Things to Do in Toronto

Things to Do in Toronto: A Guide for Tourists

Toronto, the vibrant capital of Ontario, offers a diverse range of attractions for every type of traveler. Here are some ideas for your trip, categorized for easy planning:

Iconic Landmarks:

  • CN Tower: Take a breathtaking elevator ride to the top and experience the iconic city views from 553 meters above ground.
    • EdgeWalk: For the truly adventurous, walk hands-free around the tower’s edge!
    • LookOut Level: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
    • 360 Restaurant: Indulge in fine dining with a revolving view.
  • Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, art, and culture.

Museums & Culture:

  • Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Discover a world-renowned collection of Canadian and international art.
  • Casa Loma: Step back in time at this majestic castle with secret passages, towers, and a beautiful garden.
  • Bata Shoe Museum: Learn about footwear from around the world and throughout history.
  • Hockey Hall of Fame: Experience the history of Canada’s beloved sport.

Attractions & Entertainment:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world, with over 20,000 aquatic creatures on display.
  • Toronto Zoo: Home to over 5,000 animals from around the globe, this is a great place for a day trip.

Parks & Gardens:

  • High Park: Enjoy nature trails, picnic spots, gardens, and the serene beauty of the Grenadier Pond.
  • Centre Island: Take a ferry to this car-free island in the harbor for stunning views and family fun.
  • Toronto Islands Park: Explore the park’s beaches, parks, and amusement areas.

Culture & Entertainment:

  • Catch a show at the Ed Mirvish Theatre: Experience world-class theatre productions in this historic venue.
  • Visit the Distillery District: Enjoy unique architecture, art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques in this former industrial area.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants of Kensington Market: This vibrant neighborhood offers a mix of vintage clothing stores, bohemian cafes, and eclectic markets.

Other things to do:

  • Stroll through the Toronto Eaton Centre: A popular shopping destination with a variety of stores.
  • Catch a game at the Rogers Centre (home of the Toronto Blue Jays) or Scotiabank Arena (Toronto Maple Leafs and Raptors).
  • Visit one of Toronto’s many vibrant parks: Toronto boasts over 1,600 parks!

For the Foodie:

  • St. Lawrence Market: A must-visit for foodies, this historic market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods from local vendors.

  • Kensington Market: This eclectic neighborhood is a culinary wonderland with restaurants serving everything from traditional Canadian cuisine to international delicacies.

  • Distillery District: Explore the unique culinary scene with artisanal cheese shops, chocolatiers, and trendy cafes offering delicious treats.

  • Experience the diverse food scene of Toronto. From street food in Kensington Market to upscale dining at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants, you’ll find something for every taste.

  • Don’t miss the craft breweries: Toronto has a thriving craft beer culture with numerous breweries offering unique and tasty brews.

Foodie experiences:

  • Sample diverse cuisines: St. Lawrence Market is a great place to find culinary delights from around the world, while Kensington Market offers a mix of cuisines and price points.
  • Enjoy fine dining: Indulge in the culinary artistry of Toronto’s top chefs at restaurants like 360 Restaurant or Canoe Restaurant & Bar.

For the Culture Seeker:

  • Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Explore the AGO’s vast collection of Canadian and international art, from the Group of Seven to contemporary masterpieces.
  • Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Discover ancient artifacts, dinosaur skeletons, and stunning architecture at the ROM.

Plan your trip:

  • Consider the season: Toronto experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Winters can be cold and snowy.
  • Explore the Distillery District: This historic neighborhood offers a variety of cultural experiences, including art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

For the Adventurous Traveler:

  • Visit Casa Loma: Explore the hidden tunnels and secret passageways of this iconic castle.
  • Go to a Toronto Blue Jays game: Enjoy the excitement of Major League Baseball in a lively atmosphere.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife: Toronto offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

For the History Buff:

  • Visit Fort York: This historic fort played a crucial role in the War of 1812.
  • Explore the historical artifacts at Fort York: Learn about the history of the city through its exhibits and demonstrations.
  • Attend an event at the Fort York Visitor Centre: Explore the history of the city’s development and growth.

For a touch of nature:

  • Visit High Park, one of Toronto’s largest parks. This beautiful park offers a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Enjoy the views from the CN Tower’s observation deck: Experience panoramic views of the city and its surrounding areas.

For a dose of culture:

  • Explore the history of the Distillery District: Discover the unique history and architecture of this former industrial area.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM):

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Toronto has something for everyone, so be sure to do some research and find out what activities best suit your interests!