toronto most popular tourist attractions

30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author s Michael and Lana Law live in southern Ontario and enjoy frequent trips into Toronto for dining, shopping, and events.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario , is the largest city in Canada and also one of the most diverse. It's home to a dynamic mix of tourist attractions and memorable places to visit, from museums and galleries to the world-famous CN Tower. And, just a short drive away, is Niagara Falls .

You'll find no shortage of things to do, from the vibrant Entertainment District , featuring the latest musicals and fine dining, to the historic Distillery District , home to unique shops and restaurants set in incredibly restored buildings.

Toronto city center is relatively easy to navigate, with many of the top attractions within walking distance of each other, and a subway system to cover longer distances.

If you are visiting Toronto in winter, head indoors to explore the extensive PATH network of underground walkways that connect shopping, entertainment, and attractions. In summer, wander along the beautiful waterfront and enjoy Toronto's best beaches and parks .

For a complete look at how to spend your time and find interesting places to visit, see our list of top tourist attractions in Toronto.

1. The CN Tower

2. visit the royal ontario museum (rom), 3. ripley's aquarium of canada, 4. art gallery of ontario (ago), 5. day trip to niagara falls, 6. catch a show or dine in the entertainment district, 7. see the animals at the toronto zoo, 8. wander through st. lawrence market, 9. dine and shop in the distillery district, 10. tour casa loma, 11. city hall & nathan philips square, 12. shop at cf toronto eaton center, 13. watch the action at yonge dundas square, 14. see the stars at the toronto international film festival (tiff), 15. stroll through kensington market, 16. visit the aga khan museum, 17. enjoy nature at high park, 18. take a trip to toronto islands, 19. ontario science centre, 20. little italy, 21. head to the danforth for a taste of greece, 22. bata shoe museum, 23. harbourfront centre and toronto's waterfront, 24. black creek pioneer village, 25. hockey hall of fame, 26. graffiti alley, 27. rogers centre, 28. visit the cne, 29. go fishing, 30. winterlicious, where to stay in toronto for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to toronto, toronto, canada - climate chart, map of top-rated tourist attractions in toronto.

Highlights : Incredible views over Lake Ontario and the city; high-elevation dining; and a chance to walk outside, 365 meters above the ground.

Toronto's famous landmark, the 553-meter CN Tower , is one of Ontario's must-see attractions and also the most impossible to miss. Towering above the downtown, this Canadian icon can be seen from almost everywhere in the city.

You have the option of simply appreciating the building from the ground, or taking a trip up to one of the observation areas or restaurants for fabulous views over the city and Lake Ontario. The CN Tower, built between 1972 and 1976, was once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, but has long since been surpassed.

The highest viewing area on the CN Tower is from the Sky Pod at 447 meters above the city, with views that, on clear days, extend to Niagara Falls and New York State. Getting here requires taking two elevators.

Below this, at the top of the main elevator is the LookOut level at 346 meters, with floor-to-ceiling windows and the new Glass Floor , which looks down to the original Glass Floor, one floor below, where the Outdoor Sky Terrace is located. As the name suggests, the Glass Floor offers a bird's-eye view directly down over the city.

For those looking for a little more adventure, or perhaps a lot more adventure, there is the " Edge Walk. " This involves a hands-free walk on a 1.5-meter-wide ledge around the outside edge of the main pod, at an elevation of 365 meters. Participants are attached to a safety harness and rope.

Located at 351 meters is the revolving 360 Restaurant , featuring fine dining and some of the best views from a table anywhere in Toronto. 360 is open for lunch and dinner, and visitors who dine here also receive complimentary access to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels of the tower.

Basing yourself in the city center, preferably near the CN Tower, is the best option for exploring Toronto.

Address: 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Exceptional collections of art, culture, nature, and science in Canada's largest museum.

The Royal Ontario Museum , known as the ROM, is one of Canada's premier museums and one of the top tourist attractions in Ontario , with an international reputation for excellence.

It houses an outstanding collection, which covers natural history, art, and culture from a great variety of periods from all over the world. It is also well-known for featuring exhibitions from across the globe .

A controversial expansion in 2007 saw the addition of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal , a modern wing featuring glass and sharp angles, added on to a very traditional older building. It's now one of Toronto's most recognizable buildings.

Address: 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to over 20,000 marine mammals and an incredible underwater tunnel.

One of Toronto's newest top attractions is the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada near the base of the CN Tower . This fabulous facility displays all kinds of marine life and is one of the most popular things to do in Toronto for families.

The most impressive feature is the huge underwater tunnel with a moving sidewalk. You can watch the ocean world go by all around you as sharks glide past and sawfish linger on the tunnel roof above. This is a truly serene experience for all ages.

Another unexpected highlight is the jellyfish display, accented with creative lighting. Further on, touch tanks with stingrays and small sharks allow for a hands-on experience. And, for the engineering-minded, the building's open concept also allows for a look at the Life Support System and filtration equipment operating the facility.

Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A huge collection of incredible art with a Canadian focus, along with treasured pieces from around the world.

The renowned Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest museums in North America .

The collection of more than 95,000 pieces includes works from around the world, from European masterpieces to contemporary art, but also holds an impressive collection of Canadian Art, including a vast collection of works by the Group of Seven. A series of temporary exhibitions are mounted throughout the year.

The AGO occupies a unique-looking building, with a mix of older and modern architecture, on the west side of the city center. Next to the AGO is the hard-to-miss Ontario College of Art and Design, standing high above the street on stilts designed to look like pencils.

Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : An easy day trip to one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

If you have never been, a quick day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls is well worth the time. You can be standing on the edge of the falls in just over an hour.

A tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto is an easy way to see the falls if you don't want to drive yourself. Tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off and include a Niagara Cruise, which takes you up close to the wall of water tumbling that is the main Horseshoe Falls.

Tours also stop at some of the key sites in the area, including Whirlpool Rapids, the Floral Clock, and the beautiful little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Getting from Toronto to Niagara Falls is easier than you might think, with several different options available. A train (Go Train) runs to Niagara Falls from Union Station in summer, from late June to the start of September, as well as the Thanksgiving weekend in October. On weekends you can even take your bike on the train, and enjoy a bike ride along the Niagara Parkway.

If you have enough time, you may also want to consider spending the night at Niagara Falls to explore the downtown area and see the falls lit up at night.

Highlights : One of Toronto's top areas to see the latest shows, grab a meal, or go to a hockey or baseball game.

The Entertainment District in Toronto covers a large area of the city center and includes many of the city's top attractions, like the CN Tower , Scotiabank Arena , Rogers Centre , and many museums.

It's also known for fantastic dining , and most importantly, shows and performances. Most of the action is centered around King Street , between Spadina Avenue and University Avenue.

Toronto's answer to New York's Broadway, the Entertainment District comes to life in the evenings and is a great place for nightlife. This is the place to see major theater productions, including musicals, concerts, and other performing arts.

Some of the most prominent venues in this area are Roy Thomson Hall , home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Alexandra Theatre , which hosts the most current musicals.

Highlights : Canada's largest zoo, daily shows in the summer, and 10 kilometers of walking trails.

The Toronto Zoo has an outstanding and diverse collection, with approximately 5,000 animals. Some of the favorites include pygmy hippos, lions, tigers, giraffes, penguins, orangutans, and many more. The zoo is divided into several sections, each representing a major region of the globe.

Some of the other highlights at the Toronto Zoo include the Gorilla Rainforest; the Tundra Trek, featuring polar bears; and the Great Barrier Reef.

The Discovery Zone is a popular area with families, and during the summer months, a splash pad offers fun in the sun.

The zoo lies on the Rouge River about 40 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Address: 361A Old Finch Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's freshest meats, cheeses, and vegetable stands, all housed in a historical building from 1845.

The St. Lawrence Market houses a variety of vendors selling various food products, flowers, and specialty items. The St. Lawrence Hall was built in Toronto in 1850 and served as a public meeting place and a concert venue.

If you've been shopping or touring nearby, this is an excellent spot to stop in for a bite to eat or to relax with friends over a cup of coffee. In the summer, outdoor patios on elevated spaces allow you to soak up some of the warm sunshine.

The hall was restored in 1967 but has retained much of its old charm. The building provides a unique atmosphere for the market and is also occasionally used for film and television shoots. The interior features a grand staircase and a gas-lit chandelier.

Once you leave St. Lawrence Market, head north (away from the lake) up to Front Street and then head west for a block and a half to check out the architecturally stunning Gooderham building at Church Street. This building framed in front of the towers of downtown Toronto is an iconic picture of the city.

Address: 92 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Historical buildings, trendy restaurants, galleries, and shops, and home to Toronto's best Christmas market.

Toronto's Distillery District is a restored historic area, which has been transformed into a trendy entertainment and shopping district. Charming boutiques, galleries, artists' studios, and restaurants fill the old buildings. This is an interesting place to come during the day or evening and any time of year.

A variety of entertainment events are held here, but one of the most well-known is the annual Toronto Christmas Market . Wooden stalls all decorated for Christmas sell unique gifts; a huge Christmas tree stands in an open square; and cozy outdoor areas are set up, often with couches and large fire pits to gather around.

Restaurants offer outdoor dining despite the cold, with heat lamps and lap blankets. Hot chocolate is always readily available at this time of year.

Highlights : A turn-of-the-century Gothic castle with over 100 rooms, a secret tunnel, and gorgeous gardens with views of Toronto.

Standing in beautifully kept grounds, Casa Loma is an extraordinary building somewhat reminiscent of a medieval castle. It was originally constructed in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt, an eccentric Canadian multi-millionaire who was among the first to recognize and exploit the money-making potential of Niagara Falls .

With close to 100 rooms, including three dozen bathrooms, the house is now a museum. Visitors can take a look back in time to a period of European elegance and splendor. Canada's foremost castle is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and five acres of estate gardens .

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Unique architecture, summer concerts, a winter skating rink, and the city's famous Toronto sign.

Dominating the spacious Nathan Philips Square with its bronze sculpture, The Archer , by Henry Moore, is the still highly acclaimed new City Hall .

It was designed by the gifted Finnish architect Viljo Revell and built in 1965. City Hall consists of two arc-shaped high-rise blocks, 20 and 27 stories high respectively, wrapped around a lower central building topped by a flattened cupola.

In the square in front of City Hall is a man-made pond, which becomes a popular skating rink in winter and is where the often photographed Toronto sign is located. This is a beautiful area to visit in December, particularly at night, when it's decorated for the Christmas holidays.

Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Downtown Toronto's best mall, home to all the top retailers, plus a good food court.

The huge CF Toronto Eaton Center mall is located at the north end of the Central Business District. With its own subway station, this ultra-modern shopping complex extends over several blocks and is continually being renovated and enlarged.

Strangers can quite easily lose their way in the bewildering maze of department stores, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafeterias, and snack bars, which crowd the different levels above and below ground.

Eaton Center is connected to the Hudson Bay store via a skywalk and is also a stop on Toronto's subway system.

Address: 220 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A fun gathering place with huge digital billboards reminiscent of Times Square in New York.

This neon-lit public space is fashioned after New York's Times Square and is a popular gathering spot for Torontonians. The area is complete with seating areas, dancing fountains , and a stage where concerts take place in the summer.

Yonge Dundas Square is best enjoyed in the evening when the flashing neon signs come to life and the place develops a fun vibe. It is by far the best place in the city for people-watching . The surrounding streets are packed with restaurants , many of which have patios.

The square is accessible via Toronto's subway system, or you can park in the large underground parking lot directly beneath the square.

Address: 1 Dundas Street E, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Celebrity spotting and an incredible roster of first-run movies.

One of the highlights on Toronto's annual events calendar is the Toronto International Film Festival . Held each year in early September, this world-famous festival attracts some of the most famous names in film.

You can see a movie or simply hang around and hope to catch a glimpse of someone famous walking by. The weather in Toronto this time of year is still hot. Dining outside in the evening and relaxing on an outdoor patio is a major pastime, as limos drive by and photographers and press are out in full force.

The vibe in Toronto for this eleven-day event is electric. Throngs of people descend on the city. If you want to visit Toronto this time of year, book a hotel well in advance.

Highlights : Eclectic and unusual shops along with restaurants serving authentic international fare.

Kensington Market is an area of Toronto with a bohemian and multicultural feel.

On a typical summer's day, the smell of incense wafts through the air; music from a street-side musician can be heard; and the numerous retailers, who mostly operate out of old two-story brick homes, set up their goods on designated areas of their deck-covered lawns or on the sidewalks. This is a fantastic area for a stroll.

The shops, many of which display colorful murals and street art, sell everything from Tibetan blankets to jewelry, bags, purses, and vintage clothing, and there are even a couple of cheese shops.

Restaurants and coffee shops here offer a multicultural festival of choices that include Jamaican, Mexican, Tibetan, or more basic options like pizza or smoothies. You can also find natural food stores, tattoo shops, and fruit and vegetable stands.

Highlights : A priceless collection of Islamic Art in an architecturally stunning building.

The Aga Khan Museum is one of the best institutions devoted to Islamic Arts in North America. It is housed in a spectacular light-filled modern building with beautiful, peaceful surroundings consisting of large reflecting pools.

The permanent collection was first started in the 1950s by the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan and the Princess Catharine Aga Khan. You'll see spectacular items, including manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles, with pieces dating from the 9th right through to the 19th century. The items have been sourced across a wide geographic area from China to Spain.

In addition to the permanent collection, visiting exhibitions are showcased on the museum's second floor.

The museum's restaurant is one of Toronto's top dining destinations .

Address: 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails, ponds, sports facilities, a pool, a zoo, and beautiful gardens.

High Park is a huge green space with sunken gardens, hanging basket gardens, nature trails, natural ponds, and streams, easily ranking as one of the best parks in Toronto .

This 165-acre country property, originally owned by the Howards, was deeded to the City of Toronto in 1873. This deed came with the stipulation that the park was to remain "for the free use, benefit and enjoyment of the citizens of Toronto and it be called High Park."

Park Attractions: Within the park is the High Park Zoo , home to a number of animals, including bison; reindeer; llamas; wallabies; and Toronto's famous Capybara's, Bonnie and Clyde, who escaped from their enclosure and quickly rose to fame, developing their own social media platforms in 2016.

Other things to do and areas of interest in the park include swimming and wading pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a scenic train tour. The grounds also include 19th-century recreated gardens, a Coach House, and the Howards' Tomb.

For a week or 10 days in the spring, the sakura cherry trees burst into bloom and herald the start of warmer weather. This colorful spectacle is beloved by the citizens of Toronto, and it always attracts big crowds. The best place to see the trees is near the duck pond.

Annually, the Canadian Stage Company puts on a performance at the open-air theater in the park during the months of July and August, known as "Shakespeare in High Park."

Address: 1873 Bloor Street W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's best beaches, an amusement park for kids, a boardwalk, and a pier.

The ferry trip from Queen's Quay Terminal to the Toronto Islands, about a kilometer offshore, is the prelude to a thoroughly enjoyable outing.

Things to Do: There are lovely walks on the islands, as well as the opportunity for rowing, sailing, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

In summer, the Toronto Islands are the venue for numerous open-air events. In favorable weather, you'll be treated to a stunning view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry terminal on Ward's Island.

If it's hot during your visit—and don't be fooled, it does get hot in Toronto in the summer—the Toronto Islands are home to some of Toronto's best beaches.

They stretch for kilometers along the offshore islands, and the views from the beaches, along with the golden sands and crystal-clear waters, may have you thinking you are in the Caribbean. That is, until you step into the chilly waters of Lake Ontario and are instantly transported back to reality!

The Centreville Amusement Park is located on Centre Island , one of the Toronto Islands, and features a variety of children's rides.

The Toronto Islands Ferry Service runs from Queen's Quay and travels to each of the main Toronto Islands, and tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Highlights : An IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater and fascinating interactive displays for all ages.

The Ontario Science Center is a family-oriented attraction with many interesting exhibits to entertain children. It occupies a site overlooking the Don Valley, about 10 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Designed by the virtuoso architect Raymond Moriyama, this modern building was completed in 1969. The emphasis is very much on visitor participation, with 12 permanent exhibitions, a planetarium, and an IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater .

Visitors to the center are brought face to face with the latest developments in technology, telecommunications, optics, biology, physics, space travel and meteorology, and much more, all presented in an absorbing and imaginative way.

Address: 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Bustling summer patios, authentic Italian food stores, and a popular annual festival.

Toronto's multicultural mix makes it one of the most livable cities in North America . People from around the world have settled here to make this world-class city their home, and with them, they've brought the best of the old country.

Throughout the city, you'll find a number of ethnic enclaves. One of the more popular is Little Italy. Located roughly in the square lined by Dundas and Harbord Streets and Ossington and Bathurst Avenues, the main retail area of Little Italy exists along Collect Street.

This lively area hums with people strolling up and down the wide sidewalks, past Italian restaurants with popular patios (especially during a European soccer game). As you stroll along, keep an eye out for the statues of famous Italian Canadians along the Italian Walk of Fame.

Little Italy is also a good spot to buy imported food and cooking supplies direct from Italy.

Highlights : Toronto's best collection of Greek restaurants and food stores.

Another one of Toronto's famous ethnic enclaves, The Danforth, or as it's also known, Greektown , is the place to go for a taste of Greece. Running along Danforth Avenue from Chester Avenue through to Dewhurst Boulevard, the area has long been associated with the Greek diaspora.

Take a stroll along Danforth Avenue, and pop into any one of the restaurants, shops, and other retail outlets along the way. Some of the city's best Greek food can be found here. Grab a spot on a patio or, if the weather is cool, step inside and be transported to the warmth of the Greek Islands.

The area is home to the famous and well-loved Taste of the Danforth . Hopefully, you'll find yourself here in mid-August when, for a couple of days, the area becomes a giant outdoor restaurant.

Highlights : The largest collection of shoes in the world, including ones worn by celebrities.

Only 50 percent of the human race understands the need for a shoe museum. Those of the feminine persuasion (in case you hadn't figured it out!), will absolutely love the Bata Shoe Museum and its incredible displays of shoes and over 14,000 other artifacts.

All these and more are part of the world's largest collection of footwear-related items , tracing back over 4,500 years.

The museum has some very unique shoes worn by Indigenous people, 16th-century Italians, and of course, celebrities. The celebrity collection includes Elvis' blue patent loafers, Robert Redford's cowboy boots, Elton John's silver platform boots complete with a monogram, and Queen Victoria's ballroom slippers.

Of particular note for Canadians are Terry Fox's singular running shoe and Karen Kain's ballet slippers.

Address: 327 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails along the waterfront, views of the Toronto Islands, an ice rink in the winter.

Toronto, like many other cities along the Great Lakes, has done a good job of making its former industrial waterfront areas accessible to its inhabitants.

Harbourfront Centre itself is a performance venue that provides artistic programming all year long at its 10-acre waterfront campus. Indoor and outdoor stages showcase some of the city's most innovative performances.

The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area. The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area.

Come winter, the area doesn't hibernate, in fact, it remains quite lively, with one of Toronto's most scenic and popular ice-skating rinks .

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A recreated village from 1860, costumed interpreters, and a petting zoo.

One of the most popular things to do as a family in Toronto is to step back in time at the Black Creek Pioneer Village . As you walk through the gates, you'll be transported to village life in the 1860s.

It's not just historical buildings, of which you'll find over 40, costumed interpreters go through their daily routine of living life 160 years ago. Kids and grown-ups alike will enjoy interacting with these fun and friendly characters from the past.

In addition to the human participants, animals also get to play their part, too. Over 70 animals live here, and in many cases are happy for a pet or two.

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to the original Stanley Cup, a replica Montreal Canadiens dressing room, and interactive exhibits.

For hockey fans, a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame in downtown Toronto is a necessity. This is the place to learn about the all-time hockey greats: the players, the teams, and the games.

It also offers a chance to see the original 1893 Stanley Cup, along with a collection of important memorabilia, and an interactive display allows you to test your own hockey skills.

Be sure to step inside an exact replica of the Montreal Canadiens' dressing room from the Montreal Forum, view a display of 90 painted goalie masks, and check out the incredible collection of hockey cards.

Address: Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlight : Colorful artwork along the walls of a narrow laneway.

This long alley in Toronto will look familiar to Canadians who have watched the long-running TV comedy series, Rick Mercer Report . This is where he filmed his controversial news rants.

Even if you have never seen this show, this is an incredible area that seems to go on forever. Tourists love coming here, posing in painted doorways and windows, and taking selfies day and night.

Graffiti Alley runs parallel to, and between, Queens Street West and Richmond Street West from Spadina Avenue to Portland Street.

Highlight : A retractable roof allows for the sun and fresh air to flood in during summer baseball games.

Immediately adjacent to the CN Tower is Rogers Centre , a massive domed sports arena and home to the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB). The unique design includes a retractable roof, which slides back, allowing it to be opened in favorable weather.

This mega-structure was completed in 1989 and can accommodate tens of thousands of spectators and is also used as a venue for other major events, including concerts. The center also offers one-hour guided tours with a behind-the-scenes look at the facility.

Attached to Rogers Centre is the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel , with rooms that look out over the field. If you are in town to see a game, staying here is an extremely convenient option and a bit of a unique experience.

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Carnival rides, unique foods, midway games, concerts, and an airshow.

When mid to late August rolls around, kids (and some adults) get a bit twitchy in anticipation of the CNE rolling into town. The CNE, also known as the Canadian National Exhibition , is a two-week carnival of craziness that sets up on Toronto's waterfront.

Midway rides, arcade games, and popular musical acts are all part of the heady mix in the hot, humid August weather. In addition to the rides and entertainment, an airshow featuring the Canadian snowbirds, along with other historical planes, also takes place during the same timeframe.

It's not all about entertainment. The CNE is also renowned for its unique fried food offerings . Starting, and still continuing today, Tiny Tom Donuts started the trend that has now evolved (or not, depending on your perspective) to deep-fried butter, deep-fried Red Velvet Oreos, deep-fried corn dogs complete with a pickle, and most recently, deep-fried cheese curds.

Highlights : Easily accessible fishing spots along the shore and charters on Lake Ontario offer the chance to land the "big one."

Toronto, with its enviable lakefront position, is an ideal place to go fishing. Lake Ontario supports a wide assortment of denizens of the deep, including Chinook and coho salmon, rainbow trout, walleye (pickerel), northern pike, sheepshead, perch, and many others.

If you want to head offshore into the deep waters, consider a salmon charter . Although they can be relatively expensive, your captain and first mate will do their best to put you onto the fish.

There's nothing quite like the call of "fish on" and the screaming of fishing line as the fish takes the bait and runs. Depending on the time of year, you could find yourself battling a 30-pound behemoth.

If that's not in your budget, just head to one of the waterfront parks or the Toronto Islands with a casting rod and reel and a bit of bait. You'll definitely catch something, although it won't be as big as the fish caught on a charter. Note that if you're planning on fishing, you need a license, easily purchased online .

Read More: Top-Rated Fishing Lodges in Ontario

Highlight : Discounted multi-course meals at Toronto's best restaurants.

Should you find yourself in Toronto in the depths of winter during the first two weeks of February, don't despair, it's actually a pretty fun place to be. The saving grace for these dark, cold days is the two-week dining festival called Winterlicious .

At this time, over 200 of Toronto's best restaurants come to the rescue of the city's inhabitants and visitors by offering prix fixe (set price) menus for both lunch and dinner. Each menu consists of a starter, a main, and a dessert, and the restaurant usually has a couple of offerings for each.

The hardest part of Winterlicious is figuring out where to go—dining options are as diverse as the city itself, with meals across all cuisine types. Fortunately, the City of Toronto has a website that lists all the options .

The meals offer tremendous value versus what the restaurants would normally charge and are a great way to try out some of the places you've always wanted to go. Beverages are not included, and this is where the restauranteur makes their money back on the discounted food.

Winterlicious has a seasonal counterpart called Summerlicious that follows the same format. This event takes place during the last two weeks of August.

For sightseeing and entertainment, the best place to stay in Toronto is right downtown in the heart of the action. The hotels listed below are all highly rated and in good locations in Toronto's city center, within easy walking distance of many of the main attractions.

Luxury Hotels:

• At the top end of the luxury category is The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto , with a convenient, central location near the Entertainment and Financial Districts.
• The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto has a great location near the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and Rogers Center, and offers good views over Lake Ontario.
• Near Eaton Center Shopping Complex and Toronto's famous City Hall and winter skating rink is the Hilton Toronto . The hotel has an indoor/outdoor pool that is open all year long; rooms on the south side of the building have views of the CN Tower.
• The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is kitty-corner to the Hilton and faces Nathan Phillips Square. It's connected to Eaton Center via the underground PATH system.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The One King West Hotel & Residence offers very good value with a variety of rooms, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is located in the center of all the action and steps to great restaurants.
• At the top end of the mid-range selection is the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown on the waterfront. This is a great spot, particularly in summer, near many lakefront restaurants and an extensive waterfront pedestrian area and within walking distance of the CN Tower and other attractions. The hotel also has an outdoor pool.
• North of The Esplanade and within easy walking distance of the Financial District and many attractions is the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown, an IHG Hotel , another quality mid-range hotel.

Sightseeing:

• If you're looking for a thrilling new perspective on the city skyline, hop aboard a 7-minute helicopter tour over Toronto . During this whirlwind excursion, you'll see top landmarks including the CN Tower, Fort York, and the Canadian National Exhibition grounds. The adventure also includes both a printed and digital souvenir photo.

The best time to visit Toronto is in the summer, during the months of June, July, and August. At this time, the weather is warm and slightly humid, and the city is alive with festivals and celebrations. It's a great time to hit the beach; go camping near town; or enjoy a long, lingering dinner on the patio late into the evening.

September is very pleasant, with summer-like temperatures but without the crowds. You'll also have the added benefit of the Toronto Film Festival.

October finds cooler days and nights and the signs of fall, with leaf color change in the Don Valley and throughout the city's parks.

The spring months of April and May are cool but offer longer days, spring flowers, and blooming cherry trees in High Park.

The winter months of November, December, January, February, and March are cold and snowy. At this time of year, it's best to plan indoor activities.

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Places to Visit near Toronto : If you have time to explore areas outside the city, be sure to take a side trip to Niagara Falls , just a 1.5-hour drive away, and check out some other day trip destinations around Toronto . Within easy striking distance are some of Canada's top cities, including Ottawa and Montreal , just four to five hours away by car and easily accessible by train or short flights. For other ideas on what to see and do in the province, see our list of top attractions in Ontario .

Ontario's Outdoors : Between spring and fall, nature lovers may want to enjoy some hiking, canoeing, camping, or relaxing at a lodge in one of the many Ontario parks , or soaking up the outdoors from the comfort of one of Ontario's top fishing lodges .

Canadian Vacation Ideas: If you are coming to Canada for a short or extended vacation and arriving in Toronto, have a look at some of our Canadian itineraries to help plan the rest of your trip, or select a few of the highlights from our list of top tourist attractions in Canada .

More on Canada

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• All Things To Do
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Toronto Islands Toronto Islands free

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Canada's biggest city, you can hop on a quick, 15-minute ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. Amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's mainland, this cluster of islands and islets provides a refreshing green oasis. The three interconnected islands – Centre, Ward's, and Algonquin – eliminate the need for constant boat transfers, allowing you to explore the entire area seamlessly. Each of these main islands offers a distinct experience, ensuring there is something unique to discover every time.

Centre Island lives up to its name by offering a variety of attractions, including picnic areas, beaches, sporting rentals and the Centreville Amusement Park. This park boasts more than 30 rides, a petting zoo and a charming boating lagoon. On the other hand, Ward and Algonquin provide a more relaxed atmosphere adorned with picturesque 1920s-style cottages and English gardens.

High Park High Park free

High Park is a true gem in the heart of Toronto, and it's no wonder it's often considered a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Spanning around 400 acres, this expansive park offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and a sanctuary of natural beauty.

One of the highlights of High Park is its lush green spaces and well-maintained gardens. Usually, during the spring, the park boasts an impressive collection of cherry blossom trees, which bloom in stunning colors, attracting crowds of admirers. High Park offers diverse habitats for nature enthusiasts, including serene ponds, wooded areas and even a small zoo. One of the park's most beloved features is Grenadier Pond, a calm body of water where visitors can enjoy fishing or unwind by its shores.

CN Tower CN Tower

Rising majestically amidst Toronto's stunning skyline, the CN Tower stands at an impressive height of 1,815 feet. The American Society of Civil Engineers hailed it as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Beyond its iconic stature, the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city below, creating a breathtaking vantage point for visitors.

You'll take an elevator to reach the four observation areas available to visitors, including the Glass Floor room (at 1,122 feet), the Main Observation Level (at 1,136 feet), the revolving 360 The Restaurant (at 1,150 feet) and the SkyPod, at 1,465 feet, one of the highest public observation areas in the world. Meanwhile, the EdgeWalk allows the daring to experience the world's highest hands-free external walk on a building. Connected via harness, participants can take a walk on a 5-foot-wide ledge encircling the top of the tower's main pod 116 stories above the ground. Tickets for the EdgeWalk start at of CA$199 (about $150) per person ages 13 and older also includes a keepsake video, printed photos, a certificate of achievement and a ticket to re-enter the tower.

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St. Lawrence Market St. Lawrence Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by St. Urbain Bagels, where fresh wood-fired Montreal-style bagels are made daily. Don't forget to savor the bakery's irresistible, flaky pastry boureka. – Suzanna Alsayed

Nestled within Toronto's historic Old Town, St. Lawrence Market has played numerous roles since its inception in the 19th century. Evolving from a marketplace, it has served as a vibrant social hub and even housed the City Hall. The market tantalizes visitors with various delectable delights, ranging from gourmet cured meats to intricately handcrafted jewelry. The St. Lawrence Market comprises three distinct buildings: the South Market, the North Market and the illustrious St. Lawrence Hall.

Distillery District Distillery District free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Distillery District uniquely appeals to those on first dates, with couples often capturing precious moments in front of the heart-shaped sculpture adorning its entrance. – Suzanna Alsayed

In the early 1800s, the waterfront area of Toronto housed the esteemed Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which stood as Canada's largest distilling company. Fast-forward to the present day, and this historic neighborhood has transformed into a charming pedestrian-only enclave, surrounded by Victorian buildings and cobblestone pathways once traversed by horse-drawn carriages. Today, it brims with a vibrant tapestry of art galleries, performance venues, inviting cafes, tantalizing restaurants, patios and even a brewery. This captivating locale offers a genuine glimpse into Toronto's rich past.

Harbourfront Centre Harbourfront Centre free

Tucked away on the scenic banks of Lake Ontario, this expansive 10-acre attraction has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a neglected shipping terminal into a vibrant and upscale neighborhood. Once desolate warehouses have been revitalized, now housing captivating theaters and art galleries that exude a similar ambiance to renowned waterfront destinations like San Francisco 's Pier 39 and Baltimore's Inner Harbor .

The area boasts a myriad of culinary delights with numerous eateries to satisfy diverse palates. Serene pockets of green space dot the landscape, including the esteemed Toronto Music Garden, a harmonious collaboration shaped partly by the renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma. And if you're around during the summer, you can kick back on Sugar Beach, a former parking lot transformed into an urban beach.

Kensington Market Kensington Market free

For those who embrace a touch of vibrant chaos, Kensington Market is a captivating destination when visiting Toronto. Once a thriving Jewish neighborhood, this eclectic market began in the 1920s when families set up stands outside their homes to trade goods. Over time, it has evolved into a bustling marketplace that has expanded in size and cultural diversity.

This neighborhood is a hub for diverse culinary delights, unique products and cultural experiences. Wandering through the streets of Kensington Market, you'll encounter a tapestry of shops and restaurants offering various goods from Europe. For residents, this area provides a down-to-earth experience and serves as a compelling counterpoint to the luxurious aspects of Toronto, showcasing the city's authentic and less opulent side.

Hockey Hall of Fame Hockey Hall of Fame

No visit to Toronto, or even Canada in general, would be complete without immersing yourself in the world of hockey. Although hockey may not be the country's official sport, it holds an almost sacred status as the unofficial national pastime. If you have the chance, you should try to join the thousands of passionate Torontonians as they gather at Scotiabank Arena to cheer on the beloved Toronto Maple Leafs. Even if you visit during the summer months, you can still satisfy your hockey cravings by visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame, conveniently located just a block away from Union Station.

Spanning an impressive 65,000 square feet, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of memorabilia. Delve into the sport's rich history as you encounter iconic artifacts, including the original Stanley Cup, Max Bentley's cherished stick, and Terry Sawchuk's legendary goalie gear. As you explore the exhibits, take advantage of the opportunity to step into a faithful reproduction of the Montreal Canadiens locker room and marvel at the Puck Wall, adorned with more than 1,000 pucks gathered from tournaments worldwide.

Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional)

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Niagara Falls One Day Sightseeing Tour from Toronto

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Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise

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Casa Loma Casa Loma

U.S. News Insider Tip: Experience the magic of a live orchestra at Casa Loma's gardens during its Symphony in the Gardens event, which takes place Monday evenings from June to September. – Suzanna Alsayed

Are you a fan of castles? So was Sir Henry Pellatt, a former soldier whose lifelong aspiration was to build a majestic castle overlooking the city of Toronto. Thus, the magnificent Casa Loma came into existence in 1914, a sprawling estate comprising 98 rooms. This architectural marvel took nearly three years to construct, requiring a staggering investment of more than $3.5 million.

Toronto Zoo Toronto Zoo

According to travelers, the Toronto Zoo is a hit with kids (and most adults). This sprawling facility in Scarborough is one of the largest zoos in the world, with more than 6 miles of walking trails spread over 700 acres and 3,000 animals (representing more than 300 species) calling this place home. The zoo is separated into seven geographic regions, including the Tundra Trek, Eurasia Wilds and an African Rainforest Pavilion. There are also a plethora of seasonal activities to engage in. Along with a ropes course, there's a carousel and the Zoomobile Ride, which takes you through some of the park's various regions, including the Tundra Trek, the Canadian Domain and Eurasia. The Discovery Zone is also a top attraction for families, housing a 2-acre water play area, theater and an interactive wildlife experience designed for kids.

Recent visitors were impressed with the zoo, but warned that it's large, so you'll need to wear proper walking shoes. The ticket prices were a common gripe among reviewers, as was the zoo's location – there are no subway stations nearby, but the No. 86A bus route stops close to the main entrance. Others complained of the expensive food prices (hence, if you are on a budget, you may want to bring your food for a picnic).

Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM) Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM)

Positioned on the northern edge of the University of Toronto campus, the Royal Ontario Museum (also referred to as the "ROM") is a must-visit for avid history enthusiasts. Since its establishment in 1914, the ROM has accumulated more than 13 million artifacts, making it Canada's largest museum of world cultures and natural history. Across its 40 gallery and exhibition spaces, the museum displays diverse relics, including dinosaur bones, ancient Roman sculptures, Chinese temple art, an exhibit on Canada's First Nations and other cultural objects from various parts of the world.

Careful planning is advised to make the most of your time here, as recent visitors note that the Royal Ontario Museum offers such a wealth of exhibits that you might easily lose track of time. However, travelers unanimously agree that the museum's diverse array of exhibits is a true treasure, making every minute spent there worthwhile. Families traveling with children need not worry about keeping the little ones engaged, as the ROM provides interactive experiences. Kids can explore the hands-on gallery to touch snakeskin, examine shark jaws up close, and even venture into a fox's den. The CIBC Discovery Gallery also allows youngsters to dress up in costumes and embark on exciting "dinosaur" bone excavations.

Nathan Phillips Square Nathan Phillips Square free

Nathan Phillips Square is a must-visit destination in Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown, this bustling public square – which was named in honor of a former Toronto mayor – offers a variety of experiences that make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The centrepiece of Nathan Phillips Square is the striking Toronto City Hall, an architectural masterpiece that showcases modernist design. Its distinctive curved towers and the elevated walkway known as the "podium roof" make it a prominent landmark on the city skyline. Visitors are encouraged to explore the City Hall's public spaces, including the council chambers and the mayor's office, to see Toronto's governance in action.

Ontario Science Centre Ontario Science Centre

For an immersive and engaging learning experience that goes beyond reading plaques, look no further than the Ontario Science Centre. This remarkable facility offers a multitude of interactive exhibits designed to maximize educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Step into the pilot's seat of a rocket chair, embark on a cosmic journey in the city's public planetarium and showcase your dance moves on a floor that converts energy into mesmerizing light displays. Delve into the Living Earth experience and feel the touch of a tornado or catch a glimpse of your future self with the Amazing Aging Machine. Before exploring, check the information area for any special events that day. The on-site IMAX theater screens various educational films, and the museum regularly presents captivating demonstrations on topics ranging from electricity to papermaking.

Recent visitors said that because there's so much to do, it's possible to spend the entire day at the Ontario Science Centre. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to plan and select the exhibits you wish to see in advance. This strategic approach will help you optimize your time and ensure you get to all the highlights. While most reviewers agreed a visit here is worthwhile if you've got young kids in tow, others found the science center to be lacking for teens and adults.

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Fort York Fort York free

Fort York is prominent on the sightseeing itineraries of many tourists and history enthusiasts. Established in 1793, it is Toronto's most significant historical site, safeguarding the city from the late 18th century until the conclusion of World War II. Moreover, it serves as the birthplace of modern-day Toronto, as the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada relocated the capital from the border town of Niagara due to nearby war conflicts. Visitors can now explore the quarters of soldiers and officers, observe cannon firings and military drills and even participate in flag raisings.

As stated by recent visitors, you'll love this site if you're into history. According to select reviewers, you may want to skip Fort York if you don't consider yourself a history or military aficionado. While many acknowledged that the site was incredibly well-preserved and offered a cool glimpse into the past lives of the soldiers who used to live there, some didn't find it to be as stimulating as other attractions.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the incredible marine life and interactive exhibits that await you.

One of the standout features of this aquarium is its sheer size and diversity. With more than 20,000 aquatic animals representing more than 450 species, there's something to fascinate visitors of all ages. The variety of marine life is truly astounding, from graceful sharks and majestic rays to colourful tropical fish and playful sea turtles.

Yorkdale Shopping Mall Yorkdale Shopping Mall free

Yorkdale Mall is a premier shopping destination that attracts locals and tourists alike. Here, you'll find a wide selection of high-end and luxury brands, popular retailers and diverse dining options. With more than 250 stores, including flagship stores and exclusive boutiques, Yorkdale Mall is a shopper's paradise.

The mall also hosts additional attractions and entertainment options, including a movie theater, art installations, interactive exhibits and unique pop-up experiences.

Canada's Wonderland Canada's Wonderland

Canada's Wonderland is an amusement park located outside Toronto that offers many attractions and activities across more than 200 acres, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.

One of the main reasons to visit Canada's Wonderland is its incredible collection of exhilarating rides. Thrill-seekers can brave the intense drops and loops of rides like Leviathan, Behemoth and Ghoster Coaster. At the same time, those seeking a milder adventure can enjoy the diverse selection of family rides, the 20-acre Splash Works water park and other attractions throughout the park.

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24 Best Things to Do in Toronto

By Stefanie Waldek

Given that Toronto is Canada’s most populous (and diverse) city, it should come as little surprise that there is a lot to do in town. Whether you’re looking to dive into the city's vast number of museums , take in nature in its parks, or sample the varied cuisines of Toronto's 250-plus ethnic groups, there is plenty to fill any itinerary. Our recommendation? Take it all in bit by bit. There’s always another chance to come back and see more.

Read our complete Toronto travel guide here .

Toronto Music Garden Arrow

This urban garden located in Toronto’s Harbourfront neighborhood is very accessible to tourists walking around downtown—and it has great views of the CN Tower. As for the garden itself: Yo-Yo Ma, the cello maestro, can put “landscape architect” on his resume after having collaborated on the Toronto Music Garden with professional landscape architect Julie Moir Messervy. For the project, the duo physically interpreted and manifested Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, the first of the composer’s six suites for unaccompanied cello, as a garden, using the piece’s six dance movements (Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuet, and Gigue) to create different sections of the green space. At the center is the Gigue (or Jig) section, a grassy amphitheater with a stage beneath a weeping willow tree where free classical music concerts are held each summer.

Art Gallery of Ontario Arrow

Established in 1900, the Art Gallery of Ontario has more than 90,000 items in its encyclopedic collection, which spans the last 2,000 years. Of particular note are its collections of Canadian and Indigenous art, though it also has notable works by European masters like Rembrandt, Auguste Rodin, and Pablo Picasso. The museum underwent a $276 million renovation by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry in 2008, his first work in his native city, doubling its exhibition space.

Harbourfront Centre Arrow

In 1972, the Canadian government began a massive revitalization project in Toronto to boost both local, national, and international tourism, transforming 100 acres of industrial waterfront into cultural, educational, and recreational attractions. Overseeing the operation was the Harbourfront Corporation, which became the Harbourfront Centre nonprofit in 1991. The organization was tasked with organizing cultural programming in the neighborhood—more specifically, in a 10-acre area right on the water—which is still its primary function today. And it’s quite successful: In non-pandemic years, Harbourfront Centre’s myriad venues and public spaces would host some 4,000 events each year, from summer writing festivals to the performing arts to art and architecture exhibitions, drawing in more than 17 million visitors. In the winter, there's even an ice skating rink.

Casa Loma Arrow

Canada might not be known for its castles, but Toronto is home to an unusual one that has become a beloved tourist attraction. Casa Loma is a 98-room château built by Canadian businessman Sir Henry Mill Pellatt in 1914, who went bankrupt shortly after completing his beloved home. Casa Loma now serves as a museum and a popular filming location, most notably serving as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngers in X-Men. Do the self-guided tour, which you can fly through at a clip, providing the place isn't packed; it can be tricky to rush past the crowds during busier times, especially in some of the smaller spaces, tunnels, and towers. Must-sees include secret passageways, gardens, and an underground pool.

St. Lawrence Market Arrow

St. Lawrence Market is perhaps the most famous market in Toronto, and locals regularly shop its stalls for produce, meats, cheeses, and more. While the focus of your trip should be browsing the dozens of food stalls, it’s interesting to take a look at its architecture, too. Though the current main building was erected in 1902, part of the Old City Hall, which dates to 1845, was incorporated into it. There’s also The Market Kitchen, a cooking school and event space where you can take culinary classes or partake in special hands-on dinners that include shopping the market for ingredients.

Hockey Hall of Fame Arrow

If there’s anything Canadians are known for, it’s hockey. The sport is the most popular in the country, so it’s no surprise that its most populous city is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Established in 1943, the non-profit organization has been inducting legendary players and other hockey professionals to its ranks every year since 1945. Today, the Hall of Fame also functions as a museum and houses the Stanley Cup. The museum is a must-take pilgrimage for all hockey lovers, though its gift shop deserves a stop, too: Pick up a wide array of themed merch, from authentic NHL and Hall of Fame apparel to souvenirs, novelty items, and all manner of presents for the hockey fans in your life.

Kensington Market Arrow

Kensington Market is not actually a market, but a food-centric neighborhood in downtown Toronto. While the city at large is known for its diverse population, there’s perhaps no better place to witness that multiculturalism in such a concentrated area than here. Whatever type of food you’re in the mood for, from Ethiopian to Vietnamese to Jamaican, there’s probably a restaurant, grocery store, or hole-in-the-wall for it. Some favorites include Seven Lives Tacos Y Mariscos for stellar tacos and NU Bügel for Montreal-style bagels with Venezuelan toppings. Beyond all the food, there are also vintage shops, independent boutiques, and artists’ studios tucked into Victorian-style houses all throughout the neighborhood.

High Park Arrow

Toronto’s largest public park has 400 acres that range from manicured lawns to themed gardens to untouched nature. In addition to the greenery, there are a number of interactive activities, including a zoo, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rinks (or frozen ponds in winter), a dog run, and playgrounds. It’s a park designed for all Torontonians and visitors to use however they best see fit, whether for leisure, sport, or fitness.

Allan Gardens Conservatory Arrow

History, architecture, and plant life collide at Allan Gardens Conservatory, a park with a series of connected Victorian-era greenhouses in the center of Toronto with 16,000 square feet of space to hold its botanical collection. Though the Toronto Horticultural Society inaugurated a garden on the site in 1858, the central Palm House, designed by architect Robert McCallum, opened in 1910. Subsequent additions have expanded the gardens’ holdings to include a tropical house, an orchid house, a temperate house, an arid house, and a children’s conservatory. Because the gardens are enclosed and protected from the cold, they’re open 365 days a year. There’s also an (outdoor) arboretum with 55 species of trees, providing lovely green space for Torontonians. Catch the three seasonal floral shows for a multicolored spectacle: the Spring Hydrangea Show, the Fall Chrysanthemum Show, and the Winter Flower Show.

Aga Khan Museum Arrow

Set in a 17-acre park, the elegant Aga Khan Museum, designed by architect Fumihiko Maki and opened in 2014, is the first museum in North America dedicated to Islamic art. The Aga Khan Museum is named after the spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims, who funded the project with the mission to share the artistic and scientific contributions of global Muslim communities with the world. While the museum has a 1,000-piece permanent collection, it also hosts rotating exhibitions and special events; one notable recent exhibit addressed the role of female citizens of Saudi Arabia (and featured an installation made from women’s travel documents), while another—inspired by the 2003 destruction of the library at the University of Baghdad’s College of Fine Arts—featured an ever-evolving installation of books that were later donated to the college.

Bata Shoe Museum Arrow

When Sonja Bata began traveling the world in the 1940s, she didn’t collect postcards or trinkets: she collected shoes. Three decades later, she established the Bata Shoe Museum Foundation to create a permanent home for her collection and to promote its growth. The current museum, which opened in 1995, houses nearly 15,000 shoes and related objects spanning 4,500 years of shoe-making history, so there's plenty to see.

CN Tower Arrow

Toronto’s most iconic landmark is the 1,815-foot CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the world from 1976, when it was built, to 2007. While the tower does serve a purpose—its 335-foot antenna is used to broadcast television, radio, and cell signals—it’s also the most popular attraction in the city. The concrete megastructure is home to a number of observation decks, a restaurant with the highest wine cellar in the world (at 1,151 feet), and the EdgeWalk, a thrilling attraction that lets visitors walk outside the structure at 1,168 feet above street level. Tickets are required, with different packages providing different experiences.

TIFF Bell Lightbox Arrow

TIFF Bell Lightbox is not only the headquarters of the annual Toronto International Film Festival, but it’s also the city’s premier movie theater and entertainment complex, open to the public. Built in 2010, the modern facilities include five state-of-the-art cinemas, a restaurant, classrooms, a film reference library, gallery space, and a members’ lounge. Outside of the 10-day festival in September, TIFF Bell Lightbox screens new releases and runs thematic film programming year-round, focusing on anything from classic blockbusters to foreign indie films.

Toronto Islands Arrow

The Toronto Islands, located just offshore from downtown Toronto, are an 820-acre car-free haven. While 600 people live on the islands, the majority of visitors are day-trippers who come to enjoy the beaches, parks, gardens, yacht clubs, cafés, and a small amusement park for children. Seasonal activities include kayaking, picnicking, barbecuing, and outdoor yoga classes.

Tour Guys: Toronto Graffiti Tour Arrow

If you’re looking to learn about graffiti and street art rather than just snap selfies, look no further than the Tour Guys' casual yet informative walking tours throughout Toronto. On the Graffiti Tour, your small group (no more than 12 people) will head down Graffiti Alley, a hotspot for street artists. The guides do much more than point out highlights along the way. They dive into the history of the medium, explain technical terms, discuss current players in the Toronto scene, and talk about the legality of the art form.

Royal Ontario Museum Arrow

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop of a museum, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is your best bet. Originally established in 1912 as collection of five museums dedicated to archaeology, paleontology, mineralogy, zoology, and geology, ROM has since consolidated its efforts, covering everything from natural and cultural history to fine arts and design within the same massive space. It’s not often you can find dinosaur bones and fashion exhibitions within the same space. Be sure to spend a few minutes lingering outside the Queen's Park entrance, too, to best appreciate starchitect Daniel Libeskind's geometric marvel of a structure, dubbed the "Michael Lee-Chin Crystal," part of a multi-million dollar expansion to the museum, unveiled in 2007.

Bruce Bell Tours Arrow

Actor, comedian, historian, and proud Torontonian Bruce Bell leads this highly entertaining one-man show, which is a perfect excursion for those who don’t love cookie-cutter tours. You’ll meet your small group at the St. Lawrence Market—be sure to make reservations in advance—and travel on foot around the bustling building and the surrounding Old Town neighborhood.

Distillery District Arrow

A collection of 47 19th-century buildings that once comprised the Gooderham & Worts Distillery is now a major dining, shopping, and cultural hub in Toronto aptly called the Distillery District. Strolling through the neighborhood’s brick-paved pedestrian streets, visitors might feel as if they’ve been transported to Victorian-era Canada—the craftspeople who restored the old structures kept true to the original construction materials as much as possible. And while there are still breweries and distilleries here (including the Spirit of York Distillery and the Mill St. Brew Pub ), there are also restaurants, local-owned boutiques, and art galleries.

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The 12 best attractions in Toronto

The best attractions in Toronto include Frank Gehry-designed buildings, museums and plenty more

Photograph: Shutterstock

It seems obvious to state that Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is brimming with fantastic things to do. We're talking amazing museums , exquisite cuisine and some of the best nightlife in the entire Great White North. Not to mention the nature walks, which you can find right in the heart of the city (hello Balfour Park loop).

There’s nowhere else quite like it. Toronto is a city that manages to both preserve its areas of cultural importance and expand at a break-neck pace. Get ready to explore both the city’s rich heritage and its exciting future – here are our top picks of Toronto’s best attractions.

RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Toronto

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Toronto attractions

1.  royal ontario museum.

• Bloor Yorkville

From crystals to dinosaurs, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) covers it all, making it an essential stop on any kind of traveller’s itinerary. Originally opened in 1914, the ROM now houses numerous permanent collections and is always curating interesting feature exhibits. With the futuristic addition of the Michael Lee-Chin crystal in 2007, the ROM is an attraction that stands the test of time for visitors of all ages.

Time Out tip:  On average, it takes visitors 3-4 hours to explore all the rooms, so we recommend getting there a little early and prioritising the must-see collections. It might be worth taking a coffee break too. 

2.  The Distillery District

• The Distillery District

This is one of Toronto’s oldest i ndustrial neighbourhoods, with a modern, contemporary twist . The very hip Distillery District, comprised of the cluster of restored Victorian buildings that once operated as the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, has undergone one of the city’s greatest urban transformations, creating a unique European-esque walking district packed with restaurants, cafés, boutiques, galleries and more.

Time Out tip:  If you like discovering unique finds, pay a visit to the Distillery's finest local-run clothing boutiques and shops, where you’re bound to stumble on a cool décor piece or two.  

3.  Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

Immerse yourself in art and culture at one of the city’s most intriguing architectural landmarks. With a stunning expansion designed by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry, the AGO houses one of the largest art collections in North America. From Canadian artist collections and European classics to interactive workshops and classes, the AGO is a must-visit for any art-loving adventurer.    

Time Out tip: Once you've worked up a hefty appetite from all that pondering, you'll be spoilt for choice by the likes of China Town and Kensington Market, both within walking distance of the gallery. Whether it's dim sum, pho or a doner kebab you're after, we know a guy!

4.  Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

• Attractions
• Harbourfront

Ripley’s Aquarium in downtown Toronto takes the idea of ‘sleeping with the fishes’ very, very literally. One of the venue’s awesome events lets visitors spend the night amongst sharks, rays and tropical fish – and it isn’t the only cool program at Ripley’s. The aquarium also holds yoga sessions and live jazz nights, cementing it as one of the city’s hottest tourist destinations. 

Time Out tip:  To avoid the crowds, try arriving before 11 am and after 2 pm on weekdays. On weekends, begin your tour before 11 am or after 4 pm.  

5.  Evergreen Brick Works

An old brickworks heritage site turned into a hub for innovation, Evergreen Brick Works offers visitors a unique experience through demonstrations, exhibits and events. The complex is comprised of a variety of multipurpose buildings, including a large kilns-turned-gallery building, a garden market, a restaurant café and a bike shop, to name just a few. Focused on sustainability and creating green-friendly models of urban living, Evergreen Brick Works is an engaging destination for the ecologically inclined explorer.

Location perks:  The nature trail is the perfect way to enjoy a  morning hike or even a cycle. 

Time Out tip: Head over on a Saturday to catch Evergreen Brick Works' famous farmer's market in action. You'll find a wide variety of seasonal food stands with lots of fresh baked goods and vegan options to choose from.   

6.  Kensington Market

• Kensington Market

Kensington Market perfectly captures Toronto's melting-pot cultural makeup. Vibrant and diverse, it is home to eclectic second-hand vintage boutiques, bars, cafés and restaurants that fill up the area’s colourful streets, making this an ideal destination for exploring. Once a month during the summer, Pedestrian Sundays, a lively street party celebrating food, music and fun, takes over the streets.

Time Out tip: You'll come for the bohemian vibes, but stay for the market's street food fusion – we hear Golden Patty and Seven Lives are well worth trying.   

7.  Scarborough Bluffs

Stretching across 15 kilometres along Lake Ontario, the Scarborough Bluffs offer turquoise waters, sandy beaches and cascading cliffs that tend to deceive unknowing tourists. Photos from the Bluffs seem exotic and almost tropical, yet the destination is found right in the city’s east end. For adventurers and hiking enthusiasts, the Bluffs are a gorgeously imposing geological attraction.

Location perks:  When it comes to creating the perfect photo op., t here's nothing quite like the Bluffs  to commemorate your trip.  

8.  Toronto Islands

• Toronto Islands

Just a short ferry ride away from Toronto’s bustling downtown core sits a cluster of small islands, commonly known as Toronto Island. Consisting of a quaint amusement park, sandy beaches (including one that’s clothing-optional – yay to no tan lines!), shady knolls and biking trails, the Island is a great day-trip destination. Frequent ferry service is available from the main ferry terminal located on the city’s scenic harbourfront.

9.  Allan Gardens Conservatory

Fans of horticulture are sure to love this Victorian-era conservatory. Lush with plants and botanical features, this small yet impressive structure houses species from the tropics, the Mediterranean, Australia and elsewhere. If you find yourself in Toronto during the winter, escape from the city’s snowy slushy street and revel in the warm and fresh climate that the conservatory offers. You might even get to experience the annual Christmas flower show if you hit the city during the winter months.

10.  Ontario Science Centre

The Science Centre is all about interactive learning for kids and adults alike. Welcoming curiosity and creativity, this family-friendly attraction is dedicated to making science fun and promoting exploration and learning. The Science Centre offers unique experiences such as an indoor rainforest, science arcade and OMNIMAX® dome theatre, as well as a variety of exhibitions and demonstrations to keep you (and your brain) busy.

11.  High Park

Take a trip to Toronto’s largest park if you’re looking for a green getaway in the heart of the city. Since the late 1800s, High Park has been a destination for locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of picturesque vantage points, hiking trails, waterfront views, activities and more – there is even a small zoo within the park!

12.  CN Tower

With the world's tallest tower currently standing at 828 meters (2,717 feet) in Dubai, it's hard to believe that Canada once led the way in grounbreaking buildings. Yet it did. The CN Tower—arguably one of the world's most renowned silhouettes—was once the world’s tallest structure and it remains impressive today. Standing at 553 meters (that's 1,815 feet), this icon provides incomparable 360º views of the city, plus a revolving restaurant.

Time Out tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, strap into the EdgeWalk—the world’s highest hands-free walk, on a 1.5m-ledge, 356 meters (1167 feet) above the streets.

Worked up an appetite after all that touring?

The 20 best restaurants in toronto.

This food savvy city is quickly becoming a tourist destination for culinary connoisseurs and thrifty gourmands alike.

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The 15 best experiences in Toronto

Nov 26, 2022 • 7 min read

Toronto is fun in all seasons © FOTOGRAFIA INC.

From iconic monuments to food tours, interactive museums to sporting events, world-class shopping to peaceful nature, Toronto has something to offer just about any visitor. 

So many things, in fact, that planning a trip to this cosmopolitan city can feel pretty overwhelming if you are only coming for a short period of time . Let us help.

If you’re ready to explore, here’s what you shouldn’t miss when you visit Canada ’s largest city. 

1. Take in the views from the CN Tower

Once the tallest structure in the world, the CN Tower is a symbol of the city and one of the most visited places in Toronto. Ride the elevator to the main observation deck to take in views of Toronto’s skyline from 346m (1136ft). If you have a strong stomach you can ascend even higher to the 447m (1465ft) SkyPod – high enough that you can actually feel the tower swaying in the wind.

Detour: Seeing the views from the inside is great, but adventure seekers should consider the EdgeWalk, the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk. Secured by a harness, you’ll creep around the edge of the tower, 116 stories above the streets below. There is a wheelchair-accessible option for the EdgeWalk as well. 

2. Eat your way around Chinatown

Toronto’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and liveliest areas. Busy local markets and colorful neon signs make for plenty of visual stimulation – though you’ll want to explore the pan-Asian food vendors with your taste buds as well. Taste your way through servings of dumplings and dim sum, hot pot and pho, banh mi and buns – be sure to arrive hungry.

Detour: To take in Chinatown’s full scope, set out on a food tour. An expert guide will take you to a selection of favorite spots, with smaller portions meaning you can try a wide array of things. We recommend Culinary Adventure Co’s Chinatown + Kensington Market food tour.  

3. Catch a game

Toronto is home to multiple professional sports teams, with games taking place year-round. If you know your travel dates well in advance, see if you can score tickets to see the Raptors (basketball), Blue Jays (baseball) or Maple Leafs (hockey) play on home turf – then cheer along with the locals. 

4. Browse through St Lawrence Market

Historic St Lawrence Market looms large in Toronto. Sure, it’s a top tourist attraction – but it’s also where many locals still go to do their shopping. Here, you’ll find specialty food shops and local businesses, with the Saturday farmers' markets and Sunday antique market weekly highlights.

Detour: The second floor of the South Market houses the Market Gallery, a space for rotating exhibitions. Stop by to check out the creative happenings in this favorite landmark. 

5. Grab a drink in the Distillery District

Take a pass on the bars in Toronto’s downtown and head to the Distillery District . Known for arts, entertainment, dining and more, the neighborhood is centered around an old whiskey distillery, today filled by crowds continuing the tradition by seeking out tipples of all varieties. Try SpiritHouse for top-shelf cocktails, Mill Street Brewery for a pint of Canadian craft beer or El Catrin Destileria for a margarita during patio (warm-weather) season.

Planning tip: If you’re in town for the holidays, Toronto’s charming Winter Village Christmas Market takes over the Distillery District every year. 

6. Explore Kensington Market

In a city full of suits and skyscrapers, Kensington Market brings something quirkier. This proudly bohemian, appealing scruffy neighborhood boasts vintage shops, unique boutiques and varied art spaces. Don’t miss the famous “garden car,” with its herbs, flowers, tomato plants and even a lawn growing out of a painted (and permanently parked) sedan.

Planning tip: While most come here to shop, it’s also worth coming to eat at one (or more) of Kensington Market’s many international restaurants. The district is also adjacent to Chinatown, making for a great combination food tour.

7. Salute Canada’s hockey legends

Since hockey holds a place in every Canadian’s heart, the official Hockey Hall of Fame in the Financial District is a top destination for visitors. This family-friendly attraction holds the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world – including the Stanley Cup itself. Here, you can learn about the sport’s history, try your hand shooting against the world’s best goalies in an interactive exhibit and watch vintage footage from the video vault. 

8. Admire the cherry blossoms at High Park

Come spring, Toronto bursts into bloom with a display of cherry blossoms worthy of Japan. You’ll find the largest concentration of sakura cherry trees in town at High Park . 

Planning tip: Depending on the weather, cherry-blossom season can take place between the end of April into early May, and only lasts a week. Track the season by calling the Cherry Blossom Hotline (647-946-2547).

9. Celebrate with the city

Torontonians love nothing more than a good party. Annual extravaganzas include Toronto Pride and the world-famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), as well as the Toronto Jazz Festival , Toronto Caribbean Carnival , the arty Luminato Festival , Canadian Music Week and Nuit Blanche .

Planning tip: Since festivals always draw major crowds, ensure you plan and book well in advance if you time your trip to one of these events. 

10. Step onto a movie set at Casa Loma

While the scenic palace may never have housed royalty, Casa Loma has played home to a number of well-known movie stars over the years. Once the home of a financier, the building is today a tourist attraction, special event venue and movie set. Some 50 productions have filmed here; you might recognize the interior as the Xavier School from X-Men . 

11. Snap a selfie with street art 

Street art expresses Toronto’s creative spirit – and some of the best examples are in Graffiti Alley . Stretching some 400m (1000ft), this narrow street is covered with bold, bright artwork from some of the city’s top street artists. 

Detour: Graffiti Alley should be just the start of your street-art itinerary. Consider taking a free, self-guided ARTWORX-TO tour , put together by the city government and Driftscape, a community of arts organizations and artists. 

12. Ride a roller-coaster at Canada’s Wonderland

One of the best Toronto activities for kids is a day trip to Canada’s Wonderland . About 40 minutes outside of the city, this amusement park offers 17 roller coasters, a 20-acre water park, special live shows and seasonal-themed events like the Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Don’t miss the park’s famous funnel cake – although perhaps after you’ve taken a few stomach-churning coaster rides. 

13. Have a beach day 

Practically the size of an ocean, Lake Ontario provides for fabulous beach days – and you can see for yourself at one of the many beaches in and around Toronto . Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, have a picnic or pick up a game of volleyball, these public beaches are great places to join locals on a sunny summer day.

Detour: If you want to escape the city’s buzz, head to one of Toronto’s islands , which host four beaches, some with boat-rental concessions.

14. Get your footwear fix at the Bata Museum

One of Toronto’s most original museums features displays of towering high heels, shoes made of human hair and other outrageous footwear. With a collection of some 15,000 artifacts spanning 4500 years, the Bata Shoe Museum has the largest shoe collection in the entire world. 

15. Learn about the local Indigenous community 

Modern Toronto was built on the traditional territory of several Indigenous nations, and is home today to a sizable First Nations population. Visitors can experience Indigenous traditions – key Canadian culture – through art, food and celebrations. We recommend checking out what’s happening at the local government’s guide to Indigenous experiences in Toronto.

This article was first published Jun 12, 2021 and updated Nov 26, 2022.

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20 Best Things to Do in Toronto, According to Local Experts

Culture, cuisine, and charm-filled neighborhoods are just the beginning of all Toronto has to offer.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

FrankvandenBergh/Getty Images

Toronto deserves its reputation as Canada’s most cosmopolitan city. Set on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, this diverse urban sprawl is well known for its vibrant culture that offers travelers world-class museums with incredible art collections, many diverse neighborhoods, charming small businesses, and one of the best culinary scenes around — with everything from Michelin-rated fine dining to food markets. When the sun goes down, locals and visitors mingle at the rooftop bars and hidden speakeasies. Outdoorsy types enjoy easy access to nature thanks to leafy parks and nearby islands that make for scenic day trips. 

These are the best things to do in Toronto, according to local experts. 

Meet the Expert

Bruce Bell is a Toronto historian and tour guide offering group walking tours and private excursions to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Harry Hollywood is the chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, a luxury property located in the Yorkville neighborhood. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Toronto

See the city from the CN Tower.

PaulMcKinnon/Getty Images

Arguably the city’s most iconic landmark, the CN Tower was once the tallest structure in the world. Though it no longer holds the title, it still looms large over the city. On a clear day, the views from the top stretch all the way to Niagara Falls. At night, it’s illuminated with colorful lights.

Eat your way through St. Lawrence Market.

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is the oldest and largest food market in Toronto with more than 80 vendors. “It’s very multicultural and really reflects the city’s diverse population with many delicious dishes to try,” says Bruce Bell , Toronto historian and tour guide. He recommends “the world-famous peameal bacon sandwich.”

Explore the Distillery District.

benedek/Getty Images

From 1837 to 1990, the Distillery District housed a large whiskey distillery. Today, it’s one of the coolest areas in the city. “The cobblestone streets are lined with hip cafés, restaurants, bars, and boutiques,” says Harry Hollywood, chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto . “It also hosts a festive winter village and holiday market in December.”  

See what’s on at the Harbourfront Centre.

Part of a massive citywide revitalization project in the early 1970s, the non-profit Harbourfront Centre puts on all sorts of public cultural events throughout the year, from international writing festivals to contemporary art exhibitions. The Harbourfront Centre also hosts courses and workshops ranging from glass blowing to jewelry making throughout the year. 

Take a Sunday stroll around Kensington Market.

Marcus Oleniuk/Toronto Star via Getty Images

“Kensington Market is actually a neighborhood rather than a market as its name suggests,” explains Hollywood. “It’s a lively, multicultural hub that blends diverse backgrounds and cuisines, from Caribbean and Mexican to Middle Eastern and Vietnamese.” On select Sundays, the area transforms into a pedestrian-only zone.  

Admire art from near and far at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

“The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) proudly showcases a broad array of talent, from Vincent van Gogh to Indigenous Canadian artists to renowned British sculptor Henry Moore,” says Hollywood. “It also provides educational programs and seminars, hosts global exhibitions, and actively engages with the surrounding community.” 

Tour Casa Loma, Toronto’s very own castle.

DebraLee Wiseberg/Getty Images

Built by Sir Henry Pellatt in 1914, Toronto's historic hilltop castle, Casa Loma , showcases Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the city. Besides being a museum, it’s also an events venue and popular filming location. You might recognize it as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in X-Men.

Enjoy a concert at the Toronto Music Garden.

buzbuzzer/Getty Images

Designed in collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the Toronto Music Garden is an idyllic green space with draping trees, grassy lawns, and waterfront views that hosts summer concerts and impromptu performances for locals and visitors on nice days. Even without live music, it’s still a beautiful place for a stroll. 

Get lost in the Royal Ontario Museum.

Roberto Machado Noa/LightRocket via Getty Images

Canada’s largest museum, the Royal Ontario Museum draws upwards of one million visitors each year who come to admire the staggering variety of artwork, cultural items, and natural history specimens. Learn more on one of the museum’s tours, like the climate change tour that explores the topic through the works and items found throughout the galleries. 

Bop around Queen Street West.

Queen Street West — a major east–west thoroughfare — and the surrounding area is a hub of trendy galleries, funky stores, cafés, and street art. “It’s kind of like Toronto’s answer to Brooklyn — very cool and dynamic with an indie spirit,” adds Bell. 

Related: The 21 Most Beautiful Places in Canada, Picturesque Islands and Remote Mountains Included

Snap some photos in Graffiti Alley.

Brakethrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Toronto has a really incredible legal street art scene. One of the best places to see tons of colorful murals — from depictions of fun characters to more political messages — is Rush Lane, better known as Graffiti Alley, just south of Queen Street West. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Take a day trip to the Toronto Islands.

The Toronto Islands is a collection of 15 islands in the western part of Lake Ontario. “Cars are prohibited, preserving a calm atmosphere for all,” says Hollywood. It’s a lovely place for a day trip to get outside, ride bikes, and go to the beach, especially in the warmer summer months. Families will want to visit the Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island (open seasonally). 

Go under the sea at Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto.

BrakeThrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Among the city’s star attractions for kids, parents, and really anyone with an interest in marine life, Ripley’s Aquarium of Toronto boasts more than 20,000 aquatic animals, from sea urchins and harlequin tuskfish to spotted eagle rays and a giant Pacific octopus. It’s a popular spot for both school and family trips and offers many education programs and workshops for budding oceanographers. 

Learn all about Canada’s national winter sport at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Ice hockey is the national winter sport of Canada. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a recent convert, it’s worth visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame to learn about the history of the sport and its most famous players and see tons of cool memorabilia and NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup. 

Take a walk around High Park.

The ideal place to be on a nice day, Toronto’s largest public green space, High Park, covers 400 acres of recreational facilities (including an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rinks, and playgrounds), gardens, lakeside walking trails, and a mini zoo with llamas, buffalo, bison, deer, and peacocks.

See shoes in a whole new way at Bata Shoe Museum.

The Bata Shoe Museum displays the most extensive collection of footwear and related items in the world, with exhibitions ranging from a fascinating timeline that chronicles 4,500 years of footwear history to cutting-edge kicks of the future. Some highlights include red leather stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe and the Dalai Lama’s flip flops.

Dine at Alo.

Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images

Fans of fine dining who don’t mind splurging on a memorable meal should reserve a table at Alo , a Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux restaurant and culinary fixture that delights diners with contemporary French gastronomic tasting menus. The Dining Room serves a multi-course tasting menu that costs $225 per guest. 

Spend some time in the beautiful Yorkville neighborhood.

Lisa Stokes/Getty Images

The upscale Yorkville neighborhood is home to designer shops, ritzy restaurants, and five-star hotels — including both the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto and The Hazelton Hotel . Whether you plan to go for dinner, stay the night, or just stroll around, it’s a posh and pretty place to spend some time while in Toronto.

Learn about Canadian history at Fort York.

“First erected in the early 19th century, Fort York was later attacked by the Americans and rebuilt,” explains Bell. “Now preserved as a national historic site, it’s a great place to visit to get an idea of how the relations between Canada and the United States once were and the evolution of that relationship.” Admission is free, and you can learn more on a free guided tour. 

Shop until you drop at CF Toronto Eaton Centre.

Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Located right in the middle of downtown Toronto, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre is a major shopping destination with hundreds of stores and places to eat. It’s also an unexpected place to peep art. Canadian artist Michael Snow created the eye-catching installation of 60 flying geese that hang from the glass ceiling. 

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Top things to do in Toronto

Test your limits with a walk around the CN Tower or spend a chill day at a picturesque lakeside beach—here are some of the top things to do in Toronto.

Attractions

See what makes Toronto attractions unforgettable. From exciting theme parks and incredible zoos to spectacular gardens and festivals, attractions in Toronto offer a daily adventure.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

A unique creative spirit thrives in cosmopolitan Toronto. World-renowned festivals, events and spaces celebrate the arts, theatre and the city’s heritage, all set against a backdrop of stunning architecture and...

Outdoors & Recreation

With hiking trails, splash pads, tennis courts, and picnic areas galore, there’s green space or a park in Toronto for everyone.

Toronto has emerged as a major style destination. Stores abound with luxury designer items, unique vintage finds and top home décor, and high fashion can be found around every corner.

Tours & Day Trips

Whether you’re a culture vulture, history enthusiast or love food, a variety of fun tours await in Toronto. Or, take a day trip to the magnificent Niagara Falls.

Things To Do With Kids

Whether your young ones like to explore the outdoors on a boat, learn everything there is to know about shoes or get their adrenaline pumping on a roller coaster, Toronto’s your city.

Special Offers and Passes

Visit iconic landmarks, famous museums, fun attractions and more, all with exclusive discounts. Each pass contains a curated selection of unforgettable Toronto experiences so you can immerse yourself in all that the city...

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27 Toronto Tourist Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss

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These are Some of the Top Toronto Tourist Attractions!

Want to explore Toronto like a local? You got an Ontario boy right here at Ontario Away! Not only did Eric grow up north of Toronto, but we’ve lived and worked in Toronto in the past.

With family living there now, we go back very regularly. And boy, have we had some amazing adventures in Toronto.

From visiting the iconic CN Tower, venturing to the Toronto Islands, and exploring some of Toronto’s coolest neighbourhoods – like Kensington Market -, there is no shortage of things to see and do when you’re visiting the city.

So, to make it easy, our guide covers some of the best and most well-known tourist attractions that visitors should check out. If you want to play tourist, we’ve got you covered!

Toronto Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer for “patio season” in nice weather, fall for colours and nice temperature, but plenty of indoor/outdoor activities in winter!

Getting Around:  Toronto is relatively flat but sprawling. The TTC (buses, streetcars, and subway) is very useful for travelling distances.

Top Things to Do:  CN Tower , Royal Ontario Museum , the historic Distillery District , St. Lawrence Market for food!

Where to Stay:   One King West Hotel and Residence for a popular, upscale hotel downtown, Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre for a classic option, and Ace Hotel Toronto for a boutique hotel also close to Downtown.

Table of Contents

Top Toronto Tourist Attractions

Let’s dive into the top attractions around Toronto! You’ll notice that they are in no particular geographical order. That said, we did our best to give you the general locations/directions.

Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9

The Canadian National Tower (also commonly known as the CN Tower) is like the crown jewel of the Toronto skyline.

Built back in the 1970s, the CN Tower was at one point the tallest man-made structure! Standing 533 metres tall, the views from the top are absolutely incredible. You can see for many miles and even into the United States (on a good day)!

Once you take one of the speedy elevators to the main deck, there is lots to do up there! There is a famous glass floor for those brave enough to walk on. The view down to the ground is pretty dizzying.

There is a restaurant up there – 360 Restaurant – that is known for serving high-class dishes with local ingredients. The coolest part? The restaurant does a full rotation every hour, so you truly get views all over the city!

The CN Tower is known for the Edge Walk – a thrill-seeker experience where you hang off the edge of the outside of the building.

Lastly, you can take the elevator to the Sky Pod – one level higher for views of the city. Comes at an entry cost, though, so plan accordingly! Here is the official website for the CN Tower .

Our Tip: To make the most of your day in Toronto, you can hop on a guided Toronto evening experience to catch the sunset from atop the CN Tower.

The Distillery District

Location: Google Maps

Do you like beer, history, good food, and great photo spots? Great – it sounds like a visit to the Distillery District is for you!

Located to the east of downtown, this old industrial area was once home to many distilleries in the city – hence the name!

These days, the odd distillery still exists and is mixed in among the many shops, restaurants, coffee places, and breweries that have moved in!

You can do a Distillery District walking tour to learn about the rich history of the red-brick factories.

Pro Tip: If beer is what you are into, Toronto has a crazy vibrant beer scene. You can check it out on a  Beer and History Tour of the city. The good news? You’ll end up in the Distillery District!

The Distillery District is full of interesting art installations that draw crowds and make for great photographs. In the winter, the District is home to amazing light displays and a winter wonderland of Christmas market stalls (shown above in the photo).

The District is also home to one of our favourite classic breweries – Mill Street, known for its Signature Mill Street Organic Beer. During the warmer months, you can even sit outside and have a flight of beer for a great price!

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Kensington Market

Address for “The Garden Car”: 232 Augusta Ave #254, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7

You might have heard people talk about this hip and alternative area that you should walk through. It’s likely Kensington Market they’re referring to – and you should definitely check it out. 

Kensington is located to the west of Spadina Avenue, north of downtown, between College and Dundas Streets. It’s close to Chinatown if you want to see that too – we mention it below!

This urban jungle of graffiti, cool clothing shops, amazing restaurants, and markets, almost certainly has something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Kensington is a uniquely old and multicultural neighbourhood with a fascinating immigrant history about it. So it can be great to learn more about the history of Kensington Market on a guided tour !

You don’t even have to look for anything – just a wander through to experience the neighbourhood is enough.

You can’t miss things like the “Garden Car” – you’ll know it when you see it. Trust us.

Royal Ontario Museum

Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6

The Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM, for short) is located at Bloor Street and Avenue Road and has a history of displaying just a little bit of everything!

This makes sense – the ROM is the largest (and most visited) museum in Canada and one of the largest in North America.

Get your ROM Entry Ticket here .

With around 6 million pieces, the numerous galleries and exhibits feature things from spiders to art, culture to dinosaurs, and Rome!

Eric went as a kid years ago and remembers having an amazing time at the Royal Ontario Museum ! If you are getting there by subway, you can get off at – you guessed it – Museum Station!

Bata Shoe Museum

Address: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1W7

Do you like shoes? Like, do you really like shoes? Would a museum full of shoes make you happy? If so, the BATA Shoe Museum might be the place for you!

Located on Bloor Street just north of downtown, the museum has done an amazing job of collecting and showcasing footwear from all around the world.

We’ve never been but walked by many many times and always thought it looked super interesting. If you want to visit, get your BATA Shoe Museum entrance ticket .

“The Toronto Sign” at Nathan Phillips Square

Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N1

Travelling to Toronto and wanting to snap a photo as a souvenir? Of course, you do!

Head north from Lake Ontario to Nathan Phillips Square. Located on Queen Street West just west of Yonge, it’s here that you’ll find Toronto City Hall and the famous “Toronto Sign”.

During the day, the sign is often themed for various festivals or occasions. At night – it’s all lit up! Nathan Phillips Square is quite the gathering spot in the city. At New Year’s, the square is filled with concert stages and party-goers – Eric has even been a few times.

In the winter, the fountain you see in front of the sign turns into an ice skating rink which is free to use (but it costs a few dollars for skate rentals).

There are street food trucks and lots of tourist buses parked here since it’s a great place to start any Toronto sightseeing adventure.

To get your bearings and to learn all about Toronto’s busy core, try out a 2-Hour Guided Downtown Walking tour .

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9

As a newer attraction to the city’s line-up of awesome things to do, Ripley’s Aquarium has certainly made a splash in a short amount of time. See what we did there? Gotta love our aquarium puns!

The Aquarium is home to the longest underwater glass tunnel in North America – it extends through the “Dangerous Lagoon”. This is where you come face-to-face with some scary predators like sharks and eels.

In all, there are 9 different galleries and over 400 species to check out. You are sure to find something you enjoy! The place is so popular – they recommend visiting before 10 am or after 3 pm to beat the crowds.

If you are planning a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and know which day, consider a Ripley’s Aquarium “After Hours” ticket that is valid for a night visit after 7:00 pm. Crowds can be smaller and admission is actually reduced from the daily fare.

Fort York National Historic Site

Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9

Are you into learning about Toronto’s role in military history? Want to learn about how we beat the United States in the War of 1812?

That’s a true story – and you can learn all about it at Fort York. The grounds are located to the west of downtown – pinched between the Lake and Liberty Village under the Gardiner Expressway.

The historic site is actually one of the largest collections of 1812 wartime buildings. They even have cannon firings and daily tours that run frequently.

Some of the park’s grounds are free to roam through, but the exhibits and museums require admission. To learn more about visiting Fort York and the exhibits, visit the official Fort York website .

St. Lawrence Market

Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3

St. Lawrence Market is definitely a must-see when visiting the city. We went to the Market “playing tourist” when Lisa was visiting before she moved to Canada and it was an amazing experience.

The current building where it is located was opened in 1902! Inside, there are two floors – the main floor stretches the length of the main hall and the lower floor is just a portion of the length.

You’ll find an assortment of fresh produce, fresh meats and seafood, cheeses, prepared food, wine, trinkets, you name it!

There are samples at various counters and places to grab a bite to eat, so you definitely shouldn’t leave hungry.

You can experience the Market (and all our yummy food like Peameal bacon and butter tarts) on a Canadian Food Discovery tour !

If you are looking for very touristy Canadian souvenirs, there is also a place to buy them here.

Pro Tip:  The Market is located just to the east of downtown on Front Street – and you can check out  The Gooderham Building  for a great photo.

The Gooderham is that historic red-brick flatiron building at the intersection of Wellington Street and Front Street!

Steam Whistle Brewing & Biergarten

Address: 255 Bremner Blvd STALL 6, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9

All aboard the Steam train… to Steamwhistle! Located very close to Ripley’s Aquarium, the CN Tower, and the Rogers Centre, Steamwhistle has been a tourist magnet and popular brand in Toronto and Canada for two decades.

Founded back in 1998, Steamwhistle finds its home in the Roundhouse – an old red-brick railway repair depot used back in the day.

These days, you can tour the brewery or just belly up to the bar in their Tap Room or Biergarten for a pint of the classic pilsner that has made them one of the best-known beers in Canada.

To check out the brewery or to book a tour, check out the official website of Steamwhistle .

The Toronto Islands

Address for Ferry Terminal: 11 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto? Check out the Toronto Islands – that might help!

Located in Lake Ontario just off the shore across from downtown, “the Islands” as they are known are popular for their beaches, walking trails, and the historic Centreville Amusement Park.

We visited the Islands one beautiful summer day and had a wonderful day walking, eating, relaxing on the beach, and just taking in the views.

Lots of people explored the area by bike – and there’s a really popular guided bike tour that helps you get the most out of your visit.

Interesting fact: The Islands themselves actually have residents.

There is a ferry that leaves from the Ferry Terminal located on Queens Quay between Yonge and Bay Street. You can check out the Toronto Island ferry schedule here.

Alternatively, if you want a smaller tour of the harbour and surrounding islands, check out this Toronto Harbour boat cruise . You have to get off on the islands so the tour doubles as a water taxi – with amazing photos of the skyline!

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8

It’s a house? It’s a castle? No, it’s Casa Loma ! Built in the early 1900s and located in Toronto’s midtown, Casa Loma is a top tourist attraction for so many reasons.

This Gothic dream home was built by a wealthy Toronto businessman – Sir Henry Pellatt. After decades of history, the estate is now owned by the city and revered for its many art pieces and rich history.

Get your Entry Ticket for Toronto’s famous Casa Loma !

Due to the grand size of the estate and gardens, Casa Loma is also the place for many events, festivals, and even weddings throughout the year.

If you are visiting, you can buy a ticket to enter and hop on a guided tour to learn all about one of Toronto’s most famous attractions.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8

You can’t go to Canada and not discover the rich history of hockey! To do this, you should take a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame .

Located right downtown on Front Street, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a great attraction that is one part museum, part exhibit, part interactive games area, and much more.

Get your Hockey Hall of Fame ticket in advance here .

Eric has been there many times over the years since it was always a great place for a school to plan a field trip to. That said, there is plenty to do for adults as well. We just recently went with friends visiting Toronto (late 2023) and it was an absolute blast.

Not only can you test out your hockey skills in the interactive zones, but there’s a 3-D movie, tons of hockey memorabilia to see (like Crosby’s 2010 “Golden Goal” mitts and stick), and even a mock sports broadcaster booth.

The coolest part is – of course – the trophy hall where you will be able to see (and take a photo with) the current Stanley Cup (one of the oldest sport trophies in an organized league worldwide), the old versions of the cup, and all the other important trophies handed out each year in the NHL.

Hockey is a huge part of Canadian culture, so a stop is definitely worth your time if you’re interested. We had an absolute blast when we visited!

Dundas Square

Address: 1 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5B 2R8

If you are looking for “Times Square” but for Toronto – Dundas Square is it. From the street performers to the lights at night, the corner near Yonge and Dundas is a great place to experience Toronto in full swing in the evening.

Besides malls and restaurants, there isn’t much to do there, but you might want to pass through to snap a few photos in the evening!

It’s probably good to mention that the southwest corner is where you enter the Eaton Centre – a top attraction, but not good enough for its own place on the list.

It’s just a very nice mall that is pretty big and features some very popular shops. There are fountains and at Christmas, they have a tree and giant reindeer!

Scotiabank Arena – formerly Air Canada Centre

Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 2X2

If you are into sports, Toronto is an amazing sports city with very passionate fans across the professional leagues.

At the Scotiabank Arena (formerly called the Air Canada Centre) the Toronto Maple Leafs play ice hockey and the Toronto Raptors play basketball. The Arena is located closer to the water, just south of Union Station.

Leafs tickets can be quite expensive but are definitely worth the experience of watching professional-level hockey in Canada. Raptors tickets can be less expensive if you don’t mind sitting higher up in the stands!

Even watching the game at one of the sports bars nearby is an experience worthy of a visitor to Toronto! Here is the Scotiabank Arena website if you want to check out ticket availability and prices.

Art Gallery of Ontario

Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4

Located on Dundas Street West between Spadina and University Avenue, the Art Gallery of Ontario (or AGO , for short) is definitely an art lover’s paradise.

Featuring 95,000 works over 45,000 sq metres of space, this makes the AGO one of the largest galleries in all of North America.

The AGO was originally founded in the year 1900. Over the years, it has expanded to its current size and number of galleries.

The AGO hosts exhibitions and has many permanent galleries featuring everything from Canadian artwork to African sculptures to Baroque-era paintings. 

You can purchase a ticket for admission in advance . Keep in mind that the AGO is closed on Mondays!

Location: 43°39’10.6″N 79°23’52.3″W

There are many amazing Chinatowns around the world (San Francisco, for example) – and Chinatown in Toronto is no exception!

If you want to experience Toronto’s Chinatown, head over to Spadina between College Street and Queen Street West.

You’ll find open-air shops with all sorts of goods, amazing restaurants (with really good dim sum), and other places to grab sweet treats.

Chinatown itself is a neat experience and conveniently placed along Spadina. This makes it easy to wander through on the way to another attraction.

Toronto is a city that prides itself on its multiculturalism and ethnic diversity, so check it out!

Tip: Explore both Chinatown and Kensington Market on a guided tour !

Rogers Centre

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J1

Still thinking about sports? How about catching a baseball game? The Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre – physically located at the base of the CN Tower.

The Jays are the only Canadian team playing in Major League Baseball, so if you’re in Toronto anytime from April to September, Toronto is your only chance to catch baseball north of the border!

The nice thing about Jays games is that the summer weather means a great time out in the sunshine.

The other great thing about tickets at the Rogers Centre is that that they are still relatively inexpensive. You can go to a game for cheap and enjoy the game from decent seats!

Unlike at Scotiabank Arena, you can show up on game day, wait in line, and get tickets! It’s a franchise that isn’t too expensive yet (cough, the Leafs). Here’s the website for Jays tickets .

Woodbine Beach

Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6

Ah, Woodbine Beach – what can we say? It’s “home”. The beach is located in the neighbourhood called “The Beaches”.

The Beaches is in the city’s east end – and it’s actually where we lived when we lived in Toronto!

Woodbine Beach is a massive (and massively popular) sandy and rocky beach with access to swimming in Lake Ontario.

There is a boardwalk that runs for kilometres through Ashbridge’s Bay, other walking trails, parks, dog beaches, and wooded areas.

As for things to do, the summertime is busy with paddleboard renters, swimming, sunbathing, a few patios, and beach volleyball. The autumn is great for fall strolls along Lake Ontario.

The neighbourhood area along Queen Street East is full of restaurants, bars, and shops that you should check out.

It’s funny – the Beaches is where we worked on and grew our other travel site –  Penguin and Pia  – in its early days. How times have changed!

Queen Street West

Queen Street West is certainly where you can get some shopping done!

Located – you guessed it – along Queen Street West west of Yonge Street and extending well past Bathurst Street, Queen Street is also home to many amazing restaurants, hip bars and pubs, and coffee shops.

One of our favourite ramen places is on Queen Street West and Lisa misses it dearly from when we used to go for ramen lunch! Mmmm, noodles.

Harbourfront Centre

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8

If you are looking for things to do down near the waterfront, head to the Harbourfront Centre ! The Centre itself is actually an area of the pier described as a “cultural hub”.

This means that there are walking paths, performance stages, exhibits, restaurants, coffee shops, and much more.

There is always something going on down at the Harbourfront Centre. You can get great photos down by the lake, and the proximity to Amsterdam Brewhouse is also nice!

University of Toronto

Address: 27 King’s College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S

As one of the oldest universities in all of Canada and the oldest in Ontario, the University of Toronto has a great reputation on the world stage for academics.

Founded in 1827, the main campus (St. George Campus) is often like stepping into a time capsule.

This university has a huge main campus that sprawls for blocks and blocks between College Street and Bloor Street.

You can walk through, hop on a campus tour, and you might even find football going on at their Varsity Stadium!

Attractions Located Outside of Toronto

While this article is mainly about Toronto tourist attractions that are mainly located downtown or very close by, there are also a handful of awesome attractions that you might be interested in that are a bit further away! So, here are five.

We want to make it clear: these are NOT located in downtown Toronto. It would be in your best interest to have a car to reach these attractions given their distance.

That said, you can definitely consider some of these as a day or weekend trip in Ontario  if you’re up for it!

Toronto Zoo

Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7

Located out in the north end of Scarborough, the Toronto Zoo is renowned for its number of species – over 5,000!

The zoo itself is divided into 7 “areas” that showcase all different climates/regions where animal groups exist in the wild.

The Toronto Zoo was originally opened in the 1970s and today enjoys very high visitor numbers because of its commitment to research and ecological sustainability.

You can learn more about directions and admission prices at the official website of the Toronto Zoo .

Scarborough Bluffs

Address: 50 Bluffers Park, Scarborough, ON M1M 3W3

If Woodbine Beach and the parks in that area weren’t enough, you could drive out to Scarborough (east of the city).

Along the water’s edge, you’ll find large white cliffs – these are the Scarborough Bluffs. In the summer, the cliffs attract many visitors to the nearby parks and beaches.

In particular, you can plan a visit by heading to Scarborough Bluffs Park Beach or Bluffer’s Park Beach.

Canada’s Wonderland

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Maple, ON L6A 1S6

Canada’s Wonderland is the biggest and best amusement park in the country.

Located about 40 minutes north of downtown Toronto, Wonderland features roller coasters that crack numerous top 10 lists in the world for height or speed, among other things.

Just Google “Leviathan” – it’s the tallest in Canada and the 9th tallest in the world!

Eric grew up about 20 minutes north of Wonderland and so as a kid (and as a teenager, too) he would go to Wonderland on summer evenings when the crowds had died down.

You can also go in the spring or fall at reduced hours. These days, the place is busy and expensive – but definitely worth it if you like thrills and decent attractions.

Check out the official website for Canada’s Wonderland !

Ontario Science Centre

Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON M3C 1T3

Want to be entertained and learn a little bit, too? The Ontario Science Centre is where you should go!

Located to the northeast of the city along the Don Valley Parkway in North York, the Science Centre is known for its featured exhibits, interactive science displays, and an IMAX theatre.

They even have a rainforest area that is climate controlled to help grow different plants to discuss ecology.

All in all, the Science Centre is a great way to kill a few hours or entertain the kids if you want more ideas! Check out the official website of the Ontario Science Centre for directions and prices!

Niagara Falls

Address for Table Rock Welcome Centre: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2

Let’s be clear – Niagara Falls shouldn’t be on this list because it’s not “just a 45 minutes drive” from Toronto like the others. Niagara Falls is about 2.5 hours from downtown Toronto, depending on traffic.

So, if you want to explore Niagara Falls, you can go on a Niagara Falls day trip from Toronto  to make things easy if you don’t plan on heading down on your own.

We’ve written a whole guide on things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada as well as where to stay in Niagara Falls (including hotels for the best “Fallsview”)!

Things to Consider When Visiting Toronto

If you’re planning a visit to Toronto, here are a few other details you might want to know about before you arrive.

Best Time to Visit Toronto

The best time to visit Toronto will definitely vary based on what you want to see and do. The summer months are the warmest and when the famous “patio season” in Toronto is in full swing.

The shoulder months – like May – are cooler but definitely good for visiting. The fall can be tricky: September and October can be warm, but it may already be quite cold.

In this case, a few layers and a cup of coffee will have you enjoying the cool lake air with no problem.

The winter in Toronto is actually fine for a visit. Sure, it can be chilly – but, historically, the city doesn’t get as much snow as the surrounding areas.

There are plenty of indoor activities, such as museums, and there is outdoor skating across the city (especially in Nathan Phillips Square).

Getting Around Toronto

Since there is so much to see and do in Toronto, doing it all will take some planning.

While the city is basically all flat and walkable, the distances between attractions can be a little daunting.

You can hop on the TTC ( Toronto Transit ) and use the streetcars, buses, and subway lines to get around.

You might consider buying a Presto card (the rechargeable card you just tap) and just loading it with money at a machine.

Where to Stay in Toronto

If you’re visiting the city, there’s a good chance you need a place to sleep. Luckily, Toronto is packed with different accommodation styles – including many, many hotels.

Toronto accommodation can be on the pricey side, but choosing a location right Downtown (or close to Downtown) is definitely worth it.

The amount of time and money you’d spend on transit just to stay in a cheaper location farther from the more central areas (Downtown, Yonge-Bloor, Queen Street West, etc.) just isn’t worth it, in our opinion – especially if you’re only visiting for a few days.

⇒ Get started searching for Accommodations in Toronto here .

Toronto is home to many neighbourhoods that are good areas to stay. You should read our detailed guide on where to stay in Toronto if you want to learn more.

If you just want the spark notes for accommodations, One King West Hotel and Residence is a popular, upscale hotel located right in the heart of downtown.

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre is a classic chain option in/close to The Village, while the Ace Hotel Toronto is a boutique hotel close to the intersection at Queen-Spadina.

If you want a cozier style of accommodation, the Margie Townhome Suites is a nice guesthouse option.

For a longer stay, an aparthotel like Yonge Suites Furnished Apartments is centrally located and close to top attractions!

Toronto Sightseeing Tours

Speaking of getting around, planning what to see and how to get there can be a little overwhelming.

Luckily, Toronto is a diverse city with lots of different tours that show off its different sides. Here are some great ideas for Toronto tours that might interest you for your trip.

Popular Toronto Tours

• Toronto Biking Tour
• Downtown Toronto Walking Tour
• Toronto Harbour & Islands Boat Cruise
• Ultimate Toronto Day Tour

Related Articles

Oh, and if you planning an entire Toronto visit or you are looking for other places to visit in Ontario – we’ve got lots more about the city and the province!

• Our One Day in Toronto Itinerary
• 17 Day Trip from Toronto (+ How to Get There)
• 9 of our Favourite Coffee Shops in Toronto
• Great Bars in Downtown Toronto !
• Our Toronto Accommodation & Area Guide
• Great Ice Cream Across Toronto

And there you have it – some of the best Toronto tourist attractions out there! Obviously, there are a few things that we didn’t mention – but those “hidden gems” are for another post.

Toronto is an amazing city, a place we also call home, and a welcoming city for people of all backgrounds, colours, and languages!

We hope that you will have an amazing time exploring Toronto when you visit! Have you been before? What did you get to see or what did you miss? Get in touch and let us know!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

With more than 2.9 million people, Toronto is the largest city in Canada, ensuring the capital of Ontario province offers plenty of things for visitors to see and do. The list of tourist attractions in Toronto includes world-class museums, great shopping, a smorgasbord of dining options, and summer and winter outdoors activities.

The city is known for its professional sports teams, including baseball’s Blue Jays and hockey’s Maple Leafs. Toronto is a vibrant city, with its large Chinatown, its restored Victorian buildings and its modern-day skyscrapers.

See also: Where to Stay in Toronto

18. Harbourfront Centre

Looking out over Lake Ontario, the huge waterfront complex lies just a stone’s throw from the CN Tower. Packed with art galleries and theaters, parks and outdoor stages; the Harbourfront Centre really is an amazing place to visit.

Once a derelict shipping terminal, the area was transformed into a thriving arts and culture center in the 90s with dozens of studios and venues now found alongside cafes and restaurants. Besides visiting its galleries or basking in beautiful views over the lake, visitors can attend one of the more than 4,000 cultural events, dance shows, and festivals held here each year.

17. Bata Shoe Museum

The Bata Shoe Museum takes you on a fascinating journey through over 4,500 years of footwear. Located in a specially designed shoebox-shaped building, its enthralling collection can be found just northwest of the University of Toronto’s St. George campus.

Founded in 1979, the museum impressively boasts over 13,000 shoes of all shapes, sizes, and styles. You can find jewel-encrusted slippers and chestnut-crushing clogs on show alongside Japanese geta, Inuit boots, and celebrity footwear. You can learn all about the history and evolution of shoe designs with so many amazing artifacts on display from all around the world.

16. Rogers Centre

Right next to the soaring CN Tower is another of Toronto’s main attractions and most recognizable landmarks: the Rogers Centre. Aside from being the home of Major League Baseball’s Toronto Blue Jays, it also hosts innumerable concerts, sporting events, and auto shows over the course of the year.

When it was completed in 1989, the state-of-the-art stadium was remarkably the first arena in the world to have a fully retractable dome roof. This lends it an electrifying atmosphere when the roof is closed and the Blue Jays go to bat. Besides watching a brilliant baseball game, you can also take tours around the stadium or attend one of its conventions, concerts or carnivals.

15. Ontario Science Centre

Home to all kinds of interesting and interactive exhibits, the excellent Ontario Science Centre can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive northeast of the center. A fun, family-friendly place to visit, it has plenty of hands-on activities and experiments that shine a light on the fields of science and technology.

Since being established in 1969, it has been a firm favorite with adults and children alike due to its informative yet engaging displays and live demonstrations. While some sections look at the human body and mind, others focus on the natural world around us or on scientific principles and theories with fun games and a fantastic planetarium also being on offer.

14. Kensington Market

A feast for the senses, the colorful and chaotic Kensington Market really is a delight to explore and perfectly encaptures the city’s multicultural make-up. Lined with shops, restaurants, and stands, the vibrant neighborhood lies just ten minutes’ drive west of the center.

Once mainly home to eastern European Jewish immigrants, the area is now incredibly diverse and has a laid back bohemian vibe. While strolling around its bustling streets you’ll come across fabulous public artworks and vintage stores with Jamaican, Mexican, and Tibetan eateries occupying graffiti-covered buildings. In addition, there are also stalls selling everything, from fresh produce and jewellery to souvenirs, with live music and street shows often taking place.

13. Black Creek Pioneer Village

A must for those interested in learning more about the history of the city and its surroundings, Black Creek Pioneer Village lies just half an hour’s drive northwest of the center. A popular place to visit, the huge open-air heritage museum shines a light on what rural life in Ontario was like during the early nineteenth century.

Founded in 1960, the village now has more than forty wonderfully well-restored historic buildings that include a church, blacksmiths, and schoolhouse among others. Aside from its informative displays and exhibitions, costumed re-enactors highlight how villagers would have lived and worked back in the day.

12. Toronto Zoo

Home to a huge array of animals from all over the world, Toronto Zoo certainly makes for a family-friendly day out. Located just half an hour’s drive to the east of town, it boasts everything from pandas and polar bears to rhinos, tigers, and gorillas.

First opened in 1974, the enormous zoo now impressively contains over 5,000 animals both large and small in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. While some areas and exhibits focus on Canada’s animals and ecosystems, others take you to Africa, Eurasia and Australasia. With so many beautiful animals and birds to see, Toronto Zoo is definitely not to be missed out on.

11. Art Gallery of Ontario

Another of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions is the marvelous Art Gallery of Ontario, which is located in the Grange Park neighborhood of downtown. One of the largest art museums in North America, it contains an extensive collection of paintings, photos, drawings, and sculptures.

First opened to the public in 1900, its artworks and exhibitions now occupy a striking modern complex. In total, there are over 95,000 unique pieces to peruse. Fine Inuit carvings and religious works are on show, alongside lovely landscape paintings by the influential Group of Seven, and masterpieces by European artists. In addition, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as talks, tours and workshops.

10. Hockey Hall of Fame

Toronto is ice hockey country and has been since 1917 with the founding of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It’s also home to the Hockey Hall of Fame, which makes it a must-see attraction for visitors who love this exciting sport.

Home to the prestigious Stanley Cup, the museum features the greatest players in this sport as well as explains its history through artifacts and film. It also has state-of-the-art interactive multi-media exhibits that allow visitors to project themselves playing against the professionals or to become play-by-play broadcasters.

9. Toronto Eaton Centre

Visitors can shop till they drop at Eaton Centre, Toronto’s premier shopping mall. Hungry visitors can take a break at one of the mall’s many restaurants, which range from fast foot to ethnic cuisine. Altogether, Eaton Centre has more than 235 stores and restaurants, right in Toronto’s city center.

This huge complex, which also contains offices, gets around a million visitors a week, making it the most popular attraction in Toronto. Unfortunately, visitors won’t be able to shop at Eaton’s, the department store chain for which it is named, since it is no longer in business.

8. High Park

High Park is for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors. Toronto’s largest public park has hiking trails, a playground for children, gardens and a zoo, among other amenities. It also has a waterfront since it is on Grenadier Pond filled with ducks and other marine birds; the best view is from the observation deck at Hillside Gardens.

For visitors who prefer more activity than walking the nature trails, the park also has an outdoor swimming pool, baseball diamonds and tennis courts. A “maple leaf” made up of flowers or other vegetation is considered the park’s most famous landmark.

7. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum says it’s one of Toronto’s favorite museums. With the variety of exhibitions it holds, it’s hard to dispute that claim. The museum combines natural history with world cultures, with exhibits ranging from dinosaurs and prehistoric peoples to textiles and biodiversity.

There are plenty of hands-on and interactive exhibits to increase visitors’ knowledge of the past and present. It is home to the largest collection of Chinese architectural exhibits outside of China, but also has extensive collections of artifacts from other countries, including Africa and the Middle East.

6. Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a Toronto landmark that’s hard to miss. It’s a huge castle that has stood out since the moment it was built on a hill in the early 20th century. Casa Loma was the dream of a wealthy man who always wanted to live in a castle, so he built one.

Casa Loma has 98 rooms and was the largest house in Toronto when it was built. It also has secret passageways, lovely gardens, a library, a hunting lodge and even an elevator. Three hundred people worked three years to construct this magnificent complex.

5. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Wow doesn’t begin to describe Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, which has 16,000 aquatic animals all swimming in one tank. The tank is not your ordinary home fish tank, however. It’s filled with more than 1.5 million gallons (5.7 million liters) of water.

Visitors observe all this marine life by walking through an underwater tunnel that is North America’s largest viewing tunnel. See sharks, sting rays and other sea life up close. The aquarium has more than 100 interactive exhibits to teach visitors more about marine life. Live shows starring the animals are presented every two hours.

4. Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands is another hot-spot recreation destination. Located just offshore a ferry ride away from Toronto proper, they are the only islands in this part of Lake Ontario. Since only a few vehicles are permitted, they are the largest urban car-free zone in North America.

Recreation opportunities abound, from swimming and kayaking to biking and Frisbee golf. Centerville, located on the largest island, Centre, is a 1900s style amusement park for children, complete with miniature railway and antique carousel. Toronto Islands also hosts annual arts and rock music festivals.

3. Distillery District

The Distillery District is the place for visitors to go when they want to experience the charm of Victorian Toronto. Set in the historic district just a short walk from downtown, this pedestrian-only shopping area centers around restored buildings that were once the Gooderman & Worts whiskey distillery.

Considered one of the hottest spots in Canada, visitors will find more than 80 retail shops, boutiques and eateries as well as art galleries and entertainment venues. The district hosts a number of events, including art shows and music festivals, throughout the year.

2. St. Lawrence Market

Travelers are shopping in history when they visit St. Lawrence Market, which has been a going concern on the site since 1803. Today it’s contained in three buildings, including one for specialty foods, another for a Saturday farmer’s market and a third that has retail shops.

The South Market is home to 120 shops selling specialty foods, such as brads and produce; Toronto’s cultural services are showcased on the second floor. The North Market hosts the Saturday farmer’s market that began in 1803; on Sundays it becomes an antique market. Built in 1850, the St. Lawrence Hall houses retail businesses.

1. CN Tower

Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, the CN Tower is Canada’s most recognizable icon. The communication tower was built from 1973 to 1976 by the railway company “Canadian National” and standing 553.33 meters (1,815.4 ft) tall was the tallest structure in the world for over 30 years until it was surpassed in height by the Burj Dubai.

A glass elevator takes visitors up to where they can look out from behind glass windows or from an outside observing area through a metal screen. Restaurant diners with reservations can avoid the queues for the observatory, and at night the lights from distant Rochester, New York are visible over the lake.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Toronto

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Reader interactions.

October 20, 2023 at 10:00 am

Visited CN tower,Royal Ontario museum, Casa loma,Ripley’s aquarium, Toronto eaton center, Last but not least the Niagara falls. Happy that I have covered 6 out of 10 best places in Toronto

September 15, 2018 at 9:03 am

Visited CN tower,Royal Ontario museum, Casa loma,Ripley’s aquarium, Toronto eaton center, Last but not least the Niagara falls. Happy that I have covered 6 out of 10 best places in Toronto.

Super visit….. Niagara Falls is a dream come true & it should be in the world’s wonder list since this is not a man made one.

November 29, 2017 at 4:45 am

Royal Ontario Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada are my favourite and couple of time i visit and and now planning to visit Niagara falls.

August 13, 2016 at 8:12 am

Much and much more to see but lovely start.,.. toronto a wonderful place 🙂

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The top 10 attractions in Toronto

Things to do

Toronto’s motto isn’t ‘go big or go home,’ but that’s a good summary of their top attractions, which include the lofty CN Tower, the biggest indoor aquarium in Canada and the only full-sized castle in North America.

One of Canada's greatest landmarks and one of the seven wonders of the modern world, the CN Tower External Link Title has come to define the Toronto skyline. At 1,815 feet in height, this engineering wonder is hard to miss during any trip through the city. But you don't want to miss it. Beyond being a very cool building, the CN Tower is now home to quality dining and adventure activities. Take an elevator up to the revolving 360 Restaurant for world-class dining. Feeling a bit bold? Walk across the glass floor, only 2.5 inches thick, 113 storeys above the ground. Want an even bigger thrill? Travel up another 33 storeys to the Skypod lookout. Still not daring enough? Strap on a harness, head outside and walk along the building's edge with nothing but air between you and the ground, in the not-for-the-faint-of-heart EdgeWalk experience. This adrenaline-inducing activity is actually the world's highest 'hands-free walk,' so you can brag about that one to your friends.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum External Link Title is the biggest museum of world cultures and natural history in Canada. Located right in downtown Toronto, the museum houses exhibits that run the gamut from dinosaurs to ancient Egypt to Canada's First Nations. It's hard to categorize the, oh, six million-or-so objects the museum has in its collections, but trust us, you'll be able to find something you really enjoy. As you walk from floor to floor, past the 80-foot totem pole, you'll encounter art, history, archeology, mineralogy, geology, paleontology, zoology and elements of any other ology you could probably imagine. With something new to discover every time you visit, the 100-year-old museum is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Do you like the idea of coming face to face with a shark, separated only by a pane of glass? The Ripley's Aquarium of Canada External Link Title allows you to live that experience, while exposing you to another 16,000 marine animals hosted on site. It takes 5.7 million liters of water to host all of those animals, from southern stingrays, to 65-year-old giant lobsters, to giant pacific octopus, to nettle jellyfish. Explore life on the reef, walk under a dangerous lagoon, stick your head in an underwater viewing bubble, or take in a stingray dive show. Open 365 days a year, you can always turn to the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada for an exciting day--whether it's angelfish on Christmas, or a stingray on your birthday.

Distillery Historic District

Restaurants, boutiques, arts, and entertainment are The Distillery Historic District External Link Title 's claim to fame. This pedestrian-only village features more than 40 heritage buildings that now house everything a modern traveler might enjoy. New fashion can be found in restored, Victorian-era buildings; culinary inventions are hidden behind weathered red brick walls; and art galleries and performance venues host events year-round, ensuring that the old neighborhood is full of life. The sector gets its name from the Gooderham & Worts whiskey distillery, which used to occupy many of the buildings

The Art Gallery of Ontario

A remarkable 90,000 works of art live inside the walls of the Art Gallery of Ontario External Link Title , one of the biggest and best art museums in North America. Observe the lauded work of Canada's Group of Seven, part of the largest collection of Canadian art in the world. Then travel the globe, from the African Art Gallery to the extensive European collection, and travel back in time, from the Renaissance and Baroque eras to the present day. Photography, sculpture, graphic art, installations; Rubens, Goya, Picasso and Rembrandt; the AGO covers it all. Even the building is a work of art. World-renowned architect Frank Gehry, the man behind the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed an expansion to the AGO in 2008 that has earned a ton of acclaim. If you love art, there's no better place in the city to be.

Believe it or not, the only full-sized castle in North America is actually located in Toronto. Casa Loma External Link Title literally has everything you could want from a castle. There are turrets offering beautiful views of the city. There's a large library and nearly 100 rooms to peruse. There are secret passageways to explore, including an 800-foot tunnel to the stables and carriage house, the latter of which features an exhibit of vintage automobiles from the early 1900's. Plus it has five acres of gardens, full of beautiful flowers, sculptures and fountains. Plug in your headphones, listen to the digital audio guide, and roam around a castle in the city.

Hockey Hall of Fame

If the expression "when in Rome" were applied to Canada, it would probably have something to do with hockey. If you're not a 'strap on the skates and get out onto the ice' type of visitor, you may want to just pay a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame External Link Title . The sport that is often used to define our country is put on display, and 65,000 square feet are filled to the brim with artifacts, mementos and relics straight from the rink. Learn about the 388 members inducted into the Hall of Fame, and see the sticks, gloves, pucks and even nets from some of the greatest games ever played. Test your shooting and goalie skills with state-of-the-art games, see if you could make it as a play-by-play commentator, and grab a seat in a replica NHL dressing room. And, most important of all, touch the actual Stanley Cup.

Toronto Zoo

Does a baby panda get less cute as you age? We don't believe it does, which is why the Toronto Zoo External Link Title is worth visiting whether you're fourteen or forty. Over 5,000 animals from seven different regions (Indo-Malaya, Africa, the Americas, Australasia, Eurasia, Canadian Domain and the Tundra Trek) are housed in the zoo. In addition to the aforementioned giant pandas from China, you can see polar bears swim underwater, watch young gorillas practice their climbing, or follow seahorses and jellyfish as they swim around an artificial reef. This isn't a petting zoo; it's a gateway to the animal kingdom.

The Toronto Islands

You only need to travel 10 minutes from the city of Toronto to enter a completely different world. Hop on a ferry and embark on a journey to the Toronto Islands External Link Title , an attraction-filled destination where relaxation is the name of the game. There are no cars, so you're going to want to rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the chain of islands -- the three big ones being Centre, Ward's and Algonquin -- which are connected by a series of pathways and bridges. Along the water you'll find four awesome beaches, while summer cottages from the 1920s and impressive English gardens are one of the main draws on land. A maze on the islands serves to test your wits, while the haunted lighthouse tests your courage. From picnics, to paddleboats, to ponies, the Toronto Islands offer a great contrast to the busy city.

St. Lawrence Market

Right in the middle of Toronto's historic Old Town district you'll find one of the city's best foodie destinations: the St. Lawrence Market External Link Title . The market has existed in some form since 1803, and though the complex has evolved, it still contains an authentic farmer's market -- the best in the world according to a 2012 National Geographic article -- complete with specialty foods and restaurants for every taste. Treat your senses, as you see, smell, and sample fresh produce and cheese in the very same place vendors have been selling it for over two centuries. All of that history can be discovered in a little more depth during a walking tour of the complex, which also houses venues for business and social events and countless local artisans selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more. Check it out, Tuesday through Saturday.

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50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 5, 2024

There are so many things to do in Toronto it can be difficult to know where to start. Being one of the most  multiculturally diverse  cities on the planet, there is something for everyone. It’s our hometown but we’ve also experienced Toronto as a tourist. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and in our humble opinion, it’s the most exciting! If you are visiting the city, our comprehensive Toronto guide will help you find the best places to visit and things to do in Toronto with our expert local opinions.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Toronto

We have broken this guide into sections to help you plan your Toronto itinerary. There here are clusters of attractions in different parts of the city so instead of hopping in taxis or taking the subway running around in all directions, we’re going to give you a Toronto guide where you can walk from one attraction to another.

• Part 1 – Toronto Entertainment District – CN Tower, Roger’s Center, Grafitti Alley, The Well
• Part 2 – Front Street and Distillery District – Gooderham and Worts, Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market
• Part 3 – Harbourfront – Sugar Beach, Toronto Islands, Harbourfront Cruise Part 4 – Downtown Toronto – Yonge and Dundas Square, Nathan Philips Square, Eaton Centre
• Part 5 – Toronto Museums & Galleries – ROM, AGO,
• Part 6 – Toronto Outdoors – High Park, Evergreen Brickworks, Cycling Trails, Humber River, The Beaches
• Part 7 – Toronto Theatres and Entertainment Venues – Ed Mirvish Theatres, Massey Hall, Roy Thompson Hall, Second City
• Part 8 – Day Trips from Toronto – Niagara Falls , Niagara on the Lake, Toronto Zoo, Canada’s Wonderland

When flying into Toronto, Canada, you’ll be landing at Pearson International Airport. Airport taxis are available and you can call and Uber or LYFT with a dedicated ride share pick-up station and you can take the UP-Express. But take the hassle out of travel and book an  airport limousine transfer  that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Entertainment District

1. cn tower edge walk.

The CN Tower is Toronto’s most iconic landmark and the most popular thing to do in Toronto. Built in 1975, it reigned as the world’s tallest building until 2007 when it was taken over by the Burj Khalifa in 2008. While the CN Tower is a top Toronto Attraction unto itself, it’s the Edgwalk that makes it special.

• Location:  301 Front Street.  Directions  – TTC to Union Station, then walk East on Front Street

CN Tower Glass Floor

If you aren’t up for the adrenaline rush of the Edgewalk, you still must visit the CN Tower to see city views from its observation decks. There is the Lookout Level, The SkyPod and the Glass Floor which we were surprised terrified some people.

You can eat dinner at the revolving restaurant, walk on the glass floor, and see the best view of Toronto from inside and out, enjoy a virtual reality ride. Read more: CN Tower Edgewalk – Taking on The World’s Highest SkyWalk

2. Toronto Railway Museum

While you are at the CN Tower, there are plenty of things to see and do around Front Street. Make your way to the Railway Museum just behind the CN Tower to see this incredible display. The Toronto Railway Museum is dedicated to the history of rail transport in Canada located in the former Canadian Pacific Railway John Street Roundhouse, which was built in 1929.

It served as a maintenance facility for steam locomotives and today it is a sprawling outdoor museum featuring a collection of historic railway equipment, including locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses. Visitors can see exhibits of various railway artifacts, learn about the history of Canadian railways, and experience interactive exhibits.

After checking out the Railway Museum, you can pop into the Steamwhistle Brewing Company. Pop into the roundhouse to enjoy a pint of premium beer and a bite to eat. Located in the historic John Street Roundhouse which was use to repair locomotives from the Canadian Pacific Rail company, it is now a tap room complete with Biergarten inspired by the famous beer gardens of Munich .

3. Rogers Centre

This area is filled with things to do from the Ripley’s Aquarium and the Toronto Rogers Centre which is home to the back to back Major League Baseball champions circa 1992 and 1993, The Toronto Blue Jays.

The Rober Center is the ultimate entertainment complex with the largest retracting roof in North America. Home to the Toronto Blue Jays, the Rogers Centre is a huge stadium seating 53,000 people. When the Jays aren’t playing, you will find the hottest musical acts in the world playing in their stadium tours. See  Roger’s Live Nation  for upcoming concerts.

4. Queen West

This is where the hippest of the hip hang out in Toronto. Queen West is known as the Art and Design district and if you’re looking for some trendy styles, this is the place to go. Queen Street has shops and stores selling everything from makeup to menswear.

You can even buy sewing and material goods here as well as jewelry-making supplies. It’s got it all. Once the shops close, the food scene begins and the live music starts at venues like The Horseshoe, the Rivoli, and the Rex.

One of the best ways to get a feel for Toronto is to take a walking tour. This food tour takes you through the different neighborhood that helped shape Toronto from St. Lawrence Market to food stalls, local sushi and sweet treats.

5. Graffiti Alley

Queen Street is the main entertainment area of the Entertainment District home to some of the best shopping in Toronto and the headquarters of City TV. But just behind the glitz and glam of Queen Street is Graffiti Alley. Graffiti Alley is the most popular place in Toronto for  Instagram.

Located at Queen and Bathurst Graffiti Alley offers 1 km of walls covered in street art and graffiti along Rush Lane. Canadian commentator Rick Mercer shot his Rants along Graffiti Alley over the course of his 15-year show. It’s located in the city center on Queen Street making it an easy walk to get to and it is filled with amazing street art.

• Location :  South of Queenstreet  Between Spadina and Bathurst.
• Toronto Tour Guys offer  Toronto Graffiti Tours . 

6. Entertainment District Nightlife

The CN Tower, Roger’s Center, and Ripley’s Aquarium are all located on the south edge of the Entertainment District so once you’ve spent the day sightseeing here, it’s time to enjoy life in the city in the heart of the action.

The Entertainment District spans from Queen Street to the Gardiner Expressway and Spadina Avenue to University. It’s home to legendary live music venues such as the Horseshoe Tavern, The Rivoli, and Cameron House. Toronto’s top theatres, are Roy Thompson Hall, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Princess of Wales and there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and pubs.

7. Arcadia Earth at the Well

The Well is Toronto’s newest entertainment complex spanning across 7.7 Acres in Toronto’s King West. This area is just starting to ramp up, and the hottest spot in town is Arcadia Earth. Influencers and Instagrammers will love this place. We recently visited and took part in the hour long multimedia display.

Downloading the app to our iPhones, we walked through 10 immersive experiences using the latest technology. This really is one of Toronto’s coolest experiences where you feel that you are right in the heart of the displays themselves. You can download media directly to your phone to bring home the experiences with you.

Where to Stay in the Entertainment District

The Entertainment District is a great place for travelers to make a base while exploring the top Toronto Attractions as many of Toronto’s top tourist attractions are within walking distance of its hotels. Close to Union Station, it is easy to get to and it is where Toronto’s main nightlife venues are with cocktail lounges and chic bars.

• Stay at the Ritz Carlton, one of our favourite hotels in Toronto overlooking the CN Tower  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Thompson Hotel  For a more moderate mid-range budget, check out the modern and chic hotel that is Close to nightlife.   Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Front Street and Distillery District

8. distillery district.

The Distillery is one of the most popular places in Toronto for travelers. Stroll through the pedestrian walkways along cobblestone streets as you browse the many boutiques, brew pubs, and art galleries. In the summer the streets come alive with outdoor street performers, music, and stage performances. In the winter, the annual Toronto Christmas Market is in full swing.

• A Segway tour of the Distillery is a fun way to get around and learn its history.

9. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market was once voted as the #1 Food Market in the World by National Geographic. St. Lawrence Hall and the North and South Market building have been operating for more than 200 years at the foot of Front and Jarvis Street. 120 vendors take pride in their goods operating stalls that have been passed down for generations. Take a walk through St. Lawrence Market and buy some fresh cheese, meats, and bread to take on a picnic in the Toronto Islands.

St. Lawrence Market is undergoing a new development and the North Market is closed as its state-of-the-art design is being built, but the City relocated the Sunday Antique Market and Farmers Market to a temporary market at 125 The Esplanade.

10. Scotia Bank Arena

It is our second-largest stadium and is home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and NBA Champions, the Toronto Raptors. If you are a hockey fan, make sure to buy tickets to a Maple Leaf game well in advance, Toronto loves its hockey and games sell out quickly. Which is surprising since Toronto hasn’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967.

Scotia Bank Arena is also home to the 2019 NBA champions the Toronto Raptors. Tickets are at a premium for basketball games too, but visitors can watch a game in the square outside the arena known as Jurassic Park. This is almost as lively as watching it live as crowds gather to cheer on our beloved team.

In between the two major sporting seasons, the Scotia Bank Arena opens its doors to more music acts. Visit their website  for hockey, basketball, and concert schedules.

11. Hockey Hall of Fame

Canada loves its hockey and Toronto is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. If you are a hockey fan, you won’t want to miss visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame. Located in downtown Toronto at the foot of Yonge and Front Street it’s a must stop on any Toronto itinerary for hockey fans.

It houses the Stanley Cup and it’s on display when it’s not touring the country. It also houses the world’s largest collection of hockey memorabilia, there are interactive displays and two theatres.

• Location : 30 Yonge St – Subway Line 1 to King Station. Directions here .

Harbourfront

12. helicopter tour or scenic flight.

For a bird’s eye view of the city, take a scenic flight from Billy Bishop Airport on Toronto Island. We have had the privilege of taking several scenic flights over Toronto. What stands out besides the beautiful city skyline is all of the green space in Toronto. It is very impressive to see so many trees scattered among the skyscrapers.

Travelers shouldn’t miss the chance to see Toronto from above. You’ll fly along the waterfront of Lake Ontario to see the beaches, and Toronto Islands, and circle around the skyscrapers of this spectacular international city. This 7-minute helicopter tour is an affordable way to see the city skyline views from above. It may be a short flight, but 7 minutes is all you need to view the CN Tower standing over downtown Toronto, Fort York, and the Lake Ontario waterfront from above

13. Harbourfront Centre

After you have seen Toronto from above, make your way from Billy Bishop to Toronto’s Harbourfront, it’s just down the street. Harbourfront is an amazing entertainment area complete with theatres, museums, music venues, and festivals.

Harbourfront Centre is the heart of the area with entertainment venues, artists workshops, galleries and outdoor attractions. There is always something going on at Harbourfront Centre. There are plenty of dining options and it is an excellent place to stroll along Toronto’s waterfront, do some shopping in the Centre and enjoy the artisan workshops.

The main building of Harbourfront Centre is closed for renovations, but events are still going and The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery remains open.

While at the Toronto Harbourfront and book a sunset harbour cruise for a fantastic sunset view of Toronto. There are all kinds of cruises planned to show off the Toronto skyline from dinner cruises, daytime cruises, and cocktail cruises to special Luau Cruises and holiday events. It’s a beautiful way to take in the Toronto Scene and witness the Toronto Islands as you cruise Lake Ontario. Book a cruise in advance

14. Sugar Beach

Harbourfront is also home to one of Toronto’s most photographed beaches, Sugar Beach. It’s a tiny beach located on Corus Quay right beside the Redpath Sugar Factory, Sugar Beach is a quiet spot just at the east end of Queens Quay. It’s a small patch of sand with Muskoka Chairs and a pink umbrella installation.

• Location :  Located on Queens Quay  – Subway to Union Station and Walk South to the water. Or ride the Spadina Streetcar all the way to Harbourfront.
• 29. Harbourfront Cruise

15. Toronto Music Garden

A hidden gem in the Harbourfront district is the Toronto Music Garden in Queens Quay. Designed by Yo Yo Ma and landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy. It was inspired by the first movement of Bach’s Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello, and the park is meant to be a living representation of the piece.

The park features six distinct sections, each representing a different bar of the music. The sections to look for in the Toronto Music Garden Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuett, and Gigue. The park also features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, which were chosen to reflect the mood and character of each section of the piece.

16. Toronto Islands

You must go to the islands for the city skyline views of Toronto. This is the view that everyone around the world recognizes. There is stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and cycling. You can visit the beaches of the island including Toronto’s famous Nude Beach.

Take the ferry to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, or Ward’s Island and spend the day enjoying the sunshine and iconic views of the city. We always enjoy a picnic on the islands and there’s even a small amusement park. Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island is a cute park for kids with a carousel, log ride, Ferris wheel and plenty of concession stands, midway games, and miniature gold. The islands are a perfect getaway for the whole family from the city.

• Location : Board the ferry from Queen’s Quay.

Where to Stay in Harbourfront

• Mid-Range:   Westin Harbour Castle  – This is The Place to stay in Harbourfront. Located right on the water. Pool, fitness center, dining with city views. Has a resort feel.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Downtown Toronto

17. city hall and nathan phillips square.

Located just a few blocks from Yonge and Dunas Square is Nathan Phillip’s Square. Home to Toronto City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square is a gathering spot for tours and meetups.

It probably attracts the most visitors to Toronto due to the iconic City Hall Building. It is a popular spot for events, art displays, and celebrations. This is where we celebrate New Year’s Eve and the fountain turns into a ice skating rink during the winter months.

For exploring City Hall and downtown Toronto the Sheraton Center is an excellent hotel. It overlooks City Hall and is connected to the PATH at the Toronto Eaton Centre, this is often our go-to hotel. It has an indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com Check it out on

• Location :  100 Queen Street West  – Subway Line 1 to Queen Street.
• Book a  walking tour of Toronto  to see all the major sites of Toronto

18. Toronto CF Eaton Centre

The Eaton Centre has been the heart of Toronto Shopping since the 1970s. Located at Yonge and Dundas Square, this shopping mall spans from Dundas to Queen with flagship stores like The Bay and Saks Fifth Avenue helming the ends. There are high-end boutiques and thrifty dollar stores. It has everything you’d want under one roof.

The Eaton Centre spans from Queen Street to Dundas Square along Yonge Street in the heart of Toronto and it is the busiest shopping center in North America. Right now its iconic Canada Geese installation has been taken down as the Toronto Eaton Centre is undergoing a 77-million-dollar makeover, but it is still open for business

19. Yonge and Dundas Square

This popular public square in the heart of Downtown always has something exciting going on. Surrounded by billboards, shopping, movie theatres, and City TV, it’s a happening spot. It’s Toronto’s version of Times Square in New York City and a place all travelers to the city should visit. There are always outdoor performances, festivals, and even free movies in the summertime.

At Yonge and Dundas Square, you’ll find plenty of Restaurants including Milestone’s Patio overlooking Yonge Street and lots of shopping including Toronto’s Iconic Eaton Center.

• Location : At the intersection of Yonge and Dundas Street. Subway Line 1 to Dundas Station.

20. Little Canada

Little Canada is also located at Yonge and Dundas Square on the lower level of the Cineplex building. This Toronto attraction features miniature replicas of famous Canadian landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, and the Parliament Buildings. You can also see miniaturized versions of various Canadian cities and regions, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and the Canadian Rockies.

It has interactive displays where you can activate the Northern Lights, makes it rain in Vancouver, or control the cars on the streets of Toronto.

21. Toronto Underground City

It’s true, Toronto has an entire subterranean world under the city known as The Path. It is one of the largest underground walkways in the world. Starting at Yonge and Dundas Square it weaves through 30km of the downtown core all the way to Union Station.

More than 200k daily visitors and commuters walk the path filled with restaurants, shopping, cafés connecting 75 skyscrapers, subway stations, department stores and hotels.

• Located : in the downtown core. Just walk into any building and look for the Path sign. Visit  Path.com  for maps

Where to Stay Downtown Toronto

• Mid-Range:  Sheraton Centre  –  Connected to the PATH at the Eaton Centre, this was our go-to hotel. Views of City Hall, indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Budget:  Chelsea Hotel   – Not too many budget spots here but Chelsea is on the affordable side. Prime location steps from Dundas Square. Ask for a renovated room.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

22. Kensington Market

For the complete opposite end of the spectrum, Kensington Market is a funky shopping district with second-hand clothing and vintage style. Located just off Spadina in the heart of China Town, you’ll find cheese boutiques, fresh vegetable markets, microbrews, and vintage clothing. It is the funkiest place in the city and a must-stop for anyone coming to Toronto. For a local vibe and funny atmosphere, make sure to visit Toronto’s, Kensington Market.

23. Chinatown

One of Toronto’s most vibrant neighborhoods in downtown Chinatown is located on Spadina Avenue. Pick up your favorite Asian vegetables for authentic cooking, eat incredible Chinese food, and ask for “a pot of tea” after hours (meaning, a pot of beer)

You really feel as if you have stepped into an Asian city with the sounds, smells, and tastes of Asia engulfing the senses at every turn.

• Located  along Spadina Avenue between Queen and College
• Book a walking tour  of China Town and Kensington Market.

Bloor/Yorkville

While you are visiting the ROM, take a stroll over to Toronto’s chicest neighborhood. Bloor Yorkville is home to the Mink Mile – One of the world’s most expensive shopping streets. For shopping, you’ll find every high-end sort you can think of including Gucci, Chanel, Kate Spade, and Burberry.

The top salons make their home in Yorkville and some of the city’s best dining is here. If you want to people-watch and keep an eye out for celebrities in Toronto, this is the place to be. Our favorite hangouts in Bloor Yorkville are Hemingways Patio and The Pilot.

Where to Stay in Bloor Yorkville

• Luxury:  Four Seasons  –  The top choice for celebrities and businesses, this 5-star luxury hotel has an incredible spa, popular bar and one of the best dining establishments in Toronto.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
• Mid-Range:  Intercontinental Toronto Yorkville   – What was once the hot hotel for celebrities at TIFF, now an affordable option in Yorkville.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

24. Casa Loma

Did you know Toronto has a castle? Casa Loma was built in 1911 by Sir Henry Pellatt; a local financier to be used as his private residence. It was a lavish Gothic Revival mansion with 98 rooms at 64,700 square feet (6,011 m 2 ). There are always seasonal events going on at Casa Loma with Halloween celebrations, Christmas decorations, and March Break Festivities. But visitors can tour this historic castle as well.

There are stables and a coach house and today it is a popular tourist attraction. There is even an 800-foot tunnel leading to the stables. You can tour the many suites or eat at the BlueBlood Steamhouse, a casual restaurant at the Terrace Grill and coffee and snacks at Liberty Café. Read More: Toronto Tours by Locals

• Location : 1 Austin Terrace – Take the Subway Line 1 to St. Claire Station and then walk West to Casa Loma

Toronto Museums and Galleries

When planning your Toronto sightseeing excursions, you must include museums in your Itinerary. Toronto has a number of museums and art galleries to see, but these are a few of the top.

25. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum of Natural History and one of the top 10 cultural institutions in North America and Canada s largest museum.

Located in downtown Toronto at the corner of University and Bloor, this popular Toronto attraction melds old and new. The contemporary design of the Royal Ontario Museum is a beautiful addition. The ROM houses 13 million artifacts and artwork featured in 40 different exhibition spaces and galleries.

• You can purchase advance tickets to the ROM  Get Your Guide for $20.
• Location:  100 Queens Park – at the corner of Yonge and Avenue Road. Line 1 or 2 Subway to Museum Station.

26. Art Gallery of Ontario – AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) went through a huge transformation in 2008 with a spectacular design by Canadian artist Frank Gehry. The art gallery houses permanent collections like the Group of Seven, The Thomspon Collection, and Contemporary Art. It also has a lovely cafe where locals like to meet for a drink or coffee. It’s no wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Ontario , let alone Toronto.

Located downtown Toronto on Queen Street, The Art Gallery of Ontario is a central location that is within walking distance from the Entertainment District, China Town, or Front Street.

• Location:   317 Dundas Street West  – Line 1 Subway to St. Patrick Station
• There are several private art galleries along this street.

27. Bata Shoe Museum

This is one of the most unique museums we’ve experienced with displays of footwear through history. But you’ll also see celebrity footwear like Elton John’s platform boots and Elvis’ Blue Suede Shoes, and stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe. Canadian legend Terry Fox’s running shoe is on display from when he attempted to run across the country for cancer research. He eventually succumbed to the disease, but he is a true Canadian hero.

• Location: 327 Bloor Street West . Subway Line 1 or 2 to St. George Station
• Advance tickets can be purchased through Get Your Guide 

28. Aga Khan Museum

Opened in Sept 2014, the Aga Khan Museum features a collection of Islamic, Persian and Muslim Art. It is North America’s first museum dedicated to Islamic Art and was started by the private collection of the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan. The museum houses 1000 objects dating back 10 centuries housed in an impressive eye-catching building.

• Location : 77 Wynford Drive – Subway Line 2 to Broadview Station then transfer to Bus #100 to the museum.

29. Fort York

Before Toronto became the mega city that it is, it was once called York. And this fort stood on the waters of Lake Ontario to protect the city during the War of  1812. This National Historic Site is open year-round offering guided tours, demonstrations, and exhibits. You’ll have fun interacting and learning about history.

• Location: 250 Fort York Blvd . Streetcar 511 or 505 or 509 Street Car

30. Ontario Science Centre

Located north of the city, the Ontario Science Centre has been a favourite for decades. There are great hands-on science exhibits and spectacular displays. Walking through the Living Earth exhibit feels like you are walking through a real rainforest. It has Toronto’s only Planetarium and there is an OMNIMAX Theatre showing new films regularly.

• Location :  770 Don Mills Road North York:  Subway Line 2 to Pape Station, transfer to Bus 25 North to Don Mills at St. Dennis. Or grab an Uber, or ride a bike!

The Entertainment District is filled with music venues, and Toronto’s top theatres and it is home to TIFF. (The Toronto International Film Festival)

Toronto Theatres

31. ed mirvish theatres.

Ed Mirvish was a beloved businessman in Toronto from the 1960s to the 1990s. His love for the theatre basically single-handedly revitalized the Toronto theatre scene. He opened the Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and & Ed Mirvish Theatres all of which still showcase the most popular Broadway shows of the day.

• Check out  Mirvish.com  for all theatre listings and showtimes.

32. Massey Hall

Massey Hall is an intimate music venue that has seen acts perform from all around the world. If you are looking for a rock and country acts or comedians to watch, chances are you’ll find someone at Massey Hall. And there is exciting news! Massey Hall has reopened and is hosting musical acts in its newly renovated space at Allied Music Theatre.

33. Roy Thompson Hall

For the best orchestra, opera and musical performances, Roy Thompson Hall is the top classical music venue in Canada. Home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra it is the premier concert hall in the city with outstanding acoustics. It is also a popular venue during the Toronto international film festival.

• Check out the  Roy Thomson Hall  Website for more details.

34. Second City

The Second City in Toronto is awesome. It is the best Second City outside of Chicago in the United States. Comedic icons such as Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short performed here and it is still going strong on Blue Jays Way.

Make a night of it in the Entertainment District to see its live comedy shows featuring improv, sketch comedy, and musical performances.

35. Sony Centre for the Performing Arts

It is the largest soft-seat theatre in Canada making for a very comfortable experience. There’s always something playing here including concerts, films, live shows, and festivals.

• Check out their calendar for show details. Anyone under 30 Years old receives $15 tickets!

Toronto Outdoors

36. high park.

Located in the West End, the city’s largest park attracts visitors from afar during cherry blossom season, but there is a lot more to high park.

Visit the High Park Zoo housing domestic animals like bison, highland cattle, and llamas. There are plenty of picnic areas, hiking and cycling and in the summer Shakespeare in the Park begins with live performances from the Bard. There’s Grenadier Pond, the Historic Colborne Lodge and it is a short walk down to the Lake Shore to enjoy the Toronto Waterfront.

• Location: Take Subway Line 2 West to Keele or High Park Station.

37. Evergreen Brickworks

With outdoor markets, art exhibits and cafés, the Evergreen Brickworks is a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours. Rent a bike from one of the city’s bike share locations and peddle out to the quiet district to grab some fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmers market. This reminds me of those cool districts you find in New York City.

• Location : 550 Bayview Avenue . It’s tricky to get to cycling or a car is the best way. By transit, Subway line 1 north to Davisville and then bus #28 to the Brickworks.

38. The Beaches

The Beaches have long been a favourite tourist attraction of Toronto. Starting at Ashbridges Bay, you’ll find beach volleyball, boardwalks, and parks stretching along the 3km trail along Lake Ontario leading to the R.C. Harris Filtration Plant. Traffic is a killer in the summer, so use a bicycle to get around. The Beaches Jazz festival takes place during the month of July.

• Location: Toronto East – Queen Streetcar.

Cherry Beach

Cherry Beach is located at the outer harbour on the Martin Goodman Trail and is a popular spot for SUP, Kite Boarder and kayaking. Locals like the off-leash zone for dogs. On your way stop at Polson Pier for the best skyline view of the city outside the island.

Kew Beach is another great spot for Canoe and Kayaking plus our favourite SUP. It’s home to the balmy beach club and there’s outdoor fitness equipment to play with. Kew Beach basically blends into Balmy Beach and Woodbine Beach and there’s an outdoor swimming at the Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools including 5 and 10-metre (15-30 feet) diving boards!

Ashbridges Bay

Ashbridges Bay is one of the more popular spots for beach lovers in Toronto. The waterfront trail runs through the Bay area that has green parks and walkways, beaches, a skateboarding park and picnic sites. This is Toronto’s main spot for fireworks during Canada Day and Victoria Day.

39. Ontario Place

Located at the CNE Grounds on the Lakeshore, Ontario Place is an excellent place to spend an afternoon. It has one of the best outdoor festival stages in Toronto at Budweiser Stage attracting big names performing in an intimate setting. And there’s an IMAX theatre. Enjoy the excellent trail for cycling or rollerblading that goes around 7.5 acres of green space.

• Location : 955 Lakeshore West BLVD – Hop on the 514 Streetcar out to Dufferin Gate Loop. Or ride a bike along the waterfront trail.

40. Toronto Bike Trails

Toronto has some excellent bike trails away from the city traffic. You can use the bike share program to cycle around the city, or you can rent a bike. Some of the best cycling trails are the Waterfront Trail, Leslie Spit Trail, The Don Valley Bike Path, Key Garden Belt Line, Taylor Creek Park, and High Park.

• Locations: For a complete list of Toronto, Bike Trails visit Toronto.com
• There are plenty of cycling tours that will take you to see the top Toronto attractions.
• Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides.

41. Sunnyside Park

Located in the West End of Toronto, Sunnyside Beach is a quieter stretch of beach located near Sunnyside Pool. There’s a lovely pavilion that’s popular for weddings and events and you can grab some lunch while you are here.

It’s an excellent place for running and cycling and there are plenty of stops along the Waterfront Trail. This trail takes you out through wetlands, over the Humber River and Mimico Creek, and into West Etobicoke.

42. SUP Bluffers Park

There are plenty of spots to Stand Up Paddle Board in Toronto but the most scenic spot is make your way to Scarborough Bluffs at Bluffers Park just off of Bluffers Beach. Blue waters mixed with the white Scarborough Bluffs make a perfect setting and the water is usually calm for paddleboarding.

Located in Scarborough just east of the other Toronto beaches, it is one of the more scenic beaches of Toronto with the lovely Scarborough Bluffs towering overhead at 65 metres high. (180 feet) There’s a restaurant at the marina and spots for picnics. Bluffers Beach has become a popular Instagram spot.

43. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Located just west of the Queen West Neighbourhood, Trinity Bellwoods Park is a popular hangout space in Toronto thanks to its large shady trees. You’ll find all the cool cats and hipsters hanging out at this park that features an ice skating rink in the winter, a public pool, community garden and tennis courts.

Trinity Bellwoods Park is also known for its cultural events and community gatherings, including outdoor movies, live music, and arts and crafts markets. It is also a popular spot for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings with friends and family.

Day Trips from Toronto

These day trips from Toronto are just two of the day trips that we recommend for first-time visitors and people from out of the country. But there are countless day trips from the city that you can explore. Read our complete list of the best day trips from Toronto: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

44. Canada’s Wonderland

I used to sing at Canada’s Wonderland for four seasons so this amusement park is very dear to my heart. Located north of Toronto, this is one of the best day trips from the city. Spend an entire day enjoying its mega roller coasters, Splash Works and entertainment.

The park features more than 200 attractions, including 16 roller coasters, making it one of the top destinations for thrill-seekers. Some of the most popular rides at Canada’s Wonderland include the Leviathan, Behemoth, and Yukon Striker roller coasters. The park is open from May to October, but throughout the year there are special events with Christmas markets, Halloween Haunts, and Winterfest.

45. Niagara Falls

One of the top day trips from Toronto is to go to Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls really requires more than a day, but the top attractions in the falls can be done in one simple day if you have limited time. Get Yourself an Adventure Pass and spend the day exploring the top attractions in Niagara Falls like The Hornblower, Journey Behind the Falls, Whitewater Walk and Clifton Hill. Read more: Things to do in Niagara Falls .

Niagara Falls can be done in a Day. When I was working at Canada’s Wonderland during my summer vacations, we always made at least one day trip to Niagara Falls to enjoy its top attractions. With the Niagara Adventure Pass, you can see it’s top sights in less than 12 Hours. You can get to Niagara Falls on a full day tour , by bus or by renting a car. Check car ren tal prices here.

46. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is another great day trip from Toronto. You can combine a trip with Niagara Falls, or go on your own for a day of wine tasting and exploring some of the top vineyards in Canada.

Located on Lake Ontario, Niagara on the Lake definitely deserves more than one day, but if you only have a short time, it is at least worth checking out to see its historic downtown, take a wine tour to one of its wineries, stop at historic Fort George, or watch a show at the Shaw Festival. Check out more things to do in Niagara on the Lake here .

47. Toronto Zoo

If you want more wildlife viewing, the Toronto Zoo is a popular attraction. We’re not huge on zoos, but there is an argument that zoos help promote sustainability and awareness about wildlife. And if you are going to visit a zoo, the Toronto Zoo isn’t too bad.

The animals all have for the most part large enclosures and seem to be treated quite well. When I was working at YTV, we went to the Toronto Zoo a lot and the people who work there are very passionate about animal conservation and animal welfare.

48. Terra Lumina

Terra Lumina is an attraction at the Toronto Zoo that happens after dark. A 1.5 km walking path takes you through a light show and multimedia experience. Lazers shoot through the air, paths light up and wolf howls and polar bears are projected onto screens. It starts in the future 2099 and travels back in time.

Check out more tours from Toronto and Day Trips

• 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
• The Ultimate Guide to the Best Weekend Getaways from Toronto
• Things to do in Niagara Falls

49. Best Instagram-Worthy Spots in Toronto

• Sugar Beach – Located at Lower Jarvis Street beside to the Redpath Sugar Factory just down from Queens Quay.
• Polsen Pier – Polsen Pier is an excellent waterfront attraction with entertainment and fantastic views of the Toronto skyline.
• Brookfield Place – This beautiful piece of architecture is located in the city center on Yonge Street. When you enter this entertainment center, you are treated to stunning views of the Allan Lambert Gallery which is a 6-story enclosed courtyard.
• Humber Bay Bridge – The Humber Bay Bridge is a pedestrian and cycling walkway connecting downtown Toronto with The Lakeshore.
• Museum Subway Stop – located in the heart of the city center, the Museum Subway Stop is an easy place to grab beautiful photos of the museum columns adorning the platform.
• Graffiti Alley – This isn’t only a great Instagram spot, Graffiti alley is one of the best places to visit in Toronto.

50. Best Toronto Festivals

Toronto is a city of festivals and some of the not to miss events are:

• Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – Sept
• Toronto Pride – June
• Toronto Summer Music Festival – July
• Luminato – June
• Beaches Jazz Festival – July
• Toronto Caribbean Carnival – July

Getting Around Toronto

There is the  UP Express  that leaves from Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 every 15 minutes and takes you directly to Union Station. Get Your Guide offers  airport limousine transfers  in style that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Uber and Lyft can now answer calls at Toronto Pearson Airport. By Train, you arrive in Toronto at Union Statio n from all major hubs.

Hop on Hop Off Bus – If you want to get around the city, a great way to explore is the  Toronto Hop on Hop off Bus.   A 48-hour pass lets you explore Toronto’s main attractions as you hop on hop off at major tourist sites. Cost $49/It will help you see the highlights quickly and take you to some of the top sights in Toronto like Casa Loma, and a free harbour cruise.

Public Transit – Fares cost $3.25. If you buy tokens or a Presto Card it is $3.25 CAD. You can buy  Presto Cards in advance here. Toronto Transit Pass  – You can buy 1 day or a weekly pass. If you plan on an extended stay, a  Presto card  is a good option.

Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note is that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides. So after 30 minutes at a time, extra fees apply. So it’s best to use them to get from point A to point B. The good news is that rental stations are close to most attractions.

Car rentals – Toronto itself can sometimes be very spread out depending on where you are going. If you want to do day trips from Toronto, a rental car is a good option. RentalCars.com  is a good comparison website to find the right car rental for you.

Parking – Use Green Ps when parking in Toronto, they are the best deal and you  can download the app .

Uber –  In America Lyft is cheaper, but in Toronto Uber is cheaper and the drivers we’ve talked to say they prefer Uber over Lyft. (it’s the opposite of what we’ve heard from drivers in America. Interesting eh?

Read More Toronto Travel Tips

• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Things to do in Niagara Falls – What to do, Where to Eat & Where to Stay
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Toronto to Niagara Falls by Bus -It’s Easy with Busbud
• 19 Most Epic Things to do in Ontario

And there you have it. Our ultimate guide for things to do in Toronto. If you are visiting Toronto, this guide should have you covered with all the amazing things to see and do! What did we miss?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

25 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada in 2024

The Perfect 48 Hours in Niagara Falls Canada

12 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls at Night

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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42 thoughts on “50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024”

I had a great time visiting Toronto last year. I enjoyed the St. Lawrence Market and the Royal Ontario Museum. And the art and murals around the city are amazing!

Nice blog read and love those places.

Great post! I love Toronto and I’m trying to get here this year.

I am researching on Canada life now a days and this article is really very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing valuable information.

Great article Dave and Deb. Very detailed and well explained. I’m sure it will help a lot of aspiring travelers in navigating their way around Toronto and making the most of their time.

In this great list of best things to do in Toronto, I would like to add a few more spots that I think your readers would love to visit.

1. The 3D Toronto Sign on Nathan Philips Square has been a new edition and has become a famous Instagram spot due to it’s urban aesthetics. 2. Toronto Island Park, a chain of 15 small Islands in Lake Ontario. A great place if you want to enjoy the skyline, pursue water sports, ride bicycle or even relax. 3. Ripley’s Aquarium, a walk through aquarium with an almost astounding 16000 exotic sea creatures and more than 450 species

Hopefully this helps. Can’t wait for your next blog And if you are interested in knowing a bit more about Canada, do visit my Canadian travel blog and guide. I’m sure you and your readers will find it very helpful

Traveling to Toronto is an impressive thing for people.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

Toronto is very famous for activities, art, landscapes and the friendliness of people. I also want to this place with my family. Thanks for your writing!

Thanks for your writing! Let’s come to Toronto and enjoy the beauty of this country.

I love Toronto so much. It is a beautiful place for people to visit. In the future, I will travel there with my family if I have a chance.

I Love the city of Toronto. I remember taking the train from Ottawa into Toronto a few Summers ago. Real efficient rail system. The city was very clean and the people were so friendly. I would say Eaton Centre and just walking up and down Yonge street were a few of my favorite things to do there. I would move to Toronto in a heart beat if not for the Winters. Great city though!

Very Interesting post. I am from Dubai and its a dream for me to visit Toronto. But i hope one day i will be there.

Excellent post – so many great tips and very helpful

This list is the best one online! Thanks a lot

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them.

Thank you for the amazing tips and knowledgeable guide you have shared through your blog. All the placed you have mentioned are beautiful and must be visited once in a lifetime.

Thank you so much for these wonderful tips. This is a great post and place you visited. Lovely pictures.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

We found your site and got loads of inspiration and great stories! Toronto is on our Bucket list and this article was very helpful comprehensive stuff!

Keep up the great work and content! Safe Travels!

Great article! I look forward to visit Ontario some day, and now I know what I will do when I get there!

Toronto is seriously a wonderful place to visit.

These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

This is so informative, and I think it is a perfect guide for the tourist to enjoy their visit to Toronto to the fullest.

Nice post and awesome pics! Good Job!

WOW, I Like Toronto – Thanks for sharing this….

Simply Sooperb, After reading this post, planned to go Toronto now with my friends.

I love the sights and sounds of Toronto. Thanks for sharing.

Agreed. great list!

Thanks for sharing the post. Toronto is the beauty.

Love the photo essay of Toronto.

Hi Dave and Deb,

Thank you for posting this blog. Very concise and well laid out in different sections; makes very easy to look for the information. And yes your pictures are great too !!

I am inspired.

Thanks Alok

Hi Davie and Deb,

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them. I personally have only been to couple of places but now I have a list to go and visit. Thank you for inspiring .

Regards Alok

Very well concise summary on Toronto. We are planning to go for family trip but could not understand where we should spend much time but your article helps me we have decided to visit this place. Thanks.

What a nice tourism object !

Hello Dave,

It’s the best thing to do experiencing your hometown as a tourist, did it myself two years ago when in Paris, to be honest, I did discover a lot of places that I wasn’t aware they exist at all, some secret places and streets. I don’t really like Hop and Hop buses, but will definitely try one when in Toronto.

Thank you for the tips.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

This all looks wow…Simply WOW!! Thanks for sharing this….

Wow! This looks incredible post and information. These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

Waw! I got that article at the right time, this is a very informative and helpful for me because I am going to Toronto next month.

Amazing Lists, nice way to explain each part of Toronto.. !! Will follow each place as you mention in your blog.

These ideas all look like so much fun! It’s a great city. There’s so much to do there and so many places to explore. Such a beautiful pictures you captured.. Thank you so much for sharing a great post and information.. Keep sharing!!

Toronto Attractions and Highlights

mbbirdy/Getty Images

These Toronto attractions draw millions of visitors a year and span the modern to the historical and the cultural to the commercial. 

Toronto is a big, bustling multicultural city, with attractions that will appeal to a variety of people: culture lovers, sports lovers, nature lovers, shoppers, foodies and those who like to explore off the beaten track. 

The attractions on this list are the most popular and most visited by tourists, but the city warrants deeper exploration. Just wandering Toronto's best neighborhoods gives you a great sense of the city and its people.

If you're planning to visit a few attractions, the Toronto City Pass offers half price admission and VIP entry.

These attractions are all easily accessible (within a 20-minute walk or 5-15 minute public transit ride away) from Union Station in downtown Toronto.

The Toronto Eaton Centre

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski 

The  Eaton Centre  is a bright and airy shopping mall in the heart of Toronto's downtown that covers two city blocks and houses more than 230 stores. The stores will appeal to the budget conscious and spendthrifts alike. 

Along with the CN Tower, the Eaton Centre is the most popular tourist attraction in Toronto.

Between 2010 and 2015, the shopping hub has undergone major upgrades and renovations, including the addition of an impressive and diverse food court. 

More than just a place to shop, the four-level, glass domed Eaton Centre is of architectural interest and features a huge Canadian geese mobile, "Flight Stop," designed by artist Michael Snow. 

Erect a disproportionately tall building in the middle of a city and they will come. The CN Tower attracts millions of tourists 364 days of the year for its bird's eye view of Toronto.

At 1,815 feet the CN Tower has lost its title as the tallest free-standing structure in the world, but as of 2015 held rank as the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere and was classified as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Modern World" by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

A glass elevator whisks you to the 1,122 foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck where a portion of the floor is transparent. Instead of buying your admission ticket, you could also make a reservation at the tower's top-floor restaurant, 360 , to get the view, one of the best ways to get the whole experience.

There is really no other way to get such an elevated, panoramic view of Toronto, which is a great perspective on the city, Lake Ontario and surrounding areas. That said, visiting the CN Tower is not inexpensive and it can be very crowded and busy. If this is not your thing, perhaps a quiet drink at the Rooftop Lounge of the Park Hyatt may adequately satisfy your quest for a bird's eye view of the city.

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

For history or architecture buffs especially,  Casa Loma  is a fascinating visit but most anyone can appreciate the grandiose home built by wealthy Toronto businessman Sir Henry Pellatt in the early 1900s. Casa Loma is similar to Hearst Castle in California, in that it is one man's ambitious architectural vision. In the case of Casa Loma, Pellat's dream went awry and contributed to his downfall.

Notable for its location proudly overlooking the city, the "House on the Hill" boasted many modern-day conveniences, such as central vac and an elevator. The Casa Loma building also was used as a location shoot for the 2002 movie "Chicago."

Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM)

Even if you don't step inside the  ROM , it's worth checking out the bizarre, jagged glass exterior that tends to either delight or offend passersby.

With more than 40 galleries of art, archaeology and natural science, the ROM offers up a world of interest and fun. The diverse ROM galleries feature one of the world's finest collections of artifacts from China, a more than six-story tall totem pole and much more. A discovery gallery at the ROM and other interactive exhibits mean everyone's senses get a workout and kids stay interested .

Centre Island

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto to lakeside charm. Centre Island is one of a series of small islands that comprise the largest urban car-free community in North America (some service vehicles are permitted). Centre Island, also called Toronto Island, offers a place for recreation and relaxation and features an amusement park, recreation areas, beaches, a yacht club, and restaurants.

Centre Island is a 10-minute ferry ride  away from downtown Toronto. 

The Distillery District

The Distillery Historic District is a great place to spend a few hours if you're in downtown Toronto and​ you want to get away from the usual downtown stuff: there's not a Starbucks or McDonalds in sight. This pedestrian-only village is set amidst fabulous heritage architecture and is devoted to promoting arts and culture. The area also features a wellness center, plenty of cafés, restaurants and pubs.

Walk along Front Street east from Union Station for about 15 minutes. Lots of cute shops and restaurants along the way as well as the St. Lawrence Market, a great, inexpensive lunch spot if it's open. 

Yorkville is a charming anomaly amidst Toronto high rises and shopping malls. Tucked into a pocket of downtown, the quaint Victorian architecture in Yorkville houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. The dining and shopping are upscale and the galleries represent some of the finest Canadian and international artists. Many celebrities have been spotted strolling the sidewalks of Yorkville, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival.

Hockey Hall of Fame

You don't have to be a diehard hockey fan to enjoy a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame, which is an outstanding facility, full of interactive exhibits that put kids or adults in the heat of NHL action. The Broadcast Pods let you call the action of some of the most famous hockey games, including the 1972 Canada / Russia series: "Henderson shoots, he scores." Also featured is a replica NHL dressing room (minus the smell), a trophy room, and of course a gift shop.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

The AGO houses an impressive collection of more than 40,000 works, making it the 10th largest art museum in North America. The AGO​ is a superb document of Canadian art heritage but also features masterworks from around the world, spanning 100 AD to the present and housed in a stunning Frank Gehry building.

The AGO is in an eclectic part of downtown Toronto adjacent to Chinatown and Baldwin Village, providing an interesting choice of restaurants and shops to peruse before of after your gallery visit. 

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

Toronto has the second largest Chinatown in North America. People will find bargains on exotic trinkets, jewelry, clothing and household items. Plus, of course, where there's a bustling Chinatown, there's delicious food, and Toronto's Chinatown is no exception. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of restaurants serving not just authentic Chinese, but also Vietnamese and other Asian fare. 

Ripley's Aquarium

Canada's largest aquarium  opened in 2013 in Toronto next to the CN Tower.

The aquarium is a 12,500 square-meter (135,000 square-foot) boasting more than 5.7 million liters (1.5 million gallons) of water home to 15,000 animals, including sharks, jellies, rays, and green sea turtles.

The aquarium will not be home to dolphins, seals or other mammals. No doubt some lesson has been learned by the ​Marineland scandal in which the  Niagara Falls  family attraction was called out publicly for its inhumane treatment of its animals—namely the marine mammals.

If you're in Niagara Falls, bypass Marineland, and head straight down the highway for Ripley's Aquarium instead. 

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Best Attractions in Toronto

If you are planning a trip to Canada, don't miss Toronto! It is the largest and one of the most vibrant cities in Canada. There is a lot to explore in Toronto. If you're visiting for the first time, you may find it difficult to narrow down the top tourist attractions in Toronto .

Every neighbourhood of Toronto has its own story. There are many hidden gems and tourist attractions in Toronto. As Canadian travel experts, Canadian Train Vacations is here to help you. We have curated a comprehensive list of the best attractions in Toronto. If you love to travel and explore, the following places should be on your itinerary.

1. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is home to a range of exquisite cultural and historical pieces collected from all over the world.

All three levels of this magnificent place, locally called “The ROM,” are rife with treasures organized into more than 20 galleries — like the new Willner Madge Gallery, Dawn of Life or the Sir Christopher Ondaatje South Asian Gallery or Life in Crisis: The Schad Gallery of Biodiversity. And that’s not all! Be sure to check out the limited-time exhibits, such as Psychedelics (on until March 9, 2024). 

The museum is located at 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario. You can easily reach here by bus, cab, or public transportation. General admission is $23 CAD for adults and $14 CAD for children ages four to 14.

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

2. See the animals at the Toronto Zoo 

The zoo is one of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto. If you love wildlife, you should visit the Toronto Zoo. Spread over 10km, it is a great place to walk and explore. It features a unique polar bear habitat and an African penguin exhibit. From alpacas to giraffes, there's a lot to see here.

Orangutans of Gunung Leuser: Guardians of the Rainforest is a brand-new outdoor habitat for Sumatran orangutans, whose conservation status changed from Endangered to Critically Endangered in 2017. Why? Palm oil harvesting is destroying the rainforests they call home. In addition to protecting these amazing mammals, the Toronto Zoo has taken a leadership stance on raising awareness about palm oil. 

Other reasons people love going to the Toronto Zoo: The Wild Rouge Zipline, the Conservation Carousel, and the Tundra Air Ride. If you get tired of walking, hop on the Zoomobile for a tour.

We recommend at least two hours to explore the zoo. Admission is $24.50 for adults and $15.50 for children.

#1 Travel tip: See the animals being fed at the zoo

For the best experience at the Toronto zoo, be sure to see if there are any feeding times scheduled during your visit.

3. Enjoy the View from CN Tower

Built between 1972 and 1976, the CN Tower was once the tallest building in the world, at 553 meters tall. It is the most famous tourist destination in Toronto. It can be enjoyed from the ground, but the view from the top is simply breathtaking. You can even download a free viewfinder app so you know what are looking at in all directions.

There is also a revolving restaurant at the top for dining and lunches. The 360 Restaurant completes a full rotation every 72 minutes. The menu focuses on local and sustainable ingredients and recipes from across Canada, including Indigenous dishes. It is popular so you should reserve ahead.

The CN Tower is located at 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario.

It is open from 9 AM to 9 PM every day. Entry fees start at $53 but depend on what activities you want to do, such as the EdgeWalk, the outdoor walkway around the observation deck.

4. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario 

The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the major attractions in Toronto. It is home to a large collection of artwork dating back centuries. The building is an architectural masterpiece in itself.

More than 95,000 works of art are held in the collections at the AGO, as it is locally called, from European masterpieces to work by emerging Indigenous artists, Group of Seven to Western and Central Africa, historic to modern to contemporary. You can get lost in here for hours, transported through the art in the regular collections and in the many special exhibits featured throughout the year.

Don’t miss the AGO Shop — it has some of the coolest gifts and souvenirs I have ever seen.

Located at 317 Dundas St W, it is easily accessible by public transportation.

TIP : If you want to skip the line to enter the museum, prepurchase a day pass for $25 CAD or an annual pass for $35 CAD.

5. Eat at Kensington Market 

You're bound to get hungry after exploring all the tourist attractions in Toronto, Canada. It's time to head to Kensington Market, just west of downtown Toronto. This multicultural neighbourhood offers various food shops and restaurants which serve cuisines from all over the world.

There are lots of little places you pick up a snack to walk around with — empanadas maybe or a burrito or something with bacon. Or put together a picnic from Global Cheese or Sanagan’s meat and head to Bellevue Park. If you want to sit for a while, check out Trinity Common, a popular pub, especially with the hipster crowd, for smash burgers and fries that go oh-so well with craft beer. And I have never left Kensington Market without stopping at Wanda’s Pie in the Sky.

Additionally, you can explore the beautiful shops that sell vintage items. You will want approximately two to three hours to explore this neighbourhood, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

TIP : Admission is free, as it is a public neighbourhood, but we recommend around $50 CAD/couple for a meal.

#2 Travel tip: Make reservations for dinner

Toronto is a top foodie destination and home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Be sure to make reservations at any places you want to try to avoid disappointment.

6. Witness Marine Life at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

The aquarium is also one of the most popular tourist places in Toronto. It is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the country. It is home to about 450 different fish species and other sea animals.

The Dangerous Lagoon is one of the most exciting features at Ripley’s. Board the moving sidewalk through a clear tunnel in the tank while sharks, stingrays and other lagoon inhabitants swim over your head. You may even be lucky to see staff feeding the fish twice a day.

It will take you 2-3 hours to explore the aquarium. Tickets cost $44 CAD for adults and $20 for youth ages six to 13, and $12.50 for children ages two to five.

7. Take a Selfie at the Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions opened in 2018. It is one of the new family attractions in Toronto, Canada. It is fun for both adults and kids alike. The museum features an elaborate series of illusions, along with their explanations.

Illusion rooms, installations, images and holograms, this is one place you will want to be sure you have a fully charged phone so you can take lots of weird and wonderful photos. There are selfie points along the way, and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Toronto.

It is located at 132 Front Street East. Tickets are $23.50 CAD.

8. Go Down Memory Lane with Bata Shoe Museum

If you're interested in the history of shoes, visit the Bata Shoe Museum. Shoes are much more interesting that you might think, not only in terms of fashion but also culture. Special exhibits include In Bloom: Flowers and Footwear and Obsessed: How Shoes Became Objects of Desire .

It is located just across from the Royal Ontario Museum. You can gain access to the museum for just $14 CAD.

TIP : Check out the outside of the building as well. The building is shaped like a shoebox.

9. Learn About Hockey at the Hockey Hall of Fame 

Hockey is an extremely famous sport in Canada, which makes this a must-visit tourist destination in Toronto for all sports fans. Housed in a heritage building that was formerly a bank, Hockey Hall of Fame is spread over 65,000 square feet. It’s big! It even has a replica of the Montreal Canadiens dressing room.

See interesting exhibits about the sports and try fun interactive displays. For example, follow the evolution of goalie masks or try your skills at broadcasting or play the latest hockey video games. It is also the home of the Stanley Cup, the NHL's biggest trophy.

The retail shop has everything a hockey fan could want. And where do you go for snacks when you visit the Hockey Hall of Fame? Tim Horton’s, of course! Horton, a former hockey star, founded the famous coffee franchise and a special edition Tim’s is located next door to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

You can get a ticket to the Hockey Hall of Fame for $20 CAD.

10. Go Down Memory Lane at St. Lawrence Market

Named the best food market in the world in 2012, this famous tourist destination in Toronto has been operating since the early 1800s. Apart from buying the freshest and best produce, you can also explore several cuisines at this market and everything you need to make it. Caviar, fresh oysters, croissants, sausages, cheese by the slab — you name it and they probably have it, plus all the condiments and sauces, and even the kitchenware to prepare it.

Don’t feel like cooking? There are so many ready-to-eat options. From Indian to Ukrainian, there's something for every palate. Try a Toronto classic peameal bacon sandwich — basic and fancied-up versions are available. And don’t miss the lower level, where you’ll find many more delicious choices, like cabbage rolls and pierogies. Inside tables are at premium especially on weekends, but you can also take your to-go boxes outside to the picnic tables.

And when you're done eating, go upstairs to explore the art gallery. The market also hosts a public kitchen for special cooking classes and is home to St Lawrence Hall, where you can catch exhibitions and live performances.

TIP : Hiring a tour guide gives interesting insights into the vendors and the area's history.

11. Get answers at Ontario Science Centre

The first interactive museum of its kind in the world, this place is specially designed for all those interested in science. It is one of the best family attractions in Toronto. There are live experiments, demonstrations, planetariums and games to explore and enjoy.

What people love about this place is that it’s hands-on: not only you learn about science, but you also get to try things out and see how they work in the Science Arcade and Innovation Centre. Underwater adventures bring Captain Nemo to Life and the space exhibit makes sense of meteorites, black holes and cosmic rays. Plus, there’s a rainforest, a Canadian forest and a domed IMAX theatre. 

The entire tour of the place will take you about two hours. 

TIP : We recommend you book tickets online to skip the lines, especially during school holidays. A ticket costs $22 CAD.

12. Shop at Toronto Eaton Centre

No trip is complete without shopping! Toronto Eaton Centre is a shopper's paradise that's located in the middle of downtown Toronto. Home to the world's best luxury brands, flagship stores, restaurants and movie theatres, Eaton Centre is an iconic structure that's known as one of the best tourist places in Toronto . It receives approximately 50 million visitors every year.

Dozens of dining spots await, especially in the food court area, but my favourite is Trattoria Mercatto for a pizza and the cannolo I can never resist.

You can reach this place easily by taking any public transport — there are subway stations at either end of the complex.

TIP : Don't miss the 115-foot long pedestrian bridge between Eaton Centre and Hudson's Bay Company building. It's an architectural gem.

13. Wander Through the Distillery District 

This quaint village-like area gets its name from the fact that it once housed the largest distillery of the British empire. With nearly 50 Victorian buildings, this is a national heritage site. Now home to some of Toronto's best art galleries, boutiques, bars, restaurants, studios, and shops, Distillery District is one of the top 5 attractions in Toronto .

One of my favourite spots is El Catrin Destileria, with its beautiful patio and excellent tapas and margaritas. Soma Chocolate shop is a must-stop for me (just follow your nose), and I always wander through Bergo Designs check out the great gifts and gadgets.

Among the various festivals held throughout the year, the Toronto Christmas Market attracts the most visitors. It is set up like a German-style outdoor market, complete with mulled wine and carollers.

TIP : Distillery District covers13 acres and is a pedestrian-only area. Wear comfortable shoes!

14. Feel Regal at Casa Loma 

Casa Loma in Midtown Toronto is an almost 200,000-square-foot mansion designed like a castle in Gothic Revival-style. It was built between 1911 and 1914 to be the home of financier Sir Henry Pellatt. It has an interesting history and served several functions before being converted into a museum that sees at least 650,000 visitors a year.

 The castle has three floors that include 100 rooms, grand washrooms, towers, secret pathways and underground tunnels. When you see Casa Loma in all its splendour, you will understand why it is a popular location for movie and television filming, weddings and private events.

TIP: You can also visit the well-maintained stables and estate gardens — five acres of impeccable gardens and a patio restaurant for casual meals during the summer. Fine dining is also available for dinner by reservation only in the Blueblood Steakhouse, where steaks are listed on the menu like wine with the origin along with the name and ounces.

Casa Loma is open from 9.30 AM to 5 PM and a ticket costs $40 CAD.

15. Walk Through the Aga Khan Museum

Constructed by Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan and Princess Catharine Aga Khan in the 1950s, this museum is completely devoted to Islamic Arts. It is the largest museum for Islamic Arts in North America. The museum is located in serene surroundings in the northern part of city and has a reflecting pool all around it. 

The museum and gardens are one of the most beautiful, peaceful places in the city and very much a place to learn and experience Islamic culture and civilization. Until October 23, 2023 visit the Aga Khan Museum to see an inspiring exhibition celebrating Rumi, one of history's most famous poets, on the 750th anniversary of his passing. 

There is also a restaurant that provides a fine dining experience. Diwan is one of Chef Mark McEwan’s restaurants and features modern Middle Eastern cuisine. It is open for lunch and dinner; reservations are recommended. 

An entry ticket costs $20 CAD and the museum is open 10 AM - 5.30 PM, Sunday-Tuesday.

TIP : Post-Covid, Museum entry has been more restricted. We recommend you book tickets online to avoid any inconvenience.

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16. take a stroll around toronto islands.

Toronto Islands is a chain of several islands along Lake Ontario. One of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto, there's a lot that one can do, such as water sports, fishing, boating, bird watching, picnics and even visiting art galleries and shops. It also offers stunning views of the Toronto skyline.

Many people bring their own bikes on the ferry, along with their kids and their dogs. Centreville amusement park, with its 30 rides and attractions, is a popular family spot in the summer. Centre Island Beach is great fun on a sunny day.

TIP : No private vehicles are allowed on the island, so you can catch a passenger ferry from Jack Leyton Ferry Terminal. Rent a bike to explore the islands.

17. Explore Old City Hall 

The Old City Hall is a Romanesque-style building that's over a century old. It was very close to demolition, but activists saved the historic site. Now the city hall serves as a museum and a war memorial. There is a lot you can uncover if you love architecture and history.

For example, the façade is mostly sandstone and if you look closely, you will see carvings of animals and humans. Between 1899 and 1917, the clock tower was the tallest structure in Canada.

TIP: If possible, carry just the basics in your bags. The security check at the entry is quite thorough and you will have to pass through metal detectors.

18. Take a Trip to Niagara Falls

The list of the top 10 attractions in Toronto is incomplete without the famous Niagara Falls. Just 90 minutes away from Toronto, Niagara falls is a group of three waterfalls that lie on the border of Ontario and New York state (USA). As expected, you will be greeted with stunning views, exciting trails and hikes, guided tours, and plenty of staying and eating options nearby.

The Journey Behind the Falls is an opportunity to see the falls from inside out via tunnels that lead to observation points. It’s pretty exciting when you consider how much water is crashing down.

TIP : Helicopter rides can be easily arranged to get the best views.

19. Stroll through High Park 

If you want to explore the greener side of Toronto, you should check out High Park. One of the best outdoor attractions in Toronto, this place is favoured by families with children or elderly members — and dogs!

It is Toronto's largest urban park and includes a large playground, swimming pool, diverse vegetation, walking trails, and so much more. Genadier Pond has an observation deck so you can watch the birds. The picnic area has tables and lots of space, as well as the Grenadier Café, a summer-only snack and drinks stand.

High Park Zoo is a small, family friendly place that was established in the 1893 for deer. Fast forward 120 years, the Zoo’s eleven paddocks are home to bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle, emus and sheep. In 2016, two High Park capybaras, Bonnie and Clyde, made the news when they escaped and launched a massive search (they were found safe).

TIP : During April-May, the park blooms with cherry blossoms.

20. Visit Black Creek Pioneer Village

This is a one-of-a-kind village that showcases Toronto during the 1860s. Historic buildings, unique stables and sheds, picturesque gardens and trade exhibits - Black Creek gives you a real immersive experience of rural life in the 19th century.

Take a tour with costumed guide for the best insight and be prepared to walk on boardwalks and dirt roads. If you’re lucky, there may be some baby animals on the farm.

An entry ticket costs $15 CAD and it stays open from 11.00 AM - 4PM

TIP : You will have to pre-book a tour online till March 2023. Do check their website for more changes in entry rules.

21. Take a tour of Steam Whistle Brewery

Located close to Ripley's Aquarium, this is one of the most quirky and lively places in Toronto. Founded in 1998, this brewery was developed from a national historic site - The John Street Roundhouse building. This roundhouse used to serve as a depot for the Canadian Pacific Railway steam locomotive. So, grab a pint of Steam Whistle and take a tour around the area or kick back and relax at the Taproom.

You can also enjoy a meal alongside that crisp Steam Whistle Pilsner at the Biergärten Restaurant, featuring contemporary Canadian cuisine. Reservations are recommended.

22. Relax at Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day. This beach is along Lake Ontario and offers a perfect blend of relaxation and revelry. The 3-km-long shore is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, beach volleyball, picnics and an Olympic-sized pool.

Woodbine Beach is located in an area locally known as “The Beaches” and the people who live here love it here. Restaurants and cafes all along Queen Street provide plenty of options for lunch or dinner.

TIP : The beach can get noisy and crowded as it is one of the popular outdoor attractions in Toronto. If you need a breather, you can walk across to the calm and scenic Woodbine Park. Or keep walking east and take in the lakefront scenery all the way to Kew-Balmy Beach and Kew Gardens, a lovely park with a gazebo that started as a farm in the 1850s.

23. Catch the Vibe at Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is often called the Times Square of Toronto. Known for fast-fashion shops, affordable eateries, street performances and its giant screens, you can easily spend 2-3 hours here without realising it. It's a perfect snapshot of Toronto city life and comes alive once the sun sets.

Because of its location at the north end of Eaton Centre, this is a great spot to include on a shopping itinerary. Grab a coffee and settle in for some people watching or catch a movie if you really want to give your feet a break. Some of the restaurants here big and busy — Jack Astor’s, Red Lobster, Joey Eaton Centre, 3 Brewers — all lots of fun. If you want something really special, check performance calendar at Jazz Bistro and make a dinner reservation.

24. Head Over To Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Toronto and offers delightful stories in every nook and corner. Curl up at a restaurant with warm dim sum, brothy noodles or spicy chops — there are so many choices. My favourites: Rol San for all-day dim sum and Mother’s Dumplings, which has dumplings and whole lot more.

Shop the outdoor stalls for hard-to-find produce and unique housewares, all at really great prices.

Given its prime location, you can easily reach Chinatown by taking any mode of transportation.

25. Unwind at Harbourfront Centre

An iconic cultural destination, Harbourfront Centre hosts several art exhibits, food festivals, live music and dance shows. The water-front complex, located at 235 Queens Quay West, hosts around 4000 events in a year. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery is also right there and well worth stop for art fans.

Apart from the art scene, you can also relax in one of the many inviting cafes and restaurants in and around the centre — like Boxcar Social with its bacon croquettes and shrimp on toast, or the Goodman Pub and Kitchen, for fish and chips and burgers. Or you can grab an ice cream and go to the beach! HTO Park is right near Harbourfront Centre and has a sandy beach with umbrellas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i not miss in toronto.

You should not miss the CN Tower when you're in Toronto. It is one of the most iconic and remarkable buildings in Toronto that provides a bird's eye view of the city.

What is the most visited place in Toronto?

Some of the famous tourist destinations in Toronto are the CN Tower, Casa Loma, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley's Aquarium.

What is Toronto best known for?

Toronto is best known as a Canadian metropolis. It has sky-high buildings with a waterfront. The city's vibe is vibrant and full of energy, with a good mix of historic and modern establishments.

How many days are enough for Toronto?

You must spend at least 4-5 days in Toronto. There is a lot to see and explore in this capital city of Ontario. You will thoroughly enjoy your time here.

Where can I go when I'm bored in Toronto?

There are many famous tourist destinations in Toronto. You can see the animals at the Toronto Zoo, feed the fishes at Ripley's Aquarium, or stroll through the Distillery District. You will never be bored in this city!

About the author: Carolyn Camilleri is a Contributing Writer with Fresh tracks Canada. A magazine writer and editor since 1996, she loves the discovery that comes from travel. Her work has appeared in several Canadian travel publications, including Where Victoria, Harbour...   Read more

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Top 10 Nigerian tourist attractions for Filipino tourists

#FeaturedPost

Nigeria, the Giant of West Africa, is a place with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique cities.

Recommended articles.

Visitors find a world where ancient customs meet modern innovation. The warmth of the Nigerian people, the rhythm of Afrobeat music, and the taste of spicy, flavorful cuisine make for an unforgettable journey. Along with heritage and traditional culture and other options, let's see what the country offers and discover the ten best places to visit in Nigeria.

Reasons to visit Nigeria

The African regional power is a destination with unique urban energy. The country offers something for every Filipino traveller, including nature adventures, cultural immersion, and relaxation on pristine beaches. Moreover, Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa, has a well-educated population, and is home to the continent's leading technology sector.

Summing it up, Filipinos and tourists worldwide visit Nigeria for:

• Cultural Tapestry: Nigeria boasts over 250 ethnic groups with unique traditions, languages, and art forms.
• Breathtaking Landscapes: Trek the lush rainforests, hike up majestic mountains or relax on pristine beaches.
• Thriving Art Scene: Learn more about Nigeria's artistic soul through contemporary galleries, ancient sculptures, and traditional crafts. Moreover, this is home to Nollywood, the world's second-largest movie production scene.
• Warm Hospitality: Nigerians are renowned for their warmth and friendliness. Prepare to receive an open-arm welcome and experience genuine African hospitality.

While listening to the " palm wine," highlife, and Naija Music, consider exploring popular tourist places in Nigeria.

Best places to visit in Nigeria

The list of tourist attractions in Nigeria has more than just ten places. With so many to choose from, it was challenging to pick the top ones. Yet, considering Filipinos' interests, we gathered several famous places, vacation spots, and a national park.

1. Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos

Spanning over 78 hectares, the Lekki Conservation Centre is a nature oasis amidst the Lagos city’s hustle. Offering stunning treetop views, Lekki is famous for its long canopy walkway. This is an excellent place for Filipinos looking for diverse wildlife habitats and rare birds while encountering monkeys and crocodiles.

2. Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River State

When M. McCaughey, a Scottish rancher, established Obudu Cattle Ranch in 1951, few could dream it would evolve into a popular tourist destination. Nigerians and internationals come here for a tranquil escape from the city life's hustle and bustle. The national park stands at 1,600 meters high near the Cameroon border. Obudu provides a refreshing contrast to Nigeria’s typically tropical weather with its semi-temperate mountain climate. It features a famous cable car system and offers an 870-meter ascent to the plateau and panoramic vistas. For accommodation, tourists pick between cozy mountain villas and luxury suites.

3. Federal Palace Hotel & Casino, Lagos

The in-house casino in the Capital City has operated since 1960. Today, the Sun International-owned Federal Palace Hotel & Casino is famous for its massive gaming floor and attractive incentives. For Filipino tourists, according to TestCasinos.org experts who studied their habits and expectations, this is an attractive place for recurring visits. Thanks to the Sun MVG Loyalty Programme, everyone who wants to enjoy a quality casino in Nigeria marks this place at the top of their bucket list.

3. Tarkwa Bay Beach, Lagos

The beach is a renowned Nigerian landmark. The only way to access this serene haven near Lagos is by boat. Visitors here enjoy golden sands and gentle waves, setting the stage for a day of relaxation or water sports. Tarkwa Bay also attracts photography enthusiasts, providing a window into local culture. Prepare a few bucks more, as many locals offer souvenirs, snacks, and refreshments.

4. Zuma Rock, Abuja

Standing tall near Nigeria's capital, Zuma Rock is more than a geographical landmark. The iconic Inselberg is a natural monolith with rich cultural significance. When the Zuba and Gwari settled around in the 15th century, they saw the rock as a protective guardian. You'll see Zuma when exchanging pesos as one of the most popular places in Nigeria stands on the 100 Naira note.

5. Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

We're still on natural wonders and rocks with deeper meanings. Olumo Rock was pivotal in the Egba people's history, serving as a fortress. During the 19th-century inter-tribal wars, the Egbas used it as a refuge and vantage point. Today, Filipinos may get inside the granite monolith caves that sheltered Egbas. Also, in the Yoruba religion, Oluma Rock is an orisha, a patron spirit.

6. Nike Art Gallery, Lagos

Experiencing Lagos' much-talked vibrancy is only possible with the Nike Art Gallery. The home of 8K+ artworks, this is one of the most extensive galleries in West Africa. Nike Davies-Okundaye, the famous artist and the owner, displays paintings, sculptures, textiles, and more.

7. Park Vega Waterpark, Agbor

The largest park in West Africa, Vega Waterpark, is among Nigerians' most popular vacation spots. It offers more than Space Hole and Wave Pool slides open from Thursday to Sunday. Try the Activity Pool, Kids Pool, or Relax Pool if you're into water attractions. To regain energy, grab a bite at the restaurant or sip a drink at the swim-up bar. The Waterpark uses the innovative proprietary Vega Money system. Open an account, load money, and use it throughout the park for all purchases.

8.Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi State

An essential destination for nature enthusiasts, Yankari Game Reserve showcases a rich biodiversity. Nigeria's home to the most extensive elephant population, has worked since 1956. Yankari also hosts over 50 mammal species and 350 bird species. Moreover, Filipinos may explore humankind's past here. Iron Smelting Sites and Marshall Caves glimpse the region’s past human settlements. On top of that, the Wikki Warm Spring is the most beautiful place in the reserve. With a year-round 31°C temperature, Wikki is perfect for swimming.

9. Kajuru Castle, Kaduna

Try not to stare when seeing this luxurious retreat. Making you feel like in a medieval European fairytale, Kajuru Castle comes with turrets, a grand hall, and even dungeons (though thankfully not for guests!). As a small group of Filipino tourists, it makes a private getaway an hour from Kaduna City. Walk through the castle's three floors with a knight's hall and a master's quarters.

10. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Osogbo

More than a forest, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The verdant sanctuary is teeming with history and Yoruba spirituality. The people see it as one of the most famous places of worship. A vital link to the Yoruba people's past, the Osun Grove boasts shrines and sculptures dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Come here for an annual festival to enjoy vibrant drumming, colourful costumes, and rituals reenacting the arrival of the goddess Osun.

Practical Travel Tips for Filipino Tourists

Planning and visiting Nigeria's beautiful places is easier than you may think. Provided you're a travel-ready Filipino, we suggest you keep the following in mind:

• Obtain a valid visa: Filipino tourists need a short-term visa to enter Nigeria. Thanks to the rapid development of e-government services, apply for an e-visa to shorten the inbound time. Another option is to apply for a visa when landed. Remember the 90-day validity.
• Exchange currency: The Nigerian currency is the Naira (NGN). So, exchange some pesos for Naira before you arrive or use ATMs.
• Note the language differences: English is the official language. Still, learning a few basic greetings in Yoruba or Hausa enhances your experience.
• Plan your trip according to weather conditions: Nigeria has a tropical climate. Pack light, breathable clothing and prepare for rain showers, especially during the rainy season (April to October).
• Prioritise safety: The country is safe for tourists. Yet, exercise caution in crowded areas. Research safe neighbourhoods and inform your hosts about your travel plans.

When harmonising your watch with the local timezone, you might encounter a concept called " African time. " People here prefer a relaxed approach to punctuality. So, you might be on time for an event that would start and end later than initially scheduled. As Nigerians see time more fluid, prepare for last-minute changes or delays due to unforeseen circumstances. Of course, this is a generalisation, and not all follow the concept. However, it's a fact to consider when planning activities.

Wrapping up

With so many things to see in Nigeria, picking only one is challenging. The Giant of West Africa awaits with open arms, promising an adventure unlike any other. Walk around ancient wonders, encounter diverse wildlife, and soak up the vibrant culture. Filipinos here always find a warm welcome, delicious cuisine, and memories that will last a lifetime. Long story short, a trip to Nigeria can be unforgettable with careful planning and an open mind.

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Explore America's Favorite Tourist Attractions From The 1900s To The 1990s

Posted: June 26, 2024 | Last updated: June 26, 2024

Top tourist spots from the 1900s to the 1990s

Take a trip back in time to see historic images of some of the USA’s most popular tourist attractions from the 1900s until the 1990s. Some are long gone while others are still popular today.

1900s: Coney Island, New York City, New York

1900s: Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California

1900s: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California

1900s: Times Square, New York City, New York

Formerly known as Longacre Square, Times Square was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters there. The junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue has since become one of the most famous commercial squares in the world with its theaters, cinemas and electronic billboards. It’s also the site of the city’s annual New Year's Eve ball drop (pictured here in 1939), a tradition which began when the newspaper held a New Year’s Eve event to celebrate its move.

1900s: White City, Denver, Colorado

The 1900s was a decade that saw a surge in the popularity of amusement parks. Lakeside, a small town near Denver, has one of the country’s oldest. Originally called White City, the park opened next to Lake Rhoda in 1908 to a crowd of 50,000 people. It had a swimming beach, casino, theater, racetrack and public pool as well as traditional fairground rides. Lakeside Amusement Park is still in operation today.

1910s: Grand Central Terminal, New York City, New York

1910s: National Parks established

The National Park Service system was established in 1916, more than 40 years after the designation of America's first national park, Yellowstone, whose explosive Old Faithful Geyser is depicted in this retro travel poster. The Californian park was a hugely popular travel attraction, drawing more than 35,000 people to explore it in 1916.

1910s: the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

1910s: Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois

1910s: San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California

One of the country’s first metropolitan zoos opened after founder Dr Harry Wegeforth was inspired by the idea at the 1915-16 Panama-California Exposition, which featured wild exotic animals. He founded the San Diego Zoological Society and convinced the city that it needed a zoo. San Diego Zoological Garden officially opened its doors in Balboa Park. One of its first animals was a Kodiak bear called Caesar. It was one of the first zoos to have open grotto enclosures and launched its first research faculty in 1927.

1920s: Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, California

This world-renowned amphitheater opened in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood in 1922. The first stage was a simple wooden platform with a canvas top and the audience were seated on wooden benches. An arched stage was built in 1926 with its distinctive shell shape first added in 1929. The 55-ton shell (pictured here in the 1930s) became an architectural icon. The 1930s saw jazz performances here for the first time and it went on to host the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and The Beatles.

1920s: Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC

1920s: Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California

1920s: Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, California

1920s: The Museum of Modern Art, New York City, New York

1930s: Chrysler Building, New York City, New York

1930s: Empire State Building, New York City, New York

New York’s iconic 103-story Art Deco skyscraper was completed in 1931 and was the world’s tallest building up until the 1970s. Today it is one of the city's most-visited and recognized landmarks, starting its on-screen career in the 1933 movie King Kong . However, despite generating great publicity and fanfare at the time of its construction, the Empire State Building remained relatively empty and unvisited until the 1950s. By 1976, its observatory had welcomed its 50 millionth visitor.

1930s: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

When the Golden Gate Bridge opened to pedestrians in 1937, the celebrations lasted for a week. The longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world received more than 200,000 foot passengers on its first day. The architecturally stunning bridge was an instant hit and became a symbol of San Francisco. It was one of America’s top-visited attractions, which it remains today. Here the bridge is pictured in the early 1950s.

1930s: Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona

1930s: Radio City Music Hall, New York City, New York

Manhattan’s legendary venue, Radio City Music Hall, first opened on Sixth Avenue in 1932 as a cornerstone of John D. Rockefeller Jr’s subsequent Rockefeller Center. The Art Deco theater was conceived as a “palace for the people”, offering top entertainment at affordable prices. It became a popular spot for film premieres with 700 movies having opened here since 1933, including the original King Kong and Breakfast at Tiffany’s . Its Great Stage has also welcomed legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra.

1930s: Cannon Mountain Tramway, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s Cannon Mountain was the site of the very first aerial tramway in north America, which ushered in ski and summer tourism to the area. It was constructed in 1938 after champion downhill skier Alexander Bright returned from a trip to Europe's ski resorts and rallied local investors, lawmakers and contractors to construct their own tramways. It quickly became a major tourist attraction, carrying 163,000 passengers in its first year. It ceased operation in 1980 and a new one was built.

1940s: The Strip, Las Vegas, Nevada

After gambling became legal once again in 1931, Las Vegas started its rise to become the country’s gaming capital. The desert metropolis’ population swelled as workers arrived to work on the Hoover Dam and small casinos and showgirl venues opened on Fremont Street. Pictured here in the mid-1950s, it was the first street in the city to be paved in 1925. The first hotel-casino, El Rancho Vegas, opened on Highway 91 in 1941, with others soon following and the section became known as “The Strip.”

1940s: Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

1940s: Weeki Wachee Springs mermaid show, Spring Hill, Florida

One of Florida’s most unique and long-running attractions, the mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park opened in 1947. It was the brainchild of former Navy man, Newton Perry, who built an 18-seat theater into the limestone below the water’s surface, allowing viewers to look right into the deep. He trained performers to breathe underwater and execute synchronized dance routines. In the 1950s, it was one of the nation’s most popular tourist stops and received worldwide acclaim. The attraction still remains today.

1940s: Gatorland, Orlando, Florida

Another of Florida’s earliest and long-running tourist spots, Gatorland was founded by Owen Godwin in 1949. Originally called the Florida Wildlife Institute, Godwin changed the name to the snappier Snake Village and Alligator Farm in the 1950s. The fledgling gift shop and wildlife park became increasingly popular when Bone Crusher arrived. Godwin claimed the 15-foot croc was the world’s largest captive crocodile. The now 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve is still owned by the family.

1950s: Disneyland, Anaheim, California

Walt Disney’s Disneyland (renamed Disneyland Park in the 1990s) opened on 17 July 1955. He originally wanted his theme park to be called Mickey Mouse Park. On the opening day, 28,000 people visited the theme park which featured its now-famous parades and 20 different attractions including Frontierland, a recreation of the Old West, pictured here in 1955. There was also the Sleeping Beauty Castle which soon became one of the USA's most recognizable tourist attractions.

1950s: Sun Valley ski resort, Idaho

1950s: The Guggenheim Museum, New York City, New York

1960s: Space Needle, Seattle, Washington

1960s: Gateway Arch, St Louis, Missouri

1960s: SeaWorld, San Diego, California

1960s: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Florida

1960s: The Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, California

1960s: Six Flags over Texas, Arlington, Texas

1960s: Route 66

While the year 1926 marked the birth of Route 66, the "Mother Road" really became synonymous with the great American road trip in the 1950s and 1960s. Post-war, American motorists flocked to Route 66 which was by now peppered with motels, auto camps, diners and gas stations. In 1960, Route 66 , an American TV series that followed the escapades of a pair of young men traveling the route, aired on CBS. As the route continued to crop up in popular culture, America's fascination with it grew.

1970s: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

1970s: Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington

Opening in 1907, Seattle’s marketplace is the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the country and one of the city's most popular sights. After prospering in the 1920s (pictured) and 1930s, it fell on hard times and was slated for demolition in the 1960s. However, a successful campaign saw it saved and a 17-acre historic district was created in 1971, the same year the very first Starbucks opened at Pike Place. The market was renovated in 1974 and today it usually welcomes around 10 million visitors.

1970s: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC

Construction of the flagship building of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum started on the Mall in Washington DC in the early 1970s and it was inaugurated in 1976. It has the world’s largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft. The five millionth visitor crossed its threshold just six months later. Today, the National Air and Space Museum is one of the most-visited museums in the world with more than 8.6 million guests annually.

1970s: Art Deco Historic District, Miami, Florida

1970s: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California

1980s: Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta, Georgia

The Martin Luther King Jr. Historic District in Atlanta was authorized as a national historic site in 1980. It contained a memorial tomb and several buildings key to the civil rights leader’s life, including his childhood home and Ebenezer Baptist Church (pictured) where he was baptized and where both he and his father were pastors. The site became a National Historical Park in 2018. 

1980s: Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

After Disney’s arrival in Florida proved to be a roaring success, Epcot (then Epcot Center) opened in 1982. The theme park, whose name stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, was initially intended to be a city where people would live and work. However, since Walt Disney died before his vision was realized, the site was turned into a glittering amusement park instead. It was the second of four theme parks to be built at Walt Disney World Resort.

1980s: Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

1980s: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

1980s: Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee

Elvis Presley’s home and final resting place opened to the public as a museum on 7 June 1982, five years after his death. Near Memphis, Graceland, which the superstar bought in 1957, is now the second most-visited private home in the United States after the White House, with typically more than 650,000 visitors a year.

1990s: Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Florida

In the 1990s, Walt Disney World continued its dizzying rise to success with a huge amount of openings including Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Splash Mountain, as well as 10 new resorts. Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the largest of the parks at over 500 acres, opened in 1998 with a grand ceremony that was attended by a crowd of 2,000 people. It marked a departure for the conglomerate as it focused on real-life animals as well as Disney characters.

1990s: Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas, Nevada

What was to become one of Las Vegas’ most famous landmarks, the Bellagio Fountains were unveiled in 1998 when the $1.6 billion Bellagio Hotel opened to the public on 15 October in suitably lavish style. The famous Bellagio Fountain show, which takes place every 30 minutes when the jets dance to music and lights, lures huge crowds of visitors and is one of the entertainment hub’s rare free shows.

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Foreign tourists in Japan are being charged more than locals at some restaurants and attractions

As a record number of Australians head to Japan, some restaurants and tourist attractions have started implementing two-tiered pricing systems for visitors and locals.

Japan's weak currency is attracting tourists in droves, but it's pushing up costs for local businesses.

All-you-can-eat seafood restaurant Tamatebako, located in one of Tokyo's busiest districts Shibuya, is one of the restaurants charging different prices for residents of Japan and tourists.

A note in Japanese at the bottom of the eatery's menu says Japanese residents receive a 1,000-yen ($9.50) discount.

"Regular" pricing for the all-you-can-eat and drink seafood buffet is 8,778 yen ($83), while those with proof of residency in Japan can have the same meal for 7,678 yen ($73).

Restaurant owner Shogo Yonemitsu told the ABC the influx of tourists had forced him to employ English-speaking staff who were paid a slightly higher wage.

He said the price difference also took into account the "extra labour of teaching foreigners the right manners at Japanese restaurants".

Imposing the extra costs created by tourists onto locals would be unfair, he said.

"We have also experienced many tourists cancelling at the last minute, which very few Japanese people do," he said.

Weak Japanese yen

Dragged down by Japan's low inflation and interest rates, the yen has lost about a third of its value compared to the US dollar since 2021.

The currency's weakness has made Japan an attractive destination for travellers.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, the number visiting Japan has surpassed pre-pandemic levels of visitors every month since January of this year.

A record 252,900 Australians travelled to Japan between January and March compared to 172,896 the same period in 2019.

That included 82,000 in March, which was almost double the number in March 2019.

However, the weak yen has also made the price of imports such as food higher, forcing restaurants to either increase prices or cop the costs.

Yonemitsu said the Japanese government had failed to provide any support for restaurants to keep up with demand and increasing costs due to the weakening of the yen.

When asked about the reaction from customers Yonemitsu said, "our customers come knowing our pricing system, so it hasn't caused any issues."

Tourist hotspots' two-tiered pricing

It's not just restaurants that are implementing tiered pricing.

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle in western Japan is considering quadrupling the entry prices for foreign tourists.

The mayor of Himeji city, Hideyasu Kiyomoto, said in a press conference he supported differential pricing.

"Foreign tourists come here once in their lifetime, but locals enjoy this place regularly," he said.

Japan's iconic Mount Fuji introduced a mandatory 2,000 yen ($19) climbing fee in May, but some have called for the fee to be increased for tourists.

Mountaineer Ken Noguchi said the fee was not high enough to combat over tourism.

"Tourists should pay 30,000 yen ($284), while locals pay 10,000 yen ($95)," Noguchi said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Japanese politicians such as Kenta Izumi also voiced their support for two-tiered pricing.

Stagnant wages

While the weakening of the yen has allowed inbound tourists to be able to spend more in Japan, the country's stagnant wages has meant locals' purchasing power has remained relatively low.

Wages in Japan have barely increased in the past 20 years, with the average minimum wage still only 1,004 yen ($9.52) per hour in 2023, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan.

"The two-tiered pricing system could be a way to keep restaurants accessible for locals instead of being priced out," said Garth Lean, a senior lecturer in tourism and heritage studies at Western Sydney University.

"But it might mean that for tourists it becomes a more expensive experience, and they might feel taken advantage of," said Dr Lean.

The Japanese cabinet has released a white paper on tourism to address the growing concerns about over tourism.

It said the government would support increased efforts to create sustainable solutions to the problem.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation told the ABC that "generally speaking, tourists should pay whatever is deemed an appropriate price during their travels in Japan."

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Cusco, peru is a top-tier tourist destination all on its own.

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The city of Cusco was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Long renowned for its dazzling 15th-century Incan architecture, the historic city of Machu Picchu draws visitors in droves each year, with nearby Cusco serving as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring this historic wonder—yet Cusco itself is far more than just a convenient base for beginning your journey. Rife with staggering colonial churches, high-end hotels and a thriving drinking and dining scene, this lofty Peruvian city is a top-tier tourist destination in its own right, with no shortage of fascinating landmarks and attractions to explore during a visit. As you plan your bucket list adventure to explore the beauty of Machu Picchu, be sure to leave some room on the itinerary to explore Cusco, one of Peru’s most underrated vacation destinations.

Where to Stay

The JW Marriott El Convento Cusco is home to a full service spa that specializes in Andean-inspired ... [+] treatments.

While Cusco is rife with historic churches, landmarks and marketplaces, the city is also home to its fair share of storied hotels, with the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco serving as a prime example. Located steps away from the city’s extravagant Plaza Mayor in a restored 16th-century convent, this polished hotel offers a seamless blend of both old and new, ushering in a wealth of modern amenities and extravagant design flourishes. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a truly grandiose sculpture meant to represent the Incan sun god, with 60,000 individual Swarovski crystals arranged to form a massive art installation—but for history buffs in particular, no visit is complete without heading downstairs.

During a stroll through the lobby, guests can admire centuries-old relics that highlight the building’s storied past, while the lower reaches of the hotel play host to a fascinating array of Incan ruins. Discovered during the building’s restoration process, this wing of the hotel serves as a time capsule that’s loaded with artifacts from Cusco’s distant past, with pottery, sculptures and handcrafted tools all on display. Post-exploration, guests are welcome to head upstairs and make use of the on-property restaurant Qespi, a colorful venue that’s perfect for sampling refined Andean fare crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. To kick off the meal, guests can snag flavorful appetizers ranging from tiradito to trout causas, while meat lovers should be sure to sample the pachamanca—and for those in need of a nightcap, nearby Qespi Bar has mastered the art of the pisco sour, a refreshing cocktail that made its debut in the early 20th century in Peru.

Drinking and Dining

Alpaca were believed to have been domesticated roughly five to six thousand years ago.

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Peru is renowned for its diverse dining scene, and while Cusco may lack the thriving seafood scene found across coastal cities like Trujillo and Lima, the city’s high altitude and rich array of native crops have given rise to a wealth of flavorful dishes. For a deep dive on classic interior Peruvian cuisine, Pachapapa has mastered the art of traditionally-prepared meats, offering a hearty menu that spans from chili-marinated lamb to fried whole guinea pig. Meanwhile, those in search of a contemporary Peruvian dining experience can make their way to Kusykay , a colorful venue adjacent to Cusco’s Plaza Mayor. Locally-sourced Andean ingredients can be found in abundance across the menu, with the lomo saltado and lomo de alpaca serving as two must-try dishes for newcomers to Peruvian cuisine.

After exploring the rich flavors of interior Peru, guests can expand their horizons beyond the reaches of just the Andes, with no shortage of international bars and restaurants to explore across the city. Guests can sample tteokbokki, japchae and a wealth of other flavorful Korean dishes at Sa Rang Che, while Taste Of India is a top spot for a deep dive on classic South Asian cuisine—but when it comes to craft cocktails, no visit is complete without checking out Garibaldi Cocktail Bar . A recent addition to Cusco’s bar scene, this cozy space has mastered the art of mixology, offering complex concoctions that span from rum cocktails infused with local mushrooms to agave-forward drinks loaded with jasmine and citrus. And for anyone in search of a fresh pour of Guinness to celebrate their trip, Paddy's Irish Pub is the perfect spot for a pint served alongside all sorts of charming Emerald Isle memorabilia.

Top Activities

The puma has played a prominent role in indigenous folklore across the Andes for millennia.

Whether you’re celebrating a successful summit of Machu Picchu or have decided to forgo the ruins entirely, Cusco is loaded with top-tier attractions that make the city well worth visiting all on its own. Given the region’s historical significance, there’s a wide array of fascinating museums to explore all across city limits, with the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco serving as a top attraction for first-time visitors. After strolling through the grandiose courtyard, guests can discover a wealth of intricate sculptures depicting figures from local Andean indigenous culture, while colorful paintings and murals abound as well. Just a few steps away, the Museo de Arte Precolombino is perfect for gaining further insight into the history of Cusco’s native people, with pottery, jewelry and weapons all on display.

For visitors wishing to explore outside of city limits, there’s a particularly idyllic day trip destination found in the form of Laguna Piuray. Located roughly fifty minutes northwest of downtown Cusco, this natural feature has served as a crucial water source for millennia, and in the modern era, it also doubles as a particularly popular spot for outdoor recreation. Upon arrival to Cusco, guests are welcome to book a guided tour with local company CuscoPeru.com , with each trip offering ample opportunity for both nature lovers and fitness aficionados. Kicking off with an 8:30 AM pickup, this full day activity provides participants with a chance to soak in the surrounding scenery, with local fishers and all sorts of flora and fauna found just beyond their kayak.

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Chicago’s iconic ‘Bean’ sculpture reopens to tourists after nearly a year of construction

Visitors take photos of the “Cloud Gate” sculpture, also known as the “bean,” at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. Cloud Gate reopened to the public after several months of renovation. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)

FILE - In this Jan. 31, 2008, file photo, a couple is seen on the underside of the 110-ton stainless steel Anish Kapoor sculpture called “Cloud Gate” and nicknamed “The Bean” at Millennium Park in Chicago. One of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions reopened to the public Sunday, June 23, 2024 after nearly a year of renovations and construction. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, file)

Visitors look up and take photos of the underside of the “Cloud Gate” sculpture, also known as the “bean,” at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. Cloud Gate reopened to the public after several months of renovation. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)

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CHICAGO (AP) — One of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions known as “The Bean” reopened to the public Sunday after nearly a year of renovations and construction.

Construction started in August last year, and fencing around the iconic sculpture limited closeup access to visitors. The work on the plaza surrounding the sculpture included new stairs, accessible ramps and a waterproofing system, according to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

The bean-shaped sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is formally known as “Cloud Gate” and weighs 110 tons (99.8 metric tons).

It’s a busy tourist hub near Michigan Avenue, particularly for selfies with its reflective surface inspired by liquid mercury. Views of skyscrapers and crowds are reflected on the Millenium Park sculpture.

“Visitors can once again have full access to Chicago’s iconic Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor,” city officials said in a Sunday statement. “Come back and get your #selfie!”