Choose from 30 Fun Things to Do in Toronto
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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
Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario, the 14th-largest lake in the world but the smallest of the five Great Lakes, is divided in half by the U.S.-Canadian border. Its shores are home to two popular Canadian destinations: Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Known for its islands, beaches, wildlife, and waterfront trails, this beautiful body of water offers something for everyone.
The Basics
Most Lake Ontario tours depart from Toronto, Canada’s largest city. Boat tours, which range from dinner cruises to a spin around the Toronto Islands, offer shoreline views and often include the inside perspective of a guide. Helicopter and air taxi tours provide rare birds’-eye views of the lake and its surroundings.
Niagara-on-the-Lake tours frequently depart from Toronto, and often include a visit to Niagara Falls and wine tastings at the region’s legendary vineyards. These tours typically offer convenient round-trip transport from Toronto hotels.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Toronto’s waterfront path is shared by cyclists and pedestrians, so stay alert.
- Boat tours and cruises typically run from May through September, and lifeguards are on duty at Toronto city beaches from June to September.
- Popular swimming spots include Cherry Beach, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward Island.
How to Get There
As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is easily reachable by car, bus, Amtrak, or VIA Rail. Toronto’s lakeshore is accessible using the city’s comprehensive system of metros, buses, and streetcars. Day trips to Niagara-on-the-Lake are also popular, either by car or on tours that typically include round-trip transport from Toronto.
When to Get There
Lake Ontario is best visited in summer, as winter weather prohibits most water-based activities. To enjoy swimming, kayaking, boating, and waterfront sightseeing, visit from May to September.
An Island Escape
Just off the shore of Toronto lies Toronto Island Park, a tranquil escape from the city. The park is comprised of three main islands—Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point—which offer beaches, picnic areas, and plenty of activities, from swimming to stand-up paddle-boarding. The islands are reachable by a 15-minute boat or ferry ride.
Address: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 95
Ripley's Aquarium Of Canada
In downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses approximately 16,000 water-bound species from across the world. The displays are arranged by region, and visitors can explore the tropical Rainbow Reef, check out the Dangerous Lagoon shark tank, and learn more about the marine life found in the waters around Canada.
The Basics
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses both marine and freshwater species. It’s organized into nine galleries, each focused on a different type of marine habitat. The walk-through shark tank is one of the most popular, along with the jellyfish gallery where visitors can see the alien-like creatures in all their glory. For a close encounter, head to the Discovery Center, where you can interact with horseshoe crabs and board the research submarine for views of the shark tank.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ripley’s aquarium is ideal for families with children.
- Save time by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance. Note that admission is reduced after 7pm.
- There are a café and souvenir shop on-site.
- The aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The aquarium is located at 288 Bremner Boulevard, close to the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. It’s walking distance from many major downtown locations, and there is paid parking nearby. The closest subway stations are Union and St. Andrews; the nearest streetcar stop is John Street.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open 9am to 11pm, with occasional early closures (check online for the current schedule), 365 days a year. The aquarium is busiest early- to mid-afternoon, so plan your visit outside of these times for a quieter experience.
Visit the CN Tower
When the CN Tower was built in 1976, it was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Although other buildings have dwarfed it since, a trip to the top is a classic Toronto activity and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Ride to the top in a glass-fronted elevator and test your nerve by walking over the clear glass floor with all of Toronto beneath you.
Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M5V 3L9, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Hockey Hall of Fame
A sacred site for Canadians—for whom ice hockey is a national obsession—the Hockey Hall of Fame holds a treasure trove of memorabilia, including the original Stanley Cup. Housed inside a grand 19th-century Bank of Montreal building, it also features interactive games including a virtual shoot-out where visitors can test their skills.
The Basics
Because of its central location, the Hockey Hall of Fame is commonly seen from the outside during walking tours of Old Toronto and Downtown Toronto. To really appreciate the attraction, however, it’s necessary to go inside. Prebook an admission ticket and use mobile tickets for fast entry.
Once inside, explore the exhibits documenting hockey history and showcasing hockey memorabilia. Look for NHL trophies and a full-scale re-creation of the Montreal Canadiens’ dressing room. Try out your shooting and goalkeeping skills against life-size computer-simulated versions of top players at the NHLPA Game Time experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hockey Hall of Fame is a must for hockey fans.
- If you’re coming during winter, stay warm by accessing the Hockey Hall of Fame via Toronto’s underground PATH network.
- All-day admission means you can leave and re-enter as much as you want over the course of the day.
- The Hockey Hall of Fame is wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
How to Get There
The Hockey Hall of Fame is just a 5-minute stroll from Union Station. Note that entrance to the Hockey Hall of Fame is via the Shopping Concourse Level of Brookfield Place, and not through the front doors of the bank building at Yonge and Front streets.
When to Get There
The Hockey Hall of Fame is busiest in summer, around Christmas, and during Canada’s March break. For a quieter experience, visit outside these times. Saturdays tend to be busy, so if you plan on going then, arrive early in the morning or late afternoon when crowds are lightest.
Other Hockey-Related Sights in Toronto
For hockey superfans, there are several more must-see pilgrimage spots in Toronto. Make your way to Maple Leaf Garden, the former home ground of the Toronto Maple Leafs and a designated National Historic Site of Canada. Another important sight for sport aficionados is the Scotiabank Arena (formerly the Air Canada Centre), the current home of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the NBA’s Toronto Raptors.
Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
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
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
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
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
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
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
Ontario Place
A futuristic amusement park, Ontario Place offers something for everybody inside its five steel-and-glass pods, suspended on columns 105 feet (32 meters) above Lake Ontario. Kids and adults can go from pod to pod and see a multimedia theater, a children's theater, a high-tech exhibit, multimedia displays, and the Cinesphere - an IMAX theater. Parents watch a movie while kids go berserk at soft-play areas like the H2O Generation Station, with its twisting slides, towers, and walkways, and the Atom Blaster, a huge foam-ball free-for-all.
Additional attractions include the human-sized MegaMaze and MicroKids, which is a play area for little ones. At First Flight, you can a ride up in the air in a replica hot-air balloon. If you need a break from the attractions and rides, spend a little downtime browsing the gift shops. In the evening, the Molson Amphitheatre host a variety of concerts.
Practical Info
Ontario Place sits on Lake Boulevard West, in downtown Toronto. You can easily get here via subway, bus, and streetcar. Ontario Place has plenty of parking, as well. A Play All Day pass gets you to most of the rides and attractions, including walk-up seating at the Cinesphere.
Address: 955 Lake Shore Boulevard West, Harbourfront, Toronto M6K 3B9, Canada
Hours: Open in summer, 10am - 8pm
Admission: General admission: CA$16.90, Children (4-5yrs): CA$11.19. Other attractions may have separate fees
From $ 60
Kensington Market
Eclectic, diverse, and graffiti-slathered, the Kensington Market neighborhood is one of Toronto’s most distinctive enclaves. The district is packed with produce vendors, food sellers, vintage clothes shops, bric-a-brac boutiques, buskers, cafés, and restaurants, and attracts a steady stream of bohemian types.
The Basics
Kensington Market is Toronto at its vibrant, multicultural best. While the neighborhood can be explored independently, going with a tour guide can be helpful. Not only can they point out the best spots for cheap eats, but they can also elaborate on the history and evolution of one of the most fascinating parts of Canada’s largest city. Toronto food tours, which also often cover spots in neighboring Chinatown and Little Italy, frequently visit the market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kensington Market is a must for foodies, bargain-hunters, and people-watchers.
- Bring cash. While many vendors accept credit cards, not all do, and there is often an extra charge for purchases under a certain amount.
- Try your hand at haggling. Not all vendors’ prices are fixed.
How to Get There
With limited parking and heavy traffic, driving is not advised. The best way to get here is by public transit. Take the Spadina or Bathurst streetcar to College Street, or the College or Dundas streetcar to Spadina Avenue. Both will put you just a short stroll from the market.
When to Get There
In the summer, on the last Sunday of the month, Kensington Market goes car-free, and pedestrians rule the roads, making it a particularly nice time to wander around on foot. The market is pretty much always busy, but never more so than on weekends. If you want a little extra elbow room while you browse, go midweek. Expect a reduced level of street activity in winter.
Navigating Kensington Market
For vintage shopping, browse the secondhand stores occupying the brightly painted Victorian buildings along Kensington Avenue, between Dundas Street West and Baldwin Street. Augusta Avenue, between Dundas and College streets, is the market’s bustling main strip. Turn off here onto side streets, such as Nassau Street, to find some hideaway cafés in which to rest and recoup.
Address: Bordered by Spadina Avenue, Dundas Street, Augusta Avenue, and College Street, Toronto, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 28
New City Hall
New City Hall, which replaced Old City Hall in 1965 to accommodate a rapidly growing city, is the current seat of Toronto’s municipal government. Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, winner of the city’s international competition, City Hall is comprised of two curved towers as well as Nathan Phillips Square, Canada’s largest public square.
The Basics
Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto on Queen Street West, New City Hall is a stop on most private tours, which typically include nearby attractions such as Kensington Market, the University of Toronto, and the Bell Lightbox Theater. Private tours eliminate the stress of navigating and offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary. The City of Toronto’s website also offers a self-guided tour, which provides little-known facts about City Hall’s highlights, from a mosaic made of nails in the main entrance to a hidden time capsule.
Helicopter tours provide rare birds’-eye views of Toronto landmarks, including Lake Ontario, the CN Tower, and New City Hall. From above, New City Hall has been said to resemble a giant unblinking eye, giving it its nickname “The Eye of Government.”
Things to Know Before You Go
- New City Hall is a must for history and architecture buffs.
- The two entrances for the underground parking lot are on Bay Street and Queen streets.
- New City Hall is wheelchair accessible.
- Bathrooms are located in the East Hall basement.
How to Get There
New City Hall’s central downtown location makes it easily accessible using Toronto’s public transit system. The nearest transit stops are Queen metro station, Queen Street and Bay Street on streetcar 501, and Dundas Street and Chestnut Street on bus 505. In addition to bike racks on both the east and west sides of City Hall, a dock for Toronto’s bike share program is located on Bay Street.
When to Get There
Nathan Phillips Square, located in front of City Hall, is a public space used for a range of events, including farmers’ markets, movie screenings, and winter ice skating. A full calendar is available on the City of Toronto’s website. In addition, City Hall’s 27th-floor observation deck is open once a year during Doors Open Toronto. City Hall is open to the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.
Rooftop Views
City Hall’s podium green roof is the largest publicly accessible green roof in Canada, and one of Toronto’s hidden gems. Opened to the public in 2009, the roof offers a quiet respite from the bustle of city life, with benches, walkways, and terraces that offer rare views of downtown. In addition to providing a quiet public space, the roof saves the city money and energy by insulating City Hall and improving the surrounding air quality.
Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2N2, Canada
From $ 65
Scotiabank Arena (Air Canada Centre)
The Scotiabank Arena (formerly the Air Canada Centre) is Toronto’s major concert and professional sports venue. The facility clocks in at 650,000 square feet (60,387 square meters) and seats nearly 20,000 event-goers. The adjacent Maple Leaf Square hosts a variety of shops and restaurants, plus a hotel and condominiums.
The Basics
Scotiabank Arena is home turf for the Toronto Maple Leafs (National Hockey League), the Toronto Raptors (National Basketball Association), and the Toronto Rock (National Lacrosse League). It is also one of the country’s premier concert venues, playing host to some of the biggest names in music. It is virtually unheard of for a major Canadian tour not to include at least one—and sometimes three or four—shows at Scotiabank Arena.
Tours of downtown Toronto, including the hop-on hop-off bus, typically feature a stop at the arena, which has been touted as one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To gain access to the building, you must have an event ticket. There are no public tours.
- Anything you bring into the building is subject to inspection. Backpacks, large bags or purses, weapons, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.
- The arena is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
During events, most people arrive at the Scotiabank Arena on foot from the adjacent Union Station, the closest train and subway stop. Parking is available at paid lots in the area, and there is underground parking at the arena. Taxis and ride-shares are also readily available in the Toronto core.
When to Get There
Events are held at Scotiabank Arena numerous nights a week year-round. Depending on the popularity of the event, you may need to purchase tickets up to several months in advance.
From Air Canada Centre to Scotiabank Arena
From when it was built in 1999 until the summer of 2018, Scotiabank Arena was known as the Air Canada Centre (ACC)—a name many locals still use, despite the renaming of the facility. The naming rights agreement was reportedly one of the richest sponsorship deals in North American sports history.
Address: 40 Bay St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 33
Legoland Discovery Centre Toronto
Located in Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre just north of Toronto, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is an interactive Lego-themed experience that features games, rides, exhibits, and a 4D movie theater. Its wide range of activities and amenities make it a popular destination for families with small children.
The Basics
Geared toward kids ages 2 to 10, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre’s permanent exhibits include a Lego factory tour, which demonstrates how plastic is turned into Lego blocks; Miniland, a detailed miniature replica of Toronto; and Merlin’s Apprentice, a ride that features interactive challenges.
To prevent overcrowding, LEGOLAND limits the number of guests on site at one time. Reserve your admission ticket online in advance to guarantee entry and skip the lines.
Things to Know Before You Go
- LEGOLAND is a must for families with small children.
- Don’t forget sneakers—some activities encourage closed-toed shoes with a grippy sole.
- A Lego-themed café offers plenty of options for picky eaters.
- The center is wheelchair accessible.
- Download the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre app to find an events calendar, scavenger hunt, and inside tips.
- Adults must be accompanied by children in order to enter. Adult-only nights are held once a month.
How to Get There
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is located in the Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre, 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of Toronto, and is most easily accessed by car via Route 400. If traveling by public transit, take bus 20 or bus 760, which both stop at the entrance to Vaughan Mills.
When to Get There
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is open from 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Although it’s certainly busiest on weekends, the venue limits the number of guests, ensuring that it never feels overly crowded. Visitors holding annual passes gain access to special events, from exclusive movie previews to breakfast with the LEGOLAND mascot. Themed adult nights are held on the last Friday of every other month.
Lego Tips and Tricks
The Discovery Centre’s Lego Master Builder Academy holds workshops that offer the company's secret tips and tricks for building with Legos. With classes that range from how to build a car to making intricate designs, Master Builder Academy leaves children and their families with new skills to take home and try on their own. Workshops are held every hour from 11am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 6pm on Sunday.
Address: 1 Bass Pro Mills Drive, Vaughan, Ontario, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Rogers Centre
At the base of the CN Tower is sports and entertainment venue, The Rogers Centre (formerly known as the Skydome). Since the name change in 2006, the Centre welcomes over 3.5 million visitors a year.
The Rogers Centre is the home of the Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Club, World Series Champions in 1992 and 1993, and the Toronto Argonauts Football Team, who last won the Grey Cup in 2004. It is known as having the world’s first fully retractable roof. The roof opens and closes in 20 minutes and is a fun feature while being at a game or event.
The Rogers Centre is the ideal venue for a big stadium concert; some of the biggest names in the business have entertained the masses from The Rolling Stones to Bon Jovi.
To learn more about the Rogers Centre, you can experience a one hour fully guided behind-the-scenes tour. Highlights include a visit to different levels, a press box and a luxury suite among other stops.
The Rogers Centre is the home of the Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Club, World Series Champions in 1992 and 1993, and the Toronto Argonauts Football Team, who last won the Grey Cup in 2004. It is known as having the world’s first fully retractable roof. The roof opens and closes in 20 minutes and is a fun feature while being at a game or event.
The Rogers Centre is the ideal venue for a big stadium concert; some of the biggest names in the business have entertained the masses from The Rolling Stones to Bon Jovi.
To learn more about the Rogers Centre, you can experience a one hour fully guided behind-the-scenes tour. Highlights include a visit to different levels, a press box and a luxury suite among other stops.
Practical Info
From Union Station, the Skywalk enables you to get to the Rogers Centre without having to walk outside. Box Office hours Monday to Friday are from 10am-7pm (and 5pm on the weekends). Across the street, make sure to check out the Steamwhistle Brewery for a cold brew before or after your experience.
Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Royal Ontario Museum
Established in 1914, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum. Housed inside a heritage-meets-modern building, it boasts a 6-million-strong collection, which focuses on objects relating to world culture and natural history. It includes everything from First Nations’ crest poles to Egyptian mummies to T-rex skeletons.
The Basics
The museum building, which comprises a heritage structure with a modern add-on, is an architectural landmark. See it from the outside during select sightseeing tours and helicopter tours.
Of course, to get a look at the museum’s rich and fascinating collection, it’s necessary to go inside. General admission entrance tickets can be purchased in advance. They provide visitors with access to more than 30 galleries displaying objects from the ROM’s permanent collection. Admission includes free museum tours that focus on highlights of the collection and specific galleries. Tour places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Upgrade to include access to temporary exhibitions taking place in the museum. In the past, temporary exhibitions have focused on the works of glass artist Dale Chihuly and Star Wars-inspired fashions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ROM is a must-visit for culture vultures and architecture enthusiasts.
- Free Wi-Fi is available.
- Eat at the on-site café or bring a packed lunch which can be eaten at the Brown Bag lunch room.
- Turn your phone to silent or vibrate mode to avoid disturbing other museumgoers.
- The ROM is entirely wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The museum is situated in Downtown Toronto, just north of Queen’s Park. The nearest subway stops are St. George station (Line 2 Bloor–Danforth), and Museum Station (Line 1 Yonge–University line). Local buses (numbers 5 and 142) also stop nearby, as do hop-on hop-off tour buses.
When to Get There
The Royal Ontario Museum is busiest during July and August, with weekends being particularly popular. Go early on a Sunday to get in before the crowds.
The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal
The ROM is almost as renowned for being an architectural showstopper as it is for its cultural holdings. As part of a major project in 2007, the museum enlisted architect Daniel Libeskind to add a bold new wing—an aluminum-and-glass structure that juts out from the older century-old facade. The new wing was well-received, quickly cementing the museum as an architectural icon of Toronto.
Address: 100 Queen's Park, Bloor-Yorkville, Toronto M5S 2C6, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Queen's Quay Terminal
Queen’s Quay Terminal is a residential, entertainment, and shopping center on the harborfront of Toronto, Ontario. Built as a warehouse facility in the 1920s, the terminal was revitalized in the 1980s as a multipurpose complex featuring upscale shops and restaurants. The lakeside setting offers views of the Toronto Islands.
The Basics
Toronto harbor boat tours and cruises typically pass by Queen’s Quay Terminal, offering views of its Art Deco exterior. Guides onboard provide facts and anecdotes about terminal’s history.
Walking tours of Downtown Toronto and the Harbourfront often include a stop at Queen’s Quay Terminal, with other stops typically ranging from the CN Tower to the Distillery District. Other visitors opt for private tours, which allow the flexibility to add Queen’s Quay to your customized itinerary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Queen’s Quay Terminal is a must for history buffs and shoppers.
- A variety of food options are available, from takeaway pizza to sit-down dim sum.
- The terminal is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Located on the Toronto Harbourfront, Queen’s Quay Terminal is easily accessible using public transit. Streetcars 510 and 509 stop directly in front of the terminal; or, take a 7-minute walk from Union Station on the metro’s 1 line. Toronto Island ferries dock at Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, which is a 5-minute walk from Queen’s Quay Terminal.
When to Get There
Queen’s Quay Terminal is open year-round, but it’s busiest from May to September. Crowds swell when there’s something going on at the adjacent Harbourfront Centre, which hosts events throughout the summer, from a vegetarian food market to an African arts festival.
Waterfront Trail
Lake Ontario’s Waterfront Trail is a series of interconnected paths used for walking, running, and biking that extend from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Brockville. The trail passes directly in front of Queen’s Quay Terminal, where you can board ferries to the Toronto Islands. After your Queen’s Quay Terminal visit, take advantage of the Bike Share Toronto dock, across the street, and explore the trail, which offers panoramic waterfront views.
Address: 207 Queens Quay West, Toronto, Ontario M5J 1A7, Canada
From $ 55
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