Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis known for its stunning skyline, rich history, cultural attractions, and dynamic food scene. If you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to explore, there are endless activities and experiences to enjoy. From iconic landmarks and outdoor adventures to world-class museums and buzzing nightlife, this guide covers the top things to do in Toronto.

Things to Do in Toronto

1. Visit the CN Tower – Toronto’s Iconic Landmark

The CN Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Canada and a must-visit for anyone coming to Toronto. Standing at 553.3 meters (1,815 feet), the tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and Lake Ontario.

Top Attractions at the CN Tower:

• EdgeWalk – Walk hands-free along the tower’s outer ledge at 116 stories high.
• Glass Floor – Test your courage by standing on a transparent floor with a view straight down.
• 360 Restaurant – Enjoy a rotating dining experience with a panoramic view.

Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
Admission Fee: Starts at $43 CAD for adults

2. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest and most prestigious museum, showcasing art, culture, and natural history. With over six million artifacts, it’s an ideal destination for history buffs, art lovers, and families.

Must-See Exhibits:

• Fossil Gallery – Home to massive dinosaur skeletons.
• Ancient Egypt Exhibit – Features real mummies and ancient artifacts.
• Indigenous Artifacts – Showcasing First Nations history and culture.

Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto
Admission Fee: Starts at $26 CAD for adults

3. Stroll Through the Distillery District

Toronto’s Distillery District is a pedestrian-only historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and art galleries. The area was once home to the largest whiskey distillery in the British Empire and has since transformed into a hub for culture and entertainment.

Things to Do in the Distillery District:

• Explore unique shops and art studios.
• Dine at top restaurants like Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie.
• Visit the Toronto Christmas Market (November–December).

Location: 55 Mill St, Toronto
Free Entry

4. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the most renowned art museums in North America, boasting over 90,000 artworks from around the world. The gallery is known for its Canadian, Indigenous, and European art collections.

Highlights of AGO:

• The Group of Seven – Famous Canadian landscape paintings.
• Renaissance and Baroque Art – Featuring works by Rubens and Rembrandt.
• Frank Gehry-designed architecture – A stunning modern expansion.

Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto
Admission Fee: Starts at $30 CAD for adults

5. Experience the Buzz at St. Lawrence Market

A paradise for food lovers, St. Lawrence Market is one of the world’s top food markets, featuring over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.

Must-Try Foods at St. Lawrence Market:

• Peameal Bacon Sandwich – Toronto’s signature sandwich from Carousel Bakery.
• Fresh Seafood – Visit Diana’s Seafood for oysters and fish.
• Artisan Cheeses – Sample world-class cheeses at Alex Farm Products.

Location: 93 Front St E, Toronto
Free Entry

6. Take a Ferry to Toronto Islands

For a relaxing escape from the city, hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands, a group of small islands in Lake Ontario offering scenic views, parks, and beaches.

Things to Do on the Toronto Islands:

• Centre Island – Ideal for picnicking and cycling.
• Hanlan’s Point Beach – One of the city’s best sandy beaches.
• Ward’s Island – A quiet residential area with cozy cafes.

Ferry Terminal: Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W
Ferry Tickets: $9.11 CAD for adults

7. Watch a Game at Scotiabank Arena or Rogers Centre

Toronto is a city passionate about sports! If you’re a sports fan, catching a live game is an incredible experience.

Teams to Watch:

• Toronto Raptors (NBA) – Scotiabank Arena
• Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) – Scotiabank Arena
• Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) – Rogers Centre

Scotiabank Arena: 40 Bay St, Toronto
Rogers Centre: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto

8. Walk Through Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of the most eclectic and colorful neighborhoods in Toronto, known for its vintage shops, street art, and diverse food scene.

Things to Do in Kensington Market:

• Try Jamaican patties at Golden Patty.
• Shop for vintage clothing at Courage My Love.
• Explore street art murals and local markets.

Location: Augusta Ave & Baldwin St, Toronto
Free Entry

9. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Located near the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is home to over 20,000 marine creatures and features interactive underwater tunnels.

Top Attractions in the Aquarium:

• Dangerous Lagoon – A moving walkway through a tunnel filled with sharks.
• Touch Tanks – Pet stingrays and horseshoe crabs.
• Planet Jellies – A mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit.

 

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Location: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
Admission Fee: Starts at $44 CAD for adults

10. Explore High Park

For outdoor lovers, High Park is Toronto’s largest public park, featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, a zoo, and cherry blossoms in spring.

Things to Do in High Park:

• Visit the High Park Zoo (free entry).
• Walk along the Grenadier Pond.
• Enjoy a picnic under cherry blossom trees (April–May).

Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto
Free Entry

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Toronto

1. What Are the Top Attractions to Visit in Toronto?

Toronto is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions. Some must-visit spots include:

• CN Tower – One of the tallest towers in the world with breathtaking views.
• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – A top museum for history and art lovers.
• Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – Home to thousands of marine creatures.
• Distillery District – A historic area with shops, art, and restaurants.
• Toronto Islands – A peaceful escape with beaches and parks.

2. What Outdoor Activities Can I Do in Toronto?

If you love the outdoors, Toronto offers plenty of activities:

• Explore High Park – Toronto’s largest green space, great for walking and picnics.
• Visit the Toronto Islands – Rent a bike, go kayaking, or relax on the beach.
• Stroll through Kensington Market – A vibrant neighborhood with unique shops and street art.
• Walk along the Harbourfront – Enjoy waterfront views and cafes.
• Hike the Scarborough Bluffs – Stunning cliffs and beaches along Lake Ontario.

3. Is Toronto Expensive for Tourists?

Toronto can be pricey, but there are budget-friendly options:

• Free Attractions: High Park, Distillery District, and St. Lawrence Market.
• Public Transport: The TTC (subway, buses, streetcars) is affordable.
• CityPASS: Save money on top attractions with a bundled ticket.
• Cheap Eats: Try food trucks, Chinatown, and Kensington Market for budget meals.

4. What Are the Best Museums in Toronto?

Toronto has some of the best museums in Canada:

• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – History, art, and dinosaur fossils.
• Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) – Featuring works by famous artists.
• Hockey Hall of Fame – A must-visit for hockey fans.
• Ontario Science Centre – Interactive exhibits for families and science lovers.

5. What Is the Best Time to Visit Toronto?

• Summer (June–August): Warm weather, festivals, and outdoor events.
• Fall (September–November): Beautiful autumn colors, fewer crowds.
• Winter (December–February): Great for winter activities like skating at Nathan Phillips Square.
• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms in High Park and mild temperatures.

6. Where Can I Find the Best Views of Toronto?

• CN Tower – 360-degree city views.
• Polson Pier – Stunning skyline views, especially at sunset.
• Toronto Islands – Best spot for a panoramic view of the city.
• Scarborough Bluffs – Scenic cliffs overlooking Lake Ontario.

7. What Are the Best Day Trips from Toronto?

• Niagara Falls – Just 90 minutes away, one of the world’s most famous waterfalls.
• Blue Mountain – Great for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
• Prince Edward County – Wine country with beautiful scenery.
• Algonquin Park – A nature lover’s paradise for canoeing and wildlife spotting.

8. What Are the Best Neighborhoods to Explore?

• Distillery District – Historic charm with great restaurants and shops.
• Kensington Market – Artsy and eclectic, with vintage stores and food spots.
• Yorkville – Upscale shopping and luxury dining.
• Queen Street West – Trendy area with boutiques, cafes, and street art.
• Chinatown – A hub for amazing Asian cuisine.

9. What Is Toronto Known for Food-Wise?

Toronto is a foodie’s dream with a mix of cultures and flavors:

• Peameal Bacon Sandwich – A Toronto specialty found at St. Lawrence Market.
• Poutine – Fries with cheese curds and gravy.
• Butter Tart – A classic Canadian dessert.
• Jamaican Patties – Popular grab-and-go snack.
• International Cuisine – From authentic Chinese to Middle Eastern, Toronto has it all.

10. What Festivals and Events Should I Check Out?

• Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – One of the world’s top film festivals.
• Caribana Festival – North America’s largest Caribbean festival.
• Pride Toronto – A massive celebration of LGBTQ+ culture.
• Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) – A summer fair with rides, games, and food.
• Winter Festivals – Cavalcade of Lights and Christmas Markets.

Final Thoughts

Toronto is a city full of excitement, culture, and adventure. If you’re into history, food, art, or outdoor activities, there’s always something to explore. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower to hidden gems like Kensington Market, every corner of the city offers a unique experience.