famous places in canada toronto to visit

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.

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

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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16 Cool Facts About Toronto's Must-See Attractions

Here’s what you probably didn’t know about toronto’s most iconic attractions and neighbourhoods..

Ever been in the presence of a Martian meteorite or taken a walk through a blockbuster movie set? In Toronto, you can. There’s probably a thing or two you didn’t know about our city’s popular landmarks and neighbourhoods, each with an interesting story to tell.

1. The CN Tower weathers all storms

Towering over the city at 1,815 ft, the CN Tower  is Toronto’s landmark attraction and is famous for offering unparalleled views of the city.

A little-known tidbit is that as the tallest structure in the city, it’s no stranger to lightning. In fact, it gets struck around 75 times per year. Do a quick CN Tower search on Instagram, and you’ll come across jaw-dropping photos of the gorgeous occurrence.

Thankfully, the Tower’s build is more than equipped to handle it, with electrons easily flowing through and causing zero damage—just incredibly cool photos. Who knows, next time you visit, maybe lightning will strike. Buy CN Tower tickets online .

Where to eat nearby

The CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant  serves fine Canadian cuisine paired with an outstanding, revolving view of Toronto.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses 12 sharks

Among the 16,000 marine animals at  Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada  live 12 impressive sharks. That’s right, 12. You must be thinking, what do they eat? Surprisingly, the Aquarium only feeds them three times per week due to their naturally slow metabolisms.

The building is also made with special shielding to protect the sharks from disturbances via the electrical systems. When the sharks are happy, everyone’s happy. Buy tickets for Ripley’s Aquarium  online and see their magnificence in person.  

Grab a quick bite at Ripley’s Café, or enjoy casual eats and arcade games across the street at  The Rec Room .

3. The Royal Ontario Museum displays Martian meteorites

Is there life on Mars? Who knows! What we do know is that there are meteorites at  the ROM , three of which are Martian.

Meteorites (or space rocks) are surprisingly common, with over 100 having landed on Earth to date, some even originating from the moon. Buy ROM tickets online  and find the meteorites at the Earth’s Treasures department during your next visit or browse  the ROM’s online database .

Head down the street to  Cibo Wine Bar  for delicious Italian cuisine, an exquisite selection of wine and a lively, rustic ambiance.

4. The Art Gallery of Ontario owns one of Toronto’s most popular pieces

Before Yayoi Kusama’s  Let’s Survive Forever  enchanted the city, one of  the AGO’s  most popular acquisitions was Henry Moore’s  Large Two Forms . In fact, it’s considered one of Toronto’s most photographed works of art.

The avant-garde, corporeal structure is the largest of Henry Moore’s sculptures displayed at the museum. Find it at the AGO’s rear, in Grange Park. Buy AGO tickets online .

Fill up at the AGO’s very own  AGO Bistro , designed by Frank Gehry. The seasonal menu incorporates only the freshest ingredients sourced locally.  

5. The Toronto Islands have the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes

If you love history, then this 200-year-old monument is for you. And if you’re in search of ghosts for Halloween, here’s a good place to start. 

The Gibraltar Point Beach Lighthouse  is one of Toronto’s oldest buildings dating back to 1809, and is also supposedly haunted by its first keeper, John Paul Radelmüller. As the story goes, he disappeared under mysterious circumstances and still guards the lighthouse to this day.

Ferries to the island depart from Queens Quay daily. Buy ferry tickets online . 

Grab a bite with a view at  Island Café , directly across the Ward’s Island ferry dock.

6. The Distillery Historic District has a reputation for ghost sightings

Speaking of ghosts, they seem to have a pattern of haunting Toronto’s oldest locations.  The Distillery District  is a pedestrian-only neighbourhood known for once housing the largest distillery in Canada (Gooderham & Worts), and with buildings dating back to the 1830s, ghost sightings have been reported by locals and tourists alike.

In fact, they’re so common that they’ve inspired a handful of haunted Distillery District tours, including a haunted Segway tour with Go Tours Canada  and  haunted walks . Why not try this fun alternative to your usual Halloween party?

Also see:   Get into the Spooky Spirit with a Ghost Tour of the Distillery Historic District

Enjoy authentic Mexican eats surrounded by eclectic and stylish décor at  El Catrin .  

7. St. Lawrence Market was Toronto’s first public market

Originally called Market Square,  St. Lawrence Market ’s inception was due to an increase in York’s (Toronto’s) population. Settlers decided it was time to open a proper market to feed their growing city.

It immediately became  the  city centre where locals would convene and hold social celebrations. Nearly 200 years later, St. Lawrence Market thrives as a culinary hub where foodies gather for local and artisanal eats. And as far as we know, no ghost sightings yet.

Also see:   The Must-Eats of Toronto’s Historic St. Lawrence Market

The Market overflows with scrumptious food options at every turn and hosts  food tours . Try the Peameal Bacon, a local favourite. Or take a sandwich tour around the market .

8. The Hockey Hall of Fame has an interactive model rink

Looking to brush up on your hockey skills? Face up against Carey Price and Frederik Anderson to practice your slapshots at the  Hockey Hall of Fame .

We should probably mention that you’ll be playing against virtual versions of the hockey legends—still cool, nonetheless! Practice your technique with a real puck and stick inside of an immersive model rink as the virtual goalies protect their nets. Buy Hockey Hall of Fame tickets online .

Steps away from the Hockey Hall of Fame is  The Bottom Line , a yummy sports bar owned and operated by former NHL-er Wayne Cowley.

9. Casa Loma moonlights as a blockbuster movie set

Casa Loma  is primarily known for being North America’s only castle. Built in 1914, its beautiful Gothic revival design, immaculate flower gardens and overall opulence can’t be found anywhere else.

For this reason, it’s become a prime location for film shoots, some of which are Hollywood hits. You may recognize it in  X-Men ,  Chicago  and most recently,  Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World . Keep that in mind during your next visit as you walk through Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. Buy Casa Loma tickets online .

For a meal as regal as Casa Loma itself, try  Blue Blood Steakhouse , located in the castle. Opt for the decadent meat and seafood dishes.  

10. The Toronto Zoo began with a single deer

It’s hard to imagine that  the largest zoo in Canada  and the third largest in the world, with over 5,000 animals, started with one deer.

It’s true! At some point in the early 1890s, Daniel Lamb was gifted a deer, which prompted him to open Cabbagetown’s Riverdale Zoo. And the rest is history.

Today, the zoo has over 2.87 km 2  of walking trails within seven geographic areas. From the African Savannah to the Gorilla Rainforest, safely explore the zoo by foot or by car. Buy Toronto Zoo tickets online .

There are ample  food options on-site , including favourites like burgers and beavertails.

11. The Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square got a makeover

Nathan Phillips Square’s iconic Toronto Sign  wasn’t originally built to be a permanent city fixture. Created solely for the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games, the 3D installation became so popular and well-received that Toronto decided to keep it.

Except it wasn’t constructed to last more than a couple of years. It fared pretty well considering Toronto’s winters but was replaced by a more durable sign in September 2020 and updated again in September 2022.

The current vinyl wrap is an artwork titled  Rekindle  by artist Joseph Sagaj. The new wrap was created in recognition of UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages, which focuses on the rights of Indigenous language speakers worldwide.

Treat yourself to  The Chase , a scenic rooftop restaurant that serves fine, fresh cuisine in a beautiful setting.  

12. Kensington Market was originally a Jewish market

Previously known as The Jewish Market,  Kensington Market  was predominantly inhabited by Toronto’s Jewish community (around 60,000 people) for the first half of the 20 th  century. A go-to market for the city’s immigrants, they often frequented the locally-owned shops for rare imports from around the world.

Eventually, the Jewish community migrated north, and Kensington attracted Caribbean immigrants instead. However, Kensington’s Jewish roots are still present among the many synagogues throughout the area.

It’s hard to name just one spot, as Kensington is filled with culinary gems. Local favourites include  Seven Lives  (tacos),  Rasta Pasta  (Jamaican-Italian fusion) and  Otto’s Berlin Döner  (German street food). 

Also see:   Iconic Eats of Kensington Market

13. The Scarborough Bluffs conceal an Ancient Greek theatre

Hidden along the  Scarborough Bluffs  is  Guild Park and Gardens , a beautiful sculptural garden filled with Toronto’s salvaged architecture from times past and dreamy rose bushes.

You’ll feel like you’re walking among Ancient Greek and Roman relics when in actuality, they’re remnants from Toronto’s ornate historical buildings that were demolished. The best part of the garden is the Bank of Toronto’s salvaged archways, set up to mimic a Greek theatre.

You can also overlook Lake Ontario and the rest of the Bluffs from the garden’s cliffs.

Also see:   How to Spend a Day at the Scarborough Bluffs

Treat yourself to traditional Italian cuisine at  Il Fresco , just a 5-minute drive or bus ride away.   

14. Yonge-Dundas Square sees 100,000 people daily

Bright, electric, lively and poignant. There are as many adjectives to describe Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square as there are people. Oh, and did we mention entertaining?

If you need a jolt, spark of inspiration or simply something to see—there’s usually an event going on—head to the Square. It’s Canada’s busiest intersection, with 100,000 people crossing it on the regular.

Surrounded by major landmarks like  Ed Mirvish Theatre  and the  CF Toronto Eaton Centre , the intersection’s popularity is no surprise. Plus, there’s free Wi-Fi.

Head to  Don Don Izakaya  for delicious and shareable Japanese-inspired plates and one of the best Sake selections in town.

Also see:   An East Asian Food Tour along Yonge Street  

15. The Ontario Science Centre brings flying to new heights

At the  Ontario Science Centre ’s Above & Beyond: An Interactive Flight exhibition, you can learn about the history of air and space travel. The exhibit features immersive and hands-on activities, including riding a space elevator or being the pilot of a jet! 

While you’re there, explore the other interactive exhibits as well (over 500 of them), including an immersive, hyper-realistic rainforest. 

Grab a bite at one of the many eateries within the Ontario Science Centre, or head to  Hakka Garden  for Indian-Chinese fusion.

16. Wonderland’s Wonder Mountain wears many hats

Canada’s Wonderland ’s Wonder Mountain is more than just the theme park’s showpiece landmark. When it was first built, the Mountain was equipped with beacons up top to alert low-altitude planes from Vaughan’s nearby airport.

Nowadays, the beacons are gone, but the Mountain still serves as an air conditioner for the theme park. The chilled water loop that circulates from within the Mountain flows 30,000 gallons of water per minute, sending air to Wonderland’s restaurants, arcades, shops and more. Call it the world’s coolest air conditioner. Buy Canada's Wonderland tickets online .

Wonderland itself is  filled with eclectic food , from burgers, hot dogs and funnel cake, to Mexican eats, gourmet Mac and Cheese, beavertails and more.

Save On Entry With The Toronto Museum Pass

The Toronto Museum Pass is the best way to visit up to seven museums for one exclusive price. Explore iconic Toronto landmarks and immerse yourself in centuries of art, history and culture.

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The 15 best experiences in Toronto

Nov 26, 2022 • 7 min read

Toronto is fun in all seasons © FOTOGRAFIA INC.

From iconic monuments to food tours, interactive museums to sporting events, world-class shopping to peaceful nature, Toronto has something to offer just about any visitor. 

So many things, in fact, that planning a trip to this cosmopolitan city can feel pretty overwhelming if you are only coming for a short period of time . Let us help.

If you’re ready to explore, here’s what you shouldn’t miss when you visit Canada ’s largest city. 

1. Take in the views from the CN Tower

Once the tallest structure in the world, the CN Tower is a symbol of the city and one of the most visited places in Toronto. Ride the elevator to the main observation deck to take in views of Toronto’s skyline from 346m (1136ft). If you have a strong stomach you can ascend even higher to the 447m (1465ft) SkyPod – high enough that you can actually feel the tower swaying in the wind.

Detour: Seeing the views from the inside is great, but adventure seekers should consider the EdgeWalk, the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk. Secured by a harness, you’ll creep around the edge of the tower, 116 stories above the streets below. There is a wheelchair-accessible option for the EdgeWalk as well. 

2. Eat your way around Chinatown

Toronto’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and liveliest areas. Busy local markets and colorful neon signs make for plenty of visual stimulation – though you’ll want to explore the pan-Asian food vendors with your taste buds as well. Taste your way through servings of dumplings and dim sum, hot pot and pho, banh mi and buns – be sure to arrive hungry.

Detour: To take in Chinatown’s full scope, set out on a food tour. An expert guide will take you to a selection of favorite spots, with smaller portions meaning you can try a wide array of things. We recommend Culinary Adventure Co’s Chinatown + Kensington Market food tour.  

3. Catch a game

Toronto is home to multiple professional sports teams, with games taking place year-round. If you know your travel dates well in advance, see if you can score tickets to see the Raptors (basketball), Blue Jays (baseball) or Maple Leafs (hockey) play on home turf – then cheer along with the locals. 

4. Browse through St Lawrence Market

Historic St Lawrence Market looms large in Toronto. Sure, it’s a top tourist attraction – but it’s also where many locals still go to do their shopping. Here, you’ll find specialty food shops and local businesses, with the Saturday farmers' markets and Sunday antique market weekly highlights.

Detour: The second floor of the South Market houses the Market Gallery, a space for rotating exhibitions. Stop by to check out the creative happenings in this favorite landmark. 

5. Grab a drink in the Distillery District

Take a pass on the bars in Toronto’s downtown and head to the Distillery District . Known for arts, entertainment, dining and more, the neighborhood is centered around an old whiskey distillery, today filled by crowds continuing the tradition by seeking out tipples of all varieties. Try SpiritHouse for top-shelf cocktails, Mill Street Brewery for a pint of Canadian craft beer or El Catrin Destileria for a margarita during patio (warm-weather) season.

Planning tip: If you’re in town for the holidays, Toronto’s charming Winter Village Christmas Market takes over the Distillery District every year. 

6. Explore Kensington Market

In a city full of suits and skyscrapers, Kensington Market brings something quirkier. This proudly bohemian, appealing scruffy neighborhood boasts vintage shops, unique boutiques and varied art spaces. Don’t miss the famous “garden car,” with its herbs, flowers, tomato plants and even a lawn growing out of a painted (and permanently parked) sedan.

Planning tip: While most come here to shop, it’s also worth coming to eat at one (or more) of Kensington Market’s many international restaurants. The district is also adjacent to Chinatown, making for a great combination food tour.

7. Salute Canada’s hockey legends

Since hockey holds a place in every Canadian’s heart, the official Hockey Hall of Fame in the Financial District is a top destination for visitors. This family-friendly attraction holds the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world – including the Stanley Cup itself. Here, you can learn about the sport’s history, try your hand shooting against the world’s best goalies in an interactive exhibit and watch vintage footage from the video vault. 

8. Admire the cherry blossoms at High Park

Come spring, Toronto bursts into bloom with a display of cherry blossoms worthy of Japan. You’ll find the largest concentration of sakura cherry trees in town at High Park . 

Planning tip: Depending on the weather, cherry-blossom season can take place between the end of April into early May, and only lasts a week. Track the season by calling the Cherry Blossom Hotline (647-946-2547).

9. Celebrate with the city

Torontonians love nothing more than a good party. Annual extravaganzas include Toronto Pride and the world-famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), as well as the Toronto Jazz Festival , Toronto Caribbean Carnival , the arty Luminato Festival , Canadian Music Week and Nuit Blanche .

Planning tip: Since festivals always draw major crowds, ensure you plan and book well in advance if you time your trip to one of these events. 

10. Step onto a movie set at Casa Loma

While the scenic palace may never have housed royalty, Casa Loma has played home to a number of well-known movie stars over the years. Once the home of a financier, the building is today a tourist attraction, special event venue and movie set. Some 50 productions have filmed here; you might recognize the interior as the Xavier School from X-Men . 

11. Snap a selfie with street art 

Street art expresses Toronto’s creative spirit – and some of the best examples are in Graffiti Alley . Stretching some 400m (1000ft), this narrow street is covered with bold, bright artwork from some of the city’s top street artists. 

Detour: Graffiti Alley should be just the start of your street-art itinerary. Consider taking a free, self-guided ARTWORX-TO tour , put together by the city government and Driftscape, a community of arts organizations and artists. 

12. Ride a roller-coaster at Canada’s Wonderland

One of the best Toronto activities for kids is a day trip to Canada’s Wonderland . About 40 minutes outside of the city, this amusement park offers 17 roller coasters, a 20-acre water park, special live shows and seasonal-themed events like the Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Don’t miss the park’s famous funnel cake – although perhaps after you’ve taken a few stomach-churning coaster rides. 

13. Have a beach day 

Practically the size of an ocean, Lake Ontario provides for fabulous beach days – and you can see for yourself at one of the many beaches in and around Toronto . Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, have a picnic or pick up a game of volleyball, these public beaches are great places to join locals on a sunny summer day.

Detour: If you want to escape the city’s buzz, head to one of Toronto’s islands , which host four beaches, some with boat-rental concessions.

14. Get your footwear fix at the Bata Museum

One of Toronto’s most original museums features displays of towering high heels, shoes made of human hair and other outrageous footwear. With a collection of some 15,000 artifacts spanning 4500 years, the Bata Shoe Museum has the largest shoe collection in the entire world. 

15. Learn about the local Indigenous community 

Modern Toronto was built on the traditional territory of several Indigenous nations, and is home today to a sizable First Nations population. Visitors can experience Indigenous traditions – key Canadian culture – through art, food and celebrations. We recommend checking out what’s happening at the local government’s guide to Indigenous experiences in Toronto.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2022

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Toronto's top 10 attractions

Things to do

Toronto’s motto isn’t ‘go big or go home,’ but that’s a good summary of their top attractions, which include the lofty CN Tower, the biggest indoor aquarium in Canada and the only full-sized castle in North America.

One of Canada's greatest landmarks and one of the seven wonders of the modern world, the  CN Tower External Link Title  has come to define the Toronto skyline. At 553 metres in height, this engineering wonder is hard to miss during any trip through the city and you don't want to miss it. Beyond being a very cool building you can take an elevator up to the revolving 360 Restaurant for world-class dining. Feeling a bit bold? Walk across the glass floor, only 2.5 inches thick, 113 storeys above the ground. Want an even bigger thrill? Travel up another 33 storeys to the Skypod lookout. Still not daring enough? Strap on a harness, head outside, and take a thrilling walk along the building's edge with nothing but air between you and the ground, in the not-for-the-faint-of-heart EdgeWalk experience. This adrenaline-inducing activity is actually the world's highest 'hands-free walk,' so you can brag about that one to your friends.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum External Link Title  is the biggest museum of world cultures and natural history in Canada. Located right in downtown Toronto, the striking main entrance to the museum, known as The Crystal and designed by Michael Lee Chin, will draw you in right away. Inside, the museum houses exhibits that run the gamut from dinosaurs to ancient Egypt to Canada's First Nations. It's hard to categorize the, oh, six million-or-so objects the museum has in its collections, but trust us, you'll be able to find something you really enjoy. As you walk from floor to floor, past the 25-metre totem pole, you'll encounter art, history, archeology, mineralogy, geology, paleontology, zoology, and elements of any other -ology you could probably imagine! With something new to discover every time you visit, the 100-year-old museum is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Do you like the idea of coming face to face with a shark, separated only by a pane of glass? The  Ripley's Aquarium of Canada External Link Title  allows you to live that experience, while exposing you to another 16,000 marine animals hosted on site. It takes 5.7 million litres of water to host all of those animals, from southern stingrays, to 65-year-old giant lobsters, to giant pacific octopus, to nettle jellyfish. Explore life on the reef, walk in safety under a dangerous lagoon, stick your head in an underwater viewing bubble, or take in a stingray dive show. Open 365 days a year, you can always turn to the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada for an exciting day--whether it's an angelfish on Christmas Day, or a stingray on your birthday.

Distillery Historic District

Restaurants, boutiques, arts, and entertainment are  The Distillery Historic District External Link Title 's claim to fame. This pedestrian-only village features more than 40 heritage buildings that now house everything a modern traveller might enjoy. New fashion can be found in restored, Victorian-era buildings; culinary inventions are hidden behind weathered red brick walls; and art galleries and performance venues host events year-round, ensuring that the old neighbourhood is full of life. The sector gets its name from the Gooderham & Worts whiskey distillery, which used to occupy many of the buildings.

The Art Gallery of Ontario

A remarkable 90,000 works of art live inside the walls of the  Art Gallery of Ontario External Link Title , one of the biggest and best art museums in North America. Observe the lauded work of Canada's 'Group of Seven' art collective, part of the largest collection of Canadian art in the world. Then travel the globe, from the African Art Gallery to the extensive European collection, and travel back in time, from the Renaissance and Baroque eras to the present day. Photography, sculpture, graphic art, installations; Rubens, Goya, Picasso and Rembrandt; the AGO covers it all. Even the building is a work of art. World-renowned architect and Toronto-born Frank Gehry, the man behind the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed an expansion to the AGO in 2008 that has earned critical acclaim. If you love art, there's no better place in the city to be.

Believe it or not, the only full-sized castle in North America is actually located in Toronto.  Casa Loma External Link Title  literally has everything you could want from a castle. There are turrets offering beautiful views of the city. There's a large library and nearly 100 rooms to explore. There are secret passageways to discover, including a 245-metre tunnel to the stables and carriage house, the latter of which features an exhibit of vintage cars from the early 1900's. Plus it has five acres of gardens full of beautiful flowers, sculptures and fountains. Plug in your headphones, listen to the digital audio guide, and roam around a castle in the city.

Hockey Hall of Fame

If the expression "when in Rome" were applied to Canada, it would probably have something to do with ice hockey. If you've never seen a game before, you may want to pay a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame External Link Title to get up to speed with Canada's favourite sport. Ice hockey is often used to define Canada and it's here on display, with 65,000 square feet filled to the brim with artifacts, mementos, and relics straight from the rink. Learn about the 388 members inducted into the Hall of Fame, and see the sticks, gloves, pucks, and even nets from some of the greatest games ever played. Test your shooting and goalie skills with state-of-the-art games, see if you could make it as a play-by-play commentator, and grab a seat in a replica NHL dressing room. And, most important of all, touch the actual Stanley Cup.

Rouge National Urban Park

Rouge National Park External Link Title is Toronto's own slice of paradise and Canada's only urban National Park. It is an ecologically protected zone in the Greater Toronto area that straddles cities including Toronto, Markham, Pickering and the Township of Uxbrigde. At a total of 79.1 square km of land, Rouge National Park is an excellent day spent out of the city to reconnect with nature. The options are endless at Rouge, where you can find yourself cycling, hiking, swimming, kayaking, camping External Link Title , and so much more.

The Toronto Islands

You only need to travel 10 minutes from the city of Toronto to enter a completely different world. Hop on a ferry and embark on a journey to  the Toronto Islands External Link Title , an attraction-filled destination where relaxation is the name of the game. There are no cars, so you're going to want to rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the chain of islands -- the three big ones being Centre, Ward's and Algonquin -- which are connected by a series of pathways and bridges. Along the water you'll find four beautiful beaches, while summer cottages from the 1920s and impressive English gardens are one of the main draws on land. A maze on the islands serves to test your wits, while the haunted lighthouse tests your courage. From picnics, to paddleboats, to ponies, the Toronto Islands offer a great contrast to the busy city while still enjoying the view of the skyline!

St. Lawrence Market

Right in the middle of Toronto's historic Old Town district you'll find one of the city's best foodie destinations:  the St. Lawrence Market External Link Title . The market has existed in some form since 1803, and though the complex has evolved, it still contains an authentic farmer's market -- the best in the world according to a 2012 National Geographic article -- complete with specialty foods and restaurants for every taste. Treat your senses, as you see, smell, and sample fresh produce and cheese in the very same place vendors have been selling it for over two centuries. All of that history can be discovered in a little more depth during a walking tour of the complex, which also houses venues for business and social events, and countless local artisans selling souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, and more. Check it out, from Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Central Canada Travel packages

Boating Holiday on the Rideau Canal    External Link Title

From CAD 1,699 per person

4 days / 3 nights

Up your holiday game with a luxury houseboat rental! Unwind with family or friends and take in the spectacular natural beauty, picturesque towns and lively cities of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Ontario and Quebec, Between Nature and Culture    External Link Title

From CAD 2,134

15 days / 14 nights

A self-drive tour between Ontario and Quebec that leaves room for the charms of nature and the discovery of large cities.

Mad About Mounties: Eastern Canada by Design    External Link Title

From CAD 3,329 per person

8 days, 7 nights

Discover Eastern Canada on an 8-day vacation from Toronto to Montreal. How you explore the French-Canadian treasures is up to you. Sailing on serene lakes and rivers? Sipping on sparkling wines? Standing in a field of lavender or a famous vineyard? Soaking in a Scandinavian spa? With complimentary YourChoice Excursions, you choose when, where, and how to say, “C’est si bon!”

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Toronto

Toronto's Best Beaches

Toronto's Best Parks

Best Museums in Toronto

Theater in Toronto

Shopping in Toronto

36 Hours in Toronto: An Itinerary

Toronto Day Trips

Tours to Take in Toronto

The Best Food to Try in Toronto

Toronto's Most Iconic Restaurants

Toronto's Best Breweries

The Best Time to Visit Toronto

Weather & Climate

Airports in Toronto

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

a_berent / Getty Images

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

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20 Best Things to Do in Toronto, According to Local Experts

Culture, cuisine, and charm-filled neighborhoods are just the beginning of all Toronto has to offer.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

FrankvandenBergh/Getty Images

Toronto deserves its reputation as Canada’s most cosmopolitan city. Set on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, this diverse urban sprawl is well known for its vibrant culture that offers travelers world-class museums with incredible art collections, many diverse neighborhoods, charming small businesses, and one of the best culinary scenes around — with everything from Michelin-rated fine dining to food markets. When the sun goes down, locals and visitors mingle at the rooftop bars and hidden speakeasies. Outdoorsy types enjoy easy access to nature thanks to leafy parks and nearby islands that make for scenic day trips. 

These are the best things to do in Toronto, according to local experts. 

Meet the Expert

Bruce Bell is a Toronto historian and tour guide offering group walking tours and private excursions to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Harry Hollywood is the chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, a luxury property located in the Yorkville neighborhood. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Toronto

See the city from the CN Tower.

PaulMcKinnon/Getty Images

Arguably the city’s most iconic landmark, the CN Tower was once the tallest structure in the world. Though it no longer holds the title, it still looms large over the city. On a clear day, the views from the top stretch all the way to Niagara Falls. At night, it’s illuminated with colorful lights.

Eat your way through St. Lawrence Market.

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is the oldest and largest food market in Toronto with more than 80 vendors. “It’s very multicultural and really reflects the city’s diverse population with many delicious dishes to try,” says Bruce Bell , Toronto historian and tour guide. He recommends “the world-famous peameal bacon sandwich.”

Explore the Distillery District.

benedek/Getty Images

From 1837 to 1990, the Distillery District housed a large whiskey distillery. Today, it’s one of the coolest areas in the city. “The cobblestone streets are lined with hip cafés, restaurants, bars, and boutiques,” says Harry Hollywood, chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto . “It also hosts a festive winter village and holiday market in December.”  

See what’s on at the Harbourfront Centre.

Part of a massive citywide revitalization project in the early 1970s, the non-profit Harbourfront Centre puts on all sorts of public cultural events throughout the year, from international writing festivals to contemporary art exhibitions. The Harbourfront Centre also hosts courses and workshops ranging from glass blowing to jewelry making throughout the year. 

Take a Sunday stroll around Kensington Market.

Marcus Oleniuk/Toronto Star via Getty Images

“Kensington Market is actually a neighborhood rather than a market as its name suggests,” explains Hollywood. “It’s a lively, multicultural hub that blends diverse backgrounds and cuisines, from Caribbean and Mexican to Middle Eastern and Vietnamese.” On select Sundays, the area transforms into a pedestrian-only zone.  

Admire art from near and far at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

“The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) proudly showcases a broad array of talent, from Vincent van Gogh to Indigenous Canadian artists to renowned British sculptor Henry Moore,” says Hollywood. “It also provides educational programs and seminars, hosts global exhibitions, and actively engages with the surrounding community.” 

Tour Casa Loma, Toronto’s very own castle.

DebraLee Wiseberg/Getty Images

Built by Sir Henry Pellatt in 1914, Toronto's historic hilltop castle, Casa Loma , showcases Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the city. Besides being a museum, it’s also an events venue and popular filming location. You might recognize it as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in X-Men.

Enjoy a concert at the Toronto Music Garden.

buzbuzzer/Getty Images

Designed in collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Toronto Music Garden is an idyllic green space with draping trees, grassy lawns, and waterfront views that hosts summer concerts and impromptu performances for locals and visitors on nice days. Even without live music, it’s still a beautiful place for a stroll. 

Get lost in the Royal Ontario Museum.

Roberto Machado Noa/LightRocket via Getty Images

Canada’s largest museum, the Royal Ontario Museum draws upwards of one million visitors each year who come to admire the staggering variety of artwork, cultural items, and natural history specimens. Learn more on one of the museum’s tours, like the climate change tour that explores the topic through the works and items found throughout the galleries. 

Bop around Queen Street West.

Queen Street West — a major east–west thoroughfare — and the surrounding area is a hub of trendy galleries, funky stores, cafés, and street art. “It’s kind of like Toronto’s answer to Brooklyn — very cool and dynamic with an indie spirit,” adds Bell. 

Related: The 21 Most Beautiful Places in Canada, Picturesque Islands and Remote Mountains Included

Snap some photos in Graffiti Alley.

Brakethrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Toronto has a really incredible legal street art scene. One of the best places to see tons of colorful murals — from depictions of fun characters to more political messages — is Rush Lane, better known as Graffiti Alley, just south of Queen Street West. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Take a day trip to the Toronto Islands.

The Toronto Islands is a collection of 15 islands in the western part of Lake Ontario. “Cars are prohibited, preserving a calm atmosphere for all,” says Hollywood. It’s a lovely place for a day trip to get outside, ride bikes, and go to the beach, especially in the warmer summer months. Families will want to visit the Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island (open seasonally). 

Go under the sea at Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto.

BrakeThrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Among the city’s star attractions for kids, parents, and really anyone with an interest in marine life, Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto boasts more than 20,000 aquatic animals, from sea urchins and harlequin tuskfish to spotted eagle rays and a giant Pacific octopus. It’s a popular spot for both school and family trips and offers many education programs and workshops for budding oceanographers. 

Learn all about Canada’s national winter sport at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Ice hockey is the national winter sport of Canada. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a recent convert, it’s worth visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame to learn about the history of the sport and its most famous players and see tons of cool memorabilia and NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup. 

Take a walk around High Park.

The ideal place to be on a nice day, Toronto’s largest public green space, High Park, covers 400 acres of recreational facilities (including an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and playgrounds), gardens, lakeside walking trails, and a mini zoo with llamas, buffalo, bison, deer, and peacocks.

See shoes in a whole new way at Bata Shoe Museum.

The Bata Shoe Museum displays the most extensive collection of footwear and related items in the world, with exhibitions ranging from a fascinating timeline that chronicles 4,500 years of footwear history to cutting-edge kicks of the future. Some highlights include red leather stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe and the Dalai Lama’s flip flops.

Dine at Alo.

Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images

Fans of fine dining who don’t mind splurging on a memorable meal should reserve a table at Alo , a Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux restaurant and culinary fixture that delights diners with contemporary French gastronomic tasting menus. The Dining Room serves a multi-course tasting menu that costs $225 per guest. 

Spend some time in the beautiful Yorkville neighborhood.

Lisa Stokes/Getty Images

The upscale Yorkville neighborhood is home to designer shops, ritzy restaurants, and five-star hotels — including both the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto and The Hazelton Hotel . Whether you plan to go for dinner, stay the night, or just stroll around, it’s a posh and pretty place to spend some time while in Toronto.

Learn about Canadian history at Fort York.

“First erected in the early 19th century, Fort York was later attacked by the Americans and rebuilt,” explains Bell. “Now preserved as a national historic site, it’s a great place to visit to get an idea of how the relations between Canada and the United States once were and the evolution of that relationship.” Admission is free, and you can learn more on a free guided tour. 

Shop until you drop at CF Toronto Eaton Centre.

Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Located right in the middle of downtown Toronto, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre is a major shopping destination with hundreds of stores and places to eat. It’s also an unexpected place to peep art. Canadian artist Michael Snow created the eye-catching installation of 60 flying geese that hang from the glass ceiling. 

17 Epic Things to Do in Toronto (Perfect First Time Visit)

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

1. CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is the second must-visit spot in Toronto .

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

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

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

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

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

Entry is included in the Toronto City Pass .

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

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

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

Best things to do in Toronto with family

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The museum also hosts many high-quality temporary exhibitions .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t forget to bring your picnic!

You’re going to Toronto?

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

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

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

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

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

And if you see a good offer, book it!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still wondering what to do in Toronto ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do around Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

Given the line, I recommend booking in advance :

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

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

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

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

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

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

The day includes:

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

Book in advance by clicking on the green button below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few suggestions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top Things to Do in Toronto, Canada

Places to visit in toronto.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Old Toronto
• Waterfront Communities-The Island
• Downtown West
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. CN Tower

2. Toronto Island Park

3. St. Lawrence Market

4. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

5. Royal Ontario Museum

6. Casa Loma

7. Distillery Historic District

8. Steam Whistle Brewery

9. Art Gallery of Ontario

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

11. Rogers Centre

12. Little Canada

13. High Park

14. Toronto Public Library

15. Royal Alexandra Theatre

16. CF Toronto Eaton Centre

17. Ed Mirvish Theatre

18. Scotiabank Arena

19. University of Toronto

20. Toronto Zoo

21. Kensington Market

22. Nathan Phillips Square

23. Bata Shoe Museum

24. Edwards Gardens

25. Princess of Wales Theatre

26. Toronto Islands Ferries

27. Queen Street

28. Yonge-Dundas Square

29. Scarborough Bluffs

30. The Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre Centre

What travellers are saying.

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 ?

Table of Contents

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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Home » North America » Toronto

The BEST Places to Visit in Toronto (2024 • Updated)

The razor sharp wit of Reddit suggests that the most engaging occupation of one’s time in Toronto is “A rail of coke off Rob Ford’s headstone”.

Alas, local governance has never officially approved it, and the questionable ethics of it seem to put off most families.

Thankfully, there are a great range of far more admissible places and activities to interact with in Toronto, and some of them are even (almost) as exciting!

In my EPIC guide to the  best places to visit in Toronto , I will be taking you through much more than just the ‘basic’ tourist attractions (like the ‘Are you sure we’re in Canada?’ Hockey Hall of Fame,  or the ‘queue like the English’ CN Tower). There is so much to explore in Toronto, and I’m gonna pick out the best, just for you…

…Let’s take a peek!

What are the BEST Places to Visit in Toronto?

Faqs on the best places to visit in toronto, final thoughts.

Have you found that your Toronto itinerary is meeker than a nun in a men’s first XI changing room? Then you’re going to need some extra spicy attractions to top it up. Read on fellow travellers…

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1. Ontario Science Centre

• Droves of interactive exhibits
• Rocket Chair
• Ageing Machine
• Touch a Tornado

What to do there: It’s seriously possible to spend an entire day exploring the whacky insides of the Ontario Science Centre, which makes it one of my top picks for places to visit in Toronto! You can check out an actual Moon rock, touch a tornado, and even investigate what you will look like in the ageing machine!

If you’re set on staying in Toronto , I wouldn’t miss this! The sheer quantity of information means that it is superb value for money too!

Why it’s awesome: The Museum is dedicated to educating, which makes it great for kids, and there is a superb array of interactive activities. Even adults will be impressed at the amount of information and spread of experiments that are accessible. Truly one of the most interesting places to go in Toronto.

2. CN Tower

• Iconic Toronto landmark
• Amazing views
• Tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere
• Thrilling activities

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous places in Toronto, the soaring CN Tower is a major sight on the city’s skyline. Built in the 1970s, it was the world’s tallest free-standing structure for many years. Today, it is still the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and is often classed as one of the Modern Seven Wonders of the World. A major sight on the Toronto skyline, the tower stands 553 metres (1,815 feet) tall in the heart of Downtown Toronto. The high observation deck provides incredible views across the city and beyond. If you’re here for a sneaky weekend , don’t put it down!

What to do there: Admire the towering structure from afar before riding one of the glass elevators to the observation deck. You can enjoy the terrific views as you ascend and get many great pictures from your high vantage point. If you’re feeling brave you can step out onto the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walkway that encircles the tower at some 356 metres (1,168 feet) above the ground. Don’t worry—you’re securely tethered! Dine on the tasty fare in the 360 Restaurant as you soak up the panoramic views.

3. The Toronto Islands

• Group of small islands in the scenic Lake Ontario
• Easy to access from the city
• Outdoor activities
• Relaxation and leisure

What to do there: Catch the 15-minute ferry service from Toronto Harbour to reach the Toronto Islands and spend a day walking around and crossing between the islands to explore. You can rent bicycles to travel around the islands. Bask in the sunshine on several sandy lakeside beaches, including the nudist beach at Hanlon’s Point, and swim in the refreshingly cool waters on a pleasant sunny day.

Relax in pretty parks and try a range of water-based activities, such as kayaking, boating, canoeing, and yachting. Kids can have fun at the play areas, the small kid-friendly farm, and the fun Centreville Amusement Park, which has a charming carousel and a cool mini train. Don’t miss seeing the historic lighthouse. Even the locals reckon this is one of the best things to do in Toronto !

Why it’s awesome: The Toronto Islands is a group of 15 small islands in the huge Lake Ontario, with bridges and walkways linking the islands. Regular ferries connect the city with the pedestrianised islands, and the islands are a popular day-trip destination from Toronto. There are diverse activities to enjoy as well as a variety of attractions to see. From beaches and parks to water sports and family-friendly attractions, the islands offer something for everyone.

4. Hockey Hall of Fame

• An essential Canadian attraction
• Home to the Stanley Cup
• Tons of Hockey Artefacts
• Top architecture

What to do there: The Hockey Hall of Fame is a quintessential Canadian attraction, which brings visitors from all over! Wander the halls, explore the trophy room and check out some exciting interactive displays. If you’re a big hockey fan, then this is sure to interest you, as it houses the largest publicly accessible collection of hockey memorabilia in the world! You should probably spend around 2 and a half hours here.

Why it’s awesome: There are serious quantities of hockey trivia hanging around. If you love hockey (or sports in general), then the Hockey Hall is sure to interest you. The top attractions include the Stanley Cup, Max Bentley’s stick and Terry Sawchuck’s goalie gear. If you’ve rented a saucy Airbnb downtown, you should be able to pop in, with no trouble!

5. Graffiti Alley

• Interesting street art
• Great photo opportunities
• No charge to enjoy
• Tucked-away colourful alleyway

Why it’s awesome: Located in the Fashion District, Toronto’s Graffiti Alley (officially called Rush Lane) is tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Stretching for almost three blocks, the alley is one of the most unusual things to do in Toronto. While many of the eye-catching pieces have remained the same for some time, there are often new additions to the vibrant walls along the narrow lane. It’s somewhat like an open-air art gallery full of imagination and expression. Even better, a visit won’t cost you a cent.

What to do there: Don’t forget your camera! You’re sure to want to snap plenty of pictures of the funky street art along Graffiti Alley—you’ll definitely be able to add lots of colour and funk to your Instagram feed! Look at the tags and you’ll notice that many famous local names in the street art scene have made their mark here, including Poser, Spud, Uber5000, and Skam.

6. Niagara Falls

• Iconic natural landmark
• Picturesque scenery
• Varied leisure options

Why it’s awesome: One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, the gigantic Niagara Falls attracts millions of visitors each and every year. The largest of three falls, the glorious Horseshoe Falls, sits on the border between Canada and the USA (with the other two falls located entirely within the US). Dropping some 57 metres (187 feet) and covering around 790 metres (2,590 feet) in width, it really is a jaw-dropping sight that is easy to get to from Toronto. As well as being one of the world’s most iconic and scenic places, the magnificent Niagara Falls is also a major source of hydroelectric power. There are various activities to enjoy in the area and it’s a terrific place for photography lovers. It’s the perfect way to get out of Downtown Toronto and see one of the most incredible natural tourist attractions close to the city.

What to do there: Gape in amazement at the spectacular waterfalls. Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged as you’re sure to want to take many awesome photographs from various angles. Take a stroll through the pretty Queen Victoria Park for more terrific vistas of both the Horseshoe Falls and the two cascades on the American side of the border. Pass historic war sites along the scenic Niagara River Recreational Trail, take an exciting ride on the cable car and chance your luck in one of the casinos.

If you’re planning on visiting the mighty Niagara Falls, why not stay at one of these epic lodges in Hamilton? It’s a great base for your adventure, with easy access to the falls and Lake Ontario.

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7. Royal Ontario Museum

• One of Canada’s most-visited museums
• Links with the University of Toronto
• Large collection of items
• Displays related to history, culture, art, natural history, and anthropology

Why it’s awesome: The Royal Ontario Museum (often abbreviated to ROM) has been open since 1914. It’s Canada’s biggest museum and also one of the biggest museums in North America. With more than 1 million visitors every year, it’s also one of the country’s most-visited museums. The huge collections span diverse themes; the museum has more than six million items spread through some 40 galleries and exhibition areas. From natural history and art to world cultures and interactive learning areas, there are plenty of opportunities to discover new facts about the world. The buildings are also interesting.

What to do there: See the different buildings of the Royal Ontario Museum, with the original Romanesque Revival building (complete with Gothic gargoyles, mosaics, and rounded windows) a striking contrast to the modern, gleaming Crystal. Allow plenty of time to explore the different sections. Younger visitors are often drawn to the exhibitions on dinosaurs and fossils and the wider natural history exhibits, and the hands-on displays and activities in the CIBC Discovery Gallery  are sure to inspire curious minds. Other displays include textiles, art, design, architecture, gemstones, old tools, pottery, ceremonial masks, sculptures, jewellery, manuscripts, religious items, and much more.

8. Black Creek Pioneer Village

• Experience Canada was in times gone by
• Many heritage buildings
• Watch artisans at work
• Period costumes and historical re-enactments

Why it’s awesome: The open-air heritage museum of Black Creek Pioneer Village is one of the best places to visit in Toronto for people interested in history. A Toronto must-see if you like seeing what life was like in yesteryear, the museum recreates life as it was in the 19 th century. Visitors can glimpse into the rural life of times long passed and there are numerous heritage buildings with period furnishings inside. People dress in period costumes to further bring the past to life and there are various demonstrations as well as explanations and activities.

What to do there: Step inside heritage buildings for a peek into the past. From Charles Irwin Weaver, Dickson’s Hill School, and Rose Blacksmith Shop, to Snider Workshop, the Half Way House Inn, and the Dominion Carriage Works, there are heaps to keep you busy and engaged at the Black Creek Pioneer Village. You can also visit places like an old shoemaker’s shop, a church, a firehouse, a doctor’s house, a cider mill, former private homes, a cemetery, and barns. See plants used for food (and medicines) in the Herb Garden, Berry Garden, and Kitchen Garden, and call by the beautiful Market Garden to see items grown for trade.

9. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

• Hindu place of worship
• Unique architecture
• Spiritual atmosphere
• Biggest Hindu mandir in Canada

Why it’s awesome: Located in Etobicoke, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was constructed in the early 2000s and officially opened in 2007. The biggest mandir in Canada, it was built from striking materials from across the globe, including Indian stone, Turkish limestone, and Italian marble. It was created in India and then later shipped to Canada where it was assembled by Indian workers.

Built according to details set out in ancient Hindu scriptures, it is a spiritual place where devotees go to pray and perform religious rituals. Surrounded by well-tended gardens, the complex also has a Heritage Museum and a carved wooden cultural centre referred to as a haveli. Open to visitors, it has some of the most stunning architectural details of the many points of interest in Toronto.

What to do there: Experience India as you explore Toronto, admiring the glorious hand-carved details of the spectacular Hindu complex. See the various shrines within the beautiful building, each with statues of various Hindu deities. Monks and laypeople offer prayers, songs, and material offerings to the statues throughout the day, with lots of ceremonial significance.

Look inside the eye-catching haveli, complete with grand columns engraved with mythological creatures, animals, symbols, gods, and goddesses. Pick up tasty vegetarian snacks from the onsite shop, learn more about the basics of Hinduism in the Heritage Museum, enjoy quiet moments in the meditation area, walk through the ornate gardens, and marvel at the domes, arches, pinnacles, and other stunning details.

10. High Park

• Green and leafy park
• Diverse leisure and recreational options
• Interesting monuments
• Picturesque setting

Why it’s awesome: One of the major outdoor hotspots in Toronto, the extensive High Park covers around 400 acres (161 hectares) and has natural areas as well as great leisure and recreation facilities. The terrain is hilly with two deep ravines, ponds, and forested areas. Various flora and fauna live in the park, including black oak trees, flowers, herons, ducks, and insects. There are picnic areas and sporting facilities, along with a small zoo, monuments and statues, nature trails, pretty gardens, and a museum. It’s a pleasant place to visit in Toronto with your family or significant other.

What to do there: Relax and stroll alongside the attractive Grenadier Pond, often said to be bottomless because it’s not possible to accurately gauge the depth because of all the mood below the water. Pass a few leisurely hours fishing in the shimmering pond, home to perch, carp, bass, and bluegill. You can either toss back anything you catch or cook up a fish feast. Feed the ducks at Upper Duck Pond, follow the nature trails, keeping your eyes open for wildlife, and wander through the charming cherry tree grove and hillside gardens.

11. Distillery District

• Gorgeous restored Victorian Buildings
• The Distillery District is a National Historic Site of Canada
• Diverse shops
• Many eateries

Why it’s awesome: Visiting the Distillery District is a Toronto must-do. It features the biggest collection of Victorian buildings in all of North America and is a National Historic Site of Canada. The area has many buildings that were previously part of the huge Gooderham and Worts Distillery, many of which have now been repurposed. The distillery, established in the 1830s, was once the world’s largest distillery. By the time the distillery finally finished operations in 1990, much of the area was derelict. After regeneration projects, today the area has diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants and is a popular place to visit in Toronto. Each year the area hosts the annual Toronto Christmas Market.

What to do there: Wander along the ten pedestrianised (and cycle-friendly) streets that make up the Distillery District, seeing old buildings like the 1873 Pure Spirits Building, the 1886 East Boiler House, the 1863 Malt House, the 1859 Stone Distillery, and the 1889 Tank House. Snap pictures of the towering chimney stack on top of the Boiler House, one of the major landmarks in Toronto.

Don’t worry if you have a feeling of déjà vu as you explore the Distillery District—numerous movies and TV shows have shot scenes in the atmospheric part of the city. Several interesting sculptures add to the ambience too. Shop till you drop in the diverse stores, including cool and quirky vintage boutiques, browse fresh produce and artisan treats in the weekly Sunday Market, peek inside trendy art galleries, and stop for refreshments in a cute café or top-class restaurant.

12. Canada’s Wonderland

• Biggest amusement park in Canada
• Many rides and attractions for all ages
• Dedicated areas for kids
• Fun water park to beat the heat

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1981, Canada’s Wonderland is the biggest theme park in Canada. Spread across 330 acres (134 hectares), the large amusement park has plenty for people of all ages. In addition to a wide assortment of rides, people can cool down in the warmer temperatures at the water park with slides, pools, a lazy river, wave pool, and cabanas where you can take some time out and chill. There are great shows to enjoy throughout the day and a wide assortment of places to eat and drink. A visit to Toronto’s Canada’s Wonderland promises to be a fun-filled day out, and there’s also an onsite resort if you want the thrills and giggles to last for longer. It’s a popular place for families, couples, and friends visiting Toronto.

What to do there: Brave Leviathan, one of Canada’s fastest and tallest roller coasters, strap into Flight Deck, the country’s first inverted coaster, and ride the long wooden coaster of the Mighty Canadian Minebuster. Feel the rush on rollercoasters like Behemoth, Wilde Beast, The Bat, and Time Warp, with rides like the Drop Tower, Psyclone, Shockwave, and Riptide also sure to get the adrenaline pumping. Kids can enjoy tamer rides like the Ghoster Coaster, Swing Time, Pumpkin Patch, and Frequent Flyers.

13. St. Paul’s Basilica

• Striking architecture
• Oldest Catholic church in Toronto
• Modelled on a church in Rome
• Serene and tranquil

Why it’s awesome: Built in 1889 and standing on the site of an earlier church, Toronto’s lovely St. Paul’s Basilica is the city’s oldest Catholic church. There used to be a school near the church too, meeting the educational and religious needs of the Irish immigrant community (who were predominantly Catholic). The Italian-like building was built to resemble Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. The insides are beautiful, with lots of religious artwork. Today, it is an active place of worship still as well as one of the most religious attractions in Toronto.

What to do there: Appreciate the Italian-esque building from the outside, complete with its soaring bell tower, religious statues, large roof-top cross, and grand columns. Step through the doorways to stand at the end of the sweeping nave, with colourful stained glass windows and many paintings to catch your eye. The ceilings are especially impressive. Take a few moments for some quiet reflection and, if you’re religious, visit the church for mass.

14. Chinatown

• One of the biggest Chinatowns in North America
• Home of Toronto’s first Chinese-run business
• Many places to sample delicious food
• Lively atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: Toronto’s vibrant Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in North America. A buzzing ethnic enclave, it can trace its immigrant roots back to the 1890s. One of the first Chinese-run businesses (a launderette) had previously opened in the area in the late 1870s and the first-known Chinese café opened in the early 1900s, with many others following. Today, it’s a great place for visitors to immerse themselves in a different culture and see a different side of the large Canadian city. It’s a top place to fully appreciate Toronto’s rich multi-cultural and multi-ethnic facets.

What to do there: Walk around Chinatown, absorbing the many sights and sounds among the bustling crowds. Admire art in Bau-Xi Gallery, with a wide selection of works by both national and international artists on display, stock up on Asian groceries in one of the area’s international stores and supermarkets, and take a peek inside the traditional herbal remedy shops. If you’re feeling weary from all your sightseeing, how about a traditional massage?

A few blocks away is Planet Traveler, one of the best hostels in Canada . We’d recommend staying here so you are close by and able to soak up all that Chinatown has to offer.

15. St. Michael’s Cemetery

• Hidden away and off the beaten track
• Large burial ground
• One of the oldest Catholic cemeteries in Toronto
• Atmospheric and peaceful

Why it’s awesome: Nestled behind towering buildings and shops in Toronto’s downtown is a hidden gem—the quiet and atmospheric St. Michael’s Cemetery. Although it could hardly be said to be small (it covers around 10 acres / 4 hectares), many people are unaware of the cemetery’s existence. One of the oldest Catholic cemeteries in Toronto, it was established in the mid-1800s due to the large numbers of Irish immigrants to the city who sadly passed away shortly after their arrival. Trees line the edges and there are neat rows of old graves, some beautifully ornamented and others rather plain.

What to do there: The cemetery is usually closed to the public, its entrance blocked by large gates, but you can still peer through the metal gates to get a sense of the size and serenity of the burial ground. Access is possible through gates of private homes, but this isn’t usually a realistic way of entering the grounds for most travellers. You may, however, strike it lucky and find somebody at the gate who is willing to let you look around and pay your respects to the deceased inside, or you can join a historical walking tour that includes access to the old burial ground. Among the graves there’s a small cluster of cross-shaped markers, marking the spot where a whole group of nuns was laid to rest.

16. Rogers Centre

• Major sports stadium
• The only Major League Baseball stadium in Canada
• Home of the Toronto Blue Jays
• Interesting architecture

Why it’s awesome: Sitting close to the shores of Lake Ontario, the Rogers Centre is a large multi-purpose stadium. It’s home to the Toronto Blue Jays (a Major Basketball League team). Built in the late 1980s, the stadium is noted for its fully retractable motorised roof and for being the first stadium of its kind in the world. During construction, many historic artefacts were discovered in the ground, including pottery and cannonballs. The stadium is used for various sporting events, including baseball, basketball, soccer, football, cricket, and tennis. It also hosts various shows and exhibitions and has seen diverse concerts over the years including Bon Jovi, the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, and Madonna.

What to do there: Buy tickets to watch a sporting event and cheer on your favourite team as you revel in the electric atmosphere. There’s no need to worry about missing a second of the action thanks to the gigantic video screen and TVs in the eateries. Several of the restaurants also offer terrific views of events. See stunning pieces of artwork throughout the complex, including the gleaming steel and glass The Art of the Possible, the fabulous Salmon Run fountain, and the joyful and golden The Audience. You can peek behind the scenes, and visit areas that are usually off-bounds to visitors, with a stadium tour. It’s a must on your Toronto Itinerary.

• Housed in a former church
• Major centre for the Hare Krishna movement
• Varied program of community events
• Top place to experience Hindu culture

Why it’s awesome: Iskcon is a great place to experience Hindu culture when you travel to Toronto. Housed in a former church, the historic building looks like many other Christian places of worship from the outside, with a tall bell tower and Gothic-like windows. Upon further inspection, however, it’s easy to spot flags flying from the top where you may expect to see crosses and a large sign that shows it’s a Hare Krishna place of worship. The International Society of Krishna Consciousness was first established in Toronto in 1969, eventually moving into its present home (after a number of setbacks) in 1975.

What to do there: Admire the beautiful building from the outside and go inside the temple to see colourful statues of various Hindu deities and learn more about the Hare Krishna movement. If you visit on a Tuesday evening you can join in with lively discussions on spirituality and enjoy a vegetarian dinner. The centre also runs classes to study ancient religious texts, yoga classes, cooking lessons, dramatic productions, and more.

18. Fort York National Historic Site

• Long history
• Built by Canadian troops and British soldiers
• Some of the oldest buildings in Toronto
• Interesting Museum

Why it’s awesome: One of the best places in Toronto for history lovers, Fort York National Historic Site dates back to the early 1800s. The defensive structure was built because of tensions between the British and Americans, and the British wished to protect their territories. The circular battery was built in 1811. In 1812 the USA declared war and Fort York was attacked in 1813. The fort was eventually captured and destroyed.

It was rebuilt in 1814 and the war subsequently ended. Defences were strengthened over later years when trouble seemed imminent. The fortress was restored in the early 1900s as a celebration of the incorporating of the city. It was opened as a museum in the 1930s. Today, some of the structures within the complex are among the oldest buildings in Toronto. Visitors can explore the once mighty fortress and see an array of artefacts and military memorabilia.

What to do there: Discover Ontario’s troubled and turbulent history as you wander around the once-powerful Fort York. Learn more about past battles and relations between Canada, the USA, and Britain and take tours to dig deeper into times gone by. See old barracks, munitions storage areas, storerooms, and gates, and step into reconstructed period rooms to experience the life of yesteryear. You can also see various exhibits, including weapons, pottery, and items recovered from a shipwreck. Relax in the Fort York Community Garden, pick up souvenirs in the museum store, and watch impressive displays (in the summer months) by the Fort York Guard.

19. The Entertainment District

• Excellent night scene
• Diverse cuisine
• Lively theatre district
• Popular with both locals and tourists

Why it’s awesome: The Entertainment District is, as the name suggests, one of the best places to visit in Toronto for fabulous nightlife. It also promises to be a fun visit during the daytime too! A previous industrial area, it went through a major transformation in the 1980s and is today a popular part of the city for anyone seeking leisure activities and fun. In addition to a wide array of restaurants, bars, and clubs, the area also boasts some excellent theatres, cinemas, and shops.

What to do there: Catch a top show in one of the theatres along King Street West or watch a movie at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Dine on the delicious global fare in one of the many restaurants, with something to appeal to all tastes and budgets. From French and Italian delicacies to Asian specialities and fast food, the Entertainment District is sure to satisfy your hunger. As night descends you can hop between cool bars, some of which feature live music, or dance the night away as the DJs keep the tunes spinning in one of the spirited nightclubs.

If you’ve ever wondered, is Toronto safe , rest assured that it was ranked the 4th safest city in North America. Make sure to take the necessary safety precautions as a traveller in particularly rowdy drinking areas at night, though, just as you would anywhere else.

20. Craigleigh Gardens Park

• Off the beaten track
• Impressive entrance
• Walking trails
• Dog-friendly area

Why it’s awesome: Close to the affluent Toronto neighbourhoods of Bayview and Bloor, Craigleigh Gardens Park is a lesser-visited park. Quiet and peaceful, the pretty park is a top place to escape the tourist crowds and spend some time outdoors. There’s an area where visitors can let dogs of the lead too, meaning that all visitors, human and canine, can enjoy the park. The park was once the site of a grand Victorian house. The home was demolished, however, in the 1920s and the gardens were turned into a lovely city park. The park covers 8.4 acres (3.4 hectares) and there’s lots of open space. There are also walking trails close to hand.

What to do there: Pass through the impressive Gothic gates to find yourself in a beautiful and quiet verdant park. Don’t be surprised if you spot very few other souls—it really is a hidden Toronto treasure! Stroll through the green expanse and let children run and play. Take a walk down the narrow Milkman’s Lane next to the park and explore the scenic ravine trail. The nearby area also has lots of elegant homes to admire as you daydream.

Get insured for your trip to Toronto!

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Here’s what we’re usually asked about the top attractions and excursions in Toronto.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Toronto, Canada?

I would say the best places to visit in Toronto are undoubtedly the Toronto Islands, Niagara Falls, and the Ontario Science Centre. If you’re looking for attractions in the city, try the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Lawrence Market Street, and the photo opportunities of Graffiti Alley.

What are the Top Places to Visit in Downtown Toronto?

Downtown Toronto is packed full of great places! Try the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Graffiti Alley, St. Lawrence Market, the Distillery District and the Royal Ontario Museum! If you want something to entertain the kids, check out the Museum of Illusions, or a Blue Jays hockey game!

What are the Best Places to Visit in Toronto with Kids?

Kids will love Canada’s Wonderland, the Ripley Aquarium, and the Museum of illusions. If you have time, I’d recommend checking out the Ontario Museum of Science, which has enough to see to last the entire day! Going on a bike tour of the Toronto Islands is another great way to entertain the children.

What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto Canada?

The CN Tower is probably the top tourist attraction in Toronto (which means you might have to queue). Following that, the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Toronto Islands, and St. Lawrence Market are all top choices! There is so much to see and do in Toronto, so just take a stroll of the downtown, and you’ll find a surprising amount!

Toronto is a vibrant city with much to appeal to the senses. There are plenty of ways to have fun in Toronto; whether you’re into shopping, dining, sightseeing, or outdoor pursuits, you’ll find lots of ways to enjoy your Toronto visit.

Whether you want to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs, explore a variety of world cultures, or just explore heaps of coffee shops, there’s plenty to do when you visit Toronto.

Other fantastic places to visit in Toronto include the pretty Toronto Botanical Garden, the awesome Art Gallery of Toronto, Lawrence Market and City Hall, the romantic Allan Gardens Conservatory, and the lesser-visited Riverdale Park.

Don’t miss calling by Casa Loma too, one of the most unusual things to do in Toronto as well as exploring the city’s East End. As you can see, there’s plenty of variety when it comes to tourist attractions in Toronto.

Need more? Why not head out of town for the day and check out all the things to do in Hamilton?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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This list is amazing. Highlights the best things you can do in Toronto. Organized in an extremely informative way. Very helpful

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The World As I See It

One Ontario lady with a passion for travel and inspiring others to get outdoors and explore more

• Canada / Ontario / Toronto / Travel

Guide to the 40 Best Places to Visit in Toronto

by Stephanie · Published December 31, 2022 · Updated March 3, 2023

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!

This post contains affiliate links. By booking through these links I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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

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!

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

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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I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

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Wow. So many great things to see and do in Toronto. I do believe I would enjoy the Distillery District! Putting many of the places on my list for when I finally visit.

The Distillery District is such a fabulous place to visit in Toronto! I hope you’re able to visit soon!

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Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.

From the cosmopolitan streets of Toronto to the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, our neighbor to the north features a diverse set of vacation destinations that are beautiful year-round. Deciding which one is perfect for your next getaway can be difficult. That's why U.S. News considered several factors, such as affordability, entertainment options and diversity of hotels and resorts, as well as user votes and expert opinions, to compile this list of the best places to visit in Canada. Vote for your favorite spot below to have a say in next year's list.

Jasper National Park

Vancouver, canada, niagara falls, quebec city, prince edward island, gros morne national park, victoria & vancouver island, cape breton highlands national park, mont-tremblant, okanagan valley.

Nestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Visitors can spend their days skiing or hiking in Banff National Park (one of Canada's most beautiful national parks and home of the glacier-fed Moraine Lake) and floating down the Bow River on a canoe before retiring to one of the area's several opulent hotels for some spa therapy. Then, for incredible views of the Rockies, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. Meanwhile, daytrips to popular attractions like the Columbia Icefield, Yoho National Park and Lake Louise cannot be left off of your itinerary.

As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is ripe for exploration. When you're not hiking through Maligne Canyon, whitewater rafting down the Athabasca River or snapping photos of Spirit Island, you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the picture-perfect scenery from the Jasper SkyTram. Or, take in the beauty of Jasper National Park while driving along the Icefields Parkway. Keep your eyes peeled for the 53 species of mammals that call this Alberta park home, including black bears, elk and bighorn sheep.

A trip to this British Columbia city, which sits approximately 145 miles north of Seattle, is all about embracing the outdoors. Vancouverites spend their days skiing on Grouse Mountain, swimming at Kitsilano Beach and strolling through the sprawling Stanley Park. Plus, Vancouver offers plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries and outdoor markets (a tour of Granville Island is a must-do). If you're not afraid of heights, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is positioned 230 feet above the Capilano River.

Travel to this iconic destination in southeastern Ontario to see and capture photos of its namesake world-famous tourist attraction . View Niagara Falls from above during a helicopter tour, or see them up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Or, for a unique perspective, admire the thunderous falls from behind with the self-guided Journey Behind the Falls experience. After you've taken in the splendor, check out the area's other top attractions, such as the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which offers a variety of hiking trails. When you've had your fill of nature, head to nearby wineries or test Lady Luck at the casinos.

Referred to as the "small city with a big backyard," Whitehorse – the capital of Canada's Yukon territory – shines with all of its outdoor activities. Explore Miles Canyon, which is accessible from Whitehorse on foot (a nearly 10-mile loop trail connects the city directly to this natural wonder). After, head north to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you'll find all kinds of animals, including arctic foxes, elk, muskox and bison. Even though this region gets notoriously cold, you might want to time your visit around the first couple of weeks of winter for a chance to witness the northern lights.

A trip to Europe may not be in your budget, but a visit to Québec City could be. This Canadian city charms visitors with its picturesque centuries-old buildings that make up Old Québec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the aromas of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso fill the cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain with the essence of Paris. Once you've gotten your fill of the city, take a trip to Montmorency Falls Park to marvel at its 272-foot-tall waterfall. Plan your visit for winter when the city comes alive with twinkling lights, festivals and cold-weather activities – just remember to pack your down jacket .

Take adventure travel up a notch with a visit to Whistler. In winter, this resort town in British Columbia (about 75 miles north of Vancouver) boasts everything from cross-country skiing and snowboarding to bobsled rides and bungee jumping. Travelers can spend their downtime in Whistler Village enjoying the après-ski scene, perusing locally owned shops or strolling through Whistler Olympic Plaza. Meanwhile, visitors in town when the weather is warmer can go hiking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Plus, summer travelers will love exploring Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, home to the 230-foot-tall waterfall from which the park gets its name.

Home to rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs and a delicious bounty of seafood (this is where PEI mussels come from, after all), Prince Edward Island is the place to travel for a relaxing respite from Canada's more adventure-driven destinations. When you're not hiking the trails at Prince Edward Island National Park, perfect your swing at one of the island's golf courses or visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the 1908 novel, "Anne of Green Gables" was inspired. And be sure to keep an eye out for PEI's seal population (four kinds call the island home either full or part time).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses nearly 700 square miles of land on Newfoundland's west coast. Its top activity is undoubtedly hiking through the Tablelands. Here, you'll traverse exposed earth mantle, a rust-colored landscape that was created millions of years ago by a collision of tectonic plates. Also save time for a boat ride on Western Brook Pond, which is a glacier-carved, landlocked fjord that features cascading waterfalls measuring 2,000 feet. After getting a taste of nature, learn about the region's history at the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.

Montréal is a city of juxtaposition: Skyscrapers rub elbows with Old Montréal's 17th-century architecture while the familiar sounds of English intermingle with the foreign buzz of French – the official language of Québec province. Visit Old Montréal to get a taste of Europe (think: beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets), including its own Notre-Dame Basilica, a grand Gothic Revival-style church that offers self-guided tours along with an evening sound and light show. Then head to modern attractions, such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. Meanwhile, if you're visiting during the warmer months, don't miss out on the Montréal Botanical Garden and the scenic Mount Royal Park.

While Montréal and Québec City honor Canada's French roots, Victoria pays tribute to the country's British heritage. Many pay a visit to Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, for afternoon tea, a tour of the beautiful Parliament Buildings or a history lesson at the Royal BC Museum. Others are interested in visiting Vancouver Island's wineries to sample local vinos. Meanwhile, animal lovers enjoy the abundance of marine wildlife that call the waters surrounding Victoria home. In fact, there are nearly 80 orca whales in Victoria's waters. What's more, since Victoria is one of the most sustainable urban destinations in North America, visitors can feel good about the impact of their trip.   

"Big" doesn't even begin to describe this Ontario city. With cultural pockets like Greektown, Little India and Koreatown all within city limits, Toronto has the ability to transport visitors around the globe. Take it all in with a ride up the 1,815-foot-tall CN Tower, or enjoy a quintessentially Canadian experience at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Then, head to the St. Lawrence Market to sample gourmet goodies before checking out the nearby Harbourfront Centre. And if the weather is right, plan a visit to the Toronto Islands, where you can relax on the beach, go kayaking or enjoy an afternoon bike ride.

The star of this national park on Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island is the world-famous Cabot Trail – one-third of which runs through the park. As you drive the winding highway, which is considered one of the world's most scenic drives, you'll pass forested river canyons, rural fishing villages and plenty of lookout points for admiring Nova Scotia's serene landscape. Prefer to explore the park on your own two feet? There are 26 hiking trails to choose from, as well as opportunities for kayaking, mountain climbing, camping and more.

Located a little more than 80 miles northwest of Montréal in Québec's Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is best known for its skiing, specifically Mont Tremblant Ski Resort, which occupies the highest peak in the mountain range. But warm-weather visitors are equally enchanted by its Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, which boasts six rivers and 400 lakes and streams, not to mention countless hiking trails and beaches. Water sports, fishing and mountain biking are all popular here thanks to the area's diverse landscape.

Stretching across more than 150 miles, the Okanagan Valley is home to 86% of British Columbia's vineyard acreage and features more than 200 world-class wineries. There are also a variety of subregions in the valley, each promising its own unique experiences and grape varietals. If you are looking to combine wine tasting with outdoor pursuits, visit the Naramata Bench. This area is packed with wineries and offers everything from kayaking to mountain biking. No matter which area you visit, you'll enjoy spectacular views that rival those of the world's best wine regions .

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Saint John, New Brunswick

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Eclipse passes over Toronto on Monday afternoon

Gta not in path of totality, clouds covered much of sky, but some got glimpses of partial eclipse.

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Cheers broke out at 3:19 p.m. Monday outside the Rogers Centre in Toronto as a partial solar eclipse brought the city to dusk, with the moon blocking over 90 per cent of the sun. 

Ahead of the Blue Jays home opener, large crowds gathered downtown donning eclipse safety glasses as they gazed up at the cloudy skies for the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event.

After the partial eclipse reached its peak and the city started to brighten again, many remained outside to catch a glimpse of the sun through the clouds. 

In Mississauga, resident Natalie Senior was working at home when she just popped outside to take a quick photo of the eclipse from her driveway.

"I was in awe. It's a piece of history. And I was glad to capture such a sight. It's a split second photo. I caught it just in time," Senior said on Monday.

At the Downsview airport lands in North York, a crowd of all ages enjoyed views of the eclipse as themed songs played on speakers, including Total Eclipse of the Heart , Walking on Sunshine and Life on Mars . 

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow addressed the community, particularly the children, at the event, which was hosted by Northcrest Development. 

"That cloud is getting in our way a little bit, but it will still get dark," Chow said about 10 minutes before the eclipse reached its peak. 

Wearing a custom Blue Jays jersey, at one point, the mayor struggled to spot the sun through the clouds in anticipation of the eclipse. 

"It's up there somewhere!" she said, gesturing to the sky. 

Bob Goulais, a knowledge keeper from Nipissing First Nation performed a smudging ceremony during the event. 

"The eclipse is that joining of our grandfather, the sun, and our grandmother, the moon," he said. 

'It reminds us to reflect on our own place in creation'

Goulais described Monday as a day of reflection, posing a unique opportunity for the community to learn about Anishinaabe ways. 

"We see that balance in creation," Goulais said. "It reminds us to reflect on our own place in creation and where we fit into it."

Earlier on Monday, Brian Osiah, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, had warned there could be "bad news" in store for the GTA and even Niagara Region, which was in the path of totality.

• Total eclipse brings 'magical' experience to thousands in Hamilton, Niagara after clouds part
• Total solar eclipse sends parts of Canada into darkness

"Unfortunately, it does look like it will be mainly cloudy," Osiah had told CBC Toronto early this morning.

Eclipse generates interest in animal monitoring 

At the Toronto Zoo, visitors were invited to record observations of animal behaviour for the duration of the eclipse using an online form. Visitors were invited to come back Tuesday to compare their insights. 

The eclipse has generated widespread interest in animal monitoring, Toronto Zoo CEO Dolf DeJong said on Monday. 

Visitors were invited to make observations on Sunday as well to create a baseline of typical animal behaviour, according to the zoo's website. 

Collected data will be integrated into a report, DeJong said, noting that other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums are also monitoring animals 

"We'll be able to collaborate [and] work together," he said. "It's the scientific process in action."

Viewing parties held across Toronto

Many organizations held eclipse viewing parties on Monday. Hundreds of people attended the one at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Misha Shah, 20, a resident, said she brought her family, including her twin brothers and parents, to the viewing party.

"The whole family's here, and yeah, we came to enjoy the eclipse here today," she said. "The vibe is great. I stepped in here and immediately loved it. It's just such a nice family friendly place."

WATCH | CBC's Chris Glover attends a watch party in Toronto:

How Toronto marked the 2024 solar eclipse

Her mother, Mimisha Shah, said: "My home country is India and I saw over there like two solar eclipses completely and this is my third solar eclipse. I'm really excited. I love it!"

After the peak of the eclipse, which was shrouded by clouds, Mimisha added: "Here because of the clouds and environment, you can't see much but still you can still feel it. So still I feel like it I saw the solar eclipse and still I'm happy."

Toronto Public Library hosted educational programs

Toronto Public Library locations hosted various educational programs for kids who were at home thanks to the PA day on Monday.  

Available activities included solar eclipse trivia, pinhole projector tutorials and an educational space workshop hosted online.

Though several eclipse viewing parties were already full, the Forest Hill library branch hosted a drop-in solar eclipse viewing.

The Dawes Road branch in East York also hosted a drop-in eclipse viewing with a limited supply of glasses available — but it was an adults only event. 

York University's Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory hosted an eclipse viewing for staff and students on Monday. A few photos were taken at the event. 

The first one was taken at 2:28 p.m. and the second at 2:47 p.m. The first was with the solar filter, while the second, which shows cloud cover, was without. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rochelle Raveendran is a reporter for CBC News Toronto. She can be reached at: [email protected].

With files from Muriel Draaisma and Chris Glover

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10 Cities To Visit In Canada (Besides Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver)

W hen touring the Great White North, backpackers and jet-setters often venture to the top Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver. These cities offer something for everyone, making them attractive destinations. However, besides the allure of Toronto's world-famous CN Tower , Old Montreal's colonial architecture , or Vancouver's Granville Island (which is excellent for food) , there are other unique destinations nestled in other Canadian cities. Instead, travelers booking their vacations in Canada should stop by these fantastic cities to discover their unique charm and personality, coast to coast!

Victoria, British Columbia

The Canadian coastal city of Victoria is British Columbia's capital city, sitting on the southern end of Vancouver Island. Victoria's cityscape is like a painting, blessed with picturesque views around the harbor and beyond. Equipped with an ideal growing climate, it's no wonder Victoria earned its nickname "Canada's Garden City!". Being one of the best cities in Canada to visit, there's plenty to do and see. Stroll through Victoria's green spaces this summer and appreciate the blooming flowers ( counted as 27,875,292,158 in 2022 )! Visitors can also explore the city's neighborhoods and attractions, such as Victoria's Chinatown (which is one of the oldest in Canada).

• Top Attractions in Victoria: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park

Quebec City, Quebec

Visit Quebec's capital of Quebec City, which is nestled along the northern shores of the St. Lawrence River and is one of the top cities to visit in Canada. Quebec City is the only city in North America with a Francophone government and functions as a hub for Francophone culture. Specifically, curious visitors can explore the cobblestones streets of Quebec's UNESCO-listed Old City , a World Heritage Site and the only fortified city north of Mexico! Within these walls, travelers can climb the steps of the Casse-Cou stairs or take a snapshot of the Château Frontenac.

• Top Attractions in Quebec City: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, La Citadelle de Quebec

Ottawa, Ontario

Nestled on the Ottawa River near the border of Quebec lies Canada's capital, the city of Ottawa, which offers plenty of fun and unique things to do . Besides learning about the Canadian government at Parliament Hill, travelers can uncover the capital city and partake in recreational activities around the Rideau Canal (the world's longest skating rink), visit the Royal Canadian Mint, or appreciate art at the National Gallery of Canada! The city also hosts a collection of summer events, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Almonte Celtfest, the RBC Bluesfest, and Canada Day.

• Top Attractions in Ottawa: Parliament Hill, National Gallery of Canada, Rideau Canal, Canadian Museum of Nature

RELATED: Visiting Ottawa? 10 Foods You Can't Miss While You're There

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

The capital of Prince Edward Island is on Hillsborough Bay, sitting on the mouths of the Elliot, North, and Hillsborough Rivers. Charlottetown serves as the primary municipality in Canada's smallest province, attracting tourists yearly due to its pleasant weather, nearby beaches, and coastal charm. Today, Charlottetown's cityscape retains many of its historic buildings and landmarks. Travelers can admire the city's historic church architecture while visiting St. Dunstan's Roman Catholic Basilica, its mansions like Beaconsfield Historic House, or the Brighton Beach Lighthouse.

• Top Attractions in Charlottetown: St. Dunstan's Cathedral, Beaconsfield Historic House, Confederation Landing

St. John's, Newfoundland And Labrador

Discover the beauty of Canada's east coast with a visit to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, one of the best cities to visit in Canada as a tourist. This hilly and quaint city has no shortage of things to see. Visitors can learn about Newfoundland's history by visiting Signal Hill , appreciate the vibrant houses along Jellybean Row, visit Cape Spear lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province , or enjoy the city nightlife at George Street. The heart of Canada's east coast beats at St. John's, a historic city with stunning vibes!

• Top Attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador: Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, Signal Hill National Historic Site, The Rooms, Qidi Vidi Lake

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Spend the summer exploring the capital of Nova Scotia and the largest urban area in Atlantic Canada in Halifax. This coastal city hosts one of the world's largest harbors and serves as a vital center for the economy within Atlantic Canada (and within Canada). Halifax lures tourists with its mild winter climates, beaches, and fresh seafood. Watch the noon gun at Citadel National Historic Site (which also features a great view of the city), walk the Halifax Boardwalk, and sample a comforting donair (Halifax's official food made with pita filled with roasted shaved beef, tomatoes, onions, and donair sauce)!

• Top Attractions in Halifax: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax Public Gardens, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Point Pleasant Park

RELATED: Colorful Houses To Breathtaking Scenery: 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns In Newfoundland

Saint John, New Brunswick

New Brunswick's second-largest city is located on the Saint John River and is the only "true" city to be located on the Bay of Fundy, which offers lots of tourist attractions . Canadian history is plentiful at Saint John, as it's Canada's oldest city! History buffs will love walking through the city and discovering its collection of National Historic Sites, including those at the Trinity Royal Heritage Conservation Area and the Saint John City Market (Canada's oldest farmer's market). Saint John is also a gateway to soaking in the sights of the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides in the world!

• Top Attractions in Saint John: Saint John City Market, Irving Nature Park, Rockwood Park, Kings Square, Rockwood Park

Whitehorse, Yukon

Visit the capital of Yukon, a city founded during the the historic Klondike Gold Rush and named after the foam in the rapids on the Yukon River (which resembled manes on white horses)! Travelers venturing along the Alaska Highway should make a stop at Whitehorse, a small city with a huge backyard. Nicknamed the Wilderness City, visitors stopping by this Yukon City can enjoy a range of outdoor activities nearby, like mountain biking and hiking. What's more, in 2011, Whitehorse was recognized as having one of the cleanest air in the world !

• Top attractions in White Horse: SS Klondike National Historic Site, Miles Canyon, MacBridge Museum of Yukon History, Yukon Wildlife Preserve

RELATED: 10 Things You Can Only See In Canada's Yukon Territory

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Taking on several nicknames like the "Bull's Eye of the Dominion" or the "Gateway to the West," Winnipeg is Manitoba's largest city and its capital. Travelers can explore the Canadian Prairies with a stop at Winnipeg, a city with ties to the fur trade, the railway, grain exchange, and the Indigenous communities of Canada. Today, visitors can explore Winnipeg and its reputation as a hub for Canadian art, technology, aerospace, and literature. Check out aircraft exhibits at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada or learn some history at the Manitoba Museum.

• Top Attractions in Winnipeg: The Forks Market, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Children's Museum, Kildonan Park

Calgary, Alberta

In the summer, Calgary is filled with tourists who come to appreciate the beauty of the Canadian Rockies (which is only a two-hour drive from the city ). Aside from enjoying the mountains, visitors can easily enjoy themselves in Calgary in the warmer months. This Alberta cosmopolitan offers an intricate network of paths, bikeways, and acres of green spaces. Visitors can even enjoy some city rafting along the Bow River. In the summer, the Calgary Stampede is a must-see attraction, boasting its reputation as the world's largest outdoor rodeo !

• Top Attractions in Calgary: Calgary Tower, Heritage Park, Prince's Island Park, Nose Hill Park

Not only is North America in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons during this year's solar event, but meteorologists note that we're also currently in an El Niño pattern, albeit one that's proven quieter than usual.

"An El Niño pattern tends to increase the chances of cloudy, rainy weather in those areas. Interestingly, though, that is not how this winter and spring have played out," said Augustyniak. "Since the start of 2024, Texas Hill Country and western Texas areas have been markedly drier than average; if that trend holds for the next few weeks, that would be good news for eclipse watchers."

The path of totality is only about 150 miles wide, and in America stretches roughly 2,500 miles from the Texas border to the last few towns in northeastern Maine. That leaves only so many places where you can seek the full show, though the path's width will be significantly wider than it was in 2017, according to NASA , as the moon will to be closer to Earth on this pass than it was then.

So will April showers bring spectator flowers? Here's a breakdown of which places along the path of totality are most likely to give eclipse chasers the best odds.

Viewing the eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Augustyniak said at this transitional time of year, the further south you can go, the more likely you are to experience clear skies during eclipse totality.

"Of the areas where the total eclipse will be visible on April 8, that includes the Hill Country of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila and Durango," Augustyniak said.

Of course, the further south you get, the more you increase your chances of running into not only clouds, but rain.

"Spring is our storm season of course," said Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas.

Ray said that you can almost bet on needing to do a little bit of reverse storm-chasing — in other words, doing some last-minute navigation to dart away from the oncoming clouds, rather than toward them — on or around the eclipse in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

"There will be storms around the day of April 8. I say that because we rarely get through a week in spring without a couple of rounds coming through the area during this time of the year. Will they arrive a day before and be gone? Not start up until later that day? Maybe two days later? We are looking at our long-range model the GFS for the date and it looks like storms on the eighth," Ray said, with a caveat. "Long-range models are notoriously inaccurate for a specific day. But there is a good chance the storms the model sees will materialize, give or take a 36-hour period."

Ray said that Texas sees, on average, a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about 28% of the time. Conversely, the region gets April days with mostly cloudy or fully overcast conditions about 36% of the time.

"High clouds can arrive several days before the storm system, they are overhead in April around 22% of the time. A sky with some kind of cloud cover is likely," said Ray. "A typical April day would have near overcast skies in the morning, then the heating of the day makes for more sunshine. So an afternoon even has better odds of a good view of the eclipse."

The eclipse will reach totality in Texas from about 1:30 p.m. CT near Elm Creek until wrapping up near the Oklahoma border a few minutes before 2 p.m. Some of the most populous areas along the path of totality will be during this leg, from San Antonio and Austin to Dallas-Fort Worth.

One final factor to consider if you're heading to the area — tornadoes. Ray said that the National Weather Office in Fort Worth has tallied all the confirmed tornadoes since 1880, and in April and May, north Texas has seen more than 1,100 twisters, compared with the nearly 900 seen in all other months.

"So more tornadoes in the 61-day window than all of the other days of the year combined," Ray said, "but the tornado count varies greatly from year to year."

Ultimately, Ray said that April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas.

"In short, April is not the best, nor the worst, time of the year to hope for clear or mostly clear skies. The best would be July or August. The worst would be January or February," he said. "We get a decent idea of the expected weather about seven days out. Four days out we get more comfortable talking about the timing of a rain or storm event. But it's the weather, we are trying to throw a lasso around chaos. It is not rare we forecasters look like fools."

Viewing the eclipse in Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

While many are likely to head as far south as possible, some of the biggest cities in the Midwest are likely to fuel day-of migration to spots in Missouri and Illinois, many of them likely seeing a total eclipse for the second time in a decade. A small zone centered around Carbondale, Illinois, was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be once again this month.

While those in the St. Louis area seeking areas to watch in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing roughly comparable to Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois.

"If you're unable to travel (to Texas or Arkansas), then Southern Illinois and Indiana present your best opportunity for a clearer sky, supported by the 43-year average and, of course, weather permitting," said Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

There will likely be some who decide that 90% or 95% totality is enough for them. But Ramon warns that those in the Chicago metro area could be at a higher risk to find their view obscured by clouds.

"Based on a comprehensive 43-year average , April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60 to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with similar patterns observed in Indianapolis, where cloud cover hovers between 60 to 70%," Ramon said.

Viewing the eclipse near the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

Ramon said another factor that could make viewing along the path of totality something of a challenge in the Midwest is the lingering influence of an El Niño weather pattern.

"Its presence elevates the chances of clouds across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions," Ramon said. "This year may even be a bit more cloudier than the normal."

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, including Cleveland, along with the area of Ontario south of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Erie, Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin said many of these areas are subject to the wildcard that is the Great Lakes.

"They are known for lake-effect snow, but it is the lake-effect clouds that could hide the eclipse. Erie, which is in the path of totality, averages only six clear days during the month of April. Pittsburgh, which has the potential to see around 97% of totality, only averages four clear days in April," Petelin said.

Petelin says that a southerly breeze and warmer-than-average temperatures would go a long way toward helping the Great Lakes region out on April 8. 

"While the historical data suggests the chances for a clear day are low, this winter and early spring have been exceptionally bright and warmer than usual. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we can get that perfect weather for when it matters most," Petelin said.

As it stands, the areas near the shores of the Great Lakes historically show a higher probability for clearer skies than areas inland.

Viewing the eclipse in New England

The eclipse will wrap up its march across the U.S. when the path of totality cuts across state lines from New York to Vermont just before 3:30 p.m. ET. By this point in the event, the duration of totality along the central line will have already fallen off from its peak — about 4 minutes, 30 seconds near Nazas, Mexico — to just over 3 minutes, 30 seconds, according to NASA.

"The southern edge of the totality line passes right through the towns of Middlebury, Northfield and Barre. You will need to get just north of these areas. Some suggested 'larger' towns include Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport and Burlington," said Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

In New Hampshire, the southern edge of totality will pass just north of the White Mountains. And in Maine, you'll need to get north of major cities like Portland, Augusta and Bangor. Eliasen said the entirety of Baxter State Park will be in the totality path, including Mount Katahdin.

The bad news: Eliasen said that those in the New England area face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies next Monday, based on historical patterns. The data says you're more likely to be negatively impacted by clouds pretty much anywhere in these three states than not.

"Frankly, northern New England is probably the worst place (historically speaking) in the path of totality as far as cloud cover goes," said Eliasen. "Of course, we could get lucky."

No luck? There's always the 2045 total solar eclipse

As a last-ditch hope for those who opt to stay put no matter where they're located, there's one last meteorological ace-in-the-hole that could offer reprieve, one fueled by the astronomical event itself.

"It's worth noting that, as totality approaches and sunlight is reduced, temperatures are likely to fall noticeably. Cooler temperatures can stabilize the atmosphere – like when the sun sets after a hot summer day – leading to a decrease in cloud cover," said Augustyniak. "Still, your best plan is to find an area that has no clouds to begin with."

And if the clouds end up sullying the view for some this month, another chance comes around in August 2045 , when a line of totality will stretch from northern California all the way to Miami Beach. Which, of course, will fall during the height of hurricane season.

Eric Henderson is Managing Editor, Midwest for CBSNews.com. He has won three Emmy Awards, an Eric Sevareid Award and two Edward R. Murrow Awards.

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The total solar eclipse 2024 is happening today! Here's what you need to know

Millions are ready to watch  —  are you?

It's the day we've all been waiting for! Total solar eclipse 2024 is finally here. Today (April 8) a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America from Mexico, through 15 U.S. States and up through Canada. For viewers inside the path of totality, the moon will completely cover the sun, darkening the sky and revealing our star's hidden outer atmosphere.

You can keep up to date with the latest eclipse content on our eclipse live blog and watch all the total eclipse action unfold live here on Space.com courtesy of NASA. Our livestream coverage begins at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT). 

If you capture a great photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with us please email it to [email protected] . 

Related: 10 things you probably didn't know about the total solar eclipse 2024

Every U.S. State will experience at least a partial solar eclipse today. If you want to check what time you'll be able to see the solar eclipse and find out what it may look like from your location check out this great interactive map from NASA . 

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet. It appears almost exactly the same size as our sun and for those witnessing the event from the path of totality, it will completely cover the sun's visible disk.

Last minute preparations  

If you haven't been able to get hold of a pair of eclipse glasses and are looking for an easy way to still view the solar eclipse safely we have a list of some alternative ways to view the eclipse with items from around the home . 

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Remember NEVER look directly at the sun. To safely view all of this event, you must use solar glasses or filters. Only those in the path of totality will be able to remove them briefly to see the sun's corona with their naked eyes. Those not in the path of totality must keep them on the entire time. 

Everyone observing the partial phases of this eclipse — and for those outside the path of totality, that's the entire event — will need to wear solar eclipse glasses while cameras, telescopes and binoculars will need solar filters placed in front of their lenses. 

Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations. 

Eclipse timings

Submit your photos! If you capture a photo of the April 8 total solar eclipse or any of these strange effects and would like to share it with Space.com's readers, send photos, videos, comments, and your name, location and content usage permission release to [email protected].

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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• COLGeek Skies good, so far. Telescope setup and looked at sun spots a bit already. I'm kicking myself for not getting a CCD. Hoping for a good viewing today. Reply
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What time does the solar eclipse happen in Michigan? Search your ZIP code here.

Today ― April 8, 2024 ― is the day of the Great American Eclipse that's expected to cross a large span of the mainland United States .

Most of Michigan  doesn't fall in the path of totality , but assuming skies are clear at any point within the 2.5-hour span or so , you can still see the moon crossing the sun with eclipse glasses or a safe eclipse viewer .

There's one small sliver of Monroe County, near Toledo, that's  expected to be in the path of totality . This means the area will likely dim and temperatures drop a few degrees as the moon's shadow covers the sun.

Here's how Michiganders can watch the eclipse.

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse near me? What time is the eclipse in Michigan?

Use our ZIP code locator below to find out when the 2024 solar eclipse is in your area, from start to finish, and what you can expect it to look like.

Can't see our graphics? Try this page.

The April 8, 2024, solar eclipse will start in northern Mexico before making its way into the United States, starting when the shadow of the moon passes into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT.

The eclipse will carve a path straight through Texas before heading northeast through the rest of the country , including Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. That also includes a small section of southeastern Monroe County in Michigan .

When is the 2024 eclipse in Michigan?

The April 8, 2024 eclipse begins at approximately 1:55 p.m. in Michigan , depending on your location. In Detroit, it begins at 1:58 p.m. Totality takes place between 3:10-3:15 p.m. The partial eclipse will end at approximately 4:24-4:27 p.m., again depending on your exact location.

Here's when you can expect to view the eclipse from your city or area. (Can't see the chart below? Tap  here .)

Here's a map view of several notable Michigan cities. Tap the city nearest you to find out when the eclipse will begin and end in your area.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Detroit?

In Detroit, where there will be 99.4% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:58 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:14 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:27 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Grand Rapids?

In Grand Rapids, where there will be 94% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:55 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:11 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:24 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Lansing?

In Lansing, where there will be 96% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:56 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:12 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:25 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Marquette?

In Marquette, where there will be 79% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:58 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:14 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:27 p.m.

Countdown to the 2024 solar eclipse

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Contact Amy Huschka:  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter ( @aetmanshuschka ).

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