Guide to the 40 Best Places to Visit in Toronto
One of the best places to visit in Canada is Toronto! It’s the capital of Ontario and is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world. So, if you’re looking for cities in North America that offer a slice of every other country, then Toronto is it! Plus, there is a ton of things to do in Toronto! The city offers travellers something to suit everyone’s interests. You’ll find parks, festivals, and diverse restaurants. That’s on top of all the Toronto tourist attractions!
As Canada’s largest city, planning a trip to Toronto can be daunting. Book your flight or plan your next road trip to Toronto now! Because I’ve rounded up the best places to visit in Toronto for you! Plus, in this Toronto travel guide you’ll learn where to stay, shop, get around, and more!
Top Toronto Attractions
Growing up in the Toronto I didn’t go to many of the top attractions in the city. As often happens with locals. Well, that’s changed and I still return to many of the top tourist attractions in Toronto now! Below you’ll find a list of the top attractions that are a must for first-time visitors to Toronto!
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CN Tower
Dominating the city skyline is the CN Tower. Towering over 1800 feet, it’s one of the top attractions in Toronto for many reasons!
I still remember stories from my father when he watched and photographed the tower being built in the 1970s! Originally the CN Tower was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. However, the world caught up but it’s still in the top 10!
As one of the best places to visit in Ontario, the CN Tower is a must! It offers an assortment of experiences. Plus, it offers one of the best views in Toronto over Lake Ontario and the city!
The CN Tower is home to a glass floor you can walk upon as well as two observation decks. The first is at over 1,000 feet and the second, called the SkyPod, is one of the highest observation platforms in the world at 1,465 feet. In addition, there’s the 360Restaurant. The restaurant offers fine dining above the city with revolving views.
If you’re looking for crazy things to do in Toronto then try the CN Tower Edge Walk! At over 1,000 feet it is the world’s highest hands-free full-circle walk! Adventure seekers are harnessed up and encouraged to push their limits. You’ll find yourself outside the tower on a five-foot ledge where you can lean out over the city below!
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON
Yonge & Dundas Square
Renunciant of Times Square in New York City, Yonge and Dundas Square is a Toronto landmark! Surrounded by flashy jumbo screen billboards, you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants around the square too. Right next door is the Toronto Eaton Centre!
The intersection in downtown Toronto was revitalized in the 1990s. It’s now a vibrant public space that hosts plenty of free concerts, community events, and even movies.
Plus, if you’re looking for sightseeing tours in Toronto, the square is a hotspot for them! You can jump aboard the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour here. This tour is great for first time visitors to Toronto and even for locals! I learned so much when I took the tour. You can hop on or off at the various stops, which include the top sights, museums, and places in Toronto. Plus, you’ll learn various interesting stories about the city too!
Address: 1 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON
Casa Loma
Did you know that there is a castle in Toronto? It’s true! Perched atop a hill downtown stands Casa Loma. The castle was built in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt and his family. Inspired by castles in Europe, this grand abode is home to nearly 100 rooms, 30 bathrooms, and a library with 10,000 books!
Casa Loma is now a museum with period pieces showcasing the opulence of the time. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of the castle. Wander through secret passageways, check out the views of the gardens, and attend some of the incredible events.
In the summer there’s live music and outdoor dinner parties at the castle. However, one of the best times to visit is in December! Casa Loma is transformed into an enchanted wonderland for the holidays with Christmas lights and décor. Be sure to add Casa Loma to your itinerary if you’re planning to spend Christmas in Toronto!
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
Royal Ontario Museum
One of the largest museums in North America is located in downtown Toronto! The Royal Ontario Museum is affectionately called the ROM by locals. Plus, it’s considered one of the best museums in Toronto!
The Royal Ontario Museum is home to a collection of over 10 million pieces. As the largest museum in Canada, the ROM showcases art, specimens of natural history, and cultural objects from around the world. You can easily spend the whole day exploring its 40 different galleries and exhibit spaces!
With a sprawling building and millions of pieces to see, the museum is overwhelming. Not only in its collection but also in the architecture too! However, there are a few top places to visit in the ROM.
One of the best exhibits is the Age of the Dinosaurs! Here you’ll meet life-sized dinosaurs including Gordo the Barosaurus. He’s 27 metres long and is the largest real fossil dinosaur skeleton mounted in Canada! Another must, especially for kids, is the Bat Cave! Visitors can wander through a replica of a Jamaican cave that’s dark and filled with the sounds and models of bats!
The museum is also home to meteorites, precious gem stones and galleries representing ancient cultures form around the world. I highly recommend the Egypt, Greece, and Chinese Temple Art Galleries.
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
Nathan Phillips Square & Toronto Sign
In the heart of the city is Nathan Phillips Square. It’s one of the best places to visit in Toronto!
Named in honour of a former mayor, the square is located at the intersection of Queen Street West and Bay Street. You’ll find many Toronto landmarks here, including the new City Hall, Old City Hall, and the Toronto Sign! Plus, if you’re hungry, there are always plenty of food trucks around.
Nathan Phillips Square is now home to one of the top tourist attractions in Toronto. The Toronto Sign was created for the 2015 Pan American Games. And one of the top things to do in Toronto is grab a selfie with the sign! Plus, the sign lights up at night! Depending on when you visit, the sign lights up differently for various events, sports games, and holidays.
In the summer the square is all abuzz with tourists and locals playing chess. In the winter the square takes on a whole new feel! The large fountain at its centre becomes a free skating rink, which is one of the best things to do in February. Plus, for the holidays there’s a massive Christmas tree and one of the city’s many Christmas Markets.
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
Graffiti Alley
I’m a huge fan of street art and seek it out wherever I travel! And one of the best places to find street art in Ontario is in Toronto!
While the city is filled with awesome places to find street art, one place is now a top attraction. The place is Graffiti Alley. The alleyway is located just south of Queen Street West and is also known as Rush Lane. In addition, it’s conveniently marked on Google Maps too!
Graffiti Alley runs from Portland Street west to Spadina. While I don’t recommend wandering back alleys in big cities, this is one that’s frequented by tourists, photographers, and even locals.
Running 1000 feet long, the alley is filled with a wide assortment of graffiti and murals. The street art covers entire buildings, back doors to businesses, and more! One of my favourite murals in Graffiti Alley is a massive building that’s painted in a colourful underwater theme. It has funny fish, seaweed, and plenty of places for selfies!
Another incredible piece is very Canadian. Covering one side of a building, the mural features all things Canadian including famous people like Gord Downie, as well as iconic buildings, and even animals!
Covering back doors and entire buildings is some of the coolest street art in Toronto! Pieces include realistic portraits, retro cartoon characters, and so much more! There’s even a whole building painted in a colorful underwater theme! Plus, one large mural is considered one of the most Canadian murals ever! It features iconic people and places in the country!
Are you torn between which top Canadian city to visit? In my guide Montreal vs Toronto I’ll dive into which city is the best to visit.
Best Places to Visit in Toronto
Filled with fun activities, there are tons of awesome places to go in Toronto! Some of the best places to visit are neighbourhoods, each one unique. Toronto is also home to a wealth of museums, historic sites, and parks too!
Visit the Toronto Islands
Escape the concrete jungle of the city with a trip to the Toronto Islands! As one of the best places to visit in Toronto, the Islands offer plenty of fun things to do. Plus, the ferry terminal is located right downtown. The short 15-minute ferry ride is only $8.70 return.
The Toronto Islands are a group of islands in the city’s harbour. They are connected by bridges and pathways. Ward’s Island is primarily residential and full of adorable homes. Centre Island is home to one of the city’s top tourist attractions in the summer, Centreville Amusement Park. The amusement park has rides, places to eat, and more. Centreville is a great place in Toronto for families!
If you’re looking for things to do in Toronto in the summer, head to the Islands! You can rent bikes to tour around. There is also expansive parkland that are perfect for picnics. Or you can visit one of the seasonal cafes. Plus, the Toronto Islands are home to numerous beaches! Along with bike rentals, you can rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.
One of Canada’s oldest lighthouses sits on the Islands too! Built in the early 1800s, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is noted as one of Ontario’s haunted places. Located on Hanlan’s Island, along with the lighthouse, there’s also sand dunes and a nudist beach nearby.
To learn more about the Toronto Islands check out my guide here.
Art Gallery of Ontario
Whether you’re an art lover or looking for things to do in Toronto in the rain, head over to the AGO! The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the best galleries in Toronto. It’s home to over 120,000 pieces of art!
Visitors will find a wide assortment of art that includes pieces created by Canadian, Indigenous artists, European masters, and more! Some of my favourite artists, like the Group of Seven, have art in the AGO.
The building is an art piece itself! It features sweeping staircases to the Galleria Italia, which is shaped like a ship’s hull. Plus, there’s also a bistro and an espresso bar inside. Be sure to pop into the espresso bar for awesome views!
Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON
Distillery District
One of the best places to visit in Toronto is the Distillery Historic District! The complex was once the largest distillery in the British Empire. With its red bricked buildings and cobblestone streets, it’s one of the many places that feels like Europe in Ontario!
The Distillery District has seen a lot of changes over the years. But now it’s an incredible pedestrian only neighbourhood filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and more!
A couple of my favourite places to eat and drink in the city are here! For coffee head to one of the coolest Balzac’s locations. Or to feed your hunger pop into one of Toronto’s best Mexican restaurants, El Catrin. In addition, to pull from its history, there’s still a distillery within the area, Spirit of York Distillery.
Along with all the great places to shop and dine in the district, there are numerous art installations too! A couple of the most famous ones are the love locks sign and the big red heart at one of the entrances.
Various events and festivals take place in the Distillery District throughout the year. One of the most popular is the world-famous Toronto Christmas Market, now known as the Distillery Winter Village.
Kensington Market
One of my favourite Toronto neighbourhoods is Kensington Market. This quirky neighbourhood is one of the most unique places in Toronto.
Kensington Market is located between College and Dundas Street West and flanked by Bathurst and Spadina. If you’re looking for an artsy and vibrant vibe, this is your place!
The area is filled with incredible street art, cute cafes, as well as fun shops and restaurants. One of Toronto’s quirkiest attractions can be found here. The Garden Car sits along the main street, Augusta Avenue. This abandoned car is now a work of art! Covered in spray paint and sprouting plants, the Kensington Garden Car is a must see!
The area is a great area for those visiting Toronto on a budget. There area some great budget-friendly accommodations and cheap street food. Plus, during spring through fall the market area goes pedestrian only on the last Sunday of the month. You’ll find a variety of people selling thrift finds, antiques, handcrafted jewelry, and more.
Rouge National Urban Park
Toronto is home to Canada’s first and only national urban park. Covering 7,500 hectares, Rouge National Urban Park is a must visit in Toronto, especially for nature lovers! The park starts down at Lake Ontario and sweeps north, past Highway 401 and up to Markham. It also covers the area around the Toronto Zoo.
Rouge National Urban Park is free to visit, which is incredible considering its size and opportunities for adventure! The park is home to various landscapes and over ten different hiking trails.
The Rouge Marsh Trail is a gem and also one of the best boardwalk trails in Ontario! It’s located in the southern portion of the park, where it meets Lake Ontario. Part of the trail passes through the largest remaining wetland in Toronto! Plus, the trail connects to the Waterfront Trail and the Pan Am Path.
Local Tip: If you want to learn more about the park you can download The Rouge App for free! The app provides information about the park’s trails, wildlife, and points of interest. Plus, you can even earn hiking badges!
Hockey Hall of Fame
Canada is known as the birthplace of hockey! So, no visit to Toronto is complete without a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The museum has moved a number of times since its creation in 1943. Now, the Hockey Hall of Fame is located within the old Bank of Montreal Building. The building’s original façade can still be seen from inside Brookfield Place.
Both a museum and a hall of fame, it showcases the history of ice hockey. It’s home to 15 different exhibits that share the stories over teams, iconic players, and is filled with tons of memorabilia. Along with other NHL trophies, it’s also home to the Stanley Cup!
This is no boring museum! Walking in you’ll meet a nine-foot statue of Gordie Howe. There’s also a to-scale replica of the Canadiens’ dressing room and a bunch of fun interactive activities.
Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
Bata Shoe Museum
I still remember my first pair of Bata boots as a kid! Whether you’re a fan of shoes or looking for fun places to visit in Toronto, head over to the Bata Shoe Museum.
The Bata Shoe Museum is home to roughly 15,000 pieces! It has the largest collection of shoes and footwear related items in the world! With a collection spanning 4,500 years, it’s impressive to see.
This unique Toronto attraction is set within a stunning building. Throughout you’ll find fun and unusual footwear. There are Dutch clogs, ancient Egyptian sandals, Chinese bound foot shoes, and so much more!
Address: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON
Aga Khan Museum
Outside the downtown core, in Toronto’s North York district is one of the most unique museums in the city. The Aga Khan Museum is the first museum dedicated to the Islamic arts in North America. And it will astound you! I know I was blown away on my first visit.
The museum showcases Islamic art, Iranian art, as well as Muslim culture across the globe. They have collection of rare pieces that celebrate art in a variety of forms. This is so much more than an Islamic arts museum, it’s a museum of human history that spans centuries!
Inside you’ll find a permanent collection on the first floor. Be sure to pop into the Bellerive Room. This interesting space is filled with awesome ceramics. The second features new exhibits. During my visit there were incredible books, scrolls and manuscripts from the Silk Road. One piece was a Chinese 1,000-year-old prayer sheet.
Plus, throughout the year the museum has pop ups that include live entertainment, poetry sessions, and even classes.
Beyond the interior collection, the building itself is a work of modern art. Out front are formal gardens and granite-lined pools that are worth exploring.
Address: 77 Wynford Dr, North York, ON
Fort York National Historic Site
To get a glimpse into the city’s history head to Fort York National Historic Site. This 43 acre landmark sits downtown amongst towering skyscrapers.
As one of the best places to visit in Toronto for history, the site is noted for being the birthplace of the city. The fort dates to the War of 1812 and is now a museum and historic site of Canada. It’s home to the largest collection of War of 1812 buildings in the country. Along with these seven original buildings there is a part of the 1813 battlefield, a visitors’ centre and more!
To make museums and historic sites more accessible, Fort York is now free to visit!
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON
Scarborough Bluffs
Just 30 minutes outside downtown Toronto is a place that will make you feel like you’re in England! The Scarborough Bluffs are a 15 km stretch of incredible cliffs that look like the white cliffs of Dover.
Rising up nearly 300 feet out of Lake Ontario, these brilliant white cliffs are a must visit! The Scarborough Bluffs run through nine different parks. Each park is unique!
There are winding hiking trails along the top of the cliffs as well as at their base. You’ll also find numerous gardens to wander and even a beautiful beach! Every park offers incredible views, either out over the lake or up at the cliffs themselves.
One of my favourites of the Scarborough Bluffs parks is Guild Park. This beautiful park is home to remnants of over 60 historic buildings from Toronto and elsewhere in Ontario. Each piece is artfully placed amongst intricate gardens. It’s one of the top photography spots in Toronto!
St. Lawrence Market
Another one of the best places to visit in Toronto is St. Lawrence Market! The market dates to 1803 and is the oldest in the city.
Sitting on Front Street, St. Lawrence Market is one of the most beloved Toronto landmarks! The market features over 120 merchant that sell a variety of goods including food and crafts. However, it’s best known for its food!
You’ll find a wide assortment of baked goods, meat, fresh produce, and so much more! The building also contains one of my favourite breakfast spots in Toronto, Paddington’s Pump.
With Toronto being a diverse city, it’s no surprise that the market offers various international cuisine too. There’s everything from Portuguese to Sushi!
If you’re a foodie then you’ll love this St. Lawrence Market Food Tour! It features some of the best Toronto foods and drinks. Along with tastings you’ll learn more about the city, it’s food scene, and the St. Lawrence Market.
Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON
Free Things to do in Toronto
Toronto is an expensive city to travel to. However, don’t let that deter you! There are tons of free things to do in Toronto Canada that will help keep you on a budget! Along with free activities in Toronto, there are lots of free places to visit. Plus, many museums offer free days or nights!
Allan Gardens Conservatory
One of my favourite places in Toronto is Allan Gardens! This is one of the best hidden gems in the city! Plus, it’s free to visit!
Allan Gardens is one of the oldest parks in Toronto. This downtown green oasis has a dog park, playground, and the stunning conservatory.
The Allan Gardens Conservatory is made up of six greenhouses. Each one is unique. There’s a tropical one, an arid one, and even one dedicated to orchids. Visitors can stroll through this Victorian-inspired building and fawn over all the beautiful flowers and foliage.
The main building, the Palm House, is like walking into Eden! It’s filled with giant banana palms and winding stone pathways. Inside the greenhouses is a vast array of colourful flowers, from bromeliads to hibiscus. There’s also koi and turtle ponds.
Local Tip: Be sure to check out their list of events to see what’s going on while you’re in town! The Conservatory hosts a variety of events and incredible displays throughout the year.
The Bentway
Toronto is home to some interesting places. Many of them created with the help of creative minds working with ordinary cityscapes. One of these places is The Bentway.
The area under the Gardiner Expressway was transformed into an urban public park. That park is called The Bentway. It’s a fusion of many things. It’s a public space where recreation and art collide.
Running from the Fort York Visitor Centre to Bastion Street, the Bentway is full of free things to do in Toronto! Throughout the space are numerous murals. Many of them massive, like the Love Letters to the Great Lakes. It stands on one of the 50 feet tall pillars that holds up the highway.
Along with murals and other art, the Bentway features numerous recreational opportunities throughout the year. In the summer you can roller skate and in the winter, you can ice skate! The over 700-foot skate trail is free to use. Plus, on Friday nights they offer free skate rentals!
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON
Evergreen Brickworks
How would you like to visit a now beautiful place in Toronto that was once a former landfill? If you’re looking for free places to go in Toronto then I recommend a visit to Evergreen Brickworks!
Set on the grounds of an old brick factory, it’s now filled with interesting attractions. Evergreen Brickworks is home to Toronto’s largest farmers’ market that’s held year-round. There’s also an Artisan and Vintage Market once a month. Or you can pop in to their café.
Evergreen Brickworks is also home to a sprawling network of winding trails. You can enjoy floating boardwalks, watch hawks fly overhead, and climb the hill for an epic view of Toronto’s skyline!
It’s located within the Lower Don River Valley. Plus, many of the trails link up to others that spread throughout the city. One of my favourites is the Beltline Trail!
The park offers a variety of landscapes like marsh and scrubland. In the background is the incredible old brickworks building.
In the winter, Evergreen Brickworks is home to one of the coolest free ice-skating rinks in Toronto!
Local Tip: For those traveling to Toronto without a car take the TTC to the Davisville subway station, then take the southbound 28 bus.
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON
High Park
Often called the Central Park of Toronto, High Park is one of the best places to visit in Toronto! Whether you’re looking for a moment of peace in the city or crave exploring the outdoors, it’s ideal.
High Park covers 400 acres right in the heart of Toronto. The park runs north from Lake Ontario, up to Bloor Street. Plus, there’s even an easy access point via a Subway stop!
There is so much to do and see in High Park! Along with gardens and walking trails, there’s plenty of parkland kept in its natural state. You’ll find small ponds, tree-lined paths, and various wildlife including lots of birds!
One of the top things to do in Toronto in the spring is visit High Park! The park is filled with some of the best cherry blossom trees in the city! If you’re keen on seeing them in bloom, plan your visit for late April or early May.
The Park is wonderful all year round! In the summer you can enjoy picnics or check out the blooming gardens. It’s also a great place to take in the fall colours in Toronto!
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON
Queen’s Park
In 1860 Queen’s Park opened, making it older than Canada itself! This beautiful oval park is home to majestic old trees, various historic statues, and the Ontario’s Legislative Building.
It’s also full of shady spots to relax on a warm summer day. As well as cherry blossom trees in the spring!
The main feature of the park is the Ontario’s Legislative Building. This grand building, from 1892, houses the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
The building is made up of varying architectural styles. Within are stunning stained-glass windows as well as historic pieces of Canada’s past. During your visit I highly recommend taking one of their free tours!
They offer a handful of tours, there’s an Art and Architecture Tour and a Building Tour that are free. Plus, you can also enjoy an Afternoon Tea and Tour for $45!
Address: 111 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON
Toronto Botanical Gardens
If you’re visit Toronto in the summer then I highly recommend a visit to the Toronto Botanical Gardens!
Covering nearly 4 acres, the Toronto Botanical Gardens is free to visit. However, please note that there is paid parking on site.
This award-winning space is filled with 17 different themed gardens that have over 4500 plants, representing over 2600 species. You can also book a free guided tour to learn more about the gardens and different plants.
There’s also a gift shop, seasonal café, as well as various classes for both kids and adults.
It’s also connected to another beautiful spot in Toronto, Edwards Gardens. You can hike quite a distance here, as the botanical gardens are link to other green spaces and trails in Toronto.
Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto, ON
Take Advantage of Doors Open Toronto
The inception of the Doors Open concept started in France. Toronto began the first city to offer the event in North America, in 2000.
Now, every May Doors Open Toronto offers visitors free access to many places that are otherwise not open to the public. The event takes place, usually during the last weekend in May. Dozens of the city’s historic sites, buildings, and strange places invite the public in for behind the scenes tours.
Some interesting places that have been open include Old City Hall, Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, and inactive subway stations. However, one of my favourites was the Arts & Letters Club. This private artists’ club conjures up images of Hogwarts!
This awesome free event will help you find many of the city’s hidden gems!
Best Things to do in Toronto for Kids
For those looking for family-friendly activities in Toronto you’ll find plenty! There’s a long list of things your kids will love to do in the city. Plus, many of these places and attractions offer fun educational experiences that the littles won’t even realize their learning!
Toronto Zoo
If your family loves animals then you’ll love the Toronto Zoo! Spread out over 700 acres, the zoo is home to over 5000 animals representing 500 different species.
The Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada. You can easily spend all day there!
There are numerous pavilions and outdoor spaces housing animals by region. The zoo has an Americas, Australasia, Tundra, and Canadian domain to name a few. Check the schedule of keeper talks when you arrive and try and plan to visit one or two. Keeper talks are held throughout the day at various exhibits. You’ll learn about the species, conservation efforts, and even get to see some in action.
The zoo has a handful of places to eat on site, or you can pack a picnic. There’s also a waterpark open during the summer and a Christmas market in the winter.
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON
Ontario Science Centre
One of the best places to visit with kids in Toronto is the Ontario Science Centre! This incredible museum lets kids, and adults, learn through play!
The Ontario Science Centre is the World’s first interactive science museum! It features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that allow for hands on learning.
You can play scientist for a day by examining meteorites, wander a real-life rainforest, and so much more! The museum also boasts live science demonstrations and shows. Plus, there’s an IMAX theatre!
The museum opened in 1969 and I still fondly remember all of my visits as a kid growing up in Toronto!
Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Looking for fun things to do in Toronto with kids? In the shadow of the CN Tower sits a magical underwater world that children and adults will love!
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is filled with over 5 million litres of water! In that water you’ll find 20,000 aquatic animals. There’s a long list of cute and unusual species at the aquarium. You’ll find sea turtles, sharks, an over 65-year-old giant lobster, and so much more!
This massive aquarium will entertain you for hours! Along with numerous galleries there are over 100 interactive exhibits. One of the coolest is a large touch tank full of stingrays. It’s also home to the longest underwater viewing tunnel in North America, called the Dangerous Lagoon. Step atop a moving walkway that will take you through the water. The Lagoon is filled with various types of sharks swimming overhead and colourful fish lurking in the rocks.
The aquarium also does daily live dive shows that are fun to watch. Plus, pop by the Planet Jellies exhibit! Here, you’ll find weird and wonderful species of jellyfish. One of which, the Pacific Sea Nettles, is the most photographed!
Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON
Black Creek Pioneer Village
Step back in time at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This living history museum is a recreation of a country village in the 1860s.
Black Creek Pioneer Village is home to 40 historic buildings, gardens, heritage animal breeds, and more! You’ll meet staff dressed in period costumes that showcase various trades that were prominent in Ontario during the 1860s. Plus, you’ll even get to enjoy some hands-on activities!
Some of the buildings include a general store, blacksmith’s shop, farm buildings, a grist mill, and a one-room schoolhouse. Throughout the buildings visitors will find a large collection of artifacts.
This is a great place to bring the family and learn about life before the conveniences of today!
Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, ON
Little Canada
One of the newest attractions in Toronto that’s fit for kids is Little Canada! Though I won’t judge if you go alone, it’s that cool!
Little Canada is a detailed crafted exhibit that reduces Canada into a massive miniature layout! The miniature layout features many of the top landmarks and sights in Canada. There’s everything from sprawling cityscapes to epic natural scenery.
This growing attraction currently has a Little Toronto, Little Niagara, Little Golden Horseshoe, and Little Ottawa. Plus, soon you’ll be able to see Little Rockies, Little East Coast, and more!
Kids and adults alike will love the coolest feature at Little Canada. You can be a part of it all! When you visit you can choose to be scanned and 3D printed into a little you!
Address: 10 Dundas St E Basement2, Toronto, ON
Attend the CNE
Toronto is home to hundreds of festivals and events every year! One of the grandest is the Canadian National Exhibition, known to locals as The Ex! It dates back nearly 150 years and started as most harvest festivals do – celebrating agriculture. A lot has changed but it’s still the biggest annual fair in Canada!
While there are still exhibitions revolving around agriculture there’s so much more now! Visitors will find displays of arts and crafts, culture, and a ton of fun. There’s live music, gaming, and a giant midway. One of the most popular rides is the Sky Ride. Suspended in the air on a lift you’ll travel over the CNE grounds and be rewarded with epic views of the city!
Another fun feature of The Ex is the food! Every year the vendors top themselves with crazy concoctions! There’s everything from colour changing soda to ketchup flavoured ice cream!
Address: 210 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON
Canada’s Wonderland
Little kids and big kids will love the over 200 attractions at Canada’s Wonderland! This massive amusement park is located in the northern area of the Greater Toronto Area, also known as the GTA.
Covering over 300 acres, the park features 17 roller coasters, dozens of places to eat, a 20-acre water park, two kid’s areas, and more! There are also live shows and famous characters wandering the park.
Plus, Canada’s Wonderland is fun all year long! Beyond the seasonal rides, it’s one of the best places to spend Canada Day in Ontario thanks to its epic fireworks display. If you’re looking for places to visit in the fall then check out their Halloween Haunt.
For those looking for places to visit in Toronto in winter then you’ll love WinterFest! The park transforms into a winter wonderland of festive fun, lights, and so much more!
Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON
More Fun Things to do in Toronto
There are endless amazing things to see in Toronto, places to go, and events to attend! Whether you’re seeking to add more entertainment to your Toronto visit or some culture, I’ve got more things to do in Toronto for you!
Woodbine Beach
A popular summer spot in the city is the beach! Yes, there are plenty of beaches in Toronto.
Set on a striking curve at the end of Woodbine Avenue is Woodbine Beach Park. Covering over 35 acres, the park is great for picnics and hiking. There’s an incredible boardwalk that stretches along Lake Ontario. It connects to two other trails, including the Martin Goodman Trail. The park also has beach volleyball courts, a restaurant, fitness equipment, and a snack bar.
The park is also home to one of the best places to visit in Toronto for hitting the sand! Woodbine Beach is the largest of the beaches in the Beaches neighbourhood. Plus, it’s been blue flag certified every year since 2005!
Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON
Toronto International Film Festival
Lights, camera, action! One of the biggest and coolest festivals in Toronto is the Toronto International Film Festival!
The festival, also known as TIFF, takes place annually during the second week of September. For nearly 50 years, celebrities, film makers, and the like descend on the city.
The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the world’s largest publicly attended film festivals! It has its very own location, the TIFF Bell Lightbox, where many of the films and talks take place. However, with hundreds of films, they are also shown at various venues throughout Toronto.
Along with a range of incredible films, the festival puts on numerous talks and panel discussions that you can attend!
Catch the stars on the red carpet, enjoy a film, or attend one of the other festival events. Part of King Street West is transformed into Festival Street. Here, you can watch free movies, groove to live music, and enjoy other fun sights.
Attend a Maple Leafs Game
Fans of the NHL will want to add attending a Toronto Maple Leafs game to their Toronto list! Winning 13 Stanley Cups over their time, the Leafs are one of the most famous Canadian sports teams.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the oldest hockey teams. They started back in 1917! The season runs from October through April. If you’re visiting during one of their at home games, be sure to grab tickets.
They play at the Scotiabank Arena, which is located right downtown. And don’t worry about getting tickets far in advance. They save 200 tickets to drop one to two days before the game.
Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON
Attend a Blue Jays Game
The only Major League Baseball team located outside of the United States is the Blue Jays. So, if you’re visiting Toronto during the summer, consider attending a Jays game!
Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre, located right downtown in the shadow of the CN Tower. However, as most of us locals, we still call it the SkyDome.
This incredible sports complex features a retractable roof! If you’re visiting on a hot day, be sure to pack a baseball cap to try and avoid the beating of the hot sun.
Another tip if you’re on a budget is to eat before you go. Drinks and food is crazy expensive but there are plenty of great restaurants nearby.
Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON
Take in a Theater Show
If culture and theatre is what you’re after then visit Toronto’s Entertainment District. Many of the city’s top theatres can be found here like Princess of Wales Theatre and Roy Thomson Hall.
Toronto is home to many more theatres found throughout the city. A couple of other great ones are the Ed Mirvish Theatre and the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre.
All the big shows like Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, and Cats have played in Toronto. If you’re looking something off the beaten path, you’ll find plenty of performances to choose from. There’s a play for everyone, from musicals to comical plays.
Beyond theatre, you can also enjoy concerts and ballet too!
Local Tip: Want cheap theatre tickets? Call the theatre on the day of the show for rush tickets. These are discounted tickets and most likely available Tuesday through Thursday. Plus, Mirvish offers rush seats for almost all of their shows!
Go on a Ghost Walk
With a rich and dark history, its no surprise there are so many haunted places in Toronto!
Ghosts lurk in buildings like the Old City Hall, the Mackenzie House, and many more. If you’re looking for fun activities in Toronto for adults, consider going on a ghost walk!
The best part is, it doesn’t have to be Halloween for you to enjoy one of the ghost tours that take place in the city. Tours run throughout the year and provide an interesting take on the city’s history and its people.
The best ghost tour in Toronto is the Original Haunted Walk. Led by lantern light, your guide will take you on a walking tour of some of Toronto’s haunted sites.
Explore The Path
One of the weirdest things to do in Toronto is get lost in The Path! Don’t worry, even locals get mixed up!
The Path is an underground network below the streets of Toronto. It’s made up of over 28 kms of large walkways and tunnels. Covering nearly 4 million square feet, The Path is the largest underground shopping complex in the world!
You can travel throughout downtown Toronto, from Union Station up to the Eaton Centre. It connects over 75 buildings and is home to over 1,200 shops and restaurants.
So, if you’re looking to travel through the city and avoid rain or snow, then head below the streets and explore The Path!
Indulge in the Toronto Coffee Culture
I’m a caffeine nut! So, it’s no surprise that one of my favourite things to do in Toronto is enjoy its many cafes!
While many head to Tim Hortons, I recommend checking out all the small, independent cafes. There are so many fabulous coffee shops in Toronto! Whether you’re looking for colourful places that scream Instagram or a quiet place to fuel up, there’s a café for you.
Some of my favourite coffee shops include Dineen Coffee and Balzac’s, which have multiple locations. Each one unique! Other top choices include Fika, Purple Penguin, and Maman.
There are endless cafes and coffee shops throughout the city. However, two of the best neighbourhoods for coffee shops are Kensington Market and Leslieville.
Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls
There are so many things to do in Toronto! However, if you have time, I highly recommend planning a day trip to Niagara Falls. And it’s easier than you think!
Niagara Falls is one of the best places to visit near Toronto! Noted as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it’s only an hour and a half drive away.
Along with the Horseshoe Falls, there are tons of awesome attractions in the area. A few top things to do in Niagara Falls include Journey Behind the Falls, eat at the Skylon Tower, and Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. Or if you’re looking for fun and wacky, head to Clifton Hill. Here you’ll find a wax museum, unique mini-golf courses, and more!
If you’re visit Toronto without a car, you can still get to Niagara Falls. You can buy weekend tickets for $35 that include round-trip travel on the GO Train and two days of access to WEGO, which is a hop-on hop-off bus running in Niagara Falls.
Getting Around to All the Best Places to Visit in Toronto
If it’s your first time visiting, rest assured, Toronto is pretty easy to navigate. Toronto’s metro system, dubbed the TTC, covers subway lines, buses, and street cars. The current price for a single fare is $3.25 (2022). You can purchase a Presto Day Pass for $13.50, which gets you unlimited use.
Transit in Toronto is expensive. That’s why I recommend staying right downtown. The city is very walkable and laid out on a grid pattern.
Toronto is also very bike-friendly. There are extensive Bike Share sites where you can rent a bike for the day or longer. Prices for 24 hours is $7 and for 72 hours it’s $15.
Save with a CityPASS
A great savings hack when visiting Toronto is to buy a CityPASS! If you’re going to be visiting the top Toronto attractions then you can save roughly $70 CAD.
The pass is $105.97 for adults and $72.92 for children. It gets you into the CN Tower, Casa Loma, the Royal Ontario Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and either Toronto Zoo or Ontario Science Centre.
You can purchase your CityPASS online and have a year to activate it. Once activated you have 9 days to use it.
Where to Stay in Toronto
Visitors will find endless options for places to stay in Toronto. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there’s a hotel for you! However, I highly recommend staying in the downtown Toronto and along the subway line to get around easily.
The Clarence Park – If you’re travelling to Toronto on a budget, check out Clarence Park. This hostel has a great location! It’s only a 10-minute walk from the CN Tower and offers both dorm and private rooms.
The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar – A low to mid-range option that also has a great location is The Rex Hotel! Along with being Toronto’s longest running jazz bar it’s a hotel. It’s located downtown on Queen Street West and has a restaurant.
Holiday Inn Downtown Centre – This downtown Holiday Inn is a great mid-range option. It’s located close to Allan Gardens. Amenities include a restaurant, indoor pool, and fitness room.
Pantages Hotel – Another great mid-range hotel is the Pantages Hotel. It’s a 2-minute walk to the Eaton Centre and has chic spacious rooms. The hotel also features a Japanese spa and martini bar.
Fairmont Royal York – It’s one of the most haunted hotels in Ontario. However, the Fairmont Royal York offers luxury and an excellent location. The hotel is across the street from Union Station and has 3 unique places to dine.
Hotel X – Stay in the literal lap of luxury at Hotel X! This 5 star hotel has spacious suites with epic views of the Toronto skyline and waterfront. It has a great location next to the CNE. Amenities are endless and include a rooftop bar and pool, restaurant, fitness centre, and spa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toronto
When planning your Toronto vacation you’ll likely have a few questions. Below you’ll find quick answers to top questions about visiting Toronto!
Where is Toronto located? – Toronto Canada is located in southern Ontario. It’s the capital city of the Ontario and short 1.5 hour flight from New York
Is Toronto worth visiting? – Yes, Toronto is worth visiting! There is so much to do and see in Toronto!
What is Toronto known for? – Toronto is known as the largest city in Canada. Plus, Toronto is known for being one of the most multicultural cities in the world!
How far is Toronto from Niagara Falls? – Toronto is approximately 130 km from Niagara Falls. It’s only a 1.5 drive and makes for an easy day trip!
Fun Things to do in Toronto – CN Tower, Graffiti Alley, Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Sign, St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, Distillery District, Toronto Islands, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
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