map of toronto tourist attractions

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Toronto tourist map

You can find on this page the Toronto tourist map to print and to download in PDF. The Toronto tourist attractions map presents the monuments, museums, parks and points of interest of Toronto in Canada.

Map of Toronto points of interest

The Toronto sightseeing map shows all tourist places and points of interest of Toronto. This tourist attractions map of Toronto will allow you to easily plan your visits of landmarks of Toronto in Canada. The Toronto tourist map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

The city most prominent landmark is the CN Tower as its shown in Toronto tourist map, which once stood as the tallest free-standing land structure in the world at 553 metres (1,814 ft). To the surprise of its creators, the tower held the world record for over 30 years as a tourist attraction in Toronto.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada and also one of the most diverse. Toronto is home to a dynamic mix of tourist attractions, from museums and galleries to the world famous CN Tower and, just offshore, Toronto Islands as its mentioned in Toronto tourist map. And just a short drive away is Niagara Falls.

The Yorkville neighbourhood is one of Toronto most elegant shopping and dining areas. On many occasions, celebrities from all over North America can be spotted in the area, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival. The Distillery District, Queen West, Harbourfront, the Entertainment District, the Financial District, and the St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood are also popular areas for tourists as you can see in Toronto tourist map.

Toronto attractions map

Map of Toronto tourist places

The Toronto attractions map shows the main monuments, museums and parks of Toronto. This tourist places map of Toronto will allow you to easily plan your visits of tourist attractions of Toronto in Canada. The Toronto attractions map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a major museum for world culture, natural history and one of the best attractions in Toronto. The Toronto Zoo as its shown in Toronto attractions map, one of the largest in the world, is home to over 5,000 animals representing over 460 distinct species. The Art Gallery of Ontario contains a large collection of Canadian, European, African and contemporary artwork, and also plays host to exhibits from museums and galleries all over the world.

The Eaton Centre is one of North America top shopping destinations, and Toronto most popular tourist attraction with over 52 million visitors annually as its mentioned in Toronto attractions map. Greektown on the Danforth, is another one of the major attractions of Toronto which boasts one of the highest concentrations of restaurants per kilometre in the world. It is also home to the annual "Taste of the Danforth" festival which attracts over one million people in 2½ days.

Toronto is home to Canada most famous "castle" – Casa Loma, the former estate of Sir Henry Pellatt, a prominent Toronto financier, industrialist and military man. Other notable neighbourhoods and attractions include The Beaches, the Toronto Islands, Kensington Market, Fort York, and the Hockey Hall of Fame as you can see in Toronto attractions map.

Toronto zoo map

Map of Toronto zoo park

The Toronto zoo map shows recommended tours of the Toronto Zoological Park. This zoo map of Toronto will allow you to easily find out where each animal is and where to picnic in the Zoological Park of Toronto in Canada. The Toronto zoo map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

The Toronto Zoo is a zoo located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada as its shown in Toronto zoo map. It opened August 15, 1974 as the Metropolitan Toronto Zoo and is owned by the City of Toronto; the word "Metropolitan" was dropped from its name when the cities of the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto were amalgamated to form the present-day city of Toronto in 1998.

The Toronto zoo is located near the Rouge River, along the western border of Rouge Park in city east end former borough of Scarborough as its mentioned in Toronto zoo map. Encompassing 287 hectares (710 acres), the Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada. The zoo is currently home to over 16,000 animals (including invertebrates and fish) representing over 491 species.

Toronto zoo is divided into seven zoogeographic regions as you can see in Toronto zoo map: Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia and the Canadian Domain. Some animals are displayed indoors in tropical pavilions and outdoors in what would be their naturalistic environments, with viewing at many levels. Toronto zoo also has areas such as the Kids Zoo, Waterside Theatre and Splash Island.

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Toronto

18. Harbourfront Centre

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

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

17. Bata Shoe Museum

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

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

16. Rogers Centre

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

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

15. Ontario Science Centre

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

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

14. Kensington Market

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

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

13. Black Creek Pioneer Village

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

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

12. Toronto Zoo

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

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

11. Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

9. Toronto Eaton Centre

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

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

8. High Park

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

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

7. Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

6. Casa Loma

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

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

5. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

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

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

4. Toronto Islands

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

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

3. Distillery District

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

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

2. St. Lawrence Market

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

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

1. CN Tower

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

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

Map of Tourist Attractions in Toronto

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Reader interactions.

October 20, 2023 at 10:00 am

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

September 15, 2018 at 9:03 am

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

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

November 29, 2017 at 4:45 am

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

August 13, 2016 at 8:12 am

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

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Toronto Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Toronto Attractions, Walking Tours Map

Home / Toronto Tours / Attractions Map

Toronto Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Toronto is a dynamic city that’s surrounded with towering skyscrapers and home to several great museums and galleries. It’s also where you’ll find the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding tower in North America. Despite being a cosmopolitan city, Toronto is still filled with lots of green spaces, such as the Queen’s Park and the 400-acre high park.

Thankfully, Toronto has an efficient public transportation system. This means that exploring the city on your own should be a breeze. The best way to explore Toronto is by taking the metro trains, which runs in and out of the Union Station. You can refer to our Toronto metro map if you need help on how to use the metro train. This map will tell you the nearest stations of the places you plan on visiting. There are also other attractions in Toronto that you can reach by taking the public bus. The city has a reliable network of commuter bus known as the Go Transit and serves the Greater Toronto Area. Our free copy of the Toronto Transport Map can come in handy if you want to explore Toronto using the public transportation.

There are lots of interesting sights to see in Toronto. Aside from the iconic CN Tower, you should also make sure to visit the Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, and the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. To make the most of your holiday in Toronto, use our free printable copy of the Toronto Tourist Sightseeing Map as your guide.

Despite the modern infrastructures and development, Toronto is still filled with tons of green spaces. If you prefer to explore by foot and wander around the parks and gardens in the city, go check out our Toronto Walking Tour Maps . This map will give you information on which places in Toronto can be possibly explored on foot.

For families who are taking their kids with them on their holiday to Toronto, the most convenient way to explore this lovely city is to join the Hop on Hop off Bus Tours. If you want to know where these tours will take you, our Toronto Hop On Hop Off Bus Map will guide you.

• Interactive Toronto Attractions Map
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Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Map

Toronto metro map, toronto transport map, toronto tourist map, toronto walking tour map.

Top Toronto Attractions Skip-the-line Tickets & Tours

MIND OVER MATTER - Toronto's best mentalism and mindreading show

Royal Ontario Museum Admission

Hockey Hall of Fame Admission Ticket

Skip the Line: Bata Shoe Museum Admission Ticket

Museum of Illusions Admission in Toronto

Bring the Magic Home - A Virtual Interactive Performance

Skip the Line Ripley's Aquarium of Canada Ticket in Toronto

Admission Ticket: Explore Canada in Miniature Scale

Map of Toronto — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Toronto, Ontario for travelers! Check out Toronto’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Toronto? See our Toronto Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Toronto. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Toronto map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Toronto by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 17 attractions in Toronto

St. lawrence market.

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Art Gallery of Ontario

Royal ontario museum, hockey hall of fame, distillery district, spadina museum, toronto islands, ripley's aquarium of canada, steam whistle kitchen, elgin and winter garden theatre centre, toronto city hall, cf toronto eaton centre, yonge-dundas square, nathan phillips square, toronto zoo, top 10 restaurants in toronto.

Scaramouche Restaurant

Café boulud, joso's, byblos downtown, edulis restaurant, mimi chinese, osteria giulia, transportation in toronto, nearby airports, buffalo niagara international airport, toronto pearson international airport, highways and major roads.

• Don Valley Parkway (DVP)
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• Yonge Street
• Sheppard Avenue
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• Queen Street
• University Avenue

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Popular road trips from toronto, what's the weather like in toronto.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Toronto for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Explore nearby places

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Toronto throughout the year

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Toronto?

Get inspired for your trip to Toronto with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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27 Toronto Tourist Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss

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These are Some of the Top Toronto Tourist Attractions!

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

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

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

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

Toronto Quick Guide

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Top Toronto Tourist Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Distillery District

Location: Google Maps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kensington Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

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

Get your ROM Entry Ticket here .

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

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

Bata Shoe Museum

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

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

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

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

“The Toronto Sign” at Nathan Phillips Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

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

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

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

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

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

Fort York National Historic Site

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

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

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

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

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

St. Lawrence Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Steam Whistle Brewing & Biergarten

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

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

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

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

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

The Toronto Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Interesting fact: The Islands themselves actually have residents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

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

Get your Hockey Hall of Fame ticket in advance here .

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

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

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

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

Dundas Square

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

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

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

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

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

Scotiabank Arena – formerly Air Canada Centre

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

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

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

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

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

Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location: 43°39’10.6″N 79°23’52.3″W

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rogers Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

Woodbine Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Queen Street West

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

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

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

Harbourfront Centre

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

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

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

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

University of Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

Attractions Located Outside of Toronto

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

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

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

Toronto Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

Scarborough Bluffs

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

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

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

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

Canada’s Wonderland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the official website for Canada’s Wonderland !

Ontario Science Centre

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

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

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

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

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

Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

Things to Consider When Visiting Toronto

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

Best Time to Visit Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Toronto

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Toronto

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

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

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

⇒ Get started searching for Accommodations in Toronto here .

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto Sightseeing Tours

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

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

Popular Toronto Tours

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

Related Articles

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

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

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

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

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

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

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

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40 Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto (Local Guide)

Table of Contents

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Toronto, Canada?

I’ve got you covered! 

If you are struggling to choose what to do in Toronto, then I don’t blame you – the city is huge! It can be overwhelming to choose what to fit into your Toronto itinerary, especially if you only have limited time to spend in the city. 

I grew up in Toronto and still visit regularly to see my family, so I consider myself an expert on all things Toronto. 

Over the years, I’ve explored the whole city, and now I’ve picked out some of the most fun things to do in Downtown Toronto – so you can make the most of your trip! 

Let’s dive in. 

✅ Get a chance to explore the vibrant city of Toronto with this Private Tour of the City!

Best Things to Do in Downtown Toronto

1. Kensington Market Toronto

Kensington Market is located in the heart of Toronto and is known for having many independent shops, vibrant murals, and delicious food! 

Kensington Market has a fun bohemian vibe and is a great place to shop and eat in downtown Toronto. You can find vintage thrift stores, art galleries, and hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up mouth-watering international cuisine. 

If you visit on the last Sunday of the month (May – October), you will find street parties and festivals at the Kensington Market. 

🍔 Savor the diverse culinary delights of Toronto’s Kensington Market on this flavorful food tour!

2. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is the largest museum in Canada. It showcases art, world culture, and natural history. 

The museum hosts a world-class collection of over six million objects and specimens, which are displayed across 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. 

I recommend spending at least 2 or 3 hours here to make the most of your visit.

The museum is the least crowded on weekday afternoons, and tickets cost $26 CAD ($19 USD) for adults and $16 CAD ($12 USD) for children. 

🗿 Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s best tourist destinations! Book your tickets here!

3. CN Tower 

I can’t write about what to do in Downtown Toronto without mentioning the CN Tower! It is the most iconic landmark in the city. 

The CN Tower is a 553.3m high (1,815.3 ft) tower in Downtown Toronto. It once held the record for being the tallest tower in the world, but that title now goes to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai . The CN Tower is still the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

The tower has several observation decks and a revolving restaurant. 

For a unique experience, you can try the edge walk ! This incredible activity lets you walk around the edge of the tower at 116 stories above Toronto with nothing but a harness to secure you! 

🍁 Explore Toronto’s top attractions, including the CN Tower, on this Best of Toronto Tour with a scenic Harbour Cruise.

4. Nathan Phillips Square 

Nathan Phillips Square is a large open square in Downtown Toronto. It is home to the famous Toronto sign, which you have probably seen on social media. 

Taking pictures with the sign is one of the best things to do in Toronto for free. The sign lights up in different colors and looks really cool at night. 

5. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley encompasses three city blocks. It is a great place to wander and admire interesting street art. It’s also an excellent place to get some fun photos and sometimes the location for small street festivals and pop-ups. 

Graffiti Alley is in Toronto’s fashion district, parallel to the trendy stretch of Queen Street West.

6. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is an iconic food market home to 120 vendors, merchants, and artisans. 

It’s a great place to grab some tasty treats, and you will find everything from fresh pasta to maple syrup crepes and bacon sandwiches. 

The best way to experience the market is to come here on a weekend morning and grab some breakfast before heading off to explore the rest of the city. 

There are also great food tours available that include a visit to St. Lawrence Market. 

7. Art Gallery Of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario has a collection of more than 90,000 works of art. It is among the most well-known and distinguished art museums in North America. 

The museum is huge, and there is a lot to see, so I recommend you set aside at least 2 or 3 hours to appreciate it properly. 

The building itself is really cool, too. So even if you are not a fan of art museums, it is still worth popping by for a photo. 

🎨 Save time and avoid hassle by booking your tickets in advance to one of the most popular Toronto attractions, the Art Gallery of Ontario Here!

8. Take The Ferry To The Toronto Islands

This is one of my favorite activities in Toronto! The Toronto Islands are located in Lake Ontario, just offshore from Downtown Toronto.

Ferries to the Toronto Islands operate year-round out of Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. The average ferry trip takes around 15 minutes one way. 

You can see some incredible city views from the ferry deck, which makes the ferry ride even more worthwhile. 

Spending time on the islands is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Toronto. There are 15 islands, but the most interesting ones are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point.

9. Distillery District

Toronto’s historic Distillery District is full of brick-lined streets and beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings. It is one of the most hip places to visit in Downtown Toronto. 

The district is closed to traffic and is just a few minutes walk from downtown. 

In the Distillery District, you will find quirky bars and cafes, boutique fashion stores, independent art galleries, and lots of other unique establishments.

🚶 Immerse yourself in Toronto’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture with this captivating walking tour of the Distillery District.

10. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Downtown Toronto. 

The aquarium holds around 5.7 million liters (1.25 million gallons) of water and replicates different habitats from around the world. 

The aquarium houses more than 20,000 fish and 450 different species of other sea creatures, so there is plenty to see.

I recommend spending around 3 hours here to give yourself time to see everything. 

11. Hockey Hall Of Fame  

The Hockey Hall Of Fame is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Canada is famous for ice hockey, and this interactive museum pays tribute to players, teams, memorabilia, and trophies. 

It’s a fun place to spend a couple of hours, especially if you are a big hockey fan!

🏒 Avoid long lines by booking your ticket to the Hockey Hall of Fame in advance! Get a chance to see the greatest collection of artifacts from around the world!

12. Toronto International Film Festival 

The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in the world, attracting over 480,000 people every year.

The festival occurs annually at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in Downtown Toronto.

Toronto usually schedules the festival for September, which lasts for 11 days. If you are in the city during the festival, you should definitely attend a screening at the festival! 

Tickets are available from the official TIFF website . 

13. The Elgin & Winter Garden Theatres

The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres are two theatres vertically stacked on top of each other in Toronto. The Winter Garden Theatre is located seven stories above the Elgin Theatre. They hold the impressive distinction of being the only remaining Edwardian-stacked theatres in the world.

The interiors of the theatres are beautiful, and upstairs, you will find a unique botanical rooftop garden that blooms year-round. 

You can catch a show here or take a guided tour of the theatres on Mondays and Saturdays. 

14. The Eaton Centre 

The Eaton Centre is a large shopping mall in Downtown Toronto. It’s a great place to go if you love to shop and since the entire shopping mall is indoors, it’s one of the best things to do in Downtown Toronto in winter.

There are more than 250 stores and restaurants, making it one of North America’s busiest malls. 

Also, the food court is huge with lots of options, so it’s a good place to come for a cheap lunch. 

15. Second City Comedy Club

If you are looking for fun activities in Toronto for adults, comedy clubs are a great way to spend a night out.

The best comedy club in Downtown Toronto is Second City Comedy Club. 

This comedy club showcases live improv and sketch comedy shows every night. It’s even hosted performances from super-famous comedians like Steve Carell and Tina Fey. 

16. The Harbourfront Centre

The Harbourfront Centre is a beautiful waterfront park in Toronto. It hosts thousands of different cultural events and activities throughout the year. 

It’s also a great place to go in the evening for arguably the best sunset in all of Toronto! 

There are some good food stalls and coffee shops here, too. 

17. HTO Park 

The HTO Park is a park/urban beach right next to the Harbourfront Centre. 

The park includes grassy hills, a long sand beach extending along the water’s edge, stationary yellow shade umbrellas, and lounge chairs. 

As far as beaches go, it’s not the prettiest in the world, but it is a nice place to relax in Toronto on a sunny afternoon. 

18. Bike Along The Martin Goodman Trail

If you are feeling active during your trip to Toronto, consider going for a bike ride along the Martin Goodman Trail. 

The trail is around 30 km (18.6 miles) and stretches along Toronto’s harbourfront. It takes around 2 hours to cycle the entire trail. 

Bike Share Toronto has bike-sharing stations along the trail where you can easily rent a bike for the day. 

19. Rogers Centre

The Rogers Centre is an iconic sports stadium located at the base of the CN Tower. It is home to the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team and hosts many other events throughout the year, including concerts, conventions, circuses, and even monster truck shows! 

There is an in-house hotel and Hard-Rock Cafe within the stadium, so it’s a great place to stay if you are in town for a Blue Jays game. 

20. Watch One Of Toronto’s Local Sports Teams 

If you are a sports fan and are wondering what to do in Downtown Toronto, then why not catch a game? 

Toronto is home to a few different sports teams. The Toronto Raptors are the only Canadian NBA team. The Toronto Maple Leafs are the local hockey team, and the Blue Jays are a Major League baseball team.   

Watching a local sports team can be a really fun way to engage with a new city, even if you don’t usually support that team. 

🏒 Get a chance to witness thrilling on-ice action by watching the Toronto Maple Leafs, one of the NHL’s most iconic teams in the heart of Toronto.

21. Watch The National Ballet Of Canada

The National Ballet of Canada was founded in 1951 and is comprised of 70 dancers, plus its own orchestra. They perform classical ballets such as the Nutcracker and Swan Lake while also embracing some newer contemporary ballets. 

You can watch the National Ballet of Canada at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. There is a ticket office here, or you can buy tickets online beforehand. 

22. Roy Thomson Hall

The Roy Thomson Hall is a concert hall located in Downtown Toronto in the city’s entertainment district. It’s a great place to watch the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. 

You’ll find a few concerts and symphonies here every week, but even if you don’t end up seeing a show, the building is impressive and worth stopping by to see! 

23. Day Trip To Niagara Falls 

A trip to Niagara Falls is one of the best day trips you can take from Toronto . 

Niagara Falls is just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, and there are several convenient ways to get there . 

Taking a day trip to Niagara Falls is a bucket list item for many people, so if you have never been, take advantage of being so close by and add it to your Toronto itinerary!

🍁 Get a chance to see the famous Niagara Falls up close by going on this Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto!

24. Toronto Botanical Garden

The Toronto Botanical Garden has 17 themed gardens spread across 4 acres. 

The gardens are enjoyable to wander around, especially on a sunny afternoon. They provide a great break from the hectic atmosphere of Toronto’s city center. 

The gardens are free to enter, and it is actually easy to find parking nearby. 

25. Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a Gothic-style castle/mansion on a hill overlooking Toronto. 

The castle is a popular place to take photos as it provides a stunning backdrop for pictures. 

Inside the castle, you can explore three floors of beautifully decorated rooms, as well as some exhibits on Canadian history. 

This is one of the nicest castles you will ever find in a big city and showcases an interesting combination of ancient architecture and modern technology.

26. Bata Shoe Museum 

The Bata Shoe Museum is a unique tourist attraction in Toronto. The museum displays over a thousand shoes and related shoe artifacts chosen from a collection of nearly 15,000 objects. 

Fashion buffs will love this museum as it has so much interesting information about the development, style, and fashion lore of shoes. 

You can see everything from French chestnut-crushing boots to bear fur shoes to glamorous designer high heels. 

I recommend spending an hour or two here, as that should be enough time to see everything and read all the information. 

👟 From ancient Egyptian sandals to celebrity stilettos, the Bata Shoe Museum got it all! Book your ticket in advance here!

27. Ontario Science Centre

The Ontario Science Centre is an interactive science museum with over 500 exhibits and live science demonstrations. 

It’s a great place to go during the winter or when it is raining. Kids will also love it here because there is plenty to keep them entertained for a few hours. 

Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours here as there is a lot to see and do! 

28. Toronto Zoo 

Toronto Zoo is home to over 5,000 animals and is one of the most diverse zoos in the world. 

The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation, so you can feel good that your money is going towards conservation projects and protecting animals in the wild. 

There are many animal species from around the world at the Toronto Zoo. You can see bears, pandas, giraffes, monkeys, and many more. You can also book an animal encounter to get up close and personal with the wildlife. 

I recommend spending at least 3 hours here as there is a lot to see. 

29. MZTV Museum Of Television & Archive

The MZTV Museum is the world’s most comprehensive collection of television receivers. Here, you can learn all about the history of the technology behind TV. 

The museum is extremely informative and interactive and has a huge collection of different TVs from the past. 

The ticket price is around $12 CAD (~$9 USD), and the museum also offers guided tours. 

30. High Park 

High Park is a beautiful outdoor space in Toronto with well-maintained gardens, a greenhouse, and a mini-zoo within its grounds. 

The park is located to the west of Downtown Toronto and is a nice place to take a walk and just relax for an hour or two. 

If you are visiting Toronto in the fall, then this is an especially nice place to come and admire the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. 

31. Take A Food Tour

Food tours are walking tours of the city that focus on letting you try a variety of the city’s best eats. Food tours are not only a great way to fill your stomach but are also one of the best ways to explore some hidden gems of the city. 

There is a wide variety of food available in Toronto, as it is one of the world’s most diverse cities and has influences from many different countries.

Some of the best places to experience Toronto’s foodie scene are Chinatown, Kensington Market, Little Italy, St. Lawrence Market, and Little India. 

🥞 Experience the best of Toronto’s Food Scene with this tour! It is my favorite food tour in Toronto!

32. Old Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Toronto, dating back to 1878. It’s also one of the most cool coolest places in Downtown Toronto. 

Chinatown is a fun place to go on a night out since the street is lit up in neon red, and there are some great karaoke bars to check out! 

Chinatown is also a great place to go when you are hungry. There are some lovely teahouses and lots of excellent restaurants serving authentic noodles and dumplings. 

33. Yoga Space

If you need to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while, then pop into Yoga Space. This downtown yoga studio offers over 60 drop-in classes every week and even has an onsite therapeutic wellness center.

The staff are welcoming, and many of the sessions are suitable for beginners. 

34. Go Bar Hopping

Downtown Toronto has great nightlife, and there are loads of great places to go for a drink. For a fun night out, you can spend an evening bar hopping around some of the city’s hippest cocktail bars. 

Some of the most popular cocktail bars are Bar Chef, Mother Cocktail Bar, The Library Bar, Famous Last Words, and Midnight Market. 

35. Elmwood Spa

Elmwood Spa is an urban oasis in the heart of Downtown Toronto. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax during your trip. 

The spa offers a range of different treatments, including facials, relaxing massages, and hot stone massages. You’ll also find a swimming pool , whirlpool, and steam room to relax in. 

If you are hungry, there is also a really nice onsite restaurant. 

36. Market 707

Market 707 is a funky little food market made up of old, repurposed shipping containers. Each of the containers is now home to local restaurants and independent businesses. 

You can find everything here, from poutine and grilled cheese sandwiches to unique international dishes like Afghan bean stews!

37. Bicycle Tours

Taking a bike tour of Toronto is a really fun way to explore the city. There are several great bike routes and lots of great tours to choose from. 

I love bike tours as they are a great way to see the city from a different perspective, as well as a good way to get some exercise during your vacation! 

🚲 Have a fun morning bike trip on the Toronto Islands and discover this unique neighborhood with this tour.

38. Helicopter Tour Over Toronto

If you really want to treat yourself, then I recommend taking a helicopter tour over Downtown Toronto . 

Helicopter tours are unique experiences that you will never forget. There’s no doubt that seeing the city’s iconic skyline from the air will probably be the best part of your trip to Toronto. 

Taking a helicopter tour is also one of the best things to do in Toronto Downtown at night, as seeing the city all lit up is simply magical. 

🚁 Soar above Toronto’s iconic skyline and take in breathtaking aerial views on this unforgettable helicopter tour.

39. Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is Toronto’s answer to New York’s Times Square. It’s a busy square in Downtown Toronto with bright lights and big screens. There are even occasional events held here, such as dance performances and art displays. 

You don’t need to spend a lot of time here, but it’s a fun place to hang out for a while and people-watch.

40. Aga Khan Museum

The Aga Khan Museum is located just 15 minutes from Downtown Toronto. The museum is dedicated to Islamic/Persian Art and Muslim culture. 

The building and surrounding grounds are gorgeous and give off calming vibes in contrast to the rest of Downtown Toronto. 

The museum offers guided tours with guides who are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the art. 

FAQs: Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto

How do i spend a day in downtown toronto.

Depending on your interests and budget, you could spend a day in downtown Toronto exploring museums, biking around the city, shopping at the famous Eaton Centre, taking a food tour of Kensington Market, or taking in the views from the iconic CN Tower. There are so many fun ways to spend your time!

What should I not miss in Toronto?

There are a lot of must-see attractions in Toronto that you shouldn’t miss! These include the iconic CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, the incredible Art Gallery of Ontario, the Harbourfront Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and so many more. There is a lot to see in Toronto, and there are more than enough unmissable attractions to keep you busy.

What is downtown Toronto known for?

Downtown Toronto is known for its incredible range of attractions, from cultural hotspots like the Distillery District and the Royal Ontario Museum to shopping destinations like the Eaton Centre and Kensington Market. It’s also home to major sports venues, such as the Rogers Centre and the CN Tower.

Wrap-Up: Best Things To Do In Downtown Toronto

There are so many awesome things to do in Downtown Toronto. You could easily spend weeks here and still not get to them all. 

Whether you want to explore museums, eat your way around the city, relax at the waterfront, shop ‘til you drop, or get your adrenaline pumping on the CN Tower’s edge walk, there is something in Toronto to suit everyone! 

When you get hungry after all that sightseeing, be sure to check out the best places to eat in Toronto for all budgets for my top restaurant recommendations!

Read More About Things To Do in Toronto:

• 3 Best Toronto Helicopter Tours for Aerial Views
• Dog Sledding in Toronto: 8 Best Places & Tours
• 15 Best Places to Go Kayaking Near Toronto
• 53 Best Day Trips From Toronto
• The Best Toronto Food Tours: Reviews of the Top 10 for Travellers
• The 12 Best Places to Go Apple Picking Near Toronto
• Ultimate Guide to the Beaches Neighbourhood, Toronto
• Where to Eat in Toronto: For All Budgets
• Visit the Scarborough Bluffs: The Best Hiking Trails & Beaches in Toronto
• 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Balconies
• How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls: 7 Best Ways for an Epic Day Trip
• 21 Best Road Trips in Ontario from Toronto
• 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Private Hot Tubs
• Best Time to Visit Toronto (from a Canadian)
• Is Toronto Worth Visiting: A Local’s Opinion
• These 5 Christmas Tree Farms Near Toronto Are Dog Friendly

More about Toronto, Canada:

• Is Toronto a Province? A Local Weighs In!
• What is the Cost of Living in Toronto?
• Living in Toronto vs. Chicago: Which is the Better City?
• Living in Toronto vs. Montreal: Which City is Right for You?
• Living in Ottawa vs. Toronto: Which City is Right for You?
• 30 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto: Beyond the CN Tower
• 55 Fun Facts About Toronto, Canada + Interesting Facts!
• Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Toronto?

Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

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22 Toronto Must-Visit Attractions [Tourist Guide] – Photos, Maps and Tips!

Toronto is truly a world-class city, with a vibrant culture, packed with a multitude of must-visit attractions and tourist hot-spots.

But, with so many places to visit and explore in and around the city, which Toronto attractions are the best to see if you have a limited amount of time? And what are the top things to do while in Toronto?

Well, below is a list of 22 must-visit attractions in the Toronto area , perfect for tourists and out-of-towners who want to experience all the city has to offer.

And as a local Torontonian, I’ve included pro-tips such as good-to-knows, best times to visit, money saving tips, and photography suggestions, so you get the best overall experience during your visit (and crush it on Instagram!).

Pro-tip: To help you get into the city and navigate inside, check out How To Get Around Toronto by Public Transit .

1. Niagara Falls

Although not technically in the city, a visit to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without a visit one of its most famous attractions – Niagara Falls.

Only a 90-minute drive from downtown Toronto, this natural wonder is truly awe-inspiring. The roar of the falls and the sheer amount of water plummeting over the edge is incredible to experience in person. And at night, the falls are illuminated with colorful lights that look spectacular.

There are two sections of the falls, both of which are visible from the Canadian side. And, the small town surrounding the falls is filled with other attractions including a water park, casino, museums, and countless restaurants. It makes for a great day trip or even an extended stay.

For a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to take the ‘voyage to the falls’ boat tour . The 15-minute tour takes you right up to the falls and you get to experience a truly panoramic view. But the tour operates seasonally, usually spring through to mid fall, and costs $30 CAD per adult.

Good To Knows

Many reputable tour companies offer pick-up and drop-off tours of Niagara Falls. Most basic tours start at around $70 CAD per person. Here are a few good companies to check out (not  affiliated) :

• https://www.niagarafallsbustours.ca
• https://www.niagaratours.ca
• https://www.bgniagaratours.com

Best Time to Visit

Niagara Falls is stunning all year-round. However, the spring and summer months are jam packed with tourists. The fall and winter months are significantly less busy. One year I took my cousin to see the falls on Christmas Eve and I could count how people were there on one hand.

Regardless, the earlier you arrive, the better to beat the crowds. There are no gates, so the falls are accessible 24 hours a day.

Money Saving Tips

You can opt to take public transit to see the falls instead of booking with a tour group. The two public options include:

• Megabus – $45 CAD round trip, 2 hours each way
• GoTransit – $51 CAD round trip, 3 hours each way

Although Megabus is cheaper, GoTransit runs more often. Both websites include trip planners to help you navigate your way to and from Niagara Falls.

Here are the directions to Niagara Galls from Toronto by GoTransit:

• From Union Station, take the Lakeshore West Go Train towards Aldershot
• Exit at Burlington Go Station
• Get on the “12 – Niagara Falls” Go Bus and take it all the way to the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal

Once at the bus terminal, you can walk or buy a WEGO bus day pass ($9 CAD per adult), and head towards the falls to enjoy!

Photography Tips

The horse-shoe shaped Canadian side of the falls are definitely the better looking of the two sections of the falls. There are plenty of locations along the walk up to the falls to snap an unobstructed view of the falls.

Also drone enthusiasts are reminded that the use of drones is prohibited at Niagara Falls.

2. CN Tower

Over the years, the Toronto skyline has expanded and transformed. But one thing has always remained constant – the CN Tower.

Standing just over 550 meters tall, the CN Tower pierces into the sky, and stands as a beacon for all to marvel.

This engineering wonder is definitely a must-visit attraction, located in the heart of downtown Toronto. 

The CN tower is open from 10 am to 8 pm everyday. Visitors are able to ride the elevators up to the observation levels for panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario.

For the ultra brave, you can attempt the EdgeWalk ($254 CAD), a death-defying walk around the OUTSIDE of the CN tower!

Be sure to check the weather before booking your tickets. Low laying clouds can completely obstruct the view.

Also, for a little extra, you can take the additional elevator up to the higher “Skypod” observation level. Personally, I find the regular observation level great, but if you’re visiting only once then you might as well go all out!

If you’re planning on visiting a few more attractions in Toronto, I recommend purchasing a Toronto CityPASS . So, for $109 CAD you gain admission to 5 of Toronto’s most popular attractions including:

• Ripley’s Aquarium
• Royal Ontario Museum
• Toronto Zoo OR Ontario Science Center

And the great thing is you have 30 days to visit them all!

3. Toronto Islands

If you want a quick and easy way to escape the city during your visit, you can head over to the Toronto Islands.

Only a short ferry-ride ($8.20 CAD) from the harbourfront, the collection of islands known as Toronto Island Park is teaming with attractions perfect for kids and adults.

From sandy beaches and a mini amusement park, to a petting zoo and even a frisbee-golf course, the islands have something for everyone.

Concrete pathways zig-zag around the island, and benches and picnic areas are dotted throughout. You can rent bikes or kayaks to explore more of the islands from land or water. Plus, there are many restaurants, shops, and washroom facilities, so you can visit worry free.

Personally, I like going in the morning, laying down a blanket under a tree, and reading a book while enjoying a “tasty” beverage or two.

Information about Toronto Island Park, including amenities and activities can be found online here .

Ferry tickets now need to be purchased online as per new COVID protocols. Ferry capacities are also limited so get there early as it’s fist come, first board!

There is one ferry terminal on the main land and three ferry terminals on the islands. Strollers, bikes, coolers, and dogs are allowed on board!

Toronto Island Park is open all year-round, however during the spring thaw the water level in Lake Ontario is usually higher leading to flooding in parts of the islands.  This means that some areas are inaccessible unfortunately.

4. Graffiti Alley

The street art in Toronto is as diverse and expressive as its people. Street corners, buildings and back-alleys are filled with intricate and unique graffiti by local and international artists.

By far the best place to capture and experience this art form is graffiti alley. Located next to Queen’s Street West [ here ], this area has a dense concentration of graffiti which is why it attracts so many curious visitors.

Although not overrun with people, graffiti alley tends to get fairly busy in the summer, mostly by younger photographers and visitors.

So, to beat the crowd, your best bet is to go early. Arrive before 9 am and you’ll most likely have the entire area for yourself.

A trip to graffiti alley will definitely step-up your Instagram game. Make sure you snap a photo with the TORONTO sign as well as meander through some of the other nearby streets for more graffiti not regularly captured by most people.

Alternatively, you can try out night photography to get a different perspective. Graffiti alley is fairly safe to visit at night as it’s next to a major street with lots of foot traffic.

5. Nathan Phillips Square

Named after a previous mayor of Toronto, Nathan Phillips square is a multi-use plaza located in front of Toronto City Hall.

Millions of people visit the square throughout the year to enjoy the concerts, art installations, seasonal festivals, and rallies.

The architecture of City Hall makes a wonderful backdrop. The dual buildings are curved and tower above the square.

However, most people who visit tend to enjoy the two main attractions – the illuminated TORONTO sign and the reflecting pool which transforms into a skating rink in the winter!

As I mentioned, during the winter the reflecting pool is turned into an ice rink. The rink gets very busy during the weekends but during the weekdays there are usually only a handful of skaters.

The rink is free to use so you can bring your own skates! But, if you need rentals they cost $10 CAD for adults and $5 CAD for kids under 12 for two hours.

6. Yonge-Dundas Square

Just like a trip to New York would be incomplete without a visit to Times Square, the same can be said for Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto.

Yonge-Dundas Square is usually bustling with street vendors and street performers amusing the crowds. Towering billboards and TV screens canvass the buildings surrounding the square and illuminate the streets at night.

The square is located at the north-east corner of Eaton Center and is flanked by retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses.

When something monumental happens, like when Team Canada wins the gold at the Olympics or the Raptors are crowned NBA world champions, everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) in Toronto seems to flood into Yonge-Dundas Square.

At times it truly feels like the center of the city where locals and visitors celebrate victories and rejoice together so it’s definitely an attraction worth visiting.

It’s best to visit Yonge-Dundas Square on foot. Parking is extremely limited on side streets and tends to fill up fast.

So, if you’re traveling from far, your best bet is taking the subway (Line 1) and exit at Dundas Station.

Best Time To Visit

To best capture Yonge-Dundas Square I highly recommend using a wide angle lens. A wide angle lens will let you photograph as much scenery as possible. Trust me, it’s a 360-degree experience!

7. Toronto Eaton Center

Although not as gargantuan as West Edmonton Mall or the Mall of America, the Toronto Eaton Center is a mecca for downtown shoppers looking to indulge in some shop therapy.

Open from 11 am to 7 pm, and 6 pm on Sundays, patrons can visit over 250 retailers, restaurants and service providers.

During the holiday season, the Eaton Center is packed with holiday shoppers but the vibe is usually festive and cheerful.

The mall’s architecture is spectacular. The all-glass ceiling and over-sized geese hanging from the roof is a sight to see. And, during Christmas, the mall is transformed into a winter wonderland. There is a massive 100-foot tall Christmas tree, gigantic illuminated reindeer, plus so much more Christmas décor.

As I mentioned, winter is my favorite time to visit. However, the weekends during the winter season are intense. There are hoards of people which can make it seem a bit claustrophobic.

Throughout the year, weekdays are less busy so try to go during the week if you can.

The best vantage point to see and capture the glass ceiling and geese is definitely from the south end of the mall (Queen Street entrance).

I find the vantage point from level 3 is the best!

8. Queens Quay / Harbourfront

Toronto is situated on the north end of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the 5 great lakes in North America.

The Toronto waterfront area is extensive and dotted with boardwalks, alcoves, and green spaces for visitors and locals to enjoy.

The “Queens Quay” and “Harbourfront” areas along the waterfront have lots of restaurants, shops and activities for kids and adults including kayaking, harbour tours, and festivals throughout the year.

You can rent and ride bikes along the dedicated bike path, take a stroll along the water’s edge, or find a shaded spot under a weeping willow tree during the summer. But my favorite activity is to watch the sunrise over the lake.

There are a lot of water taxis located along the waterfront offering to take patrons across to the Toronto Islands. Water taxis are slightly more expensive than the main ferry, but they are a lot more convenient and quicker.

For the rowdier crowd, there are a number of “party boats” that operate throughout the year if you’re into drinking and dancing on the water with the Toronto skyline as the backdrop.

As for washrooms, there are two public washrooms on the street (located here and here ) as well as a public washroom located in the Harbourfront center [ map ].

A hidden gem along the waterfront is the Toronto Music Garden [ map ]. The garden is host to free concerts and performances during the summer months.

The well-manicured garden and unique landscaping including the terraced steps and wrought-iron gazebo are the perfect backdrop for inspired photos, especially with the CN tower in the background. 

Engagement and wedding photographers frequent this spot, mostly during the fall for the spectacular array of colors.

9. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The Royal Ontario Museum or ROM is home to one of the largest collection of archeological artifacts and historical items in Canada.

From towering dinosaur skeletons to relics from ancient Egypt, patrons are fully immersed in natural history items and collections acquired from all over the world.

In addition to its permanent collection, the ROM hosts a variety of special events and limited time exhibits throughout the years, so there’s always something new and exciting to see.

Every corner of the ROM is filled with unique and diverse items, it’s such a treat to explore for the young and old.

The ROM spans across 4 levels, so you can get lost quite easily. For those looking to explore on their own, here is a map guide of the ROM . There are also free described audio tours that you can download or listen to online. And, there are daily tours of the museum which are free with admission!

Backpacks are not permitted in the galleries, so the ROM offers a coat-check where you can leave larger items.

Generally, photography inside the ROM is allowed, however there may be some exceptions depending on the exhibit.

Canadian college and university students have free admission on Wednesdays (book online at [email protected]).

PRESTO card holders or GoTransit users ( public transit system in Toronto ) receive a 20% discount on admissions and special exhibitions. Book and save by calling the contact center at 1-416-586-8000.

10. Toronto Professional Teams

Most, if not all, major North American cities usually have a least one professional sports team. 

Well, Toronto is no different. In fact, there are a whopping 4 professional sports teams so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• The Toronto Raptors (basketball)
• Toronto Maple Leafs (hockey)
• Toronto Blue Jays (baseball)
• Toronto Football Club (soccer)

So, grab a beer and a foot-long and spend the afternoon or evening cheering on the home team. The stadiums are usually packed with enthusiastic fans, and win or lose you’re guaranteed to leave smiling!

The fact that Toronto has 4 teams means you can enjoys watching sports pretty much all year-round.  Below is a list of the regular season window for each professional Toronto team:

• Toronto Raptors – October to April
• Toronto Maple Leafs – October to April
• Toronto Blue Jays – March to September
• Toronto Football Club – March to October

Toronto sports teams are world renowned, therefore attending games can be a bit pricey depending on the sport.

Soccer and baseball games in Toronto are definitely less expensive, ranging from $10 to $40 CAD.

Basketball tickets will set you back between $100 to $150 CAD.

Hockey games in Toronto are the most expensive to attend ( and are the highest in the NHL ), typically average $370 CAD. It’s definitely a sport for deep pockets.

11. Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

The Canadian National Exhibition, or CNE as it’s widely known, is an end of summer tradition in Toronto. Essentially it’s a massive fair with various forms of entertainment, food, shopping, rides, games, and so much more.

Visitors from all across southern Ontario flock to the fair grounds over the 18 days leading up to and including Labour Day. Personally, I love watching the Super Dogs, street performers, and trying my hand at various mid-way games.

For food lovers, the CNE is also the perfect place to indulge in your wildest desires. From classic funnel cake and corn dogs, to deep fried butter and donut burgers, there’s something for every palate.

The CNE is definitely a must-visit summer attraction in Toronto. It’s perfect for families and friends, young and old!

The CNE is located at Exhibition Place. I highly recommend taking public transit to get there, either by street car or GoTrain (Exhibition Station).

General admission tickets are $20 at the gate. However, if you buy them online [ www.theex.com ] they cost $16 CAD per ticket. There is a $3 CAD service fee per transaction, so if you buy more than one ticket you already save! Ride passes are also discounted online.

To save more on the price of admission, visit after 5 pm. General admission tickets are only $9 CAD.

12. Casa Loma

If you’ve always wanted to visit a castle but just haven’t had the time to visit Europe, you’re in luck!

Situated on top of a hill overlooking downtown, Casa Loma is an ultra unique part of the city. It’s a medieval-looking mansion smack-dab in the middle of midtown Toronto. Now, it’s been turned into a museum and time capsule of sorts.

Walk through the 98 rooms including a 10,000 book library, and the beautiful gardens overflowing with flowers and sculptures.

This historic landmark is a must-visit attraction for the inquisitive!

Casa Loma is open 9:30 am to 5:00 pm Wednesday to Sunday and is closed Monday and Tuesday.

For an additional one-of-a-kind experience, Casa Loma also hosts “escape rooms” [ https://escapecasaloma.com ].

13. Ripley’s Aquarium

From sea turtles to sand sharks, sawfish to starfish, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a truly wondrous place to visit any time of the year.

Centrally located in downtown Toronto next to the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is a massive complex filled with all sorts of sea creatures both small and large.

Open from 10 am to 8 pm, visitors can literally walk through the underwater world of sting rays, moray eels, and jellyfish, and peer into their aquatic lives.

The “interactive zone” is tailor-made for curious kids and adults eager to get hands-on with wildlife. If fact, there’s so much to see and learn at Ripley’s Aquarium, I’ve gone 5 times and I still want to go back!

I highly recommend booking tickets online .  To limit the number of guests arriving all at once, the aquarium has implemented a timed ticket system. To reserve your entry time, select a specific time slot when purchasing tickets online.

You can save up to $8 CAD per ticket if you visit after 5 pm. Regular and “after dark” ticket prices are listed below:

• Adult (14 and up) = $44 or $36 CAD
• Youth (6 to 13) = $30 or $24 CAD
• Child (3 to 5) = $15 or $9 CAD
• Seniors (65 and up) = $30 or $24 CAD

Only hand-held cameras and equipment are permitted inside – the use of tripods are not allowed.

For the best pictures do not use flash. The light bounces off the acrylic glass tanks and obscures the image quality.

If you only have a smartphone, I would highly recommend getting a phone stabilizer like the DJI Osmo Mobile [ link to Amazon ]. It makes your videos look amazing, especially is such a unique place like Ripley’s Aquarium!

Finally, no visit to the is complete without a #SharkSelfie. The best place to get one is when you walk through the tank tunnel!

14. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

From European masterpieces to distinguished Canadian artists, the Art Gallery of Ontario or AGO is home to close to 100,000 works of art from across the globe.

The vast collection includes paintings, sculptures, and immersive installations that stimulates the mind and inspires the soul.

Although the AGO is mostly geared towards a mature crowd, kids are definitely encouraged to visit.

Similar to Ripley’s Aquarium, it’s highly recommended that tickets are purchased online prior to visiting since time-specific entries are only permitted.

Photography is permitted at the AGO for personal use only, except where indicated. However, selfie sticks are not permitted at the AGO.

The AGO facility itself is truly a masterpiece. Be sure to capture the spiraling staircases, floor to ceiling glass, and exposed architecture of this unique building.

15. Distillery District

Definitely a must-visit Toronto attraction, the historic Distillery District is step back in time to the Victorian industrial era.

The cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries, specialty shops, and a variety of unique bars and restaurants.

Once the home to a large whiskey production facility, the distillery district is now a pedestrian-only area teaming with live entertainment, year-round festivals, and distinctive dining and shopping experiences.

The area is transformed in December and hosts the popular Toronto Christmas Market. From BeaverTails and hot cocoa, to hand-crafted ornaments and clothes, Torontonians flock to the Distillery District to celebrate the festive season together!

Winter is by far the best time to visit the Distillery District. The combination of snow, festive decorations, and glow of the lights make you feel so warm and fuzzy. Or maybe it’s the mulled wine!

16. High Park

Just like Central Park in New York or Stanley Park in Vancouver, High Park is an expansive urban green space nestled in Toronto that can be enjoyed by everyone all year-round.

The 399-acre park includes both manicured gardens, playgrounds, sports facilities, dog-friendly walking trails, and large tracts of natural forest.

During the spring, thousands of people flock to the High Park to see the cherry blossoms.

A personal favourite of mine, during the summer months the amphitheatre plays host to live renditions of “Shakespeare in the Park”. You can bring your own snacks and drinks and be entertained as you watch a Midsummer Nights Dream under the stars!

Also hidden within High Park is a mini zoo which is home to a variety of exotic animals including bison, capybara, emu and many more!

Truly there’s something for everyone at High Park, making it the perfect place to visit while in Toronto.

High Park transforms throughout the year, but the best times to visit would definitely be early spring (to see all the trees and flowers blossoming) and autumn (to see the fall colors).

The Sakura (cherry blossoms) trees bloom typically between late April to early May.

17. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is truly a historic landmark in Toronto. First established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is a mecca for shoppers looking for fresh seafood and specialty spices, to the best coffee and pastries.

Food lovers will rejoice at the sheer number and variety of delicacies available – there’s just so much to choose from!

The market is very much like a bazaar, bustling with patrons and filled with a variety of vendors – clothes, souvenirs, flowers, beauty products, pretty much everything!

Because the St. Lawrence Market is all indoors, you can visit any time of the year, rain or shine!

18. Queen Street West

To see the latest trends in fashion, food, and design, take a stroll along Queen Street West.

From local bars and restaurants, to one-of-a-kind antique stores and tattoo parlors, Queen West as it’s also know as is home to an eclectic mix of shops and eateries.

The famous Graffiti alley is also found along Queen West.

From hippies to hipsters, the diversity along Queen West is something you must experience, especially during patio season in summer!

Queen Street West runs from Roncesvalles Avenue to Victoria Avenue. However, the section of with the most concentration of shops is between University Avenue to Dufferin Street, approximately 4 km long.

The street car (501) runs constantly along Queen Street, which makes seeing it end-to-end a bit easier.

19. Bloor Street (Yorkville)

The Yorkville region in Toronto is synonymous with high-class, glamour, and posh. Not everyone lives it, but it’s somewhere you can go to experience it, even partially. And within Yorkville there’s Bloor Street.

Between Yonge Street and University Avenue along Bloor Street, you’ll find high-end boutique shops like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, to name a few.

So, just like Los Angeles has Rodeo Drive, Toronto has Bloor Street. And who knows, maybe you’ll rub shoulders with a celebrity while you’re there.

Bloor Street is positioned parallel and along Line 2 of the subway so it’s very accessible from downtown Toronto.

The Royal Ontario Museum is located nearby on Bloor Street next to University Avenue.

20. Entertainment District (King Street)

From historic theatres and concert halls, to an endless amount of bars and clubs, there’s no questioning how the entertainment district in Toronto got its name.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the streets are crawling with revellers looking to let loose, drink and dance the night away.

But if drinking and dancing isn’t your thing, there are also a number of plays and concerts to be seen. Both the Royal Alexandria and Princess of Whales theatres showcase world-renowned plays such as the Lion King and The Book of Mormon!

The highlight for me is that in September the entertainment district hosts the world famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Celebrities, influences, and idolizers flock to TIFF to talk all things cinema for two whole weeks!

So, no matter the time of the year, the Entertainment district will not disappoint making it a must-visit attraction in Toronto.

21. Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building)

Another beautiful example of the unique and historic architecture dotted around Toronto, the historic Gooderham Building is definitely a must-see attraction.

The red-brick exterior and triangular shape of the building is why it’s more commonly referred to as the flatiron building.

It’s located only a short walk from Union Station in downtown Toronto at the corner of Front and Church Street. It’s also located only a stone’s throw from St. Lawrence Market.

When viewed from the east looking westward, the juxtaposition of the Gooderham building with the skyscrapers of the financial district in the background makes for a marvelous contrasting photo.

22. Roy Thomson Hall

One of the most unique buildings in the city, Roy Thomson Hall is an architectural gem. The curved cylindrical shape and all-glass exterior makes for an elegant backdrop with the CN Tower located near by.  It’s so beautiful my wife and I actually had part of our wedding photographs taken in front of it!

Roy Thomson Hall plays host to concerts and speakers throughout the year. From National Geographic Live! to Star Wars in Concert, Roy Thompson Hall is the perfect venue for pure auditory nirvana.

Both the visually stunning design and opportunity for fantastic music make Roy Thomson Hall a definitely must-visit attraction in Toronto, which is conveniently located in the heart of downtown.

Check the Roy Thomson Hall  events and tickets webpage to see what’s playing beforehand. You might score seats to a great artist or concert that’s playing!

During the summer months, Roy Thomson Hall hosts free concerts in the evenings on its lower level patio. You can enjoy a drink while listening to jazz music in the warm summer breeze.

The best photo spot of Roy Thomson Hall is from the North West corner of Simcoe and King Street. The Hall is perfectly framed with the CN Tower rising above it in the background.

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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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Toronto attractions map

Map of Toronto attractions. Toronto attractions map (Canada) to print. Toronto attractions map (Canada) to download. Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada and also one of the most diverse. Toronto is home to a dynamic mix of tourist attractions, from museums and galleries to the world famous CN Tower and, just offshore, Toronto Islands. And just a short drive away is Niagara Falls as its shown in Toronto attractions map. If you are visiting Toronto in winter, head indoors to explore the extensive network of underground walkways that connect shopping, entertainment, and attractions. In summer, wander along the beautiful waterfront and enjoy the beaches and parks.

Map of Toronto attractions

Toronto Attractions and Highlights

mbbirdy/Getty Images

These Toronto attractions draw millions of visitors a year and span the modern to the historical and the cultural to the commercial. 

Toronto is a big, bustling multicultural city, with attractions that will appeal to a variety of people: culture lovers, sports lovers, nature lovers, shoppers, foodies and those who like to explore off the beaten track. 

The attractions on this list are the most popular and most visited by tourists, but the city warrants deeper exploration. Just wandering Toronto's best neighborhoods gives you a great sense of the city and its people.

If you're planning to visit a few attractions, the Toronto City Pass offers half price admission and VIP entry.

These attractions are all easily accessible (within a 20-minute walk or 5-15 minute public transit ride away) from Union Station in downtown Toronto.

The Toronto Eaton Centre

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski 

The  Eaton Centre  is a bright and airy shopping mall in the heart of Toronto's downtown that covers two city blocks and houses more than 230 stores. The stores will appeal to the budget conscious and spendthrifts alike. 

Along with the CN Tower, the Eaton Centre is the most popular tourist attraction in Toronto.

Between 2010 and 2015, the shopping hub has undergone major upgrades and renovations, including the addition of an impressive and diverse food court. 

More than just a place to shop, the four-level, glass domed Eaton Centre is of architectural interest and features a huge Canadian geese mobile, "Flight Stop," designed by artist Michael Snow. 

Erect a disproportionately tall building in the middle of a city and they will come. The CN Tower attracts millions of tourists 364 days of the year for its bird's eye view of Toronto.

At 1,815 feet the CN Tower has lost its title as the tallest free-standing structure in the world, but as of 2015 held rank as the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere and was classified as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Modern World" by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

A glass elevator whisks you to the 1,122 foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck where a portion of the floor is transparent. Instead of buying your admission ticket, you could also make a reservation at the tower's top-floor restaurant, 360 , to get the view, one of the best ways to get the whole experience.

There is really no other way to get such an elevated, panoramic view of Toronto, which is a great perspective on the city, Lake Ontario and surrounding areas. That said, visiting the CN Tower is not inexpensive and it can be very crowded and busy. If this is not your thing, perhaps a quiet drink at the Rooftop Lounge of the Park Hyatt may adequately satisfy your quest for a bird's eye view of the city.

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

For history or architecture buffs especially,  Casa Loma  is a fascinating visit but most anyone can appreciate the grandiose home built by wealthy Toronto businessman Sir Henry Pellatt in the early 1900s. Casa Loma is similar to Hearst Castle in California, in that it is one man's ambitious architectural vision. In the case of Casa Loma, Pellat's dream went awry and contributed to his downfall.

Notable for its location proudly overlooking the city, the "House on the Hill" boasted many modern-day conveniences, such as central vac and an elevator. The Casa Loma building also was used as a location shoot for the 2002 movie "Chicago."

Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM)

Even if you don't step inside the  ROM , it's worth checking out the bizarre, jagged glass exterior that tends to either delight or offend passersby.

With more than 40 galleries of art, archaeology and natural science, the ROM offers up a world of interest and fun. The diverse ROM galleries feature one of the world's finest collections of artifacts from China, a more than six-story tall totem pole and much more. A discovery gallery at the ROM and other interactive exhibits mean everyone's senses get a workout and kids stay interested .

Centre Island

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto to lakeside charm. Centre Island is one of a series of small islands that comprise the largest urban car-free community in North America (some service vehicles are permitted). Centre Island, also called Toronto Island, offers a place for recreation and relaxation and features an amusement park, recreation areas, beaches, a yacht club, and restaurants.

Centre Island is a 10-minute ferry ride  away from downtown Toronto. 

The Distillery District

The Distillery Historic District is a great place to spend a few hours if you're in downtown Toronto and​ you want to get away from the usual downtown stuff: there's not a Starbucks or McDonalds in sight. This pedestrian-only village is set amidst fabulous heritage architecture and is devoted to promoting arts and culture. The area also features a wellness center, plenty of cafés, restaurants and pubs.

Walk along Front Street east from Union Station for about 15 minutes. Lots of cute shops and restaurants along the way as well as the St. Lawrence Market, a great, inexpensive lunch spot if it's open. 

Yorkville is a charming anomaly amidst Toronto high rises and shopping malls. Tucked into a pocket of downtown, the quaint Victorian architecture in Yorkville houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. The dining and shopping are upscale and the galleries represent some of the finest Canadian and international artists. Many celebrities have been spotted strolling the sidewalks of Yorkville, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival.

Hockey Hall of Fame

You don't have to be a diehard hockey fan to enjoy a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame, which is an outstanding facility, full of interactive exhibits that put kids or adults in the heat of NHL action. The Broadcast Pods let you call the action of some of the most famous hockey games, including the 1972 Canada / Russia series: "Henderson shoots, he scores." Also featured is a replica NHL dressing room (minus the smell), a trophy room, and of course a gift shop.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

The AGO houses an impressive collection of more than 40,000 works, making it the 10th largest art museum in North America. The AGO​ is a superb document of Canadian art heritage but also features masterworks from around the world, spanning 100 AD to the present and housed in a stunning Frank Gehry building.

The AGO is in an eclectic part of downtown Toronto adjacent to Chinatown and Baldwin Village, providing an interesting choice of restaurants and shops to peruse before of after your gallery visit. 

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

Toronto has the second largest Chinatown in North America. People will find bargains on exotic trinkets, jewelry, clothing and household items. Plus, of course, where there's a bustling Chinatown, there's delicious food, and Toronto's Chinatown is no exception. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of restaurants serving not just authentic Chinese, but also Vietnamese and other Asian fare. 

Ripley's Aquarium

Canada's largest aquarium  opened in 2013 in Toronto next to the CN Tower.

The aquarium is a 12,500 square-meter (135,000 square-foot) boasting more than 5.7 million liters (1.5 million gallons) of water home to 15,000 animals, including sharks, jellies, rays, and green sea turtles.

The aquarium will not be home to dolphins, seals or other mammals. No doubt some lesson has been learned by the ​Marineland scandal in which the  Niagara Falls  family attraction was called out publicly for its inhumane treatment of its animals—namely the marine mammals.

If you're in Niagara Falls, bypass Marineland, and head straight down the highway for Ripley's Aquarium instead. 

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

1. CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is the second must-visit spot in Toronto .

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

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

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

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

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

Entry is included in the Toronto City Pass .

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

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

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

Best things to do in Toronto with family

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The museum also hosts many high-quality temporary exhibitions .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t forget to bring your picnic!

You’re going to Toronto?

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

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

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

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

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

And if you see a good offer, book it!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still wondering what to do in Toronto ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do around Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

Given the line, I recommend booking in advance :

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

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

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

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

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

I’d point you towards GetYourGuide . It’s the easiest way to enjoy the day without any stress – everything’s sorted. They even pick you up straight from your hotel and drop you back off in the evening.

The day includes:

• The bus ride
• A visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake
• A photo stop along the Niagara Parkway
• The famous boat cruise to the heart of the Falls
• 3 hours of free time to wander and make the most of the day
• Optionally, you can even choose to live an extraordinary experience by flying over Niagara Falls in a helicopter!

Book in advance by clicking on the green button below:

I recommend you to spend 3 days in Toronto , especially if you want to include a visit to the Niagara Falls in this eastern Canada trip .

Moreover, if you’ve decided to visit Toronto in high-season, you’ll likely have to queue in front of the monuments, which can quickly shorten the list of things to see.

I can only recommend you to get the City Pass or skip-the-line tickets that I talked about to limit the loss of time.

I’ll explain how to visit Toronto in 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days below .

If you have one day to visit Toronto , here’s a great itinerary to discover the city’s must-see spots :

• Morning spent exploring different city districts: Kensington Market , Chinatown, and the Distillery district
• Lunch break at the St. Lawrence market
• Discovery of Ripley’s Aquarium
• Ascend the CN Tower just before sunset

If you’ve planned to stay in Toronto for 2 days , in addition to the previous itinerary, you’ll also be able to visit:

• Casa Loma to enjoy the view over Toronto from its turrets.
• The Royal Ontario Museum and its collection of dinosaur skeletons.
• Lunch break
• Spend the afternoon discovering the Toronto Islands

3 days in Toronto will allow you to get to know the city a bit more. According to the list in this top 17 of things to do in Toronto, you still have to see :

• The Art Gallery of Ontario
• The Science Centre or other museums that tickle your fancy
• Do a bit of shopping at the Eaton Centre
• A harbor cruise with lunch, brunch, or dinner included

Or, for this third day, I highly recommend taking a trip to the world-famous Niagara Falls ! If you opt for the organized tour that I introduced earlier, remember to book it in advance:

You’ll find this detailed 72-hour Toronto itinerary in my other dedicated article: Visiting Toronto in 3 Days .

If you have 4 or 5 days in Toronto , the best advice I can give you is to take your time . You’ll have the time to visit all the city’s points of interest + Niagara Falls without rushing!

It’s not so easy to find a hotel that offers good value for money in Toronto . To help you out, I’ve prepared a list of the best hotels depending on your budget.

One last tip: If the place you’re attracted to is available, book it right away . Demand is very high in the city, and the best accommodations disappear (very) quickly!

• The Clarence Park : This youth hostel is located a 10-minute walk from the CN Tower. Dormitory bed from €35 per night. Strong points: the location, the conviviality, curtains for dormitory beds, modernity. An excellent choice for budget accommodation in Toronto !
• Margie Townhome Suites : This guesthouse is located a 5-minute walk from the Eaton Centre. Cozy and pleasant rooms starting from €110. Strong points: the location, the calm, proximity to the metro.
• The Novotel Toronto Centre : Located right next to St. Lawrence Market. Contemporary and very spacious double rooms starting from €150. Strong points: indoor pool, location, excellent breakfast.
• One King West Hotel and Residence : Nestled in Old Toronto, a mere 5-minute walk from the St. Lawrence Market. This joint boasts modern, spacious and elegant suites, complete with stunning city views, starting from €190, with a breakfast option at €17. Strong points: Prime downtown location, top-notch bedding, and the breathtaking views.
• The Omni King Edward Hotel : For anyone looking to treat themselves during their Toronto escapade. This upscale hotel resides in the financial district, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Eaton Centre. Cosy double rooms with tasteful décor start from €300, with breakfast at an extra €23. Strong points: prime location, attentive staff, room décor, and comfort, as well as an excellent breakfast. A perfect choice for a luxury stay in Toronto or a romantic night with your partner !
• Bisha Hotel Toronto : A 5-star hotel just 500m from the CN Tower. This establishment boasts superb rooms designed by none other than star Lenny Kravitz’s designer studio. Starting at a cool €390. Strong points: the infinity pool on the rooftop with views of the CN Tower, the hotel’s excellent restaurants, and an ideal location. The best hotel in Toronto for a luxury stay !

You may have noticed, staying in downtown Toronto isn’t exactly cheap, but that’s to be expected given it’s a bustling Canadian tourist hub.

If you’re looking to save a bit and don’t mind staying a bit further out, hotels near the Toronto Airport (about 17km from downtown) generally offer lower rates.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport
• Best Western Plus Travel Hotel Toronto Airport
• Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Airport
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre

• Canoe : Located in the heart of the business district, on the 54th floor of a high-rise. It offers a spectacular view of the city. The restaurant serves regional Canadian cuisine and local wines. The dishes are carefully prepared and beautifully presented.
• The Keg : A Canadian restaurant chain with several locations in Toronto. The Keg is a steakhouse that offers a wide variety of excellent quality meats. The service is great, and the décor is nice.
• Sunset Grill : Located on Richmond Street, near the Eaton Centre. This diner is known for its typical Canadian brunch with pancakes, sausages, bacon, etc. It’s also the perfect place to grab a sandwich or a bagel for a quick lunch. The food is high quality, and the portions are generous, enough to keep you going all day. Great value for money.
• Carisma : If you fancy a break from typical Canadian fare, you might want to try Carisma. This Italian restaurant (run by “real” Italians) offers dishes made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Everything is delicious.

You can get to Toronto directly by plane from France . Most of the flights go straight through.

If you fancy visiting Ontario and Eastern Canada, it’s an awesome launch pad . From there, you can head up to Ottawa , Montreal , and Quebec to tick off the rest of your travel list .

If you’re coming from Montreal , you can drive to Toronto in around 5 hours 40 minutes .

There’s also an express bus service that links the two cities, taking about 6 hours for around $30 .

Finally, you can also reach the city by train . Expect at least a 5-hour journey for the fastest one (though they’re few and far between), with prices starting from $67 .

I really enjoyed visiting Toronto, a city that skillfully blends an American vibe with its skyscrapers and a deeply ingrained Canadian culture .

The city is super cosmopolitan, and it’s a real treat to soak up various atmospheres throughout the day: hipster in Kensington, local at the St. Lawrence market and in the Distillery District, American at the base of the CN Tower, historic at Fort York, and Asian in Chinatown.

Of course, climbing to the top of the CN Tower is a lasting memory from my Toronto trip, and I was particularly impressed by the Niagara Falls.

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Toronto, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.

You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Explore asian heritage in toronto, neighbourhood guides, must-visit walkable neighbourhoods in toronto, outdoor adventures, cycle the toronto islands, where to watch the sunset in toronto, food & nightlife, the most iconic drag brunches in toronto, 9 iconic eats in kensington market, toronto's best sports bars for watching the big game, global tastes, toronto's best restaurants for plant-forward dining, 10 toronto blue jays fan experiences at rogers centre, live performances, celebrate live music in toronto this summer, culture & entertainment, 6 ways to explore queer toronto, museums, galleries & attractions, 10 amazing toronto escape rooms & games for all ages, shopping guides, where to buy uniquely toronto gifts & souvenirs, style & design, an architecture buff’s guide to queen’s park, 5 iconic toronto buildings for architecture buffs, where to shop for earth day-friendly souvenirs in toronto, indigenous stories, don’t miss this summer’s 6 best indigenous arts events in toronto, 5 can’t-miss indigenous foods to savour in toronto, 10 places to support indigenous creators in toronto.

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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Toronto   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada

Toronto is filled with many exhilarating experiences, just waiting to be discovered. Kick-start your journey by indulging in the breathtaking bird's-eye view from the iconic CN Tower observation decks – a must-visit attraction. Afterward, you can

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Toronto Islands Toronto Islands free

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

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

High Park High Park free

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

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

CN Tower CN Tower

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

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

Popular Tours

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto w/ Boat, Lunch, Winery Stop

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St. Lawrence Market St. Lawrence Market free

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

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

Distillery District Distillery District free

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

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

Harbourfront Centre Harbourfront Centre free

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

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

Kensington Market Kensington Market free

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

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

Hockey Hall of Fame Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

Niagara Falls One Day Sightseeing Tour from Toronto

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Casa Loma Casa Loma

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

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

Toronto Zoo Toronto Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

Nathan Phillips Square Nathan Phillips Square free

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

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

Ontario Science Centre Ontario Science Centre

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

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

City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

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Fort York Fort York free

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

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

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

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

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

Yorkdale Shopping Mall Yorkdale Shopping Mall free

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

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

Canada's Wonderland Canada's Wonderland

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

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

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Toronto amusements maps. All maps of Toronto Attractions (Distillery District Toronto, Distillery District parking, Ripley's aquarium, Toronto zoo, Centennial Park golf courses Toronto ...)

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50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 5, 2024

There are so many things to do in Toronto it can be difficult to know where to start. Being one of the most  multiculturally diverse  cities on the planet, there is something for everyone. It’s our hometown but we’ve also experienced Toronto as a tourist. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and in our humble opinion, it’s the most exciting! If you are visiting the city, our comprehensive Toronto guide will help you find the best places to visit and things to do in Toronto with our expert local opinions.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Toronto

We have broken this guide into sections to help you plan your Toronto itinerary. There here are clusters of attractions in different parts of the city so instead of hopping in taxis or taking the subway running around in all directions, we’re going to give you a Toronto guide where you can walk from one attraction to another.

• Part 1 – Toronto Entertainment District – CN Tower, Roger’s Center, Grafitti Alley, The Well
• Part 2 – Front Street and Distillery District – Gooderham and Worts, Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market
• Part 3 – Harbourfront – Sugar Beach, Toronto Islands, Harbourfront Cruise Part 4 – Downtown Toronto – Yonge and Dundas Square, Nathan Philips Square, Eaton Centre
• Part 5 – Toronto Museums & Galleries – ROM, AGO,
• Part 6 – Toronto Outdoors – High Park, Evergreen Brickworks, Cycling Trails, Humber River, The Beaches
• Part 7 – Toronto Theatres and Entertainment Venues – Ed Mirvish Theatres, Massey Hall, Roy Thompson Hall, Second City
• Part 8 – Day Trips from Toronto – Niagara Falls , Niagara on the Lake, Toronto Zoo, Canada’s Wonderland

When flying into Toronto, Canada, you’ll be landing at Pearson International Airport. Airport taxis are available and you can call and Uber or LYFT with a dedicated ride share pick-up station and you can take the UP-Express. But take the hassle out of travel and book an  airport limousine transfer  that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Entertainment District

1. cn tower edge walk.

The CN Tower is Toronto’s most iconic landmark and the most popular thing to do in Toronto. Built in 1975, it reigned as the world’s tallest building until 2007 when it was taken over by the Burj Khalifa in 2008. While the CN Tower is a top Toronto Attraction unto itself, it’s the Edgwalk that makes it special.

• Location:  301 Front Street.  Directions  – TTC to Union Station, then walk East on Front Street

CN Tower Glass Floor

If you aren’t up for the adrenaline rush of the Edgewalk, you still must visit the CN Tower to see city views from its observation decks. There is the Lookout Level, The SkyPod and the Glass Floor which we were surprised terrified some people.

You can eat dinner at the revolving restaurant, walk on the glass floor, and see the best view of Toronto from inside and out, enjoy a virtual reality ride. Read more: CN Tower Edgewalk – Taking on The World’s Highest SkyWalk

2. Toronto Railway Museum

While you are at the CN Tower, there are plenty of things to see and do around Front Street. Make your way to the Railway Museum just behind the CN Tower to see this incredible display. The Toronto Railway Museum is dedicated to the history of rail transport in Canada located in the former Canadian Pacific Railway John Street Roundhouse, which was built in 1929.

It served as a maintenance facility for steam locomotives and today it is a sprawling outdoor museum featuring a collection of historic railway equipment, including locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses. Visitors can see exhibits of various railway artifacts, learn about the history of Canadian railways, and experience interactive exhibits.

After checking out the Railway Museum, you can pop into the Steamwhistle Brewing Company. Pop into the roundhouse to enjoy a pint of premium beer and a bite to eat. Located in the historic John Street Roundhouse which was use to repair locomotives from the Canadian Pacific Rail company, it is now a tap room complete with Biergarten inspired by the famous beer gardens of Munich .

3. Rogers Centre

This area is filled with things to do from the Ripley’s Aquarium and the Toronto Rogers Centre which is home to the back to back Major League Baseball champions circa 1992 and 1993, The Toronto Blue Jays.

The Rober Center is the ultimate entertainment complex with the largest retracting roof in North America. Home to the Toronto Blue Jays, the Rogers Centre is a huge stadium seating 53,000 people. When the Jays aren’t playing, you will find the hottest musical acts in the world playing in their stadium tours. See  Roger’s Live Nation  for upcoming concerts.

4. Queen West

This is where the hippest of the hip hang out in Toronto. Queen West is known as the Art and Design district and if you’re looking for some trendy styles, this is the place to go. Queen Street has shops and stores selling everything from makeup to menswear.

You can even buy sewing and material goods here as well as jewelry-making supplies. It’s got it all. Once the shops close, the food scene begins and the live music starts at venues like The Horseshoe, the Rivoli, and the Rex.

One of the best ways to get a feel for Toronto is to take a walking tour. This food tour takes you through the different neighborhood that helped shape Toronto from St. Lawrence Market to food stalls, local sushi and sweet treats.

5. Graffiti Alley

Queen Street is the main entertainment area of the Entertainment District home to some of the best shopping in Toronto and the headquarters of City TV. But just behind the glitz and glam of Queen Street is Graffiti Alley. Graffiti Alley is the most popular place in Toronto for  Instagram.

Located at Queen and Bathurst Graffiti Alley offers 1 km of walls covered in street art and graffiti along Rush Lane. Canadian commentator Rick Mercer shot his Rants along Graffiti Alley over the course of his 15-year show. It’s located in the city center on Queen Street making it an easy walk to get to and it is filled with amazing street art.

• Location :  South of Queenstreet  Between Spadina and Bathurst.
• Toronto Tour Guys offer  Toronto Graffiti Tours . 

6. Entertainment District Nightlife

The CN Tower, Roger’s Center, and Ripley’s Aquarium are all located on the south edge of the Entertainment District so once you’ve spent the day sightseeing here, it’s time to enjoy life in the city in the heart of the action.

The Entertainment District spans from Queen Street to the Gardiner Expressway and Spadina Avenue to University. It’s home to legendary live music venues such as the Horseshoe Tavern, The Rivoli, and Cameron House. Toronto’s top theatres, are Roy Thompson Hall, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Princess of Wales and there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and pubs.

7. Arcadia Earth at the Well

The Well is Toronto’s newest entertainment complex spanning across 7.7 Acres in Toronto’s King West. This area is just starting to ramp up, and the hottest spot in town is Arcadia Earth. Influencers and Instagrammers will love this place. We recently visited and took part in the hour long multimedia display.

Downloading the app to our iPhones, we walked through 10 immersive experiences using the latest technology. This really is one of Toronto’s coolest experiences where you feel that you are right in the heart of the displays themselves. You can download media directly to your phone to bring home the experiences with you.

Where to Stay in the Entertainment District

The Entertainment District is a great place for travelers to make a base while exploring the top Toronto Attractions as many of Toronto’s top tourist attractions are within walking distance of its hotels. Close to Union Station, it is easy to get to and it is where Toronto’s main nightlife venues are with cocktail lounges and chic bars.

• Stay at the Ritz Carlton, one of our favourite hotels in Toronto overlooking the CN Tower  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Thompson Hotel  For a more moderate mid-range budget, check out the modern and chic hotel that is Close to nightlife.   Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Front Street and Distillery District

8. distillery district.

The Distillery is one of the most popular places in Toronto for travelers. Stroll through the pedestrian walkways along cobblestone streets as you browse the many boutiques, brew pubs, and art galleries. In the summer the streets come alive with outdoor street performers, music, and stage performances. In the winter, the annual Toronto Christmas Market is in full swing.

• A Segway tour of the Distillery is a fun way to get around and learn its history.

9. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market was once voted as the #1 Food Market in the World by National Geographic. St. Lawrence Hall and the North and South Market building have been operating for more than 200 years at the foot of Front and Jarvis Street. 120 vendors take pride in their goods operating stalls that have been passed down for generations. Take a walk through St. Lawrence Market and buy some fresh cheese, meats, and bread to take on a picnic in the Toronto Islands.

St. Lawrence Market is undergoing a new development and the North Market is closed as its state-of-the-art design is being built, but the City relocated the Sunday Antique Market and Farmers Market to a temporary market at 125 The Esplanade.

10. Scotia Bank Arena

It is our second-largest stadium and is home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and NBA Champions, the Toronto Raptors. If you are a hockey fan, make sure to buy tickets to a Maple Leaf game well in advance, Toronto loves its hockey and games sell out quickly. Which is surprising since Toronto hasn’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967.

Scotia Bank Arena is also home to the 2019 NBA champions the Toronto Raptors. Tickets are at a premium for basketball games too, but visitors can watch a game in the square outside the arena known as Jurassic Park. This is almost as lively as watching it live as crowds gather to cheer on our beloved team.

In between the two major sporting seasons, the Scotia Bank Arena opens its doors to more music acts. Visit their website  for hockey, basketball, and concert schedules.

11. Hockey Hall of Fame

Canada loves its hockey and Toronto is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. If you are a hockey fan, you won’t want to miss visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame. Located in downtown Toronto at the foot of Yonge and Front Street it’s a must stop on any Toronto itinerary for hockey fans.

It houses the Stanley Cup and it’s on display when it’s not touring the country. It also houses the world’s largest collection of hockey memorabilia, there are interactive displays and two theatres.

• Location : 30 Yonge St – Subway Line 1 to King Station. Directions here .

Harbourfront

12. helicopter tour or scenic flight.

For a bird’s eye view of the city, take a scenic flight from Billy Bishop Airport on Toronto Island. We have had the privilege of taking several scenic flights over Toronto. What stands out besides the beautiful city skyline is all of the green space in Toronto. It is very impressive to see so many trees scattered among the skyscrapers.

Travelers shouldn’t miss the chance to see Toronto from above. You’ll fly along the waterfront of Lake Ontario to see the beaches, and Toronto Islands, and circle around the skyscrapers of this spectacular international city. This 7-minute helicopter tour is an affordable way to see the city skyline views from above. It may be a short flight, but 7 minutes is all you need to view the CN Tower standing over downtown Toronto, Fort York, and the Lake Ontario waterfront from above

13. Harbourfront Centre

After you have seen Toronto from above, make your way from Billy Bishop to Toronto’s Harbourfront, it’s just down the street. Harbourfront is an amazing entertainment area complete with theatres, museums, music venues, and festivals.

Harbourfront Centre is the heart of the area with entertainment venues, artists workshops, galleries and outdoor attractions. There is always something going on at Harbourfront Centre. There are plenty of dining options and it is an excellent place to stroll along Toronto’s waterfront, do some shopping in the Centre and enjoy the artisan workshops.

The main building of Harbourfront Centre is closed for renovations, but events are still going and The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery remains open.

While at the Toronto Harbourfront and book a sunset harbour cruise for a fantastic sunset view of Toronto. There are all kinds of cruises planned to show off the Toronto skyline from dinner cruises, daytime cruises, and cocktail cruises to special Luau Cruises and holiday events. It’s a beautiful way to take in the Toronto Scene and witness the Toronto Islands as you cruise Lake Ontario. Book a cruise in advance

14. Sugar Beach

Harbourfront is also home to one of Toronto’s most photographed beaches, Sugar Beach. It’s a tiny beach located on Corus Quay right beside the Redpath Sugar Factory, Sugar Beach is a quiet spot just at the east end of Queens Quay. It’s a small patch of sand with Muskoka Chairs and a pink umbrella installation.

• Location :  Located on Queens Quay  – Subway to Union Station and Walk South to the water. Or ride the Spadina Streetcar all the way to Harbourfront.
• 29. Harbourfront Cruise

15. Toronto Music Garden

A hidden gem in the Harbourfront district is the Toronto Music Garden in Queens Quay. Designed by Yo Yo Ma and landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy. It was inspired by the first movement of Bach’s Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello, and the park is meant to be a living representation of the piece.

The park features six distinct sections, each representing a different bar of the music. The sections to look for in the Toronto Music Garden Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuett, and Gigue. The park also features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, which were chosen to reflect the mood and character of each section of the piece.

16. Toronto Islands

You must go to the islands for the city skyline views of Toronto. This is the view that everyone around the world recognizes. There is stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and cycling. You can visit the beaches of the island including Toronto’s famous Nude Beach.

Take the ferry to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, or Ward’s Island and spend the day enjoying the sunshine and iconic views of the city. We always enjoy a picnic on the islands and there’s even a small amusement park. Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island is a cute park for kids with a carousel, log ride, Ferris wheel and plenty of concession stands, midway games, and miniature gold. The islands are a perfect getaway for the whole family from the city.

• Location : Board the ferry from Queen’s Quay.

Where to Stay in Harbourfront

• Mid-Range:   Westin Harbour Castle  – This is The Place to stay in Harbourfront. Located right on the water. Pool, fitness center, dining with city views. Has a resort feel.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Downtown Toronto

17. city hall and nathan phillips square.

Located just a few blocks from Yonge and Dunas Square is Nathan Phillip’s Square. Home to Toronto City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square is a gathering spot for tours and meetups.

It probably attracts the most visitors to Toronto due to the iconic City Hall Building. It is a popular spot for events, art displays, and celebrations. This is where we celebrate New Year’s Eve and the fountain turns into a ice skating rink during the winter months.

For exploring City Hall and downtown Toronto the Sheraton Center is an excellent hotel. It overlooks City Hall and is connected to the PATH at the Toronto Eaton Centre, this is often our go-to hotel. It has an indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com Check it out on

• Location :  100 Queen Street West  – Subway Line 1 to Queen Street.
• Book a  walking tour of Toronto  to see all the major sites of Toronto

18. Toronto CF Eaton Centre

The Eaton Centre has been the heart of Toronto Shopping since the 1970s. Located at Yonge and Dundas Square, this shopping mall spans from Dundas to Queen with flagship stores like The Bay and Saks Fifth Avenue helming the ends. There are high-end boutiques and thrifty dollar stores. It has everything you’d want under one roof.

The Eaton Centre spans from Queen Street to Dundas Square along Yonge Street in the heart of Toronto and it is the busiest shopping center in North America. Right now its iconic Canada Geese installation has been taken down as the Toronto Eaton Centre is undergoing a 77-million-dollar makeover, but it is still open for business

19. Yonge and Dundas Square

This popular public square in the heart of Downtown always has something exciting going on. Surrounded by billboards, shopping, movie theatres, and City TV, it’s a happening spot. It’s Toronto’s version of Times Square in New York City and a place all travelers to the city should visit. There are always outdoor performances, festivals, and even free movies in the summertime.

At Yonge and Dundas Square, you’ll find plenty of Restaurants including Milestone’s Patio overlooking Yonge Street and lots of shopping including Toronto’s Iconic Eaton Center.

• Location : At the intersection of Yonge and Dundas Street. Subway Line 1 to Dundas Station.

20. Little Canada

Little Canada is also located at Yonge and Dundas Square on the lower level of the Cineplex building. This Toronto attraction features miniature replicas of famous Canadian landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, and the Parliament Buildings. You can also see miniaturized versions of various Canadian cities and regions, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and the Canadian Rockies.

It has interactive displays where you can activate the Northern Lights, makes it rain in Vancouver, or control the cars on the streets of Toronto.

21. Toronto Underground City

It’s true, Toronto has an entire subterranean world under the city known as The Path. It is one of the largest underground walkways in the world. Starting at Yonge and Dundas Square it weaves through 30km of the downtown core all the way to Union Station.

More than 200k daily visitors and commuters walk the path filled with restaurants, shopping, cafés connecting 75 skyscrapers, subway stations, department stores and hotels.

• Located : in the downtown core. Just walk into any building and look for the Path sign. Visit  Path.com  for maps

Where to Stay Downtown Toronto

• Mid-Range:  Sheraton Centre  –  Connected to the PATH at the Eaton Centre, this was our go-to hotel. Views of City Hall, indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Budget:  Chelsea Hotel   – Not too many budget spots here but Chelsea is on the affordable side. Prime location steps from Dundas Square. Ask for a renovated room.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

22. Kensington Market

For the complete opposite end of the spectrum, Kensington Market is a funky shopping district with second-hand clothing and vintage style. Located just off Spadina in the heart of China Town, you’ll find cheese boutiques, fresh vegetable markets, microbrews, and vintage clothing. It is the funkiest place in the city and a must-stop for anyone coming to Toronto. For a local vibe and funny atmosphere, make sure to visit Toronto’s, Kensington Market.

23. Chinatown

One of Toronto’s most vibrant neighborhoods in downtown Chinatown is located on Spadina Avenue. Pick up your favorite Asian vegetables for authentic cooking, eat incredible Chinese food, and ask for “a pot of tea” after hours (meaning, a pot of beer)

You really feel as if you have stepped into an Asian city with the sounds, smells, and tastes of Asia engulfing the senses at every turn.

• Located  along Spadina Avenue between Queen and College
• Book a walking tour  of China Town and Kensington Market.

Bloor/Yorkville

While you are visiting the ROM, take a stroll over to Toronto’s chicest neighborhood. Bloor Yorkville is home to the Mink Mile – One of the world’s most expensive shopping streets. For shopping, you’ll find every high-end sort you can think of including Gucci, Chanel, Kate Spade, and Burberry.

The top salons make their home in Yorkville and some of the city’s best dining is here. If you want to people-watch and keep an eye out for celebrities in Toronto, this is the place to be. Our favorite hangouts in Bloor Yorkville are Hemingways Patio and The Pilot.

Where to Stay in Bloor Yorkville

• Luxury:  Four Seasons  –  The top choice for celebrities and businesses, this 5-star luxury hotel has an incredible spa, popular bar and one of the best dining establishments in Toronto.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Mid-Range:  Intercontinental Toronto Yorkville   – What was once the hot hotel for celebrities at TIFF, now an affordable option in Yorkville.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

24. Casa Loma

Did you know Toronto has a castle? Casa Loma was built in 1911 by Sir Henry Pellatt; a local financier to be used as his private residence. It was a lavish Gothic Revival mansion with 98 rooms at 64,700 square feet (6,011 m 2 ). There are always seasonal events going on at Casa Loma with Halloween celebrations, Christmas decorations, and March Break Festivities. But visitors can tour this historic castle as well.

There are stables and a coach house and today it is a popular tourist attraction. There is even an 800-foot tunnel leading to the stables. You can tour the many suites or eat at the BlueBlood Steamhouse, a casual restaurant at the Terrace Grill and coffee and snacks at Liberty Café. Read More: Toronto Tours by Locals

• Location : 1 Austin Terrace – Take the Subway Line 1 to St. Claire Station and then walk West to Casa Loma

Toronto Museums and Galleries

When planning your Toronto sightseeing excursions, you must include museums in your Itinerary. Toronto has a number of museums and art galleries to see, but these are a few of the top.

25. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum of Natural History and one of the top 10 cultural institutions in North America and Canada s largest museum.

Located in downtown Toronto at the corner of University and Bloor, this popular Toronto attraction melds old and new. The contemporary design of the Royal Ontario Museum is a beautiful addition. The ROM houses 13 million artifacts and artwork featured in 40 different exhibition spaces and galleries.

• You can purchase advance tickets to the ROM  Get Your Guide for $20.
• Location:  100 Queens Park – at the corner of Yonge and Avenue Road. Line 1 or 2 Subway to Museum Station.

26. Art Gallery of Ontario – AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) went through a huge transformation in 2008 with a spectacular design by Canadian artist Frank Gehry. The art gallery houses permanent collections like the Group of Seven, The Thomspon Collection, and Contemporary Art. It also has a lovely cafe where locals like to meet for a drink or coffee. It’s no wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Ontario , let alone Toronto.

Located downtown Toronto on Queen Street, The Art Gallery of Ontario is a central location that is within walking distance from the Entertainment District, China Town, or Front Street.

• Location:   317 Dundas Street West  – Line 1 Subway to St. Patrick Station
• There are several private art galleries along this street.

27. Bata Shoe Museum

This is one of the most unique museums we’ve experienced with displays of footwear through history. But you’ll also see celebrity footwear like Elton John’s platform boots and Elvis’ Blue Suede Shoes, and stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe. Canadian legend Terry Fox’s running shoe is on display from when he attempted to run across the country for cancer research. He eventually succumbed to the disease, but he is a true Canadian hero.

• Location: 327 Bloor Street West . Subway Line 1 or 2 to St. George Station
• Advance tickets can be purchased through Get Your Guide 

28. Aga Khan Museum

Opened in Sept 2014, the Aga Khan Museum features a collection of Islamic, Persian and Muslim Art. It is North America’s first museum dedicated to Islamic Art and was started by the private collection of the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan. The museum houses 1000 objects dating back 10 centuries housed in an impressive eye-catching building.

• Location : 77 Wynford Drive – Subway Line 2 to Broadview Station then transfer to Bus #100 to the museum.

29. Fort York

Before Toronto became the mega city that it is, it was once called York. And this fort stood on the waters of Lake Ontario to protect the city during the War of  1812. This National Historic Site is open year-round offering guided tours, demonstrations, and exhibits. You’ll have fun interacting and learning about history.

• Location: 250 Fort York Blvd . Streetcar 511 or 505 or 509 Street Car

30. Ontario Science Centre

Located north of the city, the Ontario Science Centre has been a favourite for decades. There are great hands-on science exhibits and spectacular displays. Walking through the Living Earth exhibit feels like you are walking through a real rainforest. It has Toronto’s only Planetarium and there is an OMNIMAX Theatre showing new films regularly.

• Location :  770 Don Mills Road North York:  Subway Line 2 to Pape Station, transfer to Bus 25 North to Don Mills at St. Dennis. Or grab an Uber, or ride a bike!

The Entertainment District is filled with music venues, and Toronto’s top theatres and it is home to TIFF. (The Toronto International Film Festival)

Toronto Theatres

31. ed mirvish theatres.

Ed Mirvish was a beloved businessman in Toronto from the 1960s to the 1990s. His love for the theatre basically single-handedly revitalized the Toronto theatre scene. He opened the Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and & Ed Mirvish Theatres all of which still showcase the most popular Broadway shows of the day.

• Check out  Mirvish.com  for all theatre listings and showtimes.

32. Massey Hall

Massey Hall is an intimate music venue that has seen acts perform from all around the world. If you are looking for a rock and country acts or comedians to watch, chances are you’ll find someone at Massey Hall. And there is exciting news! Massey Hall has reopened and is hosting musical acts in its newly renovated space at Allied Music Theatre.

33. Roy Thompson Hall

For the best orchestra, opera and musical performances, Roy Thompson Hall is the top classical music venue in Canada. Home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra it is the premier concert hall in the city with outstanding acoustics. It is also a popular venue during the Toronto international film festival.

• Check out the  Roy Thomson Hall  Website for more details.

34. Second City

The Second City in Toronto is awesome. It is the best Second City outside of Chicago in the United States. Comedic icons such as Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short performed here and it is still going strong on Blue Jays Way.

Make a night of it in the Entertainment District to see its live comedy shows featuring improv, sketch comedy, and musical performances.

35. Sony Centre for the Performing Arts

It is the largest soft-seat theatre in Canada making for a very comfortable experience. There’s always something playing here including concerts, films, live shows, and festivals.

• Check out their calendar for show details. Anyone under 30 Years old receives $15 tickets!

Toronto Outdoors

36. high park.

Located in the West End, the city’s largest park attracts visitors from afar during cherry blossom season, but there is a lot more to high park.

Visit the High Park Zoo housing domestic animals like bison, highland cattle, and llamas. There are plenty of picnic areas, hiking and cycling and in the summer Shakespeare in the Park begins with live performances from the Bard. There’s Grenadier Pond, the Historic Colborne Lodge and it is a short walk down to the Lake Shore to enjoy the Toronto Waterfront.

• Location: Take Subway Line 2 West to Keele or High Park Station.

37. Evergreen Brickworks

With outdoor markets, art exhibits and cafés, the Evergreen Brickworks is a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours. Rent a bike from one of the city’s bike share locations and peddle out to the quiet district to grab some fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmers market. This reminds me of those cool districts you find in New York City.

• Location : 550 Bayview Avenue . It’s tricky to get to cycling or a car is the best way. By transit, Subway line 1 north to Davisville and then bus #28 to the Brickworks.

38. The Beaches

The Beaches have long been a favourite tourist attraction of Toronto. Starting at Ashbridges Bay, you’ll find beach volleyball, boardwalks, and parks stretching along the 3km trail along Lake Ontario leading to the R.C. Harris Filtration Plant. Traffic is a killer in the summer, so use a bicycle to get around. The Beaches Jazz festival takes place during the month of July.

• Location: Toronto East – Queen Streetcar.

Cherry Beach

Cherry Beach is located at the outer harbour on the Martin Goodman Trail and is a popular spot for SUP, Kite Boarder and kayaking. Locals like the off-leash zone for dogs. On your way stop at Polson Pier for the best skyline view of the city outside the island.

Kew Beach is another great spot for Canoe and Kayaking plus our favourite SUP. It’s home to the balmy beach club and there’s outdoor fitness equipment to play with. Kew Beach basically blends into Balmy Beach and Woodbine Beach and there’s an outdoor swimming at the Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools including 5 and 10-metre (15-30 feet) diving boards!

Ashbridges Bay

Ashbridges Bay is one of the more popular spots for beach lovers in Toronto. The waterfront trail runs through the Bay area that has green parks and walkways, beaches, a skateboarding park and picnic sites. This is Toronto’s main spot for fireworks during Canada Day and Victoria Day.

39. Ontario Place

Located at the CNE Grounds on the Lakeshore, Ontario Place is an excellent place to spend an afternoon. It has one of the best outdoor festival stages in Toronto at Budweiser Stage attracting big names performing in an intimate setting. And there’s an IMAX theatre. Enjoy the excellent trail for cycling or rollerblading that goes around 7.5 acres of green space.

• Location : 955 Lakeshore West BLVD – Hop on the 514 Streetcar out to Dufferin Gate Loop. Or ride a bike along the waterfront trail.

40. Toronto Bike Trails

Toronto has some excellent bike trails away from the city traffic. You can use the bike share program to cycle around the city, or you can rent a bike. Some of the best cycling trails are the Waterfront Trail, Leslie Spit Trail, The Don Valley Bike Path, Key Garden Belt Line, Taylor Creek Park, and High Park.

• Locations: For a complete list of Toronto, Bike Trails visit Toronto.com
• There are plenty of cycling tours that will take you to see the top Toronto attractions.
• Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides.

41. Sunnyside Park

Located in the West End of Toronto, Sunnyside Beach is a quieter stretch of beach located near Sunnyside Pool. There’s a lovely pavilion that’s popular for weddings and events and you can grab some lunch while you are here.

It’s an excellent place for running and cycling and there are plenty of stops along the Waterfront Trail. This trail takes you out through wetlands, over the Humber River and Mimico Creek, and into West Etobicoke.

42. SUP Bluffers Park

There are plenty of spots to Stand Up Paddle Board in Toronto but the most scenic spot is make your way to Scarborough Bluffs at Bluffers Park just off of Bluffers Beach. Blue waters mixed with the white Scarborough Bluffs make a perfect setting and the water is usually calm for paddleboarding.

Located in Scarborough just east of the other Toronto beaches, it is one of the more scenic beaches of Toronto with the lovely Scarborough Bluffs towering overhead at 65 metres high. (180 feet) There’s a restaurant at the marina and spots for picnics. Bluffers Beach has become a popular Instagram spot.

43. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Located just west of the Queen West Neighbourhood, Trinity Bellwoods Park is a popular hangout space in Toronto thanks to its large shady trees. You’ll find all the cool cats and hipsters hanging out at this park that features an ice skating rink in the winter, a public pool, community garden and tennis courts.

Trinity Bellwoods Park is also known for its cultural events and community gatherings, including outdoor movies, live music, and arts and crafts markets. It is also a popular spot for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings with friends and family.

Day Trips from Toronto

These day trips from Toronto are just two of the day trips that we recommend for first-time visitors and people from out of the country. But there are countless day trips from the city that you can explore. Read our complete list of the best day trips from Toronto: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

44. Canada’s Wonderland

I used to sing at Canada’s Wonderland for four seasons so this amusement park is very dear to my heart. Located north of Toronto, this is one of the best day trips from the city. Spend an entire day enjoying its mega roller coasters, Splash Works and entertainment.

The park features more than 200 attractions, including 16 roller coasters, making it one of the top destinations for thrill-seekers. Some of the most popular rides at Canada’s Wonderland include the Leviathan, Behemoth, and Yukon Striker roller coasters. The park is open from May to October, but throughout the year there are special events with Christmas markets, Halloween Haunts, and Winterfest.

45. Niagara Falls

One of the top day trips from Toronto is to go to Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls really requires more than a day, but the top attractions in the falls can be done in one simple day if you have limited time. Get Yourself an Adventure Pass and spend the day exploring the top attractions in Niagara Falls like The Hornblower, Journey Behind the Falls, Whitewater Walk and Clifton Hill. Read more: Things to do in Niagara Falls .

Niagara Falls can be done in a Day. When I was working at Canada’s Wonderland during my summer vacations, we always made at least one day trip to Niagara Falls to enjoy its top attractions. With the Niagara Adventure Pass, you can see it’s top sights in less than 12 Hours. You can get to Niagara Falls on a full day tour , by bus or by renting a car. Check car ren tal prices here.

46. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is another great day trip from Toronto. You can combine a trip with Niagara Falls, or go on your own for a day of wine tasting and exploring some of the top vineyards in Canada.

Located on Lake Ontario, Niagara on the Lake definitely deserves more than one day, but if you only have a short time, it is at least worth checking out to see its historic downtown, take a wine tour to one of its wineries, stop at historic Fort George, or watch a show at the Shaw Festival. Check out more things to do in Niagara on the Lake here .

47. Toronto Zoo

If you want more wildlife viewing, the Toronto Zoo is a popular attraction. We’re not huge on zoos, but there is an argument that zoos help promote sustainability and awareness about wildlife. And if you are going to visit a zoo, the Toronto Zoo isn’t too bad.

The animals all have for the most part large enclosures and seem to be treated quite well. When I was working at YTV, we went to the Toronto Zoo a lot and the people who work there are very passionate about animal conservation and animal welfare.

48. Terra Lumina

Terra Lumina is an attraction at the Toronto Zoo that happens after dark. A 1.5 km walking path takes you through a light show and multimedia experience. Lazers shoot through the air, paths light up and wolf howls and polar bears are projected onto screens. It starts in the future 2099 and travels back in time.

Check out more tours from Toronto and Day Trips

• 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
• The Ultimate Guide to the Best Weekend Getaways from Toronto
• Things to do in Niagara Falls

49. Best Instagram-Worthy Spots in Toronto

• Sugar Beach – Located at Lower Jarvis Street beside to the Redpath Sugar Factory just down from Queens Quay.
• Polsen Pier – Polsen Pier is an excellent waterfront attraction with entertainment and fantastic views of the Toronto skyline.
• Brookfield Place – This beautiful piece of architecture is located in the city center on Yonge Street. When you enter this entertainment center, you are treated to stunning views of the Allan Lambert Gallery which is a 6-story enclosed courtyard.
• Humber Bay Bridge – The Humber Bay Bridge is a pedestrian and cycling walkway connecting downtown Toronto with The Lakeshore.
• Museum Subway Stop – located in the heart of the city center, the Museum Subway Stop is an easy place to grab beautiful photos of the museum columns adorning the platform.
• Graffiti Alley – This isn’t only a great Instagram spot, Graffiti alley is one of the best places to visit in Toronto.

50. Best Toronto Festivals

Toronto is a city of festivals and some of the not to miss events are:

• Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – Sept
• Toronto Pride – June
• Toronto Summer Music Festival – July
• Luminato – June
• Beaches Jazz Festival – July
• Toronto Caribbean Carnival – July

Getting Around Toronto

There is the  UP Express  that leaves from Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 every 15 minutes and takes you directly to Union Station. Get Your Guide offers  airport limousine transfers  in style that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Uber and Lyft can now answer calls at Toronto Pearson Airport. By Train, you arrive in Toronto at Union Statio n from all major hubs.

Hop on Hop Off Bus – If you want to get around the city, a great way to explore is the  Toronto Hop on Hop off Bus.   A 48-hour pass lets you explore Toronto’s main attractions as you hop on hop off at major tourist sites. Cost $49/It will help you see the highlights quickly and take you to some of the top sights in Toronto like Casa Loma, and a free harbour cruise.

Public Transit – Fares cost $3.25. If you buy tokens or a Presto Card it is $3.25 CAD. You can buy  Presto Cards in advance here. Toronto Transit Pass  – You can buy 1 day or a weekly pass. If you plan on an extended stay, a  Presto card  is a good option.

Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note is that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides. So after 30 minutes at a time, extra fees apply. So it’s best to use them to get from point A to point B. The good news is that rental stations are close to most attractions.

Car rentals – Toronto itself can sometimes be very spread out depending on where you are going. If you want to do day trips from Toronto, a rental car is a good option. RentalCars.com  is a good comparison website to find the right car rental for you.

Parking – Use Green Ps when parking in Toronto, they are the best deal and you  can download the app .

Uber –  In America Lyft is cheaper, but in Toronto Uber is cheaper and the drivers we’ve talked to say they prefer Uber over Lyft. (it’s the opposite of what we’ve heard from drivers in America. Interesting eh?

Read More Toronto Travel Tips

• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Things to do in Niagara Falls – What to do, Where to Eat & Where to Stay
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Toronto to Niagara Falls by Bus -It’s Easy with Busbud
• 19 Most Epic Things to do in Ontario

And there you have it. Our ultimate guide for things to do in Toronto. If you are visiting Toronto, this guide should have you covered with all the amazing things to see and do! What did we miss?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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42 thoughts on “50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024”

I had a great time visiting Toronto last year. I enjoyed the St. Lawrence Market and the Royal Ontario Museum. And the art and murals around the city are amazing!

Nice blog read and love those places.

Great post! I love Toronto and I’m trying to get here this year.

I am researching on Canada life now a days and this article is really very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing valuable information.

Great article Dave and Deb. Very detailed and well explained. I’m sure it will help a lot of aspiring travelers in navigating their way around Toronto and making the most of their time.

In this great list of best things to do in Toronto, I would like to add a few more spots that I think your readers would love to visit.

1. The 3D Toronto Sign on Nathan Philips Square has been a new edition and has become a famous Instagram spot due to it’s urban aesthetics. 2. Toronto Island Park, a chain of 15 small Islands in Lake Ontario. A great place if you want to enjoy the skyline, pursue water sports, ride bicycle or even relax. 3. Ripley’s Aquarium, a walk through aquarium with an almost astounding 16000 exotic sea creatures and more than 450 species

Hopefully this helps. Can’t wait for your next blog And if you are interested in knowing a bit more about Canada, do visit my Canadian travel blog and guide. I’m sure you and your readers will find it very helpful

Traveling to Toronto is an impressive thing for people.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

Toronto is very famous for activities, art, landscapes and the friendliness of people. I also want to this place with my family. Thanks for your writing!

Thanks for your writing! Let’s come to Toronto and enjoy the beauty of this country.

I love Toronto so much. It is a beautiful place for people to visit. In the future, I will travel there with my family if I have a chance.

I Love the city of Toronto. I remember taking the train from Ottawa into Toronto a few Summers ago. Real efficient rail system. The city was very clean and the people were so friendly. I would say Eaton Centre and just walking up and down Yonge street were a few of my favorite things to do there. I would move to Toronto in a heart beat if not for the Winters. Great city though!

Very Interesting post. I am from Dubai and its a dream for me to visit Toronto. But i hope one day i will be there.

Excellent post – so many great tips and very helpful

This list is the best one online! Thanks a lot

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them.

Thank you for the amazing tips and knowledgeable guide you have shared through your blog. All the placed you have mentioned are beautiful and must be visited once in a lifetime.

Thank you so much for these wonderful tips. This is a great post and place you visited. Lovely pictures.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

We found your site and got loads of inspiration and great stories! Toronto is on our Bucket list and this article was very helpful comprehensive stuff!

Keep up the great work and content! Safe Travels!

Great article! I look forward to visit Ontario some day, and now I know what I will do when I get there!

Toronto is seriously a wonderful place to visit.

These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

This is so informative, and I think it is a perfect guide for the tourist to enjoy their visit to Toronto to the fullest.

Nice post and awesome pics! Good Job!

WOW, I Like Toronto – Thanks for sharing this….

Simply Sooperb, After reading this post, planned to go Toronto now with my friends.

I love the sights and sounds of Toronto. Thanks for sharing.

Agreed. great list!

Thanks for sharing the post. Toronto is the beauty.

Love the photo essay of Toronto.

Hi Dave and Deb,

Thank you for posting this blog. Very concise and well laid out in different sections; makes very easy to look for the information. And yes your pictures are great too !!

I am inspired.

Thanks Alok

Hi Davie and Deb,

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them. I personally have only been to couple of places but now I have a list to go and visit. Thank you for inspiring .

Regards Alok

Very well concise summary on Toronto. We are planning to go for family trip but could not understand where we should spend much time but your article helps me we have decided to visit this place. Thanks.

What a nice tourism object !

Hello Dave,

It’s the best thing to do experiencing your hometown as a tourist, did it myself two years ago when in Paris, to be honest, I did discover a lot of places that I wasn’t aware they exist at all, some secret places and streets. I don’t really like Hop and Hop buses, but will definitely try one when in Toronto.

Thank you for the tips.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

This all looks wow…Simply WOW!! Thanks for sharing this….

Wow! This looks incredible post and information. These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

Waw! I got that article at the right time, this is a very informative and helpful for me because I am going to Toronto next month.

Amazing Lists, nice way to explain each part of Toronto.. !! Will follow each place as you mention in your blog.

These ideas all look like so much fun! It’s a great city. There’s so much to do there and so many places to explore. Such a beautiful pictures you captured.. Thank you so much for sharing a great post and information.. Keep sharing!!

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12 Best Beaches in Toronto

Written by Michael Law Updated May 3, 2023

Author Michael Law lives near Toronto and enjoys spending time at the beaches in summer.

Toronto's beaches are some of the best beaches in Ontario . They are easily accessible to all, with lots of space - you'll have no trouble finding your perfect patch of sand.

On warm summer days, they can be packed with families, teenagers, and retirees enjoying the wide-open spaces. Activities include swimming, playing in the waves, strolling, or just reading a book in a chair. Lifeguards are on duty at most locations to keep an eye on you.

The beaches are an escape from the densely populated city. Here, your views are huge, with the other side of the lake not visible. At many locations on windy days, you'll be entertained by kiteboarders or windsurfers racing back and forth offshore.

Public transport options are good in most cases; however, if you are driving, note that parking is tricky at some locations; go early on hot days. In fact, many of the beaches are connected via the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, making it easy to bike or walk between locations.

Playgrounds, changerooms, washrooms, and concessions are available at all locations. Pack a lunch - most beaches have green space in behind, with picnic tables and, in some cases, free barbecues.

Of the 12 beaches listed, four of them are on Toronto Islands : Ward's, Centre Island, Hanlan's Point, and Gibraltar. Reaching them involves a ferry ride and a walk ranging from 10 to 15 minutes in length. I prefer to bring my bike with me on the ferry. Anyone can do this free of charge.

Find a place to relax by the water with our list of the best beaches in Toronto.

1. Woodbine Beach

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Highlights: Action and urban vibe

One of the best true urban beaches and easily accessed beaches in Toronto, is Woodbine. This 15.2-acre hot spot for beach fun has long been a destination for a younger crowd looking to have a good time.

The beach is a long, curving arc of soft sand, some of the best in the city, and is backed by a boardwalk and treed area. The beach faces east, and a large headland on the south side of the beach protects it from strong winds. As a result, the waves stay small and the water tends to warm up nicely — a real bonus in chilly Lake Ontario.

Extensive volleyball courts with lithe bodies doing their best to get that perfect set and spike set up are located at the back of the beach. Pack a picnic lunch, or grab lunch at the fast food concession, ice-cream truck, or the full-service restaurant nearby.

Parking at Woodbine is extensive, but on hot weekends, the large lots still fill up. Note that there are three main lots; the largest is just off Eastern Avenue.

Highlights: Scenery and swimming

Bluffer's Beach is considered by many (especially those who live in Scarborough ) to be the most beautiful beach in Toronto. Beige-colored bluffs with flowering trees at their baseline the beach, while out front, lake Ontario sparkles in the sunshine. It's hard to believe that just behind you, a city of three million people exists.

This large beach has some of the softest sand of all the Toronto beaches and ample areas for just about anyone who wants to lay out in the sun and imagine they are in the Caribbean. Lifeguards are on duty and keep a watchful eye on bathers swimming and splashing about in the shallow water. Unlike other beaches in the Toronto area, the picnic tables and BBQs are not located at the back of the beach; at Bluffer's they are off to the right in a treed green space.

Parking for the beach is limited, and the lot closest to the beach fills up fast. However, another much larger parking lot is located one kilometer away, about a 15-minute walk along a wide, paved trail. Drop your gear and crew at the beach and then draw straws to see who has to go park the car and walk back!

Note that the iconic, steep bluffs so frequently photographed are not at the beach area. Those are at the far western edge of the park and quite a distance from the beach.

The Kew-Balmy Beach area is located in the appropriately named area of Toronto called The Beaches . This stretch of sand begins roughly at the historic Leuty Lifesaving station, built in 1920, and runs for just over a kilometer, ending at the beautiful Art Deco-inspired RC Harris Water Treatment plant.

This beach has a calm vibe and more of a local feel, it's less about loud music and more about lying in the sun with a good book. For a more lively atmosphere, head to Woodbine Beach just a bit farther west. The sand here is generally coarse with a mix of small pebbles at the waterline. The shore is punctuated with seawalls that extend into the lake, especially near the eastern end of the beach.

The usual beach activities are popular here, plus the area is an ideal place to go kiteboarding . On days when the wind is blowing from the west, south, or east, you'll see the kiters racing across the waves.

A perfect day at Kew-Balmy Beach might look like this: Go early and snag a good parking spot, walk down the tree-lined streets to the beach, set up your gear, and settle in. Once you start feeling hungry, wander up to Queen Street East and settle onto a patio for a long, lingering lunch. Stroll back down to the beach and perhaps have a nap in the sun until it's time to head home.

An alternative version of this plan is to stay on the beach all day and then hit a patio for an early dinner prior to heading home.

Highlights: Calm water perfect for families with children

Hitting the beach on the Toronto Islands is a full-day excursion but one that is well worth the effort. The busiest beach and the first one you come to if you take the Centre Island ferry is Centre Island Beach.

This stretch of sand is right at the end of the one-kilometer walkway that leads you through a wooded area, over a couple of bridges, and past a beautiful set of gardens. The waters here are calm and warm owing to the large rock breakwater just offshore. It may not be the best beach on the island, but it is certainly the most popular and the one with the most facilities.

The view from the beach is the best on the island: uninterrupted vistas stretch in front of you in a 180-degree arc. It's the most lively of the four beaches on the Toronto Islands and on a hot summer weekend, it will be packed with people of all ages. A pier extends from the shoreline with a viewing platform at the end.

The beach has changerooms, bathrooms, bike rentals, lockers, and a concession selling cold drinks, pizza, and snacks.

Highlights: Best Beach in Toronto for wind-related watersports

Located off on its own on the western side of the island, this beach has some of the best sand on the island. The back of the beach is treed with sand dunes covered in vegetation. A one-kilometer section of Hanlan's Point Beach near the south end is the only clothing-optional beach in Toronto. Don't worry, though, a majority of the beach is clothing mandatory.

Owing to its location near Toronto's Island Airport, a steady stream of small planes take off and land, providing some visual entertainment. Other visual stimuli include the kiteboarders at the northwest end of the beach. Hanlan's Point Beach faces southwest and is one of the best places on the island to see the sunset.

Be sure to take the Hanlan's Point ferry when departing from Toronto . It's a smaller car ferry and much less crowded. It also runs east to west across Toronto Harbour making for a more scenic ride than the Centre Island ferry. Count on a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal to the best part of the beach.

Highlights: The closest beach to the best restaurants

Located at the far eastern end of the island , Ward's Island Beach is a pleasant arc of sand with views out towards Cherry Beach on the Toronto Port Lands. This beach has the added advantage of being close to many of the island's best patios, so if you need a bite to eat, it's only a short stroll to satisfy that craving.

The beach itself is wide, with small trees in behind, however, they don't provide much shade, so be sure to bring an umbrella. Break up your day with a stroll down the long boardwalk on the right-hand side of the beach.

Count on a 10-minute walk from the Ward's Island ferry terminal to the beach. Be sure you take the Ward's Island ferry , not the Centre Island ferry, or you'll face a long walk!

If the scene at Centre Island Beach is too much for you, head east to Gibraltar Beach. Perhaps one of the more overlooked beaches on the island, Gibraltar Beach has a wonderful stretch of sand and is rarely busy. The beach is long and wide; a metal breakwater marks the southern end.

Behind the beach, providing shade, are large cottonwood trees, an area that is hard to pass by because it's just so perfect for setting up a beach chair and settling into a good book. If you need a break from the sun and sand, take a short stroll back from the beach across the small road to the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. It dates from 1808 and is supposedly haunted.

Gibraltar Point Beach is about a one-minute walk from the Centre Island ferry terminal - it's best to take the Centre Island ferry . Alternatively, the Hanlan's Point ferry is an option, but it's a longer walk, and if you do this, you'll probably just end up at Hanlan's Point since it's the nicer of the two beaches.

Highlights: A beach on Lake Ontario with warm water

Beautiful Rouge Beach is at the southern tip of Rouge National Urban Park , Canada's newest national park. The Rouge River enters Lake Ontario on the left side of the beach, bringing warmer water into chilly Lake Ontario.

This beach is rarely crowded; if you crave space this is the place to come. The beach stretches for roughly 500 meters, and a trail runs through the trees along the back of the beach. Off the beach and near the parking area is marsh, an ideal place for wildlife spotting, paddling, or kayaking.

The views out over Lake Ontario from Rouge Beach to the south and west are quite beautiful, although the sight of the Pickering Nuclear Generating plant to the east is a bit jarring.

Highlights: Lovely picnic areas under mature trees

Cherry Beach is perhaps one of Toronto's most overlooked beaches. Located in the Port Lands area of Toronto , this gem of a beach is protected on three sides from the wind. From the roundabout, the beach is split into two areas east and west of the lifeguard station; parking on the east side is easier.

One of the great things about this beach is the area off the sand; in behind are large mature trees and a grassy area complete with picnic tables and BBQs. The beach itself has relatively coarse sand, and bathers should be aware that the water drops off quite steeply.

On windy days, kiteboarders and windsurfers put on an entertaining show, while sailors do their thing farther offshore.

Highlights: Easy to access and lots for kids to do off the beach

The beach at Sunnyside is actually a series of four beaches: three named Sunnyside, and one named after Sir Casmir Gzowski. No matter which beach you choose, you'll find a narrow stretch of sand backed by a boardwalk, trees, and an open green space with picnic tables.

The beaches are protected by an offshore breakwater, making the water along the shore calm at all times. The breakwater also pens in the lake water, allowing it to warm up in the shallow enclosure.

A café in the historic Sunnyside Pavilion has one of the best beachfront patios in the city. See if you can snag a table here and watch the non-stop progression of people parading up and down the Sunnyside Boardwalk.

Parking here is easy, with extensive lots just back from the beach. If you feel like a stroll, just take Colborne Lodge Drive north under the Gardiner Expressway and walk up to High Park, one of the best parks in Toronto .

Note that after heavy rainfall, Sunnyside Beach tends to be closed for swimming owing to the nearby Humber River.

One of two beaches that you can't swim at in Ontario, Sugar Beach still gets a mention because of its funky vibe. The roughly triangular beach has permanent pink sun umbrellas and Muskoka chairs set in some of Ontario's softest sand. Back from the beach is a tree-lined promenade and several giant rocks painted in colorful stripes.

This is a place for hanging out with your friends and catching up on the latest gossip while undertaking some serious people watching, and checking out the lively scene. The beach is located across from the Redpath Sugar factory, hence the name Sugar Beach.

Similar in nature to Sugar Beach, HTO Beach is a non-swimming beach . More wide-open and less industrial than Sugar Beach, HTO Beach offers easy access to the waterfront for the residents living in the concrete box towers of downtown Toronto.

A play on the chemical make of water, H 2 O (the T from Toronto is substituted for the "2" in the chemical formula) HTO is more than just sand. Here, you'll also find 16 acres of green space, benches, Muskoka chairs, and giant yellow umbrellas. There's nothing quite like sitting here soaking up the sun and gazing out at the sailboats making their way back and forth through Toronto Harbour.

The best time to get your fix of sun and sand in Toronto is in July and August . At this time, the summer sun is at its hottest and the sweltering humidity that southern Ontario is famous for will have fully arrived. The 12 beaches above provide a welcome respite, although the hot weather brings out the crowds. If summer arrives early, June is also a good option.

In order to secure a parking spot, you'll need to plan to be at the beach early. Any later, and the roads are sometimes closed as the parking lots reach capacity.

One thing to bear in mind: Although the crystal-clear water looks especially inviting, the highest summer water temperature in Lake Ontario is a bracing 24.5 degrees Celsius (76.1 degrees Fahrenheit), and that's in August. June and July are substantially cooler. For reference, a typical backyard pool temperature is 28 Celsius (82 F).

More on Canada

The best places to visit in Canada from cosmopolitan cities to the Rockies

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Visitors to Canada are equally as wowed by the wildlife and wilderness as they are by the cultural and culinary offerings in the cities that speckle this sprawling nation.

Look for polar bears on the arctic tundra of Churchill or cruise Vancouver’s curvy coastline in a canoe while gawking at the city skyline. Feast on five-star fusion cuisine in Toronto, or take in a street-side jam session in Montréal. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to go in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant jumble of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Will you have dinner in Chinatown or Greektown? Five-star fusion or a peameal bacon sandwich? In Ontario ’s coolest city, designer shoes from Bloor-Yorkville are accessorized with tattoos in Queen West, while modern art galleries, theater par excellence, rocking band rooms, and hockey mania round out the megalopolis.

This is far and away Canada’s most diverse city, as well as its largest – about half of Toronto’s residents were born in another country.

Local tip : Snap a photo of the CN Tower  (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can shuffle around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia — Alberta border inspire both awe and action. Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter , but there is outdoor adventure aplenty during the summer months, too.

Planning tip: For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, floating right in Lake Huron’s midst, Manitoulin is a slowpoke place of beaches and summery cottages. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture pervades, and the island’s eight communities collaborate to offer local foods (wild rice, corn soup) and eco-adventures (canoeing, horseback riding, hiking). Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

For the best of both worlds, pick up provisions and a cold beer and picnic at one of the amazing city parks (it’s legal to drink alcohol at most of them during the summer). 

Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity along the way. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. It’s Canada’s largest island (the fifth biggest in the world) and the ideal place for an arctic safari where you can spot narwhals, belugas and bears in their natural habitat. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park – its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers – and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , beating with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s.  British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Brooding Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the West Coast Trail, where the wind-bashed ocean meets a mist-shrouded wilderness, and surfers line up for Tofino’s waves. With so many outdoor adventures to try, this is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

This 2010 Winter Olympics venue is one of the world’s largest, best-equipped and most popular ski resorts, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is paradise for skiers of all levels.

Skiing may be Whistler ’s raison d’être, but summer visitors with their downhill mountain bikes and stand-up paddle-boards outnumber their ski-season equivalents, making the resort a year-round hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town’s labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

The city is also home to Québec’s scenic highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula , this road winds past the sea and the mountains, as well as charming towns. More than 700,000 people drive it each summer. Of course, it has yet to approach the romantic popularity of Canada’s “honeymoon capital,” Niagara Falls, a region that draws more than 14 million annual visitors. But head for La Gaspésie instead, young lovers. Because if you’re on your honeymoon, you don’t need 14 million other people hanging around.

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart,  Montréal  is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montréalers get high on sunshine in parks, beaches, mountaintop forests and endless festivals. The steamy outdoors is more alive than ever with arts-loving visitors filling the streets (and the cool of performance spaces), while rooftop bars turn into parties. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual  Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Nature is also never far away in Montréal where a network of cycling paths, waterways and islands crisscross the city. No wonder Montréalers grow up jogging, paddling canals and skating in the fresh air.

Planning tip:  Check out  Tourisme Montréal  for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city. 

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200km-long (124 miles) waterway – consisting of canals, rivers and lakes – connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Driving through the flatlands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan turns up uninterrupted fields of golden wheat that stretch to the horizon, eventually melting into the sunshine. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

Niagara Falls may be relatively short (it doesn’t even crack the top 500 worldwide for height), but when those great muscular bands of water arc over the precipice like liquid glass, roaring into the void below – and you sail toward it in a mist-shrouded boat – the falls never fail to impress.

While you’re there, extend your stay and head beyond the falls on a two-wheel biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route, or take a go at the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls , a pulse-pounding rush of a ride that offers unparalleled views of the falls below as you zoom through the sky.

Read on for the best experiences to be had in Canada.

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. That’s because its unique geography results in the world’s most extreme tides, capable of reaching 16m (56ft) – about the height of a five-story building.

The tides stir up serious whale food, with krill and other plankton attracting fin, humpback and blue whales to feast, as well as endangered North Atlantic right whales, making a whale watch here an extraordinary must-do.

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles head out in search of the razor-clawed beasts, sometimes getting you close enough to lock eyes with the beautiful bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too – a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-hoopla, the area offers classic Badlands scenery and eerie, mushroom-like rock columns called hoodoos.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Apr 11, 2024.

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