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30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 361A Old Finch Road, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 92 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 220 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 1 Dundas Street E, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1873 Bloor Street W, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 327 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Fishing Lodges in Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Sightseeing:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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24 Best Things to Do in Toronto

By Stefanie Waldek

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

Read our complete Toronto travel guide here .

Toronto Music Garden Arrow

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

Art Gallery of Ontario Arrow

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

Harbourfront Centre Arrow

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

Casa Loma Arrow

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

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Matt Ortile

Emily Saladino

St. Lawrence Market Arrow

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

Hockey Hall of Fame Arrow

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

Kensington Market Arrow

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

High Park Arrow

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

Allan Gardens Conservatory Arrow

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

Aga Khan Museum Arrow

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

Bata Shoe Museum Arrow

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

CN Tower Arrow

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

TIFF Bell Lightbox Arrow

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

Toronto Islands Arrow

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

Tour Guys: Toronto Graffiti Tour Arrow

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

Royal Ontario Museum Arrow

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

Bruce Bell Tours Arrow

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

Distillery District Arrow

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

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Toronto (Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Toronto (Canada)

Toronto is a massive city, and happens to be the largest city and most visited city in Canada . It is also one of the most multicultural cities in the world. In fact, it is often pegged as ‘The New York City of Canada’.

Toronto is split into six separate districts, with what is now known as Old Toronto being split into five very diverse and unique areas, each of which is then divided into smaller neighbourhood, some of which are cultural enclaves. It is a sprawling city with much to offer visitors, from architectural structures to famous annual events.

Lets explore the best things to do in Toronto :

1. See the city from above

At 553 metres, the CN Tower is not only the tallest building in Toronto, but it is also the tallest free standing building on the continent. It also happens to one of the modern Seven Wonders of the World.

The CN Tower boasts the highest glass floor paneled elevator in the world, which lifts passengers up to its magnificent glass floored viewing deck. If you are afraid of heights you may not want to look down at the city from 342 metres above.

View the city from even higher at the 447 metre high SkyPod, which offers insanely spectacular views. Those that really want to get their heart pumping should try SkyWalk, where participants are standing on a hands-free ledge towering over the city. For those who want to get even higher, try this Window Seat Helicopter Tour .

2. Surround yourself with history

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the best museums in North America and the best place in Toronto to engulf in history. Plus, it is easy to find, as there is a metro stopped named Museum.

The ROM has a collection of over six million artefacts, many of which are displayed in its 40 separate galleries. Some galleries are based on natural history, while others are from around the world.

In addition to having art and artefacts, the museum also has an extensive collection of dinosaur bones, minerals, and fine arts and design items, particularly from the Art Deco period. It also has a kids’ learning zone and a shop.

3. Enjoy the city’s multiculturalism

There is no better place in the city to get a true taste of Toronto’s multiculturalism then Kensington Market. This National Historic Site used to be a Jewish market, but today it has turned into a funky neighbourhood for artists, writers and foodies.

Kensington Market is a massive tourist site that is filled with fresh food stores, used clothing shops, discount surplus stores and funky cafés. It is also home to a few landmarks, like the Number 8 Fire Station and Bellevue Square Park.

The neighbourhoods also has an eclectic artist community, with small galleries, tattoo shops and rare books shops. There are no brand name shops here, instead, everything is locally owned and managed.

Available tour : Kensington Market Afternoon Food Tour

4. Wander around a castle

Step back into time and wander the hallways and rooms of the elegant Casa Loma. This Gothic Revival castle is one of the most unique pieces of architecture in the city and a famous Toronto landmark.

The castle is now a museum complete with decorated suites, towers, gardens, stables and secret passages. Self-guided audio tours are available to visitors in eight different languages.

Casa Loma has been featured in many films, including X-Men, The Pacifier and Chicago. It is also a popular venue for weddings and private parties.

5. Go to an island

There are a few small islands in Lake Ontario that are part of the city; hence their name the Toronto Islands. There are 13 islands in total that are spread across 820 acres.

Centre Island is the most popular of the islands, as it features a massive park with picnic areas, a beach, magnificent gardens and an amusement park. It is best visited in the summer.

Some of the other islands are home to some of the oldest residential communities in Toronto, while others are home to prestigious yacht clubs. The Toronto Islands even have their very own airport.

Available tour : Toronto Islands Twilight Bike Ride

6. Gaze at the Stanley Cup

The Hockey Hall of Fame is a museum that is dedicated to the history of hockey. It is also displays the Stanley Cup, which sits in its Great Hall.

In addition to being a museum, the Hockey Hall of Fame is also a hall of fame, just like its name suggests. There is an 18-person committee that chooses who is going to have the pleasure of being inducted into the hall of fame, which can be a player, a coach, a general manager or even a commentator.

The Hockey Hall of Fame consists of 15 exhibits that display trophies and other hockey memorabilia. There is also a 125-seat 3D theatre that shows documentary films.

7. Experience Old and New

Designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, the Distillery District is a unique residential and commercial area that has recently been refurbished and built up. Many of the buildings here are stunning heritage buildings that have been converted into shops, restaurants, bars and lofts.

This area of the city is home to North America’s largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture. It is truly a great place for culture, dining and shopping. It is even home to some fantastic micro-breweries.

Art galleries, jewellery stores and funky coffeehouses can all be found in the Distillery District. Before Christmas, the area turns into a winter wonderland with its world renowned Christmas Market.

Related tour : 4-Hour History of the City Told Through Beer

8. Shop until you drop

Toronto has so many shopping opportunities that it is even overwhelming for the most seasoned shopaholic. Most tourists start their shopping spree in the Toronto Eaton Centre, which is somewhat of a city landmark.

Those with money to spare will enjoy shopping in Yorkville, which is the most upscale shopping area in the city. Visitors staying in North York will want to head to Bayview Village, which in addition to being home to high-end boutiques, also has one of the best vintage wine selections in the city.

Chinatown is the best place to go to shop for knockoff designer duds and cheap souvenirs. Queen Street West has some funky independent boutiques for trend setters.

9. Visit animals

The Toronto Zoo is a world-class zoo that happens to be one of the best in North America. It features both indoor and outdoor displays and is divided into several different zones.

Most people find it impossible to explore the entire zoo in one visit, as it is massive and has so much to see. There are over 5,000 animals living here in their natural environment.

One of the most popular zones in the Toronto Zoo is Africa, which is home to white rhinoceroses, masai giraffe, white African lions and spotted hyenas, as well as many others. The Australasian Pavilion is also popular, as it houses Western grey kangaroos, komodo dragons, wallabies, lion fish and kookaburras.

10. Stare at marine life

Toronto is home to one of three aquariums that is owned by Ripley Entertainment. The downtown Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada exhibits around 13,500 exotic marine life in its 5.7 million gallons of water.

The aquarium is home to marine and freshwater life from all over the world, including giant pacific octopus, green sea turtles, whitespotted bamboo sharks, southern stingray and upside-down jelly.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is separated into nine galleries, all of which feature a specific area or species. The Rainbow Reef is one of the more popular ones, probably because of its interactive dive show.

11. Look at Art

Toronto is home to the magnificent Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), which is Canada’s largest. It is interesting both inside and out thanks to its recent ultra-modern Frank Gehry addition.

One of the AGO’s main draws is its Henry Moore room, as the gallery is home to the largest collection of his sculptures in the world. The European paintings exhibit is also quite spectacular.

There is an extensive collection of Canadian art on display here, as well as a gallery that focuses on modern and contemporary art. Plus, the gallery is home to a large collection of photography and drawings.

12. Go to the theatre

Toronto’s entertainment district is one of the best on the continent, with numerous venues that show the latest musicals, operas, ballets and symphonies. Toronto is home to the Canadian Opera Company, the National Ballet of Canada, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Stage Company and the Canadian Electronic Ensemble.

This area features Canada’s best performing arts venues. The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Alexandra Theatre and the Princess of Wales Theatre are all within the city’s entertainment district.

Tickets for the latest shows can be bought online before arriving in the city, or at the box office on the day of. For the more popular shows, be sure to purchase tickets well in advance.

13. Party at an event

The biggest and best events in Canada take place in Toronto, some of which are world renowned. September’s Toronto International Film Festival is the most famous and attracts stars from all over the world.

Pride Week, which coincides with Canada Day, is one of the largest LGBT festivals on the planet and is loads of fun. The Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival is also amazing, with the parade costumes being incredible.

The Taste of the Danforth is a popular event that takes place in Greek town every August. It is one of the city’s largest festivals, celebrating Greek culture and cuisine.

14. Look at shoes

Yes, that’s right shoes. The Bata Shoe Museum has a unique collection of footwear from around the world. In fact, it displays over 13,500 items.

The museum is a great place to go to if you love shoes or want to know more about the history of footwear. It features four exhibits, one of which is a semi-private gallery and three that change regularly.

The world’s largest and most complete collection of shoes is found here, spanning every culture and continent. Some of its most famous shoes are ballroom slippers worn by Queen Victoria, Elton John’s monogrammed silver platform boots and a pair of Elvis Presley’s white and blue patent loafers.

15. Go to the park

There is not a lot of greenery left in the city, but fortunately the lovely High Park is still intact. This 161 hectare park is in the West End of the city centre and today it is the largest park in Downtown Toronto.

High Park is recreational and natural park, with cultural facilities, sporting facilities, educational facilities, playgrounds and gardens. It features several points of interest, including Colborne Lodge, Grenadier Pond and the High Park Zoo.

In the summer months the park hosts Shakespearean plays that are performed by the Canadian Stage Company. In the winter, tobogganing is quite popular.

15 Best Things to Do in Toronto (Canada):

• See the city from above
• Surround yourself with history
• Enjoy the city’s multiculturalism
• Wander around a castle
• Go to an island
• Gaze at the Stanley Cup
• Experience Old and New
• Shop until you drop
• Visit animals
• Stare at marine life
• Look at Art
• Go to the theatre
• Party at an event
• Look at shoes
• Go to the park

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Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation in Toronto

Top Things to Do

30 Top Things to Do in Toronto

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

See the Skyline from the Water

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

Go Thrifting

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

See a Show at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Chris Fore/ Wikimedia Commons , CC BY 2.0   

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

Eat and Shop in Little India

Getty Images/Krzysztof Dydynski

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

Visit Niagara Falls

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

Find Solitude on the Philosopher's Walk

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

Hang Out in High Park

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

Shop for Delicious Foods at St. Lawrence Market

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

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

Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

 Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

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

Stop by the Art Gallery of Ontario

 Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

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

Shop Until You Drop

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

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

Wander the “Second Coolest Neighborhood in the World”

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

Stroll Through Allan Gardens Conservatory

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

Spend a Day in the Distillery District

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

Head to the Toronto Islands

basslinegfx / Getty Images

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

Hit the Beach

joelblit / Getty Images

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

Take in the Views From the CN Tower

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

Explore Kensington Market

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

Check Out the Aga Khan Museum

bukharova/Getty Images

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

Go to Evergreen Brick Works

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy 

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

Hear Live Music at Horseshoe Tavern

Kristjan Veski / TripSavvy

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

Hang Out at Harbourfront Centre

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

Visit Casa Loma

AndresGarciaM / Getty Images

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

Head to the Hockey Hall of Fame

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

Walk Around the Toronto Zoo

John Knight / Getty Images

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

Explore Historic Fort York

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

See Some Undersea Life at Ripley’s Aquarium

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

Go on Some Rides at Canada’s Wonderland

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

Hike or Camp in Rouge Park

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

Learn About Footwear at Bata Shoe Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Stuart Murray | Getty Images

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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Things to do in Toronto that are worth the hype

Jun 18, 2019 • 3 min read

Dominating the Toronto Skyline, the CN Tower is must-do activity for any visitor © Deejpilot / Getty Images

Tourist trap or worthwhile attraction? We all hesitate about before shelling out cash for tickets, and let's be honest – not all sights are worth the hype. Here are some things to do in Toronto that have earned their buzz.

The number one attraction every Torontonian will tell you to visit is the much-loved CN Tower . An elevator ride to the top leads to incredible city views, and the 360 Restaurant offers a revolving panorama. Dining at the restaurant gives you free access to the lookout and is definitely more worth it than purchasing tickets to the lookout alone.

Ripley's Aquarium

Ripley's Aquarium is home to sharks, turtles and all kinds of friendly sea creatures. Explore it with the family or ride solo – there's plenty to see and do around the aquarium. It's located right next to the CN Tower.

Casa Loma is a heritage landmark and museum dating to the early 1900s. The Gothic-style mansion and gardens are a unique attraction in the city and a popular venue for weddings. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try out the escape room.

Canada's Wonderland

Enjoy rollercoasters and funnel cakes at Canada's Wonderland , located just north of downtown Toronto. With 17 rollercoasters and a massive waterpark, it's the largest theme park in the nation.

Art Gallery of Ontario

It's no surprise the Art Gallery of Ontario is a favorite spot for many locals. The AGO is home to a massive collection of art from both Canada and the world, and it also features special exhibitions. Entrance is free for everyone 25 and under, and free for all ages Wednesday evenings.

Aga Khan Museum

The Aga Khan Museum is a stunning masterpiece inside and out, housed in a magnificent granite building. Filled with Islamic artifacts from the last 1,000 years, you'll be transported back in time. Entrance is free on Wednesday evenings.

Distillery District

Art galleries, shopping boutiques and restaurants line the cobblestone streets of this small but trendy neighborhood, once home to a historic whiskey distillery. Grab a cup of joe at Arvo Coffee , snap photos of the art installations and see a show at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts. The Distillery District is also home to the Toronto Christmas Market, which takes over during the holiday season.

Nathan Phillips Square

What's a visit to Toronto without stopping by Nathan Phillips Square ? With the addition of the colorful 'Toronto' sign from the 2015 Pan Am Games, it's now even more worth the visit. It plays host to so many festivals and fun events, you're likely to catch one while you're here. During the holidays, the square becomes a winter wonderland where you can skate under the stars.

Toronto Islands

Take a ferry over to the Toronto Islands  and spend a day cycling or relaxing on the beach. Kids especially will enjoy Centre Island for some fun rides and farm animals.

Allan Gardens

Allan Gardens is a conservatory and botanical garden filled with lush greenery and tropical plants. Opened in 1858, it's one of Toronto's oldest parks and a historic landmark. It's open year-round and entrance is free.

Kensington Market

Kensington Market has been home to many different cultures over the years, and you can clearly see their influence in the diverse shops lining the neighborhood. From international food to vintage boutiques and eclectic murals, it's a fun neighborhood to explore. Summer brings Pedestrian Sundays, where the neighborhood is completely car-free.

Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley isn't an official tourist attraction, but it's so popular, it might as well be one. Located in a small section of alleyways in the west end of Toronto, you'll find street art by all kinds of local artists. Graffiti Alley gets busy on nice days, so be sure to visit during the early morning to avoid the crowds.

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Royal Ontario Museum

Javen / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any remotely curious mind will have a great time here.

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

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

Check details, prices and reviews here.

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

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

ValeStock / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are different ticketing options.

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

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

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

3. The Art Gallery of Ontario

V. Ben / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission prices can vary based on activity.

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

5. Niagara Falls

Facto Photo / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Toronto Botanical Garden

vvita / Shutterstock

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

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

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

Toronto Botanical Garden was opened more than 60 years ago.

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

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

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

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

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

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

There is no admission charge for the gardens.

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

7. Casa Loma

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

The entire complex is amazing to navigate through.

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

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

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

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

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

8. The Second City Toronto

The Second City Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Distillery Historic District

Marc Bruxelle / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are lovely galleries and live performances.

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

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

Check out this Distillery Historic District walking tour!

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

10. Centre Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Bata Shoe Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. St. Lawrence Market

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Great markets are about the people and the product equally.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. West Queen West

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

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

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

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

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

Then, there’s the shopping.

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

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

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

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

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

15. Ontario Science Centre

Ontario Science Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Toronto Zoo

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Biodiversity is of Toronto’s greatest features.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. MZTV Museum of Television & Archive

MZTV Museum of Television

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

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

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

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

There are so many neat things to see here.

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

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

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

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

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

18. Toronto Greeters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. High Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

High Park is open 24/7.

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

20. Kensington Market

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

Instead, Kensington Market is another great Toronto neighborhood.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Food Tours

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

Great ones are provided by The Culinary Adventure Company .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Old Chinatown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. The Yoga Sanctuary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. The Lockhart

The Lockhart

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diehard Potter-heads will have an especially great time.

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

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

25. Elmwood Spa

Elmwood Spa

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

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

Elmwood Spa gives its guests a break from constant activities.

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

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

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

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

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

Prices vary based on the services used.

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

26. Market 707

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

Market 707 takes things into a very novel direction.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Taxidermy Classes

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

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

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

These classes use rats as subjects.

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

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

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

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

28. Toronto Bicycle Tours

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

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

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

All kinds of journeys are available through Toronto Bicycle Tours.

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

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

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

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

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

Prices can vary based on the tour you can take.

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

29. Graffiti Alley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Princess of Wales Theatre

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

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

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

The curation of the Princess of Wales Theatre is phenomenal.

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Eaton Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eaton Centre goes much further than your average mall.

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

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

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

32. Black Creek Pioneer Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s open between April 27 and December 23.

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

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

33. Rogers Centre

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

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

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

The size and design of Rogers Centre must be addressed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Midfield Wine Bar

Midfield Wine Bar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

35. Textile Museum of Canada

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

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

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

The artistry of textiles is greatly explored.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Toronto

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

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

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

Places To Visit In Toronto – Top 35+ Toronto Attractions

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

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

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

Toronto History

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

Getting To Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Toronto

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

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

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

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

Hop-on-hop-off-bus

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

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

Top Things to See in Toronto (Day 1)

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Rogers Centre

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

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

3. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

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

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

4. Toronto Railway Museum

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

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

5. Steam Whistle Biergärten

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

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

6. Amsterdam Brewhouse

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

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

7. Harbourfront Centre

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

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

Things To See In Toronto | East Of The CN Tower

8. scotiabank arena.

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

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

9. Fairmont Royal York

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

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

11. Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building) + Berczy Park

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

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

12. The Cathedral Church of St. James

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

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

13. St. Lawrence Market

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

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

14. Distillery District

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

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

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

King street.

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

15. Roy Thomson Hall

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

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

16. Princess of Wales Theatre

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

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

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

17. TIFF Bell Lightbox

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

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

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

Queen Street

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

18. Campbell House Museum

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

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

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

19. Osgoode Hall

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Toronto Old City Hall

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

22. Eaton Centre 

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

23. Yonge-Dundas Square

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

24. Little Canada

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

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

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

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

25. Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

26. Graffiti Alley

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

27. Kensington Market

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

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

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

28. university of toronto campus.

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

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

29. Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

30. Yorkville

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

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

31. Bata Shoe Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Places To Go In Toronto | East Of The CN Tower

33. fort york national historic site.

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

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

34. BMO Field

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

35. The Exhibition Place, aka The Ex

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

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

Where To Go In Toronto | South Of The CN Tower

36. toronto islands.

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

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

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

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

37. allan gardens – toronto botanical garden.

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

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

38. Ontario Science Centre 

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

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

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

39. Rouge National Urban Park

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Toronto + Map

Final thoughts: top toronto places to visit.

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

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

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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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Why Visit Toronto? 15 Best Things To Do & Reasons To Visit (From a Local)

Why visit Toronto? There are plenty of great reasons why Toronto should be at the top of your Canadian Travel list. In fact, it’s such a great city that I moved here 5 years ago!

On top of being Canada’s largest city, Toronto is home to some of Canada’s most important landmarks and is a vibrant hub for music, art, culture and food. With a wide range of fascinating sites, museums, nightlife, entertainment venues, sporting facilities and outdoor spaces, there is something for everyone here.

How do I know? I’ve lived in Toronto since 2018 and I love it here. As a Toronto local, I’m constantly exploring everything the city has to offer, from key attractions to local hotspots. And, by now, I know what the best things to do here are.

So, read on for a local’s perspective of why you should visit Toronto, and everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Why Visit Toronto?

When planning a trip to Canada, you probably envisage trekking in the mountains , wandering the cobble stone streets of Montreal , and visiting natural landmarks like Niagara Falls and Lake Louise. But, another Canadian destination which should be at the top of your travel bucket list is Toronto.

Toronto is a modern city, but it’s beautiful in its own right and has so much to offer. It actually has a lot of history and culture, from its early indigenous roots to its growth into a major metropolis. And it’s the most multicultural city in the world!

There’s tons of culture, attractions and entertainment

The various neighbourhoods around the city all offer different cultural experiences and rich and diverse foods from different regions. In particular, Chinatown, Little Italy, Greektown and Little Portugal are some of the best areas to visit.

Toronto is also home to some of the country’s most important landmarks. And there is an interesting mix of impressive sky scrapers and historic architecture. Plus, there’s a beautiful waterfront and lots of green spaces to explore around the city.

And the city has a lively arts, sports and entertainment scene, featuring theatres, galleries, museums, and numerous festivals and music, film and sporting events throughout the year.

➡️ BOOK: Toronto Cultural Tours & Experiences

It’s a great place to base yourself to explore Canada

And if that’s not enough of a reason to visit Toronto, the city is also located within easy reach of other popular Canadian destinations, making it a great base to explore the country from.

Niagara Falls and the surrounding wine regions are a great day trip from the city, at only a 1.5 hour drive away. Algonquin Provincial Park, which is Canada’s oldest provincial park and one of the world’s best canoeing destinations (and my favourite place in Ontario!) is about a 3 hour drive away. And you can also get to Montreal in around 5 hours by car or train, or a 1.5 hour flight.

It’s the perfect start or end to your Canadian travels

Finally, Toronto is a very easy city to get to! With two airports and plenty of inter-regional bus and train services, it’s likely you may have to transit through here anyway on your Canadian travels. Therefore, it’s a great place to spend a few days to start or end your trip to Canada.

15 Best Things to Do in Toronto

Now that you know why you should visit Toronto, here are my recommendations (as a local) for the top things to do when visiting the city.

1. Go Up the CN Tower

As one of the world’s tallest free-standing structures, the CN Tower is Toronto’s top attraction. This iconic Canadian landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, and has something for everyone.

With multiple viewing platforms and huge floor-to-ceiling windows, you will get unobstructed views of the city skyline and beyond. If you’re not too afraid of heights, then you can walk across the Glass Floor to check out the view below.

And, for true thrill seekers, see the view from 116 stories high from the outside, on the EdgeWalk. This is the world’s highest hands-free full circle walk and is an exhilarating experience. Although this really isn’t for the faint hearted!

If you’re like me and prefer to stay inside at these heights, then you might find dining at the 360 Restaurant more enjoyable. This rotating restaurant, 351 metres above Toronto, completes a full rotation every 72 minutes, so you’ll be able to take in views of the skyline from all angles during your meal. Plus, if you dine at the restaurant, your admission ticket is included in the price.

➡️ BOOK: CN Tower Tours & Tickets

2. Tour Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a Gothic Revival castle-turned-museum in Midtown Toronto. This is a one of a kind building in Canada, set amidst beautiful grounds, which you can explore at your own pace.

You can wander through the great hall, marvel at the 10,000+ book library, tour the castle’s elegant suites, and learn about Canada’s history by visiting several onsite exhibits.

Not only is Casa Loma one of Toronto’s most historic buildings, but it’s also a popular event venue and filming location for television and movies, making it a must-visit attraction for movie buffs. Some of the most famous films which were shot here include X-men, Chicago and the Rocky Horror Picture Show!

And keep an eye out for seasonal events held here, such as Christmas at the Castle, Symphony Orchestra concerts, a haunted house at Halloween, high teas and escape room events.

3. Spend a Day at the ROM

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum and is a cultural treasure trove. With over 1 million objects from around the world, the ROM celebrates rich cultures, natural history and fascinating art through its many collections.

The ROM’s variety is huge, from indigenous artwork to dinosaur fossils, historic textiles, Archaeological artefacts, and objects from the ancient world including Egypt, Greece and the Near East, and much more.

You can easily spend a whole day exploring the ROM’s extensive collection. But, at the very least, I would recommend allowing yourself half a day to visit the museum.

And, if you’re looking for even more of an art fix, and can fit it into your itinerary, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is another museum in Toronto worth visiting. With over 90,000 works of art, it’s one of the most distinguished galleries in North America.

➡️ BOOK: Royal Ontario Museum Admission

4. Browse Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s coolest and most eclectic neighbourhoods. It’s a lively street market with everything from vintage, music and cannabis stores, to meat, fish and produce markets, street food vendors, and some of Toronto’s best holes-in-the-wall.

In the warmer months, the neighbourhood comes alive and buzzes with creativity. It get so busy that pedestrians take over the sidewalks and streets, making it a very difficult place to drive or bike through. In fact, I would never recommend anything other than walking through Kensington, or you will likely find yourself at a standstill.

Plus, on the last Sunday of the month throughout the summer, Kensington Market hosts ‘pedestrian Sundays’, which effectively turns the whole area into a street festival.

To see the best of Toronto’s creativity, try unusual and delicious street food, and shop for unique one-of-a-kind pieces, Kensington Market is a must-visit neighbourhood!

➡️ BOOK: Kensington Market Food and Walking Tours

5. See a Sports Game

With several iconic sports teams, one of the best things to do when visiting Toronto is to see a game. Toronto has several sports venues, including two major stadiums: Scotiabank Arena and Roger’s Stadium.

The three most popular sports to watch in Toronto are ice hockey, basketball and baseball. And the NHL (National Hockey League), NBA (National Basketball Association) and MBL (Major League Baseball) all host games here throughout the season.

Toronto’s key teams to try and see are the Blue Jays for baseball, the Toronto Raptors for basketball, and the Toronto Maple Leafs for hockey.

Although tickets to a Maple Leafs game can be quite difficult to get and very pricy. So, as an alternative, you could try to get tickets for the Toronto Marlies instead, which play as part of the AHL (American Hockey League). Although not as big as the Maple Leafs, Marlies games are often much more fun, and have an amazing atmosphere!

Plus, if you’re a hockey fan, make sure to also visit the Hockey Hall of Fame while in Toronto. You will see some amazing hockey memorabilia, the Esso Great Hall , and the major NHL trophies. And there are interactive games and a chance to learn more about Canadian sporting history.

➡️ BOOK: Tickets to Toronto Sporting Events

6. Explore Toronto’s Old Town

Although Toronto is a very modern city, it’s actually over 230 years old! As such, Toronto has an old town, with quite a few historic buildings, amidst the modern skyscrapers. And this area is absolutely worthwhile exploring!

Toronto’s Old Town is located just east of Yonge Street, on the west side of the Don River, between Queen Street East and the Gardiner Expressway.

Here, you can see iconic architecture like the Gooderham Building (also known as the ‘Flatiron Building’), wander the cobblestone streets of the historic Distillery District and eat your way through vibrant St. Lawrence Market (which has been named one of the world’s best food markets).

➡️ BOOK: Distillery Historic District Walking Tour

7. Experience Canada’s Most Diverse Food Scene

As the most multicultural city in the world, it’s expected that Toronto would have an extremely diverse food scene. And it does not disappoint!

In fact, for many people the city’s food scene is one of the best reasons to visit Toronto.

From upscale eateries to hidden gems and every type of cuisine imaginable, the options are endless. Some of Toronto’s most notable restaurants include the Michelin star Alo Restaurant , Spanish Tapas bar Bar Raval , and Don Alfonso 1890, which has been named the best Italian Restaurant in the world.

However, you don’t have to opt for fine dining to experience excellent food in Toronto. My favourite places in the city are actually much more casual spots in areas like Kensington Market , Chinatown, Koreatown and along the Ossington strip. In particular, I recommend trying Seven Lives for Toronto’s best tacos, Rasta Pasta for Jamaican with a twist, and PG Clucks for the ultimate chicken sandwich.

And, in the summer, Toronto hosts a different street festival almost every weekend, including several cultural and food-focused festivals. Some of the best ones to look out for are Taste of Little Italy in June, Ribfest in July and Taste of the Danforth in August.

➡️ BOOK: Toronto Food Tours

8. Stroll Through Graffiti Alley

Toronto is a hub for art and culture, which also includes street art. And the best place to see amazing street art in the city is Graffiti Alley .

Located parallel to Queen Street West in the Fashion District, Graffiti Alley is effectively an open-air gallery which stretches for three blocks. And it’s actually due to the vibrant alley that street art was legitimized in Toronto in 2011, resulting in more and more colourful murals to appear across the city.

Graffiti Alley showcases work by iconic artists including Elicser, Uber5000, Poser, Duro the Third, Spud and many more.

In addition to admiring the intricate and colourful works of art, Graffiti Alley is one of the best places in Toronto to take photos. So make sure to bring your camera!

Although it is generally safe to stroll through Graffiti Alley during the day, I would not recommend walking through here after dark. After all, it is an alleyway, and it’s poorly lit at night. Plus, I have encountered some unsavoury characters around here after dark in the past. So, it’s best to save Graffiti Alley for the daytime.

9. Explore the Toronto Waterfront

Toronto is located on one of the biggest lakes in the world, Lake Ontario. As such, the city has a huge waterfront area to explore.

The best way to see as much of Toronto’s waterfront is by biking the Waterfront Trail . This is one of my favourite activities to do in Toronto. Going east, I’ve gone as far as the Scarborough Bluffs, and heading west I’ve biked over 50 miles all the way to Hamilton!

Although you don’t have to go quite this far to get to some amazing spots along the waterfront. Cherry Beach is only 3 miles east of downtown, and Woodbine beach is only 6 miles. Or, heading west, the Humber Bay Bridge is a beautiful 5 mile ride, passing by several beaches and parks along the water.

And if you’re not keen on cycling, don’t worry as some of the best places to explore on Toronto’s waterfront are within walking distance. Some of the best parks along the water are HTO Park , Trillium Park and Coronation Park . And make sure to check out Toronto’s downtown beach – Sugar Beach – with it’s iconic pink umbrellas.

But my favourite place along Toronto’s waterfront is the Music Garden . This peaceful garden is a harmonious blend of nature and melody. Inspired by Bach’s Suite No. 1 for Unaccompanied Cello, each section of the garden reflects a different dance movement. And, in the summer months, free open-air concerts are held at the garden’s curved amphitheatre, with beautiful views of the harbour.

➡️ BOOK: Toronto’s Waterfront – Audio Walking Tour

10. Have a Beach Day at Toronto Islands

When you think of Toronto, you probably don’t imagine a beach destination. But, with its huge waterfront, Toronto actually has tons of great beaches. And the best beaches can be found just off the shores of downtown, on the Toronto Islands .

The Toronto Islands are a cluster of 15 islands all joined together with a total area of 332 hectares. The Islands have 9 miles (14 kms) of trails which can be explored on foot or by bike. There are also 4 official beaches, various parklands and gardens, sporting facilities, lagoons, and even an amusement park.

You can get to the Toronto Islands easily from downtown by taking a 13-minute ferry ride, or a 10-minute water taxi.

This is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. When I visit the islands I usually take my bike over with me (which is allowed on both the ferry and water taxi) so I can explore as much of the parks and trails as possible before settling in for the day at the beach.

The islands are also a great place for paddling, with canoe, kayak and SUP rentals available onsite.

➡️ BOOK: Guided Bicycle Tour – Toronto Waterfront & Island

11. Visit The Toronto Zoo

The Toronto Zoo is the biggest zoo in Canada and one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world. With over 710 acres and hundreds of different species, this is somewhere you can easily spend a full day exploring.

While I don’t normally advocate for animals being kept in captivity, the Toronto zoo is an excellent centre for science and education, and it actively promotes conservation science. In fact, the zoo commits itself to exceptionally high animal welfare standards, undertakes important conservation work and helps to preserve endangered species through breeding programs and reintroducing them into the wild.

The Toronto zoo is also a really interesting and fun family-friendly day out. It has something for everyone, with fascinating wildlife from 7 geographical locations around the world, and North America’s most impressive animals.

12. Learn About Canadian History at Fort York

To learn more about Canada’s history and see the birthplace of urban Toronto, a visit to the Fort York National Historic Site is a must.

Fort York is an early 19th-century military fortification, which was used by the British and Canadian militaries to defend the entrance to the Toronto harbour, most notably in the War of 1812. the Natonal Historic Site spans 43-acres of archeological parkland which includes the fort, military cemeteries, vast archaeological resources and a a visitor centre.

At the Fort, you can explore the grounds, browse the Exhibit Gallery and partake in an immersive experience of the lead up to the Battle of York

General Admission to Fort York is free, and there are also free 45-minute guided tours which run on the hour, to make sure you get the most out of your visit.

13. Shop at the Eaton Centre

No trip to a major city would be complete without doing some shopping! And Toronto is no exception.

There are several amazing shopping districts in Toronto. Most notably Yorkville for designer goods, Kensington Market for vintage stores, and Queen Street West for specialty shops. But the most popular place for shopping in Toronto (and all of Canada) is the Eaton Centre .

Located downtown on Yonge Street, the Eaton Centre houses over 230 shops, services and restaurants, attracting millions of visitors each year. And this mall has something for everyone with big brands, specialty stores, independently owned boutiques and everything in-between.

And even if shopping isn’t up your alley, the Eaton Centre is still worth a visit to marvel at its impressive architecture, with its huge glass roof and iconic “Flight Stop” sculpture. Designed by artist Michael Snow, the sculpture features a flock of Canada geese in flight, soaring high above shoppers.

Plus, just outside the Eaton Centre you will find Dundas Square , which is also a great place to check out. This square is Toronto’s own mini Times Square. It’s a buzzing place day and night with dazzling billboards, vibrant energy, street performers and excellent people-watching.

14. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is the country’s largest indoor aquarium and one of Toronto’s top attractions. And with good reason.

Ripley’s features over 135,000 square feet (12,500 square metres) of interactive aquarium. Housing over 100,000 animals from 500 different species, the aquarium features one of the most extensive jelly fish exhibits in the world, 10-foot sharks, colourful tropical fish, 65-year-old giant lobsters and more.

Plus, there are stingray touch pools where you can interact with the animals, and several events hosted each day including live dive shows, aquarist talks and penguin feedings.

And Ripley’s is not just a fun attraction, it’s also a great learning experience. The aquarium strives to promote environmental education for all ages, as well as research and conservation work through its various programs.

15. See the Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square

Finally, you can’t visit Toronto without seeing Nathan Phillips Square . Located in the heart of Toronto, with City Hall in the background, this is a vibrant and active space which hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Although it’s best known for its famous “Toronto” sign , which is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

Originally installed for the Pan America Games in 2015, the illuminated sign instantly became an iconic landmark in Toronto. Although it was replaced in 2020 with a more durable replica, which features artwork along the edges by a local artist, which highlights Indigenous culture.

The square also features a fountain at the base of the Toronto sign, which is turned into an ice rink in the winter. Skating in front of the Toronto sign is one of the most iconic activities to do in the city. Plus, access to the rink is free with your own skates, although you can also rent skates onsite.

➡️ BOOK: Toronto Walking and Sightseeing Tours

Best Time to Visit Toronto

There’s no bad time to visit Toronto, as there are tons of great activities to do in the city year round. And each season offers something different. Although, most locals would agree that the best time to visit is in the summer or fall.

To help you decide what time of year will suit you best to visit Toronto, here is an overview of each season in the city, from my experience living here.

My favourite time of year in Toronto is the summer (June to August), as the days are long, the weather is beautiful and the city really comes alive during these months. Not only is this the best time to enjoy all the beautiful outdoor spaces in the city – such as the various beaches, bike trails and parks – but it’s also the best time of year for events and entertainment.

In the summer, bars and restaurants open their sidewalk patios, so certain neighbourhoods become really lively. And the beaches and parks become hotspots for people to socialize, have picnics and play sports. Plus, throughout the summer there’s a different festival on almost every weekend, so you will never struggle to find something to keep you entertained.

However, the downsides to summer in Toronto is that it’s peak tourist season, and it can get very hot and humid. Average temperatures range from about 18 to 27°C (64-81°F) during the summer, but can get as high as the low 30s (86-93°F)! If you’re not a big fan of crowds and the heat, then I would recommend visiting in the fall.

In the fall (September to November), the weather is a little cooler, so it’s a more comfortable time to visit Toronto. (Although, be warned, we sometimes do get a few very hot days in September!)

What makes fall in Toronto so special is that the city lights up with spectacular hues of red, orange and gold as the leaves change. So it’s a particularly beautiful time to explore the city and surrounding landscapes. The leaves usually start to change around the end of September, and peak during mid to late-October. But this varies from year to year, and often some beautiful colours can still be seen in November.

The temperature in Toronto during fall varies quite a lot. Average temperatures are as high as 25°C (77°F) during September and as low as 2°C (36°F) during November. If you want to make the most of the beautiful fall colours and pleasant weather, I would recommend visiting Toronto at the end of September or anytime in October.

The winters in Toronto do get very cold. In fact, the coldest I’ve experienced was -35°C (-31°F), during my first year living here! Although temperatures this freezing cold aren’t that common. Instead you should expect average temperatures ranging from -10 to +3°C (14-37°F).

But, despite the cold, Toronto can still be a great place to visit in the winter! The city gets a lot of sun, which makes the cold quite pleasant, with a crisp and fresh feeling. And when it snows, the city looks especially beautiful.

Plus, there are still tons of great activities to do in Toronto in the winter. You will often find locals outside, even in the midst of winter, making use of the city’s free skating rinks and going tobogganing when there’s fresh snow.

From mid-November to early January, the historic Distillery District hosts their annual Winter Village. This is a magical outdoor Christmas market with shops, restaurants and cafes, visits from Santa, performances, and a huge Christmas tree as the centrepiece.

And there are plenty of indoor activities to do here. Winter is the perfect time to visit Toronto’s main attractions, like the various museums, the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium, go shopping, and indulge in the city’s countless, bars restaurants, theatres and other entertainment venues.

Conveniently,, the city also has a huge underground pedestrian network in the downtown core, called the PATH . Spanning over 30 kilometres of tunnels and underground shopping centres, the PATH connects many of Toronto’s key sites and attractions. This means that on particularly cold and snowy days, you don’t even have to go outside to get around and explore the city!

Spring is an exciting time in Toronto as the city comes to life following the winter. But, although spring officially starts in March, it isn’t until April that you will see the grass turning green and the very first leaves starting to appear.

And, at the end of April or early May, you can witness thousands of beautiful cherry blossom trees bloom all around the city. In particular, High Park, Centennial Park and Trinity Bellwoods Park are some of the best places to see them.

Then, in May, the weather significantly warms up, the parks become busier, locals resume their outdoor activities, and the city turns green, almost overnight! This is a great time to visit Toronto if you’re looking for fewer crowds and mild weather, so you can enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

Where to Stay in Toronto

The best place to stay in Toronto depends on what you’re looking to do here, as well as your interests and budget. But, unless you have a good reason to stay outside the city centre, I would always recommend staying in one of Toronto’s downtown neighbourhoods.

Downtown Core

If you’re looking to make the most of Toronto’s key attractions, I would recommend staying in the downtown core or Entertainment District . This is where you will find Toronto’s main attractions like the CN Tower , Ripley’s Aquarium, Nathan Phillips Square and the Eaton Centre, as well as the city’s most prominent theatres and sporting venues. Plus, the neighbouring Fashion District is only a short walk away and has some of Toronto’s best restaurants and nightlife.

There are a lot of great hotels in these areas, which you can browse here .

My favourites are the Ace Hotel Toronto , the Broadview Hotel , and the Ivy at Verity . All three of these are beautiful and unique properties in excellent locations. And, in particular, the Broadview and Ivy are both set in historic buildings with a lot of character and charm.

Other Downtown Neighbourhoods

If you prefer to stay outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto, then Yorkville and West Queen West are also great neighbourhoods to stay in. Yorkville is a very upmarket area with plenty of museums, galleries and designer shopping. It also has some beautiful hotels, but most of them come with a hefty price tag.

West Queen West is a lively neighbourhood located west of downtown, which is home to popular music venues, independent boutiques and trendy restaurants. There are two fabulous hotels in this area which I would highly recommend – the historic Gladstone House , and the iconic Drake Hotel .

Outside the City

Or if you don’t mind traveling a little further, for a more budget-friendly trip consider staying on the outskirts of Toronto. In particular, Etobicoke and North York aren’t too far away and are well-connected to the city by public transit.

How to Get Around Toronto

It’s relatively easy to get around Toronto, as the city has different transport options to suit different needs and preferences.

Downtown Toronto is actually really walkable , so the best way to get around is on foot. Even in bad weather, you can still easily walk to many of the key sites by using the city’s PATH network of underground walkways.

Plus, exploring on foot really is the best way to experience the city. And in certain areas you will have no choice but to walk anyway. In particular, the Distillery District is pedestrian only. And Kensington Market is an unofficial pedestrian zone, with so much foot traffic that vehicles virtually come to a standstill trying to get through the area.

Walking around Toronto is actually one of my favourite things to do. I love exploring different neighbourhoods on foot. And I’m constantly discovering new things, from beautiful houses, cute coffee shops and hidden street art, to some truly weird and wonderful things!

READ MORE: Everything You Need to Know to Explore Toronto on Foot

If you’re wanting to travel a bit further in Toronto, I would highly recommend cycling . Toronto is a really bike friendly city, with a huge network of bike paths. And this is a great way to get in-between neighbourhoods and see as much as possible of the city.

There are several bike rental stores in the city. But the easiest way to get your hands on a bike is to use Bike Share Toronto . This program has over 700 stations and 9,000+ bikes around Toronto and it offers both short-term passes and annual memberships.

➡️ BOOK: Downtown Toronto Bike Tour

Public Transit

But if biking isn’t your thing, don’t worry, as Toronto also has an excellent public transit system ( the TTC ), which operates buses, streetcars and a subway. And the city also has plenty of taxis and rideshare options. Uber is the most commonly used ridesharing service here, but Lyft is another popular option.

And if you prefer to drive, you can also drive your own vehicle or rent a car while in Toronto . Although I would only recommend doing this if you’re planning to take trips outside the city. As the traffic downtown does get pretty bad and parking in the city can be expensive and difficult to come by.

How Many Days in Toronto is Enough?

The ideal number of days to spend in Toronto really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do here.

However, I would generally recommend allowing yourself around 3 to 4 days to explore the city comfortably. But, you could easily spend more than this if you’re hoping to take some day trips out of the city to see more of Ontario.

To help you plan your trip, here is my recommended itinerary for 4 days in Toronto:

Spend the day in the downtown core visiting the city’s key attractions like the CN Tower , Hockey Hall of Fame and Ripley’s Aquarium , and stroll or bike around the waterfront. In the evening, catch a performance or show at one of Toronto’s many theatres, comedy clubs or live music venues.

Explore some of Toronto’s most iconic neighbourhoods, such as Kensington Market , the Distillery District and Queen Street West , where you can see vibrant street art, try some of the city’s most interesting food, and experience Toronto’s unique history and culture. And make sure to stop off at St. Lawrence Market !

Take a day trip to Niagara Falls and the surrounding Niagara region. If you’re able to, I highly recommend visiting both Niagara Falls and the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as driving the stunning Niagara Parkway. The best way to make sure you can comfortably fit everything in is by booking a Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto .

Visit the Royal Ontario Museum and, if you have time, the Art Gallery of Ontario . Then, for your last night, dine at one of the city’s best restaurants, such as Canoe, Alo Restaurant or Bar Raval.

And, if you have more time to spend in Toronto, I would highly recommend taking a day trip to the Toronto Islands and exploring some of the city’s other green spaces and beaches.

Why Visit Toronto – FAQs

Is toronto expensive.

As a prominent North American city, Toronto is not the cheapest destination to visit. In fact, Toronto is actually ranked as Canada’s most expensive city.

However, from my personal experience living and traveling in Canada, I haven’t noticed much of a difference between the prices in Toronto and Canada’s other major cities, like Montreal and Vancouver.

Fortunately, lots of the key attractions in Toronto are free or relatively cheap to experience. And, with such diverse neighbourhoods and a huge food scene, it can actually be really affordable to explore and eat out in the city.

Here are some of the best ways to keep your costs down in Toronto:

• Walk, bike and use public transit to get around rather than driving or using taxis and rideshare services.
• Book accommodation outside the city where it’s a bit cheaper.
• Eat street food and takeaway rather than dining in restaurants. (You will find plenty of excellent food vendors in Kensington Market , St. Lawrence Market and dotted around the city).
• Make the most of free events in the city, like street festivals, open-air concerts and weekly markets.
• Buy a CityPass for cheaper admission to Toronto’s top 5 attractions.
• Spend time exploring Toronto’s various parks, trails, beaches and huge waterfront.
• For evening entertainment, visit a bar with live music (like a Jazz bar) or go to a comedy show. (Tickets to comedy shows are usually only $10-15 per person!)
• Spend time sightseeing and exploring Toronto’s different neighbourhoods on foot.
• Plan ahead! Booking in advance is often cheaper. And, if you do your research, you can plan an amazing trip around your budget!

What is Toronto know for?

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and is the most multicultural city in the world. It’s particularly well known for its cultural diversity, iconic skyline, and vibrant neighbourhoods.

Plus, it has some of Canada’s key attractions, such as the CN Tower , Ripley’s Aquarium, Casa Loma and the Royal Ontario Museum .

The city is also home to several popular sports team. These include the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), and the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB). Plus, Toronto has several major stadiums – most notably the Scotiabank Arena and Roger’s Stadium – which host hockey, basketball, baseball and other sporting events throughout the year.

What is the top attraction in Toronto?

The CN Tower Toronto’s top attraction, with approximately 2 million people going up it every year.

At 1,815 feet tall, it’s an iconic symbol of the city and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Toronto and its surroundings. The main observation level, Skypod observation platform, glass floor, EdgeWalk and high speed elevators all offer thrilling experiences with spectacular views of the city’s impressive skyline.

Can you visit Niagara Falls from Toronto?

Yes, absolutely! Niagara Falls is one of the most popular day trips from Toronto , and it’s relatively easy to get there. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. But you can also get there by train, or by taking a Niagara Falls day tour , which includes transport from Toronto.

In addition to the Falls, there are several attractions worth visiting in the Niagara region, such as the Niagara Parkway and Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as various historic sites, parks, gardens and monuments.

Taking a tour is the best way to see everything, as these key points of interest are included in most tours. Plus, the itinerary, timing and and transport will all be taken care of for you, making this the most convenient way to experience Niagara.

Is Toronto a walkable city?

Yes, Toronto is a very walkable city , especially in its downtown core! Most of the city’s popular attractions, key shopping areas, top restaurants and entertainment venues are within walking distance of each other. Plus, the city has a well-developed grid system, making navigation on foot relatively straightforward.

However, Toronto is a big city, and some neighbourhoods can be quite far away from each other. In such cases, my favourite way to get around is by cycling. Toronto has a great bike share program and there are bike lanes all around the city.

Or, if you’re not a big fan of cycling, there are various public transport options in Toronto, with a Subway, streetcars and buses. And, if all else fails, there are always plenty of taxis around the city, or rideshare services you can use.

Is Toronto or Vancouver better?

The choice between Toronto and Vancouver depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a destination. Personally, I love both cities and appreciate them for different reasons.

Toronto is known for its vibrant city life, diversity, food scene and huge variety of attractions and entertainment options. It’s a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic neighbourhoods, art and culture. If you’re looking to see some of Canada’s most iconic sites and enjoy excellent food, nightlife and entertainment, then Toronto will likely suit you better.

Vancouver , on the other hand, offers a stunning natural setting on the ocean, surrounded by mountains in the background. The city is known for its outdoorsy lifestyle, with locals making the most of the waterfront, trails and sporting facilities. Plus, the surrounding mountains offer excellent snow sports, hiking and climbing.

The city itself also has several interesting attractions, but it isn’t as lively as Toronto and doesn’t have much of a late-night scene. When I’m in Vancouver, I always find that we have early nights and make the most of our daytime activities. Saying this, we also do plenty of daytime activities in Toronto! However, in Toronto, we usually start the day a little later in the morning and stay out later at night.

Overall, if you prefer a mix of outdoor activities and a more laid-back urban environment, Vancouver will likely be more appealing to you. But, if you’re able to, I would highly recommend trying to visit both Vancouver and Toronto, as they’re both great in different ways.

Final Thoughts – Why Visit Toronto?

So, why visit Toronto? As you can see, there are plenty of great reasons why Toronto is worth visiting, and tons of things to do here!

From the nightlife, culture and arts scene, to the wide range of attractions and interesting urban and natural landscapes, there is something for everyone.

It’s an ideal city to spend a weekend, or a great place to base yourself for longer as you explore more of Ontario. Plus, as Toronto is well-connected to the rest of the world, it’s likely that you will pass through here anyway on your Canadian travels.

So, hopefully this post has inspired you to stop off in Toronto and spend a few days exploring the city next time you visit Canada.

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Chanelle Rosenbaum is the founder and author of Chasing Chanelle, a blog that aims to help travellers and expats navigate new destinations and take on more outdoor adventures. She has lived in Canada, Europe, the UK, Australia, and South America, which has given her a local’s perspective of the places she writes about. She is also an avid hiker, camper, runner, paddler, skier, and snowboarder, and is passionate about sharing her hobbies with others through her blog.

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OTTAWA — Canada’s tourism industry is trying to put on its Sunday best this week, showcasing itself to more than 500 international travel agents and tour operators at the largest annual tourism convention in Canada.

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'The whole country is not on fire': Canadian tourism industry struggles Back to video

But as Rendez-vous Canada is taking place at the Edmonton Convention Centre, one of the biggest challenges Canada’s tourism industry is facing is playing out in technicolour just a few hundred kilometres away: wildfires.

“Climate change is an essential threat to Canadian tourism, to their reputation and that’s what we’re seeing,” said federal Tourism Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada.

Hot, dry weather in Western Canada, exacerbated by climate change, sparked a massive fire last week southwest of Fort McMurray. This week it is forcing more than 6,000 people from their homes.

Some of them are the same residents whose houses were razed by a major wildfire in the same city just eight years ago.

In 2023, Canada recorded its worst wildfire season ever, with more than 6,400 fires burning more than 150,000 square kilometres in almost every province and territory.

Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond.

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This season started out a little slower, but turned quickly over the weekend with major out-of-control fires forcing evacuations and threatening cities and towns in both British Columbia and Alberta.

Beth Potter, president of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, said the direct impact of wildfires is hard enough.

But making matters worse is the fact that many people around the world see headlines about Canada being on fire, she said, then think nowhere in the country is safe to visit.

“There are fires right now in northern parts of Alberta and British Columbia, but that doesn’t mean that all of Canada stops welcoming visitors from around the world,” she said.

“The biggest challenge we had actually (last year) was how big the fires are by comparison to how big our country is. People are…not understanding how big Canada is and that the whole country is not on fire.”

Last summer, tourism operators in southwestern Ontario told her about cancellations due to fires largely more than 3,500 kilometres away in B.C., she said.

As fires ravaged parts of eight provinces in June 2023, Destination Canada commissioned a survey of Americans. It found among those who were likely to take a trip to Canada in the next six months, more than half were rethinking their plans.

Two-thirds of Americans planning a trip to Canada said the fires would have at least some impact on their plans, and almost 40 per cent said the fires would have a “large impact.”

Americans account for about two-thirds of international visitors to Canada.

Martinez Ferrada said sometimes the solution is to be mindful of what is being said about Canada in places which typically send a lot of tourists to Canada. Last summer, for instance, she said Germany issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against travel to Canada, and B.C. in particular, because of the wildfires.

One option is to reach out to Germany and say “you know Canada is big, maybe you can be more specific,” she said.

“When you think about Europe, Canada is four times (the size of) Europe. So you wouldn’t put an ad for the whole of Europe, right?”

The concerns reach beyond just fires. Warmer winters are harming cold-season tourism as well. The famous Rideau Canal stayed closed in 2023, and barely opened at all this year, because it was too warm. The ice hotel in Quebec City, a unique draw for tourism, was melting, said Martinez Ferrada.

Potter said the changing weather patterns have made some travellers more careful about booking, and many delay their bookings until they are certain things will be fine weather-wise. She said that makes it hard for operators to plan staffing.

On top of all that, some operators have also been finding insurance more expensive — if they can even secure it — as the risks from severe weather force the insurance industry to rethink costs.

Craig Stewart, vice-president of climate change and federal issues for the Insurance Bureau of Canada, said major international reinsurers, who backstop many Canadian insurance policies, have recalculated the risk profile for Canada following several major weather catastrophes.

That raised insurance costs for some, while others couldn’t get insurance at all.

Stewart said the insurance bureau created an internal task force to help companies that can’t find insurance track down a solution, and since 2020 more than 3,100 businesses have reached out for help. Many of them are tourism-related including hotels, restaurants, heritage properties, and tourist resorts.

Martinez Ferrada said the issue is the main topic of conversation among tourism ministers and it’s a problem that has no miracle cure.

“It’s not an instant switch,” she said. “We need to just work at it.”

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Drake's cultural identity is on trial again

Kendrick Lamar made several serious allegations against Drake during their first headline-making rap beef . In his victory-clinching “Not Like Us,” Lamar renews criticisms about Drake’s cultural identity and alleged inauthentic relationships with fellow artists. 

“You called Future when you didn’t see the club/Lil Baby helped you get your lingo up/21 (Savage) gave you false street cred,” Lamar rapped. “You run to Atlanta when you need a few dollars/ No, you not a colleague, you a f--- colonizer.” 

For years, Drake has faced allegations that he cozies up to rap artists and replicates their sound and style for personal gain before moving on to his next project. Rappers like Earl Sweatshirt , Rick Ross and Pusha T have spoken about the purported pattern, and claims of Drake being a “culture vulture” have swirled for at least a decade. 

Most of the allegations lie in adapting phony accents, musical similarities and covers, appearances with burgeoning artists and unproven claims of theft. 

When Drake released his 2015 hit “Hotline Bling” on his Beats 1 Radio Show “OVO Sound,” it was initially billed as a “ Cha Cha remix ,” referring to Virginia singer DRAM’s earlier burgeoning hit. As time went on, though, Drake distanced “Hotline Bling” from the song amid allegations that he essentially stole the track. DRAM has been vocal about his stance, writing in a post on X that fall, “Yeah, I feel I got jacked for my record...But I’m GOOD.”

Drake told The Fader in 2015 that “Hotline Bling” samples Timmy Thomas’ ’70s hit, “Why Can’t We Live Together.” He chalked up similarities between “Hotline Bling” and “Cha Cha” to the artists using a similar “riddim ,” sounds or riffs that act as anchors in Jamaican music. 

“Imagine that in rap, or imagine that in R&B,” Drake said. “Sometimes I’ll pick a beat that’s a bit, like, sunnier, I guess is the word you used, than usual, and I just try my hand at it. And that’s kind of what ‘Hotline Bling’ was. And I loved it. It’s cool. I’ve been excited by that sort of creative process.”

Gabe Niles, who produced “Cha Cha,” has said the song does not sample Thomas’ track. 

Similar controversies have followed Drake throughout his career, making Lamar’s criticisms the latest in a long history of claims that Drake’s industry practices may be exploitative. But for Drake’s defenders, the issue isn’t a matter of exploiting Black cultures and artists, but of race. 

Social media posts about Lamar’s lyrics quickly dissolved into conversations about race in the hip-hop and rap industry. Drake’s fans have long held that his biracial identity — he is both Black and white — along with his Canadian nationality negatively impacts his standing in the industry.

“People cannot fathom that they gave drake (a canadian biracial man) the legacy they NOW feel kendrick (an american black man) should’ve had,” one person wrote in a post on X. Another added : “You don’t get to call out a biracial person for their blackness level. That’s colorism, and I don’t f with that.”

Amara Pope explored Drake’s cultural and racial identities and branding in her 2016 master's thesis , "Musical Artists Capitalizing on Hybrid Identities," and her 2023 Ph.D. dissertation , "Canadian's Redefining R&B." She said Drake’s place in the industry is skewed by both his race and nationality.

“I think that people have questions about Drake’s authenticity when it comes to his Blackness based on, not necessarily what Graham has done,” Pope said, referring to his real name Aubrey Graham, “but the dominant belief … that Canadians are exclusively white and that Canadian music exclusively folk or country and R&B and hip-hop is exclusively created for Black Americans.” Pope added that Drake represents his biracial, Canadian and Jewish roots in his music.

“Drake, for a long time, has talked about not being Black enough to be in hip-hop music,” Pope said.

Drake did not respond to a request for comment from NBC News, but he has rapped about not feeling “Black enough” for the industry and spoken in interviews about feeling “excluded” because he is half-white.

“Sometimes some of my Blackest friends can be just as cruel by making you feel excluded or making you feel like, ‘You can’t get in on this,’” he said in 2019 during an interview with Rap Radar . 

“I associate myself as a Black man,” he said, lamenting feeling that he is not often celebrated as a “Black artist” for his accomplishments. “It’s something that I just acknowledge and I keep it moving.”

A.D. Carson , a professor of hip-hop and the global south at the University of Virginia, doesn’t see it that way, though. Valid criticisms of Drake shouldn’t be flattened into a tragic story, he holds, but should be taken seriously. Drake rose to popularity with melodic hip-hop music rooted in vulnerability and transparency, but this has since seemed to slip into an apparent series of personas that sometimes feels inauthentic and further removes Drake from the sound that fans first fell in love with. 

Carson describes Drake’s alleged behavior in the music industry as “cultural tourism.” Carson is a tenured professor of hip-hop at t the University of Virginia. His dissertation, "Owning My Masters: The Rhetorics of Rhymes & Revolutions," is a rap album set to be released in October.

“Everything he is in proximity to, he appropriates and mimics it,” Carson said of Drake. “He’s able to genre-hop through identity theft, and it’s genre-bending in a way that we definitely critique white artists doing. He’s more insulated from it because of what folks call ‘biracial identity.’”

He added: “Kendrick is asking, ‘what is the cultural identity? What are those things that you possess outside of the means by which you’re going to sell your next product?’ Those are the questions.” 

Drake has drawn criticism for dabbling in sounds from underground subcultures and artists — like Caribbean dancehall, U.K. grime, house music and New Orleans bounce, to name a few. He has addressed the backlash, saying that he is simply appreciating the music and supporting lesser-known artists. 

“I hate that people think that me being into music from these kids that are trying to make it and build a name for themselves is like, ‘Oh that’s some culture vulture,’” he said in a 2019 interview . “What does that even mean? I don’t understand. Would you rather me not acknowledge anything or not support? That’s some real confused hater sh---.”

Critics like Lamar have equated this support to exploitation. In “Euphoria,” Lamar’s initial response to Drake’s “Push Ups” diss track, he implied that Drake’s songs with Black artists result from his supposed identity issues.

“How many more Black features ‘til you finally feel that you’re Black enough?” Lamar raps. 

Meanwhile, Rick Ross, in a diss track of his own, hurled insults about Drake’s race, calling him “white boy.”

Hip-hop, like all music genres, has racial dimensions and cultural affiliations. Conversations — and criticisms — of whiteness in the industry have existed within the genre for decades, especially as it has grown into a lucrative, culture-defining, billion-dollar business. Carson said that conversations about Drake’s biraciality in the industry should not be used to dismiss the valid criticisms of his allegedly exploitative music practices within hip-hop. 

“Drake’s ability to operationalize Blackness insulates him from critique. Somebody would say, ‘Well, you can’t appropriate Blackness if you are Black,’” Carson said. “Nobody is gatekeeping Drake out of Blackness. Folks are asking, ‘How does he benefit from white supremacy?’”

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Char Adams is a reporter for NBC BLK who writes about race.