Attractions
Toronto, one of Canada’s most vibrant cities, has exciting attractions for people of all ages. From world-class museums like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario to the bustling nightlife of Yonge-Dundas Square, there are plenty of things to do in Toronto.
Let’s explore some of the city’s most popular attractions:
CN Tower
The CN Tower is an iconic feature of the Toronto skyline, standing 553 meters tall at the south end of the city’s downtown core. It is a symbol of quality and safety in entertainment, a provider of panoramic views, breathtaking experiences, and excitement, with observation decks offering indoor and outdoor viewing platforms.
One of Toronto’s true gems on Lake Ontario is at the base of CN Tower. The CN Tower features a variety of attractions and events to explore, including the EdgeWalk – North America’s only hands-free walk on a building’s roofline encircling the top deck. You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – harnessed securely and guided by experienced professionals who provide info about local attractions such as Stadium Shopping Area below, Toronto Islands, Centre Island beach, and many more.
Visitors to CN Tower can also experience their glass floor, a one-floor level below their main observation deck, allowing visitors to look through a clear glass bottom for a fantastic view beyond 114 stories above ground. There’re also plenty of excellent restaurants that offer amazing views along with upscale eats like revolving 360 Restaurant for exceptional Canadian cuisine; Horizons Café for great coffee or drinks; Ultimate Movie Suites Lounge offering movies/documentaries along with drinks/snacks; specialized tours including Glass Floor Experience Tour; daily fireworks show from May 18th–September 2nd; two interactive multimedia theaters showcasing Canada’s history –all these are ways that ensure you make most out your visit to CN Tower!
Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the best attractions in Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown, this unique museum offers a wealth of knowledge about Ontario’s natural history and culture. Visitors can explore more than 40 galleries and exhibitions highlighting artifacts from around the globe and spanning centuries. The museum is renowned for its dinosaurs, gems, minerals, wildlife, and Indigenous art collections.
The Royal Ontario Museum also offers other unique experiences for visitors. Some special events include free lectures, music performances, artisan markets, and film screenings throughout the year. From May to October every year, visitors can experience live music at “Muse Live” on select Fridays from 7-9 pm. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a romantic date night with a three-course dinner in the museum’s elegant upscale restaurant, C5 Restaurant Bar & Lounge.
The Royal Ontario Museum is truly one of Canada’s great museums providing an entire day’s worth of engaging exhibits and activities that will appeal to people from all ages and walks of life.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is one of the premier attractions in Toronto and can be found at the base of the CN Tower. This family-friendly destination offers a unique look at aquatic life from all over the world. With 11,500 square meters (123,645 sq ft) of space, this aquarium boasts over 13000 aquatic animals representing 450 species from around the globe.
The aquarium comprises seven galleries with immersive experiences like simulated ocean environments, touch tanks, and interactive displays for guests to engage with during their visit. It is open year-round and provides educational programs about different types of fish, sharks, jellyfish, and more. So whether you are a first-time visitor or a local looking for a weekend activity, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is an excellent choice for families and tourists!
Shopping & Dining
Toronto is an excellent city for shopping and dining. From upscale malls to local boutiques, there is something for everyone. Plus, the city has some incredible restaurants offering cuisine worldwide.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the top shopping and dining spots in Toronto, Canada:
Kensington Market
Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods, located in downtown Toronto near Chinatown and the University of Toronto. Known for its colorful Victorian houses, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries, it’s a great place to explore and experience the city’s culture.
Kensington Market is home to some of Toronto’s best local stores and eateries, including vintage clothing stores, specialty food stores, artisanal chocolate shops, ethnic grocers, independent cafes, and restaurants serving a mix of cuisines from around the world. The neighborhood is also known for its unique street art and vibrant festivals, such as Pedestrian Sunday, when car traffic is banned, making the streets accessible to pedestrians only.
In addition to shopping and dining experiences in Kensington Market, visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural attractions, including:
- Art galleries
- Music venues
- Theatres
- Artist studios
The area also regularly hosts community events like talks by local writers or musical performances in back alleys. So whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or want to taste the local culture – Kensington Market has something for everyone!
Lawrence Market
Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is essential to Toronto’s history, culture, and economy. Located in the heart of the city’s Old Town district, the vibrant marketplace offers fresh food items, local goods, and handmade crafts from independent merchants.
The world-renowned historic building and its neighborhood are visited by over 30 million people each year, making it one of Toronto’s top tourist attractions. Inside you’ll find the South Market Building, North Market Building, and St. Lawrence Hall – three unique shops house over 120 merchants under one roof!
Aside from shopping for local goods – visitors can enjoy a wide variety of dining options, including an international food court featuring cuisine from around the world, such as sushi, Indian cuisine, and pizza! Established restaurants like Carousel Bakery are also in the market, serving freshly made treats such as their famous Pecan Conch Shells or Kouign-Amann French pastry. Other notable venues include Carvery & Co., Super Point Restaurant, and Fabbrica Restaurant & Bar, where guests can experience delicious prepared gourmet meals made with fresh produce from the market’s farmers. From breakfasts to late-night snacks, travelers will be sure to find something to satisfy their appetite all day at St. Lawrence Market!
Distillery District
The Distillery District is a historic area where visitors can explore old-world shops, galleries, restaurants, and more in Toronto. It’s easily one of the city’s best places to visit (and experience!).
Originally built as a whiskey distillery in 1846 by entrepreneur Edward Massey, the district is now home to an array of unique stores and businesses. During the day, visitors can peruse the boutiques, take a guided tour through its cobblestone streets, or grab lunch at one of its many eateries. At night, The Distillery District comes alive with its vibrant live music scene and late-night entertainment — there’s something for everyone!
In addition to being home to some of Toronto’s most historic buildings, The Distillery District also has many art galleries displaying local works. Visitors can also find beautiful sculptures throughout the area and two contemporary art galleries: The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery and 1185 Design Studio.
Public square performances are frequent throughout the year — from theatre shows to fitness clubs — as well as festivals such as Tastes of the Danforth and Summerlicious providing something different for everyone. With its unique shopping experiences, event scenery, dining options (including many gluten-free foods), and surrounding parks and gardens, The Distillery District is an unmissable gem for any tourist looking for adventure in Toronto!
Entertainment
Toronto is known for its diverse range of entertainment activities. From visiting art galleries and museums to watching live performances and trying local cuisines, there is something for everyone.
In this section, let’s discover some of the best entertainment activities that can be experienced in Toronto, Canada:
Ed Mirvish Theatre
Ed Mirvish Theatre is one of Toronto’s most beloved theatrical institutions. Opened in 1960 as the ‘Royal Alexandra Theatre,’ it has since been a central hub for live entertainment, showcasing Broadway-style musicals, guest presentations, and community performances. In addition, its classic wood-paneled interior has hosted traditional plays and musicals, groundbreaking new work, and diverse cultural programming.
In addition to its sterling reputation for theatrical excellence, the Ed Mirvish Theatre stands out due to its convenient location in the heart of downtown Toronto on King Street West. Attracting locals and tourists alike with its attractive stone exterior and stately marquee, the ‘Royal Alex’ consistently fills its 1,450 seats with people eager to experience world-class entertainment.
The beautiful venue has recently been renovated, utilizing modern design elements while retaining its classic look – making it ideal for enjoying a well-rounded variety of traditional and contemporary plays brought to life by world-class actors. So whether you are looking for family-friendly fun or hoping to be moved by a spellbinding production, you’ll find something to love at Ed Mirvish Theatre.
Roy Thomson Hall
Roy Thomson Hall is a stunning live concert venue in downtown Toronto, Canada. Opened in 1982, it is the city’s largest and most acoustically advanced concert hall. It is renowned for classical music performances and hosts contemporary concerts, comedy acts, and other events.
This striking facility features 2,630 seats on four levels, plus additional boxes that ring the hall’s walls. Its floor area has seating on all sides of the stage with no pillars obstructing sight lines, ensuring a great view from any seat in the house! The building also contains rehearsal halls and recording studios and features North America’s first computer-controlled acoustic system that adjusts sound balances to suit any performance.
With world-class acoustics and programming featuring some of the top performers from around the globe, Roy Thomson Hall continues to be one of Toronto’s favorite entertainment venues. So whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or want to experience an unforgettable performance, Roy Thomson Hall will deliver something memorable!
TIFF Bell Lightbox
One of the most popular places to visit in Toronto, especially for movie lovers, is the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Owned by the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), this five-story entertainment and cultural venue showcases some of the best in Canadian and international cinema. Located in downtown Toronto near popular attractions such as CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, it has become an integral part of Toronto’s entertainment scene.
The venue has numerous amenities and activities to offer its patrons. On offer are various theatres, each with its distinct decor featuring a state-of-the-art projection system for screening current releases and repertory favorites. Aside from providing screening capabilities, the TIFF Bell Lightbox also offers year-round programming onsite at its five-story facility and in small venues across the city. Offering many film screenings, educational programs, and exhibitions related to film, photography, and art, there is always something new to explore at this unique venue.
In addition to offering an array of educational programs about film history & appreciation, TIFF Bell Lightbox has permanent galleries that feature rotating exhibitions reflecting on movies, filmmakers & actors while introducing visitors to acclaimed contemporary artists worldwide. Guests can also experience interactive virtual reality experiences providing insight into what goes on behind the scenes of filmmaking or enjoy star-studded gala events associated with the TIFF International Film Festival held yearly at The Long Room within the building complex!
Outdoor Activities
Toronto is a great place to explore and experience the outdoors. From walks and hikes along the city’s beautiful lakefront to biking along the scenic trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air.
In this section, we will discuss the best outdoor activities and attractions that you can enjoy in Toronto, Canada:
High Park
High Park is a scenic urban park in the North-West part of Toronto. It spans 161 hectares (400 acres) with plenty of attractions to explore and natural beauty to enjoy while participating in numerous outdoor activities in the park.
Popular activities include roaming the many trails and pathways, admiring various trees ranging from native species to international varieties, visiting spring gardens, practicing wildlife photography, and more. High Park is ideal for cyclists due to its proximity to downtown Toronto and its flat terrain. Other pastimes include fishing in Grenadier Pond or picnicking in the lush green meadows. There are also nature programs for kids, including Young Naturalists Club, which provides hands-on forest exploration and discovery opportunities!
High Park is an excellent place for visitors looking to escape busy city life, as many find solace here thanks to its serene environment. Popular events include Roncy Rocks Music Festivals, Shakespeare by Yanagi Theater Company, and Engagement Planting events! In winter, you can take part in outdoor ice skating at High Park’s whimsical outdoor ice rinks – or take a stroll across High Park’s trails that provide breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline. But no matter when you come or what activity you’d like to partake in, High Park offers something magical for everyone!
Toronto Islands
Toronto Islands are a chain of small islands in Lake Ontario located just offshore from downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The islands form a leisure and natural park, North America’s largest urban car-free area. They are connected by a series of bridges and boardwalks and make for a great day trip with plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation – from strolls along the lake to sunbathing at one of Toronto’s best beaches.
In addition to its stunning shoreline, the vast parklands on the islands are home to some unique ecosystems and wildlife, including breeding colonies of herons and gulls. Visitors can explore trails winding through wooded areas, take guided kayak tours around the islands, or sit back and appreciate beautiful city skyline views.
Various attractions on Toronto Islands cater to all kinds of interests, such as Centreville Amusement Park with its family rides, shops, and restaurants or Hanlan’s Point Beach – an optional clothing beach at its far western end. Other outdoor activities include:
- Tennis courts
- Fishing sites
- Beach volleyball courts
- Splash pads
- Basketball court
One section also features an outdoor public swimming pool – making it an ideal location for swimming enthusiasts looking for one more way to make their day at Toronto Islands memorable!
Harbourfront Centre
Harbourfront Centre is a hub for Toronto’s outdoor culture, with over 10 acres of parkland and attractions for the whole family. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, Harbourfront Centre offers plenty of activities, from live music and theatre performances to educational programs and sporting events. With something for everyone — sunglasses-clad beach-goers to cultural tourists – visitors can enjoy walking paths, a sandy beach, and outdoor sculptures, all with breathtaking views of Lake Ontario.
The venue has hosted significant festivals and events like Terry Fox Run, Canada Music Week, WorldPride 2014, Field Trip Festival, and Scotiabank Nuit Blanche. In addition to swimming in Lake Ontario or taking a stroll down the boardwalk, visitors can try their hand at windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding at their water sports school or take part in their many public fitness classes, which include yoga, tai chi, dance fitness classes, and so much more. Plus, they also have exclusive programs such as Summer in the city that are available only during July and August and tons of other exciting activities throughout the year!
Cultural Sites
Toronto is a bustling city with a unique culture. There are numerous cultural sites to explore, from historic sites to art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. From the iconic CN Tower to the historic Fort York, Toronto offers plenty of attractions that will capture the interest of locals and travelers alike. Let us explore some of the best cultural sites the city has to offer:
Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), located in Toronto, Canada, is one of the most extensive galleries in North America. It houses an impressive collection of over 95,000 works of art dating back to the first century CE and representing every significant cultural period up to the present day. The permanent collection includes pieces from notable artists such as Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, Salvador Dalí, Emily Carr, Tom Thomson, and Paul Gauguin, alongside a great selection of contemporary artworks from Hopiakuta Group, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, and other renowned contemporaries.
The AGO also features 38 unique galleries showcasing its outstanding permanent collection and five rotating temporary installations by leading international artists. In addition, visitors can explore the gallery’s diverse holdings through its groundbreaking architectural design featuring indoor and outdoor spaces such as Walker Court and Henry Moore Sculpture Centre and more intimate settings with art-viewing benches spread throughout the gallery space.
The ever-changing nature of AGO’s programming makes it a must-see destination for both local citizens and international visitors alike!
Bata Shoe Museum
The Bata Shoe Museum is a popular Toronto tourist destination located in the historic district of downtown Toronto. The museum offers a fascinating look at footwear from across the globe and throughout history. With more than 13,000 shoes and artifacts on display, the museum tells the stories of how footwear has shaped cultures and influenced societal customs.
You’ll find shoes that range in design from Egyptian sandals to modern designer high heels. Some of these shoes have been worn by celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Elton John, and Princess Diana – others have been handed down through generations of family members. With three main galleries focusing on different aspects of shoe history – such as technological development, regional styles, celebrity fashion, and more – the Bata Shoe Museum provides visitors with an intriguing look at one of man’s most essential accessories.
The Bata Shoe Museum boasts several interactive exhibits for children, including a scavenger hunt with small rewards for completion, which keep kids engaged during their visit. So whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for something interesting, two hours of strolling around this unique museum will be an enjoyable experience!
Gardiner Museum
The Gardiner Museum, located in Toronto, Canada, is the only museum dedicated to ceramics. With over 2500 pieces of international ceramics spanning six centuries, visitors can explore a range of ceramic art from all corners of the world.
George and Helen Gardiner founded the museum in 1984, and since then, it has become one of the most important places to explore and appreciate ceramic arts. From traditional utilitarian items like earthenware bowls to modern masterpieces crafted from porcelain, contemporary sculptural works made from stoneware clay, delicate wares designed for formal display on tables or shelves, and much more, there’s something for every visitor.
Visitors can also check out rotating exhibitions that illustrate particular moments in ceramic history and lectures and courses about design issues surrounding ceramics today. There are even family-friendly activities, such as guided tours through the galleries, to help children learn about different cultures’ histories through pottery and decorative arts. So if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience while visiting Toronto, don’t miss the unforgettable Gardiner Museum!