Toronto, the capital city of Ontario, is a dynamic metropolis known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. As Canada’s largest city and one of the most multicultural places on earth, Toronto offers visitors a wide array of activities that reflect its unique blend of global influences and local charm. From world-class museums and stunning architecture to lush parks and gourmet dining, Toronto has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to uncover new experiences, this guide will help you discover the seven best things to do in Toronto.
1. Soak in the Views from the CN Tower
No trip to Toronto is complete without visiting the iconic CN Tower, one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world. Standing 553 meters tall, the CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline and offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. As one of Canada’s most famous landmarks, it’s a must-see for visitors looking to experience Toronto from above.
What to Expect:
Start your visit by taking the glass elevator to the LookOut Level, which sits at 346 meters. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, Lake Ontario, and—on clear days—you might even catch a glimpse of the mist from Niagara Falls in the distance. The Glass Floor, located on this level, is a thrilling experience for those brave enough to walk on it, allowing you to see the streets directly below.
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try the EdgeWalk, where harnessed thrill-seekers can walk around the outside of the tower’s main pod, 356 meters above ground. It’s the highest full-circle, hands-free walk in the world.
Insider Tip:
To enhance your experience, consider dining at the CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant, a revolving restaurant that completes a full rotation every 72 minutes, offering unbeatable views while you enjoy a gourmet meal. Reservations are recommended, especially around sunset.
2. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): A Journey Through History
The Royal Ontario Museum, affectionately known as the ROM, is one of the largest museums in North America and an essential stop for anyone interested in art, culture, and natural history. Located near the University of Toronto, the museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 13 million artifacts, ranging from dinosaur skeletons to ancient Egyptian treasures.
Exhibits and Highlights:
The ROM’s diverse collection spans the globe, with permanent galleries dedicated to ancient civilizations, Canadian history, and natural sciences. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Dinosaur Gallery, home to a vast collection of prehistoric fossils, including the imposing skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex.
The museum’s architecture is equally captivating. The striking Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, is a modern addition that contrasts beautifully with the museum’s original 1914 building.
The ROM also regularly hosts world-class traveling exhibitions, covering topics from contemporary art to science and history. There’s always something new to explore, making it a great destination for repeat visits.
Insider Tip:
Plan your visit on a Friday evening when the museum offers extended hours and discounted admission. This is a great time to explore the museum in a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
3. Explore the Distillery District: A Historic and Artistic Gem
The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most picturesque neighborhoods, featuring a collection of beautifully preserved Victorian industrial buildings that have been repurposed into a vibrant hub for culture, dining, and shopping. As its name suggests, the area was once home to a major whiskey distillery, but today it’s known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, craft shops, and trendy restaurants.
What to Do:
Stroll through the pedestrian-only streets and take in the historic architecture, with many of the original distillery buildings now housing independent boutiques, art installations, and artisan studios. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, be sure to check out the galleries and outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the district.
The Distillery District is also famous for its seasonal events, including the Toronto Christmas Market, one of the most popular holiday events in the city. During the warmer months, the district hosts open-air art fairs, food festivals, and live music performances, making it a lively destination year-round.
Food lovers will enjoy the wide variety of restaurants and cafés, offering everything from gourmet pub fare to fine dining. Be sure to stop by one of the local breweries or distilleries for a taste of craft beer or spirits.
Insider Tip:
The Distillery District can get crowded during weekends and special events, so try to visit on a weekday or in the early morning to experience the area with fewer people. If you’re visiting in winter, dress warmly as the open-air streets can get chilly.
4. Wander Through High Park: Toronto’s Urban Oasis
High Park is Toronto’s largest public park and a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Covering 400 acres, the park offers a wide range of recreational activities, beautiful gardens, and scenic trails, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.
What to See and Do:
One of the park’s highlights is the High Park Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals, including bison, llamas, peacocks, and capybaras. The zoo is free to visit, making it a popular attraction for families with young children.
High Park is also famous for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom each spring, drawing large crowds who come to admire the delicate pink flowers. The Sakura cherry trees, a gift from Japan in 1959, line the walking paths around Grenadier Pond and create a magical atmosphere during the brief bloom season.
For those looking for more active pursuits, the park offers several hiking and biking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. In the summer, visitors can enjoy Shakespeare in High Park, an outdoor theater series that features free performances of the Bard’s classics.
Insider Tip:
The cherry blossoms are a major attraction, so if you’re visiting in late April or early May, aim to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and capture the perfect photo of the blooms.
5. Discover the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): A World of Creativity
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the most distinguished art museums in Canada, housing a collection of over 90,000 works that span from contemporary art to European masterpieces. The museum’s stunning architecture, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is reason enough to visit, but it’s the diverse and engaging exhibits inside that make the AGO a must-see for art lovers.
Exhibits and Collections:
The AGO’s collection is extensive, featuring works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet. The museum also has a strong focus on Canadian art, with an impressive collection of works by the Group of Seven, a group of Canadian landscape painters known for their depictions of the country’s rugged wilderness.
In addition to its permanent collection, the AGO regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists from around the world. The museum also features interactive spaces, including the Weston Family Learning Centre, where visitors can engage in hands-on art-making activities.
Don’t forget to explore the AGO’s architectural highlights, including the Galleria Italia, a sweeping, light-filled gallery space that offers stunning views of Toronto’s Dundas Street.
Insider Tip:
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday evening, admission to the AGO is free from 6 PM to 9 PM, making it a perfect time to explore the museum’s vast collection without spending a dime.
6. Take a Stroll Along the Toronto Islands: A Peaceful Escape
The Toronto Islands offer a peaceful retreat from the city, located just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. The islands are a collection of small, car-free islands that provide stunning views of the city skyline and offer a variety of outdoor activities, making them an ideal destination for a day trip.
What to Do:
Center Island is the most popular of the islands, featuring a beautiful beach, picnic areas, and walking trails. Visitors can rent bikes or kayaks to explore the island at their own pace or simply relax on the sandy shores of one of the island’s beaches.
For families, the Centreville Amusement Park offers classic rides and attractions, including a carousel, ferris wheel, and miniature train. The island also has several playgrounds and splash pads, making it a favorite spot for kids.
In addition to the outdoor activities, the Toronto Islands are a great spot for photography, with panoramic views of the Toronto skyline from the southern shores. The islands also host several annual events, including concerts and outdoor theater performances during the summer months.
Insider Tip:
Ferries to the Toronto Islands can get busy during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. Consider taking an early ferry to avoid long lines, and pack a picnic to enjoy by the water.
7. Dive into Food and Culture at Kensington Market
Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, known for its diverse food scene, vintage shops, and bohemian atmosphere. This multicultural neighborhood has long been a hub for immigrants and artists, and today it’s one of the best places in the city to experience Toronto’s melting pot of cultures.
What to Explore:
Food lovers will be in heaven at Kensington Market, with its wide array of international cuisines, street food vendors, and cozy cafés. From authentic Mexican tacos to Caribbean jerk chicken and Middle Eastern falafel, the neighborhood offers a culinary tour of the world.
The market is also a treasure trove for vintage shopping, with numerous second-hand stores offering everything from retro clothing to unique antiques. The vibrant street art and murals that adorn the walls of the neighborhood add to its creative, artsy vibe.
Kensington Market hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including Pedestrian Sundays, when the streets are closed to cars and the neighborhood comes alive with street performances, music, and food stalls.
Insider Tip:
Kensington Market is best explored on foot, and since parking can be a challenge, consider taking public transportation or biking to the area. Don’t forget to bring cash, as many of the smaller vendors are cash-only.
Conclusion
Toronto is a city that offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler. From the towering heights of the CN Tower to the quiet beauty of the Toronto Islands, the city provides a diverse range of attractions that reflect its rich cultural heritage and modern sophistication. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the culinary delights of Kensington Market, an art lover visiting the AGO, or a history buff wandering through the Distillery District, Toronto has something to captivate every visitor. Be sure to include these seven best things to do in your itinerary, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this dynamic and exciting city.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Toronto?
The best time to visit Toronto is between late spring (May) and early fall (September), when the weather is warm and the city is alive with festivals, outdoor events, and patio dining. Winter, while cold, offers its own charm with holiday markets and outdoor ice skating.
2. How do I get around Toronto?
Toronto has an extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and streetcars, operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The downtown area is also very walkable, and many neighborhoods are easily explored on foot or by bike.
3. How much time should I spend at the CN Tower?
A typical visit to the CN Tower takes about 1-2 hours, depending on whether you plan to dine at the 360 Restaurant or participate in the EdgeWalk. Be sure to account for time spent waiting in line, especially during peak tourist seasons.
4. Are the Toronto Islands open year-round?
Yes, the Toronto Islands are open year-round, but most activities and attractions, such as Centreville Amusement Park and boat rentals, are only available from late spring to early fall. Ferries run year-round, but schedules are more frequent during the warmer months.
5. Is the Royal Ontario Museum family-friendly?
Absolutely! The ROM offers many family-friendly exhibits, including interactive displays, dinosaur galleries, and hands-on learning experiences. The museum also has a family gallery specifically designed for younger visitors.
6. Can I visit the Distillery District at night?
Yes, the Distillery District is open in the evenings, and many restaurants, bars, and galleries stay open late. The district is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for an evening stroll or dinner date. Keep an eye out for seasonal events like light festivals and outdoor concerts.
