Top 15 Things to Do in Toronto: Tourist Guide

Welcome to Toronto, Canada’s most dynamic metropolis! This vibrant city offers an incredible array of things to do. It has attractions that blend urban excitement with cultural richness.

My personal journey through Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods revealed a stunning tapestry of experiences. Toronto’s activities range from iconic landmarks to hidden cultural gems. This city promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors and locals alike.

Toronto’s unique character emerges through its architectural marvels, multicultural neighborhoods, and world-class attractions. From the soaring CN Tower to the historic Distillery District, each destination tells a compelling story of this remarkable Canadian metropolis.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 15 most incredible experiences in Toronto. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these attractions will help you uncover the magic of Toronto. It’s a truly world-class destination.

Explore the Iconic CN Tower

The CN Tower is a stunning landmark in Toronto’s skyline. It stands at 553.33 meters tall, captivating visitors’ hearts. Built in 1976, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. It offers a unique entertainment experience that’s more than just sightseeing.

At the CN Tower, you’ll find excitement at every level. The glass elevators take you up fast, reaching the top in 58 seconds. You’ll feel like you’re flying.

Enjoy the View from the LookOut

The LookOut Level offers a 360-degree view of Toronto from 346 meters up. You’ll see:

Glass Floor experience (supporting weight equivalent to 14 large hippos)
Panoramic city and Lake Ontario views
Interactive displays about Toronto’s landscape

Dine at 360 Restaurant

Food lovers will enjoy the 360 Restaurant. It rotates every 72 minutes, giving you new views with every meal. Dining here is 351 meters above ground, a unique experience.

Experience the EdgeWalk

For thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk is a must. You’ll walk on a narrow ledge around the tower’s main pod, 356 meters up. Tickets start at $195 CAD, a challenge for the brave.

Whether you’re new to Toronto or a regular visitor, the CN Tower is unforgettable. It’s a journey through Toronto’s most iconic landmark.

Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

Explore a world of wonder at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). It’s Canada’s largest and most captivating museum. Opened in 1914, it takes you on a journey through time, art, and natural history. Toronto tours often include the ROM as a top spot for all ages.

The museum has over 13 million objects. It’s a vast collection of global knowledge. With galleries on five floors, you can see many exhibits that spark curiosity and imagination. It’s a great place for Toronto family fun, where kids and adults can marvel together.

Discover Diverse Exhibits

ROM’s exhibits are truly spectacular. You can see amazing collections in many areas:

James and Louise Temerty Galleries of the Age of Dinosaurs
Teck Suite of Galleries featuring minerals and gems
Daphne Cockwell Gallery showing cultural heritage
Bishop White Gallery with medieval murals
Ancient Egyptian artifacts, including an 850 BCE sarcophagus

Participate in Educational Programs

The museum offers exciting educational experiences. These programs are designed for all interests and ages. They make learning fun for the whole family in Toronto.

Here are some practical details:

Adult admission: $26.00
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Accessibility features available
CityPASS® ticket options for savings

Whether you love history, science, or just want a memorable family outing, the Royal Ontario Museum is a must-see. It offers an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Stroll Through the Distillery District

Explore a magical part of Toronto in the city’s oldest neighborhood. The Distillery District turns a Victorian-era industrial area into a lively cultural spot. It’s a place where history meets modern creativity, captivating both visitors and locals.

This area is special because it’s only for pedestrians. It has amazing 19th-century buildings, giving you a unique experience. With over 40 unique shops, it’s a top spot for entertainment in Toronto, unlike any other shopping place.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Explore over 40 creative boutiques featuring local artisan crafts
Browse art galleries showing off different artistic styles
Find unique items from local designers

Culinary Delights

Food lovers will love the district’s food scene. The Mill Street Brew Pub serves organic craft beers. Izumi Brewery has Toronto’s biggest sake selection. Plus, there are seasonal markets with live music and local goods.

Don’t miss the Distillery Winter Village with its lights and festive vibe. The Fall Market is also a must-see, with pumpkin-spiced treats and fresh flowers.

Practical Visitor Information

Open 364 days per year
Walking tours available through Go Tours Canada
Special events all year round

Looking for something special to do in Toronto? The Distillery District offers a memorable mix of history and modern fun.

Relax in High Park

High Park is a gem in Toronto, covering 399 acres of green space. It’s a big escape from the city’s noise, perfect for family fun and exploring outdoors.

The park is full of attractions. It has a free mini-zoo, 18 picnic spots, and sports fields. There’s also a playground designed with kids in mind.

A free mini-zoo open from 7 am until dusk
18 designated picnic areas
Tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields
Jamie Bell Adventure Playground designed with children’s input

Visit the Cherry Blossom Trees

Spring turns High Park into a stunning sight with pink and white blossoms. The Sakura trees bloom in late April to early May. This draws thousands of visitors for a week.

Explore the Zoo

The High Park Zoo is a hit with families, welcoming about 600,000 visitors each year. It started as a deer paddock in 1893. Now, it’s home to llamas, peacocks, and more. Kids can see animals up close, and parents learn something new.

There’s more to do in High Park than the zoo. Guided walks and the Nature Centre offer fun for all ages. The Nature Centre has eco-camps, cooking classes, and gardening workshops.

Take a Walk on Toronto Islands

Escape the busy city and find a hidden paradise just a short ferry ride away. The Toronto Islands offer a unique sightseeing experience that feels far from the mainland. With 15 small islands, this car-free community is a special urban adventure for everyone.

The islands are known as Mnisiing, a sacred place for the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. They are the largest car-free urban area in North America. Here, you can find a peaceful escape from city life.

Exploring the Islands

There are many exciting things to do on the islands:

Bike rentals for exploring 5 km of scenic pathways
Kayaking around the picturesque shoreline
Visiting four beautiful urban beaches
Exploring the historic Gibraltar Point Lighthouse

Outdoor Adventures and Attractions

The islands have great recreational facilities, including:

An 18-hole disc golf course
Two baseball diamonds
Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts
Centreville Amusement Park for family fun

Practical tips for your visit: Take the ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. It goes to Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point. Adult ferry tickets cost around $9, and the ride is just 15 minutes.

Looking for relaxation, adventure, or a unique view of Toronto? The islands offer an unforgettable experience. They show the city’s diverse and vibrant spirit.

Discover the Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto is a cultural gem. It turns art into an unforgettable experience. Located in the city’s heart, it’s a top art spot in North America.

The AGO has an amazing collection of art. With nearly 100,000 pieces, it showcases art from all over and through time. Toronto tours often include this museum as a key cultural spot.

Explore Canadian and International Artwork

Art lovers will find the museum’s collections amazing. They include:

The world’s largest Indigenous art collection
Significant African art holdings
The remarkable Thomson Collection featuring 2,000 exceptional works
An unparalleled collection of Henry Moore sculptures

Attend Special Exhibitions

The AGO brings top exhibitions to Toronto. You can see works by Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, and Yayoi Kusama. There are:

Rotating special exhibitions
Online art courses
Interactive events for all ages

Museum Highlights	Details
Founded	1900
Collection Span	100 A.D. to present day
Architectural Design	Frank Gehry expansion (2008)
Free Admission	Visitors 25 and under

Whether you love art deeply or just enjoy it, the AGO offers a rich experience. It’s a highlight among Toronto’s attractions and a key spot for cultural exploration.

Experience the Vibrant Kensington Market

Kensington Market is in the heart of Toronto. It shows the city’s diverse culture. This historic area turns entertainment into a real experience for everyone.

It was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 2006. The market has a history from the 1800s. Its colorful Victorian houses and shops tell stories of immigrant communities.

Taste International Cuisines

Kensington Market is a dream for food lovers. It has a wide range of international dishes:

El Trompo: A family-owned Mexican restaurant in the market’s heart
Hungary Thai: A 25-year fixture serving fusion cuisine
The Film Cafe: Offers all-day breakfast and international street foods

Restaurant	Specialty	Years Active
El Trompo	Mexican Cuisine	Family-owned
Hungary Thai	Fusion Cuisine	25 Years
The Film Cafe	International Street Food	Local Favorite

Explore Vintage Shops

Shopping in Kensington Market is an adventure. Stores like Courage My Love (founded in 1975) and Mama Loves You have treasures from different times. They attract fashion lovers and collectors.

The market’s Pedestrian Sundays (last Sunday of each month from May to October) are special. They turn the area into a car-free zone with live music. It’s a top spot for a true Toronto experience.

Tour the Historic Casa Loma

Casa Loma is in the heart of Toronto, a stunning architectural wonder. It changes the city’s sightseeing scene. This castle is North America’s only full-sized castle, showing early 20th-century luxury and grandeur.

Built from 1911 to 1914, Casa Loma is an engineering and design marvel. It covers almost 200,000 square feet and cost $3,500,000 to build. With 98 rooms and a Great Hall with a 60-foot ceiling, it’s a symbol of architectural dreams.

Exploring the Magnificent Grounds

The castle’s five-acre grounds have beautifully designed gardens. These gardens attract sightseeing fans. You can see:

Walled botanical gardens
Rare orchid collections
Stunning chrysanthemum displays
Picturesque landscape designs

Uncovering Rich Historical Narratives

Casa Loma’s history is as captivating as its design. Some key historical points include:

It was built by Sir Henry Pellatt, who once hosted 600 military personnel.
It has been in many Hollywood films like X-Men and RoboCop.
It had a full-body shower, a revolutionary feature at the time.
It has an 800-foot underground tunnel to the stables.

With over 650,000 visitors a year, Casa Loma charms everyone. Adult tickets cost $44.49, making it a memorable visit to Toronto’s landmark.

Attend a Sports Game

Toronto is alive with sports excitement, giving fans a top-notch entertainment experience. The city’s sports culture makes game nights unforgettable. These events touch the hearts of fans and visitors alike.

Toronto has a great lineup of professional sports teams. They create an electric atmosphere for fans. Whether it’s baseball or hockey, there’s always something thrilling to watch.

Cheer for the Toronto Blue Jays

Baseball fans will love Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. As Canada’s only MLB team, they have a rich history. They won World Series titles in 1992 and 1993.

Watch games from April to October
Enjoy spectacular city skyline views
Experience $1 hot dog nights on Tuesdays

Support the Toronto Maple Leafs

Hockey fans should check out the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Even without a championship win in 50 years, their fans are incredibly passionate.

Team	League	Championships
Toronto Maple Leafs	NHL	13 (last in 1967)
Toronto Blue Jays	MLB	2 (1992, 1993)
Toronto Raptors	NBA	1 (2019)

Whether you’re a sports fanatic or just like to watch, Toronto has something for you. Wear your team colors, join the crowd, and dive into the city’s lively sports culture.

Visit the Toronto Eaton Centre

Discover the heartbeat of Toronto entertainment at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre. It’s a shopping destination that’s more than just a mall. This iconic landmark spans two downtown city blocks and attracts an impressive 48 million visitors annually. It’s the busiest shopping center in North America.

Located at 220 Yonge Street, the Eaton Centre offers an unparalleled toronto activities experience. It’s perfect for both locals and tourists. With over 230 retailers, the mall provides a shopping paradise for every taste and budget.

Shop at Major Retail Chains

Shoppers can explore an extensive range of stores. Notable additions like Nordstrom and Uniqlo are now part of the mall. The mall’s impressive architecture, modeled after a Milanese galleria, creates a stunning backdrop for your shopping adventure.

Over 230 stores and services
High-end designer boutiques
Popular retail chains
Convenient location in downtown Toronto

Enjoy Dining Options

The Eaton Centre isn’t just about shopping – it’s a culinary destination. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of dining experiences. From quick bites to sit-down restaurants, it reflects Toronto’s multicultural spirit.

Practical details for your visit:

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Sunday hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the mall
Accessible via Dundas or Queen subway stops

Whether you’re a serious shopper or just looking to experience Toronto’s urban pulse, the Eaton Centre offers something for everyone. It’s more than a shopping destination – it’s a vibrant social hub that captures the essence of the city.

Discover the Toronto Science Centre

Are you searching for a top spot for family fun in Toronto? The Ontario Science Centre is a treasure trove of discovery. It offers over 500 interactive experiences that spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Opened in 1969, it has been a hub for scientific exploration for over 50 years.

The Science Centre’s highlight is its IMAX Dome Theatre. It offers an immersive experience with 44 speakers and 13,000 watts of sound. There are ten exhibit halls with interactive stations, including the KidSpark area for kids under eight. It can welcome up to 10,000 visitors across six levels, making it a unique educational adventure.

The centre is home to a living rainforest exhibit and a 464-year-old Douglas Fir in the Forest Lane exhibit. Every corner is a chance to learn and have fun. It also offers programs like the Science School for STEM credits and special experiences like overnight stays with a DJ-PJ dance party.

If you love science or just want a fun family outing, the Toronto Science Centre is the place to be. Tip: Buy tickets online early and visit after 4 p.m. on Saturdays to avoid crowds and enjoy more of your visit!

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Toronto?

Toronto is great all year, but summer is the best. It’s warm and perfect for outdoor fun. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, and winter is great for ice skating and festivals. Fall is lovely with its colors and comfortable weather.

How do I get around Toronto?

Toronto’s public transport is top-notch, with subways, streetcars, and buses. It’s also easy to walk around. You can use ride-sharing or rent a bike. Ferries are good for getting to the islands.

Is Toronto expensive for tourists?

Toronto can be pricey, but you can find deals. Many places like High Park are free. Affordable food spots are in areas like Kensington Market. Look for deals on attractions and tours to save money. There are options for every budget when it comes to staying.

What are the must-try foods in Toronto?

Toronto’s food scene is amazing. Try peameal bacon sandwiches and street food in Kensington Market. Don’t miss dim sum in Chinatown and Canadian poutine. From fancy restaurants to street food, there’s something for everyone.

Is Toronto safe for tourists?

Toronto is very safe, one of the safest big cities. Just be aware of your surroundings and take care. Tourist spots are safe, and locals are friendly and helpful.

What are some free attractions in Toronto?

Toronto has lots of free spots, like High Park and the Distillery District. Visit public beaches on the Toronto Islands and free art galleries. Many museums offer free entry at certain times. Explore neighborhoods like Kensington Market for free.

How many days should I plan for a Toronto visit?

Aim for 4-5 days to see the main sights. You can visit the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and Toronto Islands. Don’t miss Kensington Market and a sports game or event. For a deeper dive, plan a week-long trip.