Welcome to Toronto, Ontario! Known for its diverse culture, stunning skyline, and vibrant arts scene, Toronto offers visitors a truly memorable experience. With countless attractions and activities to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Toronto. From famous landmarks to beautiful parks, this guide will help you experience the very best that this dynamic city has to offer.
The Top 10 Things to do in Toronto
1. Explore the Distillery District
The Distillery District, a National Historic Site, is a pedestrian-only neighborhood that was once the largest distillery in the British Empire. Today, it is a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, with numerous galleries, shops, and restaurants housed in the beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings. Be sure to visit the famous Mill Street Brewery for a refreshing pint or the SOMA Chocolatemaker for a delicious chocolate treat.
2. Visit the CN Tower
The CN Tower, standing at 553.3 meters (1,815 feet) tall, is an iconic symbol of Toronto and a must-see attraction. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, or dine at the revolving 360 Restaurant for a unique dining experience. For the ultimate thrill, try the EdgeWalk, an adrenaline-pumping hands-free walk around the tower’s main pod.
3. Discover the Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum, featuring art, culture, and nature from around the globe. With over six million objects in its collection, the ROM offers a diverse range of exhibits, including dinosaurs, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and stunning gems and minerals. Don’t miss the iconic Crystal addition to the building, designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.
4. Stroll Through Kensington Market
Kensington Market is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its diverse shops, cafes, and street art. Wander through the colorful streets, browse vintage clothing stores, and sample a variety of international cuisines. Be sure to visit on the last Sunday of the month from May to October, when the area becomes a pedestrian-only zone for Pedestrian Sundays, featuring live music and street performances.
5. Take a Ferry to the Toronto Islands
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to the Toronto Islands, a chain of small islands just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. The islands offer beautiful parks, beaches, and picnic areas, as well as attractions like Centreville Amusement Park and the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Toronto skyline from the islands.
6. Experience the Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art museums in North America, featuring a collection of over 95,000 works of art. Explore the museum’s vast array of exhibits, including the impressive Thomson Collection of Canadian Art and the contemporary Indigenous Art Collection. The museum’s striking architecture, designed by Frank Gehry, is a sight to behold in itself.
7. Catch a Game or Concert at the Scotiabank Arena
The Scotiabank Arena, located in the heart of downtown Toronto, is the city’s premier venue for sports and entertainment events. Catch a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game, a Toronto Raptors basketball game, or see your favorite artist perform live in concert. The arena’s bustling atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities make for an unforgettable experience
8. Wander Through High Park
High Park, Toronto’s largest public park, offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Explore the park’s many walking trails, visit the High Park Zoo, or relax by the picturesque Grenadier Pond. In the spring, don’t miss the stunning cherry blossoms that attract thousands of visitors each year. The park also features an outdoor theater, playgrounds, and numerous sports facilities.
9. Savor the Flavors of Toronto's Culinary Scene
Toronto is known for its diverse and delicious culinary scene. Be sure to sample dishes from around the world at the famous St. Lawrence Market, or visit some of the city’s renowned restaurants like Canoe, Momofuku Noodle Bar, or Bar Raval. For a unique dining experience, try a meal at the CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant, offering stunning views of the city as you dine.
10. Experience Toronto's Vibrant Festivals
Toronto is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Time your visit to coincide with one of these celebrations for a truly unforgettable experience. Popular events include the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Caribana, Pride Toronto, and Nuit Blanche, an all-night contemporary art event that takes place throughout the city.
In conclusion, Toronto offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all interests. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its diverse museums and beautiful parks, the city is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. With this guide to the top 10 things to do in Toronto, you’ll be well on your way to creating lasting memories in this captivating city.
Bonus Tips:
To truly appreciate the beauty and history of Toronto, consider taking a guided walking tour. Companies like Toronto Urban Adventures and Muddy York Walking Tours offer various themed tours that showcase the city’s architecture, history, and culinary scene.
Make sure to explore the city’s rich arts and culture scene by visiting smaller museums and galleries, such as the Bata Shoe Museum, the Aga Khan Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (MOCA).
For an authentic taste of Toronto nightlife, venture beyond the popular Entertainment District to find hidden gems like the intimate jazz club The Rex, the lively dance spot The Horseshoe Tavern, or the historic cocktail bar The Drake Hotel.