, there are lots of beach houses and cottages available to rent. Wasaga is 90 miles from Toronto.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Cmglee/CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons

A more sophisticated, cultural destination than its famous neighbor Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a lovely town brimming with heritage and charm—and only 80 miles away from Toronto.

You might want to catch a show at the famous Shaw Festival Theatre, take an architectural walk, shop, visit historic Fort George , or check out the many  things to do with kids near Niagara Falls .

Rolf Hicker/Getty Images

Known foremost as a steel town, Hamilton also has a rich cultural side, including historical museums and fine art galleries.

Some of the top things to do in Hamilton include visits to​ the  Canadian Warplane Museum , which displays aircraft from World War II planes to jets; the  Whitehern Historic House and Garden , an outstanding intact historic house; and the Royal Botanical Gardens, which has one of the largest lilac collection and 18 miles of trails. Hamilton is just over 40 miles away, about an hour's drive.

 Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images 

About 40 miles from Toronto,  Oakville is an upscale town with diverse dining and shopping. Golf is popular here. Or, if you're looking for a day of boutiques and galleries in a pretty waterside setting, Oakville is a good choice.

If golf is your thing, you might want to grab a tee time at the  Glen Abbey Golf Course , or, if that's not possible, visit the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame . Otherwise, shopping and dining are top​-notch in this town.

To get there, you can drive for just over 30 minutes or grab a  GoTrain  from Toronto and be there in 20 minutes.

St. Jacobs Country

Allie_Caulfield/Flickr

St. Jacobs has maintained its small-town charm despite being a major tourist draw. The local Mennonites are part of the town's success story as many of their unique wares are sold in the more than 100 specialty shops and at the outstanding farmer's market.

Learn more about the   Mennonite culture, consider a visit to the Quilt Gallery, or check out the Maple Syrup Museum.

St. Jacobs is 80 miles from Toronto.

Elora (Elmira and Fergus)

Klaus Lang/Getty Images

About an hour's drive from Toronto is in the town of Elora and nearby Elmira and Fergus. These towns offer up small-town Ontario at its best. Elora is perched prettily on the Grand River and the Elora Gorge. This quaint village is noted for its interesting shops, historic stone buildings, country inns, and bed and breakfasts.

Among the many things to do, you can shop, tube down the Grand River, hike, visit or dine at the Elora Mill, attend the  Elora Festival  in July or the  Fergus Scottish Festival  in August, and take the Elora-Fergus artist studio tour.

Wayne Simpson/Getty Images

Stratford is famous for its annual Stratford Festival  (April to November), which is a repertory theater festival with an emphasis on the works of Shakespeare. Also, it is known for its beautiful gardens. The picturesque town of Stratford, also like its English namesake, is located on the Avon River, about 95 miles from Toronto. Nearby St Mary's has a well-preserved Victorian downtown district and one of the largest collections of historic limestone buildings in Ontario.

While in Stratford, you might want to eat at a culinary arts school. The town offers great dining throughout. Also, consider a visit to a garden or find an architectural tour. If that doesn't interest you, then go shopping.

Midland/Penetanguishene

Hans Bernhard/CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons

Part of Ontario's cottage country, Midland-Penetanguishene, is 90 miles from downtown Toronto. It has a rich heritage that blends Native, French, and British cultures. Midland-Penetanguishene is of interest to history buffs and nature lovers alike.

You can visit the   Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons Native Village, see the Martyr’s Shrine, take the Georgian Bay 30,000 Island boat tour, or walk around the historic naval and military base at  Discovery Harbour .

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These are the furthest places you can travel to from Toronto by car

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Road trip season is just around the corner, and while there are countless destinations in Toronto's backyard worth exploring this summer , they might not satisfy those looking to really put some mileage on their odometers.

blogTO has covered travel curiosities like the longest flight out of Toronto , and even the shortest flight you can take from the city. But those who prefer to travel closer to the ground will be surprised to learn just how far from the 416 you can venture on a set of wheels without ever lifting off on a plane.

Tropical and even Arctic destinations can be reached by car from Toronto if you're willing to put in the hours and brave treacherous road conditions.

So, how far can you actually drive from Toronto? It turns out you can travel quite a surprising distance, with the maximum direct voyage spanning 7,250 kilometres across eight countries, ending in one of the most remote regions on the planet amid the rainforests of Panama.

The absolute longest direct trip from Toronto you can take without resorting to an airplane or car ferry entails 90 hours — almost four days — of nonstop driving through southern Ontario, the American heartland and several Central American countries via the Pan-American Highway that covers most (but not all) of the west coast of the Americas.

The Pan-American Highway's northern end reaches its southern terminus at the small Panamanian village of Yaviza, at the edge of a region known as the Darién Gap.

This remote, mountainous, and densely rainforested area forms a dividing line between Central and South America. No roads, not even primitive dirt paths, cross this gap — meaning it is the furthest south one can drive from anywhere on the North and Central American landmass.

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Don't expect much in the way of tourist accommodations if you visit, though. If adventure tourism isn't your thing, this might not be the trip for you.

But what if you do love adventure and you're just not a warm-weather type?

Fear not, as there is another very long road trip you can take, if inclined, that will cross through some equally rugged — but much colder — landscapes, leading you all the way to the Arctic Ocean.

The drive from Toronto to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, spans an unbelievable 7,200 kilometres, including a final stretch along the Dalton Highway, one of the northernmost paved roads on the planet.

At 75-76 hours drive time, you'd be on the road for more than three full days to get to this destination above the Arctic Circle. Accommodations in Prudhoe Bay are spartan, but visitors still often make the trek from larger Alaskan cities to see the tundra landscapes and midnight sun during warmer summer months.

I wouldn't suggest either of these trips for the casual driver, as they will take you through long stretches of remote areas that, without adequate preparation and supplies, could turn into a really bad time.

With that in mind, happy trekking!

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