Choose from 71 Fun Things to Do in Ontario
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 71 listings.
Harbourfront Centre
Occupying a prime 10-acre (4-hectare) site on the edge of Lake Ontario, the nonprofit Harbourfront Centre offers a jam-packed year-round program of events. The complex comprises more than 30 sights, including parks, outdoor and indoor performance venues, squares, art galleries, a boardwalk, artist studios, restaurants, and retail outlets.
The Basics
With around 4,000 events scheduled every year, Toronto visitors will always find something happening at Harbourfront Centre. Even if you don’t plan on gallery-hopping or attending a performance, it’s worth coming if only to stroll along the boardwalk and admire the waterfront views. You can access Harbourfront Centre easily via hop-on hop-off bus tours of the city. Boats also depart from the marinas here, taking passengers on cruises around Toronto Harbour, to the Toronto Islands, and—in some cases—offering brunch, lunch, or even dinner and dancing on-board.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Check the event schedule to find out what is happening during your visit.
- Bundle up as it can be colder by the water, particularly in winter.
- Harbourfront Centre is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Harbourfront Centre is situated on Queen’s Quay West near Toronto’s Entertainment District. Take the 509 Harbourfront or 510 Spadina streetcar to the Harbourfront Centre stop. The nearest subway stop is Union Station (line 1 Yonge-University), about a 5-minute walk away.
When to Get There
Harbourfront Centre is busiest on summer weekends, though the buzzy atmosphere and sheer number of activities taking place on these days also makes it a fun time to visit. In the evening, the boardwalk is a prime spot for a sunset stroll.
Things to Do at the Harbourfront Centre
Crowds flock here to catch performances at the 1,300-seat Concert Stage, the Stage in the Round, and the outdoor amphitheater at Toronto Music Garden, whose swirling landscape design was inspired by J.S. Bach’s well-known cello “Suite No. 1 in G Major.” Exhibition Common hosts markets and activities such as yoga classes; the Power Plant Gallery showcases contemporary art from Canada and beyond; the Bill Boyle Artport features artists’ studios, and hosts craft and design courses; and Natural Pond is a hive of activity year-round, with paddleboaters in summer and ice skaters in winter.
Address: Harbourfront, Downtown, Toronto, Canada
Hours: Hours vary by attraction
Admission: Free
From $ 22
Great Canadian Midway
With more than 3,000 arcade games spread out in a massive entertainment center, there’s more than enough to do at this spot just outside Niagara Falls. With vibrant colors and lights and games for all ages, it’s an interactive experience that brings out your competitive side as you compete for tickets that can be redeemed for prizes.
Outside of classic games such as Skee Ball and Roll-A-Ball, there are many classic consoles, a Wild West Coaster Motion Simulator, and a thrilling Ghost Blasters Dark Ride. The Wild West ride features 6D motion with state-of-the-art special effects, including the feel of wind and lightning. The Ghost Blasters ride is an interactive experience that winds through the darkness of a haunted house and includes laser guns.
The arcade’s many activities are particularly popular with children and families. Passes are available that include access to other nearby attractions.
Practical Info
The Great Canadian Midway is located at the bottom of Clifton Hill just one block away from Niagara Falls. There are other entertainment options located in the same area, and many combine their visit to the arcade with one of the nearby rides or mini-golf courses. Tokens must be purchased in order to play each game and costs vary.
Address: 4850 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Hours: Mon-Fri from 10am-2am, Sat-Sun from 9am-2am
Admission: Free; individual game costs vary
From $ 26
Canadian Museum of History
Previously known as the Canadian Museum of Civilization, this cutting-edge museum—just five minutes from downtown Ottawa—underwent a name change and a significant overhaul between 2013 and 2017. The museum’s high-tech exhibitions now tell the history of Canada and its peoples, from the earliest human inhabitants to the present day.
The Basics
The Canadian Museum of History is one of Canada’s largest museums, attracting millions of tourists every year. Museum tickets, which you can book in advance, provide access to all the museum’s galleries, including the Canadian History Hall; the First Peoples Hall; the Grand Hall, which focuses on the First Peoples of Canada’s Pacific Coast; and the on-site Canadian Children’s Museum. Tickets also allow entry to select educational shows at the museum’s 295-seat CINÉ+ movie theater.
The museum is a common stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours of Ottawa and during Ottawa day tours from Montreal. If you plan on museum-hopping, you may want to purchase Canada’s National Museums Passport, which including admission to any three of the six participating national museums over three consecutive days.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Canadian Museum of History is a must-see for history and culture buffs, and for families, with the on-site children’s museum showcasing the various cultures and countries of the world.
- To help find your way around, download or pick up a copy of the Museum Guide at the information desk.
- The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchairs and strollers are available free of charge at the coat check.
- Allow at least three hours to properly explore the museum.
How to Get There
The Canadian Museum of History is in Hull, Gatineau, just across the Ottawa River from downtown Ottawa. During the summer, the Aqua Taxi ferry travels between the Ottawa Locks and the far side of the river. Walking from Parliament Hill takes around 30 minutes.
When to Get There
The Canadian Museum of History is busiest on weekends, with tourist crowds peaking during the summer months. Come around 9am (opening) to get a head start on the crowds.
An Architectural Marvel
As impressive as the collections and exhibits of the museum are, the building that houses them is perhaps equally so. Designed by architect Douglas Cardinal, the curving stone structure symbolizes abstract representations of parts of the Canadian landscape, including the Canadian Shield, glaciers, glacial streams, and the Great Plains. From the museum complex, visitors are treated to excellent views of Parliament Hill across the way.
Address: 100 Rue Laurier, Ottawa QC J8X 4G1, Canada
Hours: Open daily
From $ 21
Fort York
Fort York was constructed in 1793 by the British Army and Canadian militia troops for the defense of York (now Toronto). Today it’s a National Historic Site with Canada’s largest group of original War of 1812 structures. Explore the stone and wood barracks used during the 1813 Battle of York, when the U.S. invaded and destroyed the fort.
The Basics
A 7-acre (3-hectare) walled military fort built by the British Army and Canadian militia troops in the late 1800s, Fort York gives visitors a glimpse into Canadian history. Explore the barracks and battlefield, take a guided tour (on the hour), hear the twice-daily cannon firing, and observe a drill and the flag raising and lowering.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee, with discounts for seniors and children; kids 5 and under enter free.
- Plan to spend about two hours visiting the fort.
- Most of the walking throughout the fort is on an even terrain, but some of the structures involve stairs.
- All walkways are accessible by wheelchairs, but the Stone Magazine and Brick Magazine are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Fort York is located about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) west of the CN Tower between the Gardiner Expressway and the train lines. It’s a 20- to 30-minute walk from most parts of downtown Toronto. You can take the Bloor Street Subway to the Bathurst Station or the 509 streetcar westbound, exiting at Fleet Street and Fort York Boulevard. Parking is available at the corner of Fleet Street and Strachan Avenue.
When to Get There
Fort York is open daily year-round. From September to June, the fort is busy with school groups. In July and August, visitors are treated to a variety of events designed to bring history to life, including guided tours, special museum exhibits, Fort York Guard demonstrations, and cooking demonstrations and tastings.
War of 1812
During the War of 1812, American troops invaded Canada, then a British colony, and attacked Fort York the Battle of York in 1813. British troops retreated and the Americans occupied the fort for six days, looting and destroying the Government House and Parliament Buildings. Angered, British troops stormed Washington and burned the White House and other buildings the following year.
Address: 250 Fort York Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 129
CN Tower
For many visitors to Toronto, this needle-like telecommunications tower—often seen from the airplane window—is their first glimpse of the city. When it was erected in 1976, the CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure. Though it no longer holds that title, it is still the tallest tower in Canada, and the spectacular views from its observation decks are second to none.
The Basics
At 1,815 feet (553 meters), the CN Tower is hard to miss, and almost every sightseeing tour of the Toronto includes at least a look at this iconic structure. To get a real sense of its soaring height, it’s best to go inside. Regular entry, which you can combine with a guided walking tour or harbor cruise, gives you access to the vertigo-triggering Glass Floor at 1,122 feet (342 meters) and the 1,136-foot (436-meter) LookOut Level deck via high-speed, glass-walled elevators. You can go to the even higher SkyPod platform at 1,465 feet (447 meters), though you need a separate ticket. For the ultimate thrill, try the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the ledge of the tower’s main pod. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located on the ground floor. For a novel perspective of the tower, take a helicopter tour over Toronto’s skyline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear a jacket or outer layer as it can be cold on the Outdoor SkyTerrace, located on the same level as the world-famous Glass Floor.
- Access to the observation level is free to those who dine in the tower’s revolving restaurant.
- The Glass Floor, LookOut Level, and the first level of the SkyPod are all accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
CN Tower is located beside the Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. The visitors’ entrance is on Bremner Boulevard. Take the subway (line 1 Yonge-University) to Union Station and walk west along Front Street. It’s a five- to 10-minute walk from the station.
When to Get There
Summer weekends are peak visiting days. Most people come between 11am and 5pm—go in early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. After sunset, you can witness the tower’s eight-minute light show, which takes place on the hour.
What the CN Tower Actually Does
More than just a show-stopping architectural icon and tourist attraction, the CN Tower serves a practical purpose as a telecommunications tower. Prior to its construction, the increasingly tall Toronto skyline was making it difficult to transmit radio and television signals. Though the tower may appear spindly, it is in fact very sturdy. It is covered with thick reinforced concrete, weighs 130,000 tons (117,910 metric tonnes), and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Address: 301 Front Street West, Downtown South, Toronto M5V 2T6, Canada
Hours: Open daily 9am - 11pm
Admission: Adults: CA$36.00
From $ 16
Algonquin Provincial Park
Established in 1893, Algonquin is the oldest provincial park in Canada. Spreading across 2,955 square miles (7,650 square kilometers), this vast wilderness encompasses maple-carpeted hills, thick pine forest, and thousands upon thousands of lakes. The abundant wildlife here includes black bears, moose, and packs of Algonquin wolves.
The Basics
Though Algonquin presents many opportunities for day trips, including hikes along trailheads just off Highway 60, you’ll need several days to explore more remote parts of the park’s interior. The park offers countless opportunities for swimming, wildlife-viewing, fishing, stargazing, and relaxing in nature.
Much of the interior is accessible only via the vast Algonquin Park canoe routes network, which can be explored as part of multi-day tours. Visitors can get an introduction to wilderness camping on guided multi-day canoe trips that include canoe rentals, meals, permits, and equipment. For a more comfortable park tour option, choose a multi-day adventure tour that includes accommodation in a lodge or forest cabin.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Algonquin Provincial Park is a must for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- For information and tips, stop by the Algonquin Visitor Centre, situated along Highway 60.
- Algonquin Provincial Park has wheelchair-accessible campgrounds, trails (Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail and Fire Tower Trail), and visitor facilities, including the Algonquin Visitor Centre and Algonquin Logging Museum.
How to Get There
Algonquin Provincial Park is situated between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River in central Ontario, about 185 miles (300 kilometers) north of Toronto. The park is accessible via Highway 60, which cuts through part of the southern section.
When to Get There
Algonquin offers different activities in different seasons. Spring is good for birding, lake trout fishing, and moose watching; mid-September to mid-October is best for fall colors; and winter offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog-sledding opportunities. Watch out for black flies and mosquitoes, which are out in full force between late May and late June.
Algonquin Park Wildlife
Algonquin Provincial Park is known for its abundance of wildlife. While black bears, white-tailed deer, and moose are all commonly spotted, the most famous inhabitants of the park are the Algonquin wolves. About 35 wolf packs are believed to roam the park, and public wolf howls are held at the park every August. During these events, naturalist staff intimate the calls of wolves, encouraging them to respond. Those camping in Algonquin are bound to hear the distinctive call of the loon, which is most vocal during May and June.
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario, Canada
From $ 416
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse
The oldest landmark in Toronto, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is also one of the earliest lighthouses built on the Great Lakes. Though what was once a critical navigational beacon is no longer operational, visitors still enjoy viewing and taking photos of the 1808 lighthouse. The inside only opens for special events.
The Basics
This Lighthouse, located on Centre Island in the Toronto Islands, can only be reached via ferry. The grey stone building with a bright red door sits in a meadow surrounded by trees. Visitors aren’t generally permitted inside but can view and photograph it from the outside. The lighthouse can also be spotted on a sightseeing cruise of the Toronto Harbour, which offers panoramic views of the Toronto skyline and Toronto Islands.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A trip to Gibraltar Point is probably best for lighthouse enthusiasts; others may prefer seeing the lighthouse from a sightseeing cruise.
- The lighthouse is about a 1.1-mile (2 kilometer) walk from the ferry dock.
- There are no vehicles allowed on Centre Island, but bike rentals are available.
How to Get There
The Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is on Centre Island, part of the Toronto Islands. If you want to see it up close, you need to take the ferry from the Mainland Ferry Docks in Toronto to Centre Island. Follow Avenue of the Islands south to Lakeshore Road. It’s about a 1.1-mile (2 kilometer) walk from the ferry station to the lighthouse.
When to Get There
You can only visit Centre Island by ferry in spring, summer, and fall. All facilities at Centre Island are closed from late October until mid-April. In the off-season, ferries only go to Ward’s Island. Fall foliage, beginning in September, makes for dramatic lighthouse photos.
The Ghost of Gibraltar Point
Some people, spurred on by stories and local lore, believe the lighthouse is haunted. The first lighthouse keeper, John Paul Radelmüller, is said to have been murdered by two soldiers from Fort York who were looking for beer. The story goes that Radelmüller was buried in pieces around the lighthouse, and that his ghost still roams the island.
Address: Lakeshore Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 22
Gatineau Park
Just across the river from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park—a 139-square-mile (361-square-kilometer) swath of lake and wood-dotted parkland—offers nature escapes near the city. With a vast network of hiking, cycling, and cross-country ski trails, as well as lakes, waterfalls, and swimming beaches, it’s a veritable outdoor playground.
The Basics
Though locals take advantage of Gatineau Park, many visitors to Canada’s national capital are unaware of the natural beauty that lies on its doorstep. Some visitors get to glimpse the park from the Ottawa River during cruise or amphibious vehicle tours of Ottawa, which travel both on water and dry land. Other travelers see the park during guided bike tours.
You can also camp, canoe, and snowshoe in the park, and take part in interpreter-led natural walks, which take place on select dates. Camp Fortune offers downhill skiing and snowboarding runs in winter, and ziplining in summer. The old summer estate of former Canadian prime minister William Lyon Mackenzie King also sits within the park, and now serves as a museum and tea room.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gatineau Park is a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Some parts of the park, including Breton Beach at Philippe Lake, and the Mackenzie King Estate, are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, which is located at the park entrance in Chelsea.
How to Get There
Gatineau Park is located on the north side of the Ottawa River, which serves as the border between the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. The Gatineau Park Visitor Center, on Scott Road in Chelsea, is just a 15-minute drive from Parliament Hill, Ottawa. If you are renting a bike, cross over the Chaudière or Portage bridge before joining up with the Gatineau Parkway.
When to Get There
Gatineau Park is fun to visit any time of the year. Note that certain roads are closed during the winter. In fall, the park hosts the popular Fall Rhapsody festival, and leaf-peepers flock here to admire the autumnal foliage. Go midweek to avoid the crowds.
Gatineau Park’s Pink Lake
Among the park’s most visited and most photogenic spots is the so-called Pink Lake. The waters in this pristine lake are not actually pink—that name is derived from the Pink family who settled here in the early 19th century—but rather a distinctive green, caused by the build-up of microscopic algae. A 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) trail curves around the lake, offering scenic views. The trail can usually be walked in around an hour.
Address: De La Gatineau Promenade, Ottawa K1N 8C8, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Bata Shoe Museum
The quirky Bata Shoe Museum in downtown Toronto showcases the changing style and function of footwear across four galleries. What started as a personal collection for Sonja Bata in the 1940s is now a museum with more than 20,000 shoes dating from ancient Egypt to modern day, including a selection of celebrity soles. It’s an unusual chance to view world history through the lens of footwear.
The Basics
The Bata Shoe Museum motto is “for every shoe there is a story,” and those stories are told through a semi-permanent exhibition and three changing galleries. Wander the unusual collection for a look at shoes made from human hair, bear fur shoes created for Japanese samurai, and 16-century Italian platform shoes. Prebook tickets for skip-the-line admission and a free audio guide. Enjoy hassle-free transportation with Toronto’s hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance.
- This museum is a must-see for those interested in footwear, history, or quirky collections.
- A guided audio tour is available via smartphone—bring a pair of headphones to enjoy the full experience.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bata Shoe Museum is located at the southwest corner of Bloor Street West and Saint George. From the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Avenue. Head north to Bloor Street, turn right and go east to St. George Street. You can also take the subway to St. George Station on the Bloor-Danforth or the Yonge-University lines.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday. Plan to spend one to two hours exploring the galleries. Check the calendar of events for a list of current special exhibitions.
Famous Footwear
The Bata Shoe Museum boasts a handful of celebrity shoes in its collection, including Elton John’s silver platform boots, Elvis Presley’s blue patent loafers, John Lennon’s Beatle boots, Robert Redford’s cowboy boots, and Queen Victoria’s ballroom slippers. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of indigenous and archaeological footwear, providing insight into early civilizations.
Address: 327 Bloor St West, Toronto, ON, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 11
Boldt Castle
Built in the early 20th century in the middle of Heart Island, Boldt Castle is one of the main tourist attractions of the Thousand Islands in the Saint Lawrence River.
George Boldt began building the 120-room castle in 1900 for his wife, and when she died four years later all work on the building stopped. It was left empty and open to the elements for more than 70 years. The castle was purchased in 1977 and has been restored as a local attraction. The first floor of the castle is meant to show how the Boldt family would have decorated it, had they ever moved in.
The castle itself sits in the middle of Heart Island, but there are other buildings that make up the estate – including a castle-like “power house” with a small stone bridge and a tower building at the water's edge that was originally designed to be an entertainment area for guests.
Practical Info
Visitors get to Heart Island by boat (if you own a boat, you can dock there for free) from either the U.S. or Canada, and some of the grounds and buildings are open to the public. Entry to these areas is $8.50 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. The castle is open for self-guided tours from mid-May through mid-October; the open hours vary by month, but it's typically open between 10-11am and closes between 5-7:30pm.
Address: Alexandria Bay, New York, USA
Hours: Vary by season
Admission: Adults: $8.50; Children: $6 (ages 6-12)
From $ 204
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a neon-heavy, Vegas-like strip filled with a concentrated cluster of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the 175-foot (53-meter) Niagara SkyWheel, Guinness World Records Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and several haunted houses are among its prominent points of interest.
The Basics
The bustling promenade of Clifton Hill is one of Niagara Falls most attraction-packed thoroughfares. Many visitors to the falls will find themselves here at some point, whether en route to a Hornblower Cruise or to visit one of the many other attractions based here.
Visitors can pre-purchase tickets for Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum and for the Niagara SkyWheel, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Horseshoe and American falls, Niagara River, and Niagara Parks. If you plan on visiting a few of the major attractions here, consider opting for a multi-attraction Clifton Hill pass, which will get you access to the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Wild West Coaster ride, the Zombie Attack experience, the Ghost Blasters Dark Ride, and either Wizards’ Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Clifton Hill is a must-do for families and thrill-seekers.
- Lots of restaurants, bars, and cafés are located along the strip.
- Some of Clifton Hill’s attractions, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Wild West Coaster, and Wizards Golf, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Clifton Hall is located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, connecting River Road on Niagara Parkway to the intersection of Victoria Avenue. To get there, ride the WEGO red, blue, or green line buses to the Clifton Hill/Hornblower Niagara Cruises stop.
When to Get There
Clifton Hill is fun to visit in any season, with attractions, like the Niagara SkyWheel, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and the Fun House, open throughout the year. Summers are when Clifton Hill is liveliest and arguably most atmospheric, though in winter, the Winter Festival of Lights helps ensure it’s never dull. Visit Clifton Hill early in the morning, while other sightseers are just waking up, to avoid the biggest crowds.
How to View the Niagara Illuminations from Clifton Hill
To get the most out of your Clifton Hill experience, wait until night to go up the SkyWheel. Once it’s dark, you’ll be able to see the Falls Illumination, during which Niagara Falls is lit up with twinkling LED lights. During the summer months, you may even get to see the Niagara Falls Fireworks spectacle from the pod of the Ferris wheel, which rises 175 feet (53 meters).
Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls L2G 3N4, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 8
Entertainment District
Toronto’s Entertainment District lives up to its name with a variety of performing arts venues, clubs, and live sporting events. From symphony to jazz and blues, theater, and baseball games, it’s all happening. Other options for entertainment in the area include Canada’s iconic CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
The Basics
The Entertainment District is where visitors to Toronto go for nightlife. It includes the Roy Thomson Hall, home of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra; Royal Alexandra Theatre, which hosts stage shows such as Mamma Mia! and The Lion King; and the Princess of Wales theater. Sports fans shouldn’t miss Air Canada Center, home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors), or the Rogers Centre, the Toronto Blue Jays’ home turf.
The Entertainment District lights up at night thanks to clubs, cocktail bars, restaurants, and live music venues, including jazz and blues clubs. A guided tour helps you find highlights quickly and takes you behind the scenes at entertainment venues. During the day, a hop-on-hop-off tour is a great way to see the district and come and go on your own schedule.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Entertainment District is a must-do for young adult visitors to the city.
- If you want to see a show last-minute, ask about rush tickets at the box office on the day-of.
- A hop-on hop-off tour is a great way to cover a lot of ground and see popular Toronto sights without worrying about transportation or parking.
How to Get There
The Entertainment District is roughly bordered by the Financial District on the east, Spadina Avenue on the west, Queen Street West on the north, and the Gardiner Expressway on the south. Parking can be limited and costly in downtown Toronto, so walking or public transit are recommended. If you take the subway, Union Station and St. Andrews Station are both within the district.
When to Get There
Travel in spring (late April through May) and fall (mid-September through October), to avoid peak summertime crowds, score deals on hotels, and enjoy walking and dining outdoors while the weather is neither too hot or cold.
Little-Known CN Tower Facts
The CN Tower, located in the Entertainment District, is Toronto’s most recognizable symbol—and for good reason. It’s the tallest building in the western hemisphere at 1,815 feet (553 meters). A glass elevator takes you to the top in 58 seconds, where there’s an observation deck that affords views of Niagara Falls, Lake Ontario, and New York.
Address: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 33
Canadian War Museum
The Canadian War Museum tells the story of Canada’s past conflicts, how the country and its people were affected, and remembers the sacrifices made by those that served the country in wartimes. Among an ever-changing display of new exhibitions and themes, there are several permanent exhibitions. The Legion Hall of Honour, for example, commemorates the past through personal stories, photographs and artifacts and explores common burial practices throughout history. The Military Technology Collection on the other hand is more scientific and documents the technological progress through both personal stories and a collection of different artillery and vehicles, such as fighter jets.
Four Canadian Experience Galleries called “Wars on our Soil, For Crown and Country, Forged in Fire and A Violent Peace” delve into separate conflicts and battles. These range from early aboriginal warfare and the wars of the First Nations, to the conflicts with the British and the French that shaped early Canada to the later overseas wars, such as the Boer War and the World Wars and goes on to explore veterans coming home, the Cold War as well as more recent conflicts. The extensive exhibition is located in a modern, unique building which opened in 2005 and has the theme “Regeneration” strongly attached to it, hoping for a better future and a recovery from the devastations of the past. The angular look and all the concrete might give off a very bunker-like feeling, but the building is very ecofriendly, using recycled materials, river water for cooling and a glass covered roof.
Practical Info
The Canadian War Museum is located just west of Parliament Hill and opens daily from 9:30am to 5pm, except on Thursdays, when the museum stays open till 8pm. It’s easily accessible by foot or public transport and if you arrive by car, you will find indoor parking spaces at the museum.
Address: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa K1A 0M8, Canada
Hours: Daily 9:30am-5pm (Thursday until 8pm)
Admission: Adult $13, Senior $11, Student $10, Children (3-12) $8, Family $32
From $ 15
Casa Loma
Looking more at home in Europe than it does in Ontario, Canada, this faux medieval castle was a filming location for Chicago and X-Men. Built for an eccentric businessman between 1911 and 1914, Casa Loma (literally House on a Hill) features a pastiche of old-world styles that include turrets, Tudor-style chimneys, underground tunnels, and secret passages.
The Basics
As one of Toronto’s most unusual buildings, Casa Loma draws its fair share of sightseers. Come here on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or as part of a city sightseeing tour that also stops at other well-known Toronto attractions, such as the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and Dundas Square. Once inside the 98-room mansion, view a short documentary about the site’s original owner, Sir Henry Pellatt, and navigate your way around with the help of a complimentary audio guide. Helicopter tours of Toronto also buzz over this stately home.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring this mansion requires quite a lot of walking.
- Most exhibit rooms in the basement or on the first, second, and third floors are wheelchair accessible via a single staff-operated heritage elevator. However, the Scottish and Norman towers are not accessible to wheelchair users.
- If traveling with kids, be aware that you can’t take strollers beyond the first floor.
How to Get There
Casa Loma is situated on Austin Terrace in a neighborhood north of Downtown Toronto with which it shares its name. To get here, take the subway (Line 1) to Dupont. Once there, head north along Spadina Road, crossing Davenport Road before climbing the Baldwin Steps. The walk from the station should take less than 10 minutes.
When to Get There
Summer is the best time for strolls around the 5-acre (2.2-hectare) estate, though it can be stuffy inside the property, as not all rooms are air-conditioned. The castle is popular and can get busy, particularly on weekends. Arrive early to avoid the worst of the crowds, and allow two to three hours for exploration.
The Man Behind the Mansion
Sir Henry Pellatt, a businessman who made his fortune investing in rail and hydroelectric power, enlisted Toronto-based architect E. J. Lennox to design his dream home and spent millions of dollars on the project. Upon completion, it was the largest private residence in North America. Unfortunately, Pellatt didn’t get to live out his days in the castle as he had envisioned; he was forced out of Casa Loma in 1924 due his growing debts.
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Corso Italia, Toronto M5R 1X8, Canada
Hours: Open daily 9:30am - 5:00pm
Admission: C$26.55
From $ 33
Bird Kingdom Niagara Falls
Housed in a former Niagara Falls corset factory, Bird Kingdom houses hundreds of brightly plumed feathered fliers. Inside the multilevel rainforest—said to be the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary—exotic birds perch on jungle foliage and soar overhead. Other residents include bats, snakes, tortoises, iguanas, and bearded dragons.
The Basics
This indoor aviary, located within a vast 50,000-square-foot (4,645-square-meter) complex, makes for a great family day out. Tickets grant you access to all exhibits within the facility, including the main aviary, the small bird aviary, a rare 19th-century teak Javanese house, and the Night Jungle, where artificial lighting lets you witness nocturnal rainforest creatures at their most active. You can interact with reptiles and birds at the Animal Encounters exhibit, as well as give nectar (included with admission) to colorful parrots during the feedings that take place several times daily at Lorikeet Landing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bird Kingdom is ideal for bird enthusiasts and families.
- Allow around one to two hours to properly explore Bird Kingdom.
- Bird-watching enthusiasts may want to bring binoculars to get a closer look.
- Most of Bird Kingdom, except for the Javanese House, is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Bird Kingdom is to drive. From Toronto, take Queen Elizabeth Way West to the Highway 420 exit. Paid parking is available at the corner of Hiram and River Roads. Bird Kingdom is less than a 5-minute walk from Rainbow Bridge, an official border crossing point between the US and Canada. If you’re coming from the US, allow extra time to cross the border.
When to Get There
Bird Kingdom is busiest from June through August, during Niagara Falls’ peak visitor season. Come just after opening to experience the aviary at its quietest.
Spectacular Species at the Bird Kingdom
Among the many birds in the Bird Kingdom aviaries are several rare and unusual species. Look for the double yellow-headed Amazon, an eye-catching parrot species with a bright green body and a yellow head; the hyacinth macaw, distinguished by its bright cobalt blue feathers; the African gray parrot, a famously talkative breed; and the surprisingly beautiful blue-crowned pigeon.
Address: 5651 River Road, Downtown, Niagara Falls L2E 7M7, Canada
Hours: Open daily, hours change seasonally.
Admission: Adults: CA$17.95
From $ 16
Gatineau
Gatineau is a city of about 300,000 right across from Ottawa on the northern shores of the Ottawa River. While Gatineau belongs to Quebec and Ottawa to Ontario, together they form Canada’s National Capital Region. Gatineau is a popular place to live, especially for young families and professionals and is actually the most bilingual city in Canada with over 60% of inhabitants speaking both English and French. The city is also known for its cultural value and is home to a variety of events and venues, such as one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the world, filling the sky with hundreds of passenger balloons in every shape and color and the Casino du Lac-Leamy. The casino isn’t only a posh gambling hall though. Each year in August, the location hosts an international firework competition called the Sound of Light, where countries demonstrate their pyro-musical skills in the sky.
At the Canadian Museum of History, visitors can get a detailed look into the origins and human history of Canada and walk through whole recreated townscapes, including pre-European settlements. Although there is quite some culture and history to be discovered, the city of Gatineau is also associated with its many parks, as there are plenty of green areas ranging from wild nature to playgrounds and recreational parks. The biggest and most well-known of these parks is Gatineau Park, a massive conservation area north of the city. Apart from having a rich biodiversity, including black bears, beavers and wolves, the park is also an outdoor paradise, where anything from hiking, camping, biking to cross country skiing, horseback riding and snowshoeing is possible.
Practical Info
Gatineau is located just across the river from Ottawa and is reachable by a variety of transport options, for example with the bus number 37. Gatineau Park is north of the city and can be reached by car in 15 minutes, but consider renting a bike to get there, as the biking trails are great and very well maintained.
Address: Canada
From $ 28
ByWard Market
Ottawa’s historic food-focused ByWard Market houses hundreds of vendors hawking farm-raised meat, fresh produce, and arts and crafts. Hungry visitors and locals alike flock to this social and shopping hub, where takeout vendors sell ready-to-eat goodies and sit-down eateries offer prime seats for patrons to take in all the market action.
The Basics
ByWard Market has served as a key gathering place and shopping market in Canada’s capital since 1849. Today the historic buildings and open-air marketplace are home to over 260 stands and 600 businesses comprising food stalls, specialty boutiques, eateries, and more. While you can see the market in passing during some sightseeing tours—along with other Ottawa attractions such as the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill—to experience it at its best, you need to go inside and explore properly. Take a food or wine tour of the city, during which tour guides show you around the market and introduce you to some of the best bites, food purveyors, and local restaurants in the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- From May through Labor Day (the first Monday of September), ByWard Market Ambassadors are on-hand to provide additional information about the market.
- The market has both indoor and outdoor sections.
- Much of the market and its businesses are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
ByWard Market encompasses an area of around four blocks, bordered by Rideau Street to the south, Cathcart Street to the north, Cumberland Street to the east, and Sussex Drive to the west. The main brick market building stands between George and York Streets. Numerous local bus routes stop on Rideau Street. On-street parking as well as parking garages are available nearby.
When to Get There
To see the market at its biggest and busiest, go on a summer weekend. It expands during warmer weather, as stalls spill out onto the surrounding streets. Go early to nab the best produce. Opening hours vary from business to business, with most shops opening from early morning to late afternoon, while bars stay open later.
BeaverTails at ByWard Market
Perhaps the most famous snack to be served at ByWard are BeaverTails. This Canadian pastry—which consists of fried dough shaped like a beaver’s tail, topped with cinnamon and sugar—originated here in Ontario and is a much-loved local specialty. Even former US President Barack Obama stopped to buy one during an Ottawa visit in 2009.
Address: 298 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa K1N 1B4, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Distillery Historic District
Once home to the 1832 Gooderham and Worts’ mammoth distilling facility, Toronto’s charming arts and entertainment quarter is now a popular strolling spot for off-duty creatives. The cobblestone streets are lined with Victorian-era industrial buildings, which have been repurposed to serve as contemporary art galleries, third-wave coffee shops, concept boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
The Basics
Toronto’s Distillery Historic District is one of the city’s most vibrant cultural quarters. You can explore it during a walking tour or a Segway tour, with guides chronicling the evolution of the neighborhood from a manufacturing powerhouse for Canada’s largest distillery to a hip heritage district. Many tours include tastings from local and artisan producers, including the award-winning Mill Street Brewery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The streets are cobblestone so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.
- Pack weather-appropriate clothing, as most of your time will be spent outdoors. Should it rain, there are lots of shops, bars, restaurants, and cafés where you can find shelter.
- Take a camera. The district’s red-brick facades and quaint gables make excellent photo backdrops.
How to Get There
The Distillery District is located east of downtown Toronto. From Union Station (which is served by subway line 1 Yonge-University), ride the eastbound 504 King streetcar to King Street East at Trinity Street and walk south two blocks, or take the eastbound 514 Cherry streetcar to the end of the line (Distillery District). Walking from Union Station will take 20 to 25 minutes.
When to Get There
There is no bad time to visit Toronto’s Distillery Historic District. The neighborhood is at its liveliest during summer, when many of the cafés and restaurants set up outdoor seating areas—perfect for people-watching. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays.
Seasonal Markets and Events
Seasonal events are a key draw of the district. During the holiday period, a popular Christmas market sets up shop here, with dozens of stalls piled high with food and handcrafted gifts, and carol singers belting out festive favorites. In summer, the Distillery Historic District hosts food-oriented events, live jazz, art and craft shows, and flea markets. On summer Sundays, vendors at the weekly farmers market sell produce from around Ontario, including maple syrup, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat treats.
Address: 55 Mill Street, Toronto M5A 3C4, Canada
Hours: Mon - Wed 10am - 7pm, Thurs - Sat 10am - 8pm,
Sun 11am - 6pm
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Art Gallery of Ontario
A leading Canadian museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario is home of more than 79,000 works of art in its collection, including First Nations and Inuit carvings, noted Canadian works, and European art from Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry designed the gallery’s latest renovation.
The Basics
The AGO spans five levels, with galleries dedicated to African art, contemporary art, European art, indigenous and Canadian art, modern art, photography, prints and drawings, and special exhibitions. The museum underwent a large-scale renovation in 2008 by Frank Gehry, the famed American architect who was born in Toronto, and the building itself is a work of art. The Dr. Mariano Elia Hands-On Centre features creative activities for children and families.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets for special exhibitions typically cost extra, but they include regular museum entrance.
- There are two on-site restaurants, caféAGO and AGO Bistro, plus a coffee shop.
- Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the on-site gift shop, shopAGO.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible. A limited supply of wheelchairs and walkers are available to rent and can be reserved in advance.
How to Get There
The AGO is located on Dundas Street between Beverley and McCaul streets, adjacent to Grange Park. To get there by car, take the Gardiner Expressway and exit on Spadina Avenue. Turn right on Dundas Street West. The museum is at the corner of Dundas and Beverley streets. By subway, take the Yonge-University-Spadina line to the St. Patrick stop, a three-block walk from the museum. Or take the Dundas streetcar to McCaul or Beverley streets.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day except Monday. On Wednesday nights from 6 to 9pm, admission to the museum is free, but you should expect longer lines and larger crowds.
Go Down With the Ships
The Thomson Collection of Ship Models, located in the basement of the museum, is a real gem. The models in the collection span 350 years of craftsmanship, including rare examples of 17th and 18th century British dockyard ships. Some, constructed by prisoners of the Napoleonic Wars are made from wood and bone with rigging of silk and human hair.
Address: Baldwin Village, 317 Dundas Street West, Downtown North, Toronto M5T 1G4, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Floral Clock
While Niagara Falls is justifiably famous for the force of nature that is the falls themselves, the Floral Clock is one of several other impressive attractions in the area. Comprising thousands of colorful plants and flowers, the clock blooms from spring to fall. It’s a fun photo opportunity, especially for nature lovers and avid gardeners.
The Basics
The Floral Clock was built in 1950 and is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with a diameter of 40 feet (12 meters). It’s planted with over 15,000 plants and flowers twice a year, with different plants and designs for the spring and fall. The 24-foot (7.3-meter) tower behind it sends out the Westminster chime every 15 minutes. If the door to the tower behind the clock is open, you can take a look inside and see the clock’s mechanisms.
Private and group tours of Niagara Falls combine a visit to the clock with other area attractions, such as the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and regional wineries. There is accommodation in Niagara Falls, but many visitors day trip from Toronto.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Floral Clock is a lovely photo op for all visitors to Niagara Falls.
- Admission to the clock is free.
- It doesn’t take long to see the clock and take a few photos. The Floral Clock is best visited as a short stop on a longer day of sightseeing.
- The Floral Clock is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Floral Clock is on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, about 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) from the falls, just south of the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge. If not visiting with a tour, it’s necessary to drive to the clock.
When to Get There
The Floral Clock is in bloom from April to September. You can visit the clock 24 hours a day, but it’s best to see it during daylight hours.
Visit the Centennial Lilac Garden
The Floral Clock is located next to the sweet-smelling Centennial Lilac Garden, which was built in 1967 to celebrate Canada’s centenary. The 10-acre (4-hectare) garden contains over 1,200 plants. May and June are the best times to visit, when nature bursts back into life after the bitterly cold winter and the lilacs are in full bloom.
Address: 14004 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada
From $ 76