Finding one of the best things to do in Toronto can feel overwhelming, but after calling this city home for 25 years, we’ve got you covered. We remember when the CN Tower was the one giant within the sky, when a visit to the Islands felt like a journey to a different world, and when Queen Street West was the edgy heart of the town. We’ve seen all of it, and whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this guide is designed to assist you find the town’s true highlights.
This isn’t only a tourist brochure. It’s our personal guide to the town we all know in and out. We’ve all had that travel moment where you arrive at a famous spot and think, “Is this it?” This guide is designed to avoid that feeling. We’re sharing the experiences which are genuinely value your time, the enduring landmarks that live as much as the hype, and the local favourites you may otherwise miss.
This is our advice for getting probably the most out of your visit, from two individuals who have spent 1 / 4 of a century exploring every corner of Toronto. We’ll assist you discover its diverse cuisines, vibrant art scene, and the unique energy that makes it among the finest cities on Earth.
Top 5 Things to do in Toronto You Can’t Miss
If you’re short on time or it’s your first visit, these are the five Toronto experiences that we consider are absolutely essential.
- CN Tower: For the enduring, sky-high view of the town and Lake Ontario.
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Best for a deep dive into world culture, art, and natural history.
- Day Trip to the Toronto Islands: The best escape from the town buzz for incredible skyline views.
- Explore Kensington Market: For a taste of Toronto’s multicultural, bohemian heart.
- Catch a Blue Jays Game: For the quintessential Toronto sports experience on a summer afternoon.
Toronto’s Iconic Must-Do Attractions
These are the massive ones. The landmarks that outline the Toronto skyline and the institutions that anchor its cultural scene. For any first-time visitor, these are the places you don’t wish to miss.
Go Up the CN Tower (and perhaps do the EdgeWalk)
You can’t speak about Toronto without mentioning the CN Tower. We’ve been up countless times, and the view from the highest on a transparent day is spectacular. For the final word thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk is genuinely terrifying and absolutely unforgettable.
We even did the EdgeWalk with Deb’s dad for his eightieth birthday! It’s the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk, and dangling over the town 356m (1,168 ft) up is a story you’ll be telling for years. Our biggest insider tip is to book your timed tickets online well upfront, because the lines will be massive.
Dive Under the Sea at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Located right at the bottom of the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is a world-class facility. The standout experience is the Dangerous Lagoon, an enormous underwater tunnel with a moving sidewalk that enables you to glide past sharks, sea turtles, and giant sawfish.
To avoid the most important crowds, attempt to go on a weekday morning or later within the evening for certainly one of their special events. It’s a improbable attraction, especially for families or for a rainy day.
Explore the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
With its dramatic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal crashing right into a heritage constructing, the ROM is unimaginable to miss. In fact, the Royal Ontario Museum is certainly one of the most important museums in North America. We used to live just across the corner from the ROM and visited often, so it holds a special place in our hearts. We definitely consider it one Toronto museum you can’t miss. Inside, it’s a treasure trove of world culture and natural history, but our personal favourite has at all times been the dinosaur exhibit, it’s truly world-class.
Insider tip: The museum can get very busy with school groups on weekday mornings. For a more relaxed visit, plan to go after 1 p.m.
Get Your Art Fix on the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Even if you happen to’re not an enormous art buff, the AGO is value visiting for its incredible architecture alone. The stunning, spiraling wood staircase designed by Frank Gehry is a masterpiece. We love spending a day wandering through the Thomson Collection of European art and, in fact, the extensive collection of works by Canada’s iconic Group of Seven. It’s a ravishing, calming space in the guts of the town that is filled with world-class art.
Wander Through St. Lawrence Market
National Geographic once named St. Lawrence Market one of the best grocery store on the planet, and for good reason. It’s been a Toronto institution for over 200 years. The latest North Building just opened in April 2025 and houses the Farmers’ and Antique Markets.
Our go-to ritual: Head to Carousel Bakery for his or her world-famous Peameal Bacon on a Bun, it’s a real Toronto classic. The market is busiest on Saturdays when the farmers’ market is in full swing, so for a more casual browse, a weekday visit is your best bet.
Discover History within the Distillery District
Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District appears like stepping back in time. We have an extended history here; back once we worked within the film industry, we used to film on this area long before it was transformed into the hub it’s today.
Now, it’s a beautifully preserved collection of Victorian industrial architecture that’s a go-to spot for art, culture, and improbable food. It’s completely pedestrian-only, and we make a degree of visiting the magical Christmas Market here each yr.
Step right into a Fairy Tale at Casa Loma
Toronto’s very own castle is a sight to behold. This grand Gothic Revival-style mansion is one other spot where we now have fond memories from our film days. Dave worked on the primary X-Men movie, and so they filmed lots of scenes here at Casa Loma! It’s a captivating glimpse into the town’s past, and we’ve at all times loved exploring the key passages and the 800-foot tunnel that connects the castle to its impressive stables.
Our tip: The included audio guide is completely value it. It’s narrated by the fictional castle archivist, “Archie,” and brings the stories of the rooms and its former owner, Sir Henry Pellatt, to life.
Exploring Toronto’s Urban Core
While Toronto has countless charming neighbourhoods, the town’s downtown core has an energy all its own. These public squares are the beating heart of the town, hosting events, celebrations, and the every day hustle of Toronto life.
People-Watch at Yonge-Dundas Square
Often called Canada’s Times Square, Yonge-Dundas Square is a blinding intersection of flashing billboards, bustling crowds, and street performers. It’s sensory overload in one of the best possible way. It can be a giant bonus that it is correct across from the Eaton’s Center in downtown Toronto.
Our personal take: While it’s not a spot to search out peace and quiet, it’s improbable for feeling the town’s pulse. We love grabbing a coffee and just watching the incredible cross-section of humanity that passes through. In the summer, there are sometimes free live shows and events, making it a fantastic spot to envision out, especially at night when all of the lights are on.
Skate at Nathan Phillips Square
Home to City Hall and the famous “TORONTO” sign, Nathan Phillips Square is a must-see. It’s an enormous public space that actually reflects the town’s spirit. It makes for a fantastic central meeting place for exploring downtown Toronto.
Our insider tip: In the winter, the reflecting pool transforms right into a magical outdoor ice skating rink, and renting a pair of skates here’s a classic Toronto experience. In the summer, the square is a hub for major events, festivals, and farmers’ markets. It’s a fantastic spot for that quintessential Toronto photo, day or night.
The Best of Toronto’s Neighbourhoods & Culture
Beyond the big-ticket attractions, Toronto is a city of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe, history, and culture. Getting lost in these areas is one of the best approach to discover the true soul of the town.
Get Lost in Kensington Market
A chosen National Historic Site, Kensington Market is a vibrant, multicultural maze of independent shops and eclectic food stalls right in the guts of Chinatown. It’s gritty, vibrant, and unapologetically unique. We used to live on this area, and our favourite approach to experience it’s to only wander around for a couple of hours with no map.
Follow your nose to the smell of fresh churros, pop right into a quirky vintage store, and just soak within the incredible energy. Don’t miss grabbing a couple of empanadas from certainly one of the numerous Latin American food stalls.
Explore the Art Scene on Queen Street West
Once named certainly one of the best neighbourhoods on the planet, Queen Street West has long been the epicentre of Toronto’s art and music scenes. It’s also home to the famous Graffiti Alley, a must-see for its incredible, ever-changing street art.
We love that this was the spot where Rick Mercer filmed his iconic “rants” for Canadian television. It’s the right place for an extended walk, popping into unique Canadian designer shops and iconic music venues just like the Horseshoe Tavern.
Experience Little Italy on College Street
Toronto has several “Little Italys,” however the one along College Street is the unique. This was our old stomping grounds, and we spent countless nights exploring its restaurants and bars. In the summer, the patios are packed, and the neighbourhood buzzes with energy. It’s still certainly one of our go-to spots for nice food and late-night eats after a show.
Wander Through the Posh Streets of Yorkville
If Queen West is the cool, artistic heart of the town, Yorkville is its posh, sophisticated counterpart. This was the last neighbourhood we lived in, so we realize it just like the back of our hands. It’s improbable for window shopping and celebrity spotting, especially during TIFF. If you might be into cool museums, one can find the BATA Shoe Museum here as well.
Our insider tip: For the total upscale Yorkville experience, grabbing a cocktail on the Sassafraz patio is ideal for people-watching. For a more casual and budget-friendly option, we love heading to the rooftop patio at Hemingway’s for an ideal afternoon pint or Eataly for a fantastic number of authentic Italian foods.
New & Modern Toronto Attractions
Even after living here for therefore long, we’re at all times amazed by how much Toronto continues to evolve. These newer spots have quickly turn out to be must-sees and showcase the town’s modern, forward-thinking side.
Immerse Yourself in Little Canada
One of the town’s newest and most charming attractions, Little Canada is an enormous, highly detailed miniature world showcasing famous Canadian landmarks from coast to coast.
Our personal take: We were genuinely blown away by the incredible detail and artistry here. Seeing a miniature, twinkling version of the Ottawa parliament buildings during their winter light show or a tiny Niagara Falls is surprisingly magical. It’s a improbable and unique experience for all ages.
Experience The Well
The Well is an enormous latest development that has completely transformed the realm west of the financial district. It’s an open-air hub of retailers, incredible restaurants, and a European-style grocery store.
Our insider tip: This has quickly turn out to be certainly one of our latest favourite spots for a fantastic dinner. The number of food options is amazing, from high-end dining to casual eats. It’s a fantastic place to spend a night, especially when the weather is good.
Explore the Revitalized Waterfront
Toronto’s waterfront has seen huge changes, turning it from an industrial afterthought and movie studios into a ravishing public space. You can now walk or bike for kilometres along the water’s edge.
Our favourite part is Sugar Beach, with its iconic pink umbrellas and soft sand, offering a novel urban beach experience right next to the Redpath Sugar Refinery.
Toronto for Sports Fans
If you’re a sports fan, Toronto is a improbable city to go to. The passion here is infectious, especially when certainly one of our teams is in a playoff run. The essential sports complex, including the Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena, is conveniently situated right downtown.
Catch a Blue Jays Game on the Rogers Centre
There’s nothing higher than a sunny afternoon on the ballpark. This place holds lots of memories for us. Deb used to work on the Rogers Centre, and I (Dave) was lucky enough to see the Blue Jays win the World Series here in 1993.Grabbing a hot dog and watching the Toronto Blue Jays play under the open dome (weather permitting) is a classic summer experience in the town.
Our insider tip: Even if you happen to’re not an enormous baseball fan, the atmosphere is improbable and it’s a fantastic, relatively inexpensive approach to spend a couple of hours. Look for the “Loonie Dogs” nights for extra value!
See the Raptors or Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena
Home to the NBA’s Raptors and the NHL’s Maple Leafs, Scotiabank Arena is the guts of the motion for basketball and hockey. Tickets for the Leafs will be notoriously hard to get, but you may often find seats for a Raptors game.
Our personal take: If you’re on the town during a playoff run, head all the way down to “Jurassic Park”—the outdoor square next to the world where fans gather to look at the sport on an enormous screen. The energy is electrical.
Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame
For any hockey fan, it is a must-do. The Hockey Hall of Fame is a improbable tribute to the game, stuffed with incredible memorabilia and interactive exhibits. Even as non-obsessive hockey fans, we’ve at all times been impressed. Our favourite part is seeing the unique Stanley Cup up close within the Great Hall, it’s smaller than you’d think! It’s a well-done museum and an ideal approach to spend a few hours downtown.
Outdoor & Active Things to Do in Toronto
One of the things we love most about Toronto is how easy it’s to flee the concrete jungle and find a ravishing green space. From sprawling parks to stunning lakeside cliffs, the town has some incredible spots for an energetic time out.
Take the Ferry to the Toronto Islands
A brief and scenic ferry ride from the downtown waterfront takes you to a very different world. The Toronto Islands are a sequence of car-free islands with beaches, parks, and incredible views of the town skyline. Perfect for a day trip for the entire family. It can be home to Centreville Amusement Park, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, and the ruins of the Hanlan’s Point Hotel.
This spot is out of the ordinary for us since it’s where we had our first date! The ferry goes to a few different spots; for beaches and a more relaxed vibe, head to Ward’s Island or Hanlan’s Point. Renting a motorbike is the very best approach to explore all of the little paths and bridges.
Relax in High Park
High Park is Toronto’s largest public park, and it’s a real urban oasis. We have a deep connection to this park, as we lived within the High Park neighbourhood for 10 years; it was the primary place we called home once we moved to Toronto.
We have so many memories of summer picnics here. While the park is known for its stunning cherry blossoms within the spring (that are a must-see, despite the crowds), we also love visiting in the autumn when the maple trees are in full color.
Insider Tip: After a walk within the park, head over to the nearby Roncesvalles Village, certainly one of our favourite neighbourhoods for its Polish delis and indie coffee shops.
Hike the Scarborough Bluffs
It’s hard to consider this stunning landscape is inside the city limits. The Scarborough Bluffs are a series of dramatic white cliffs that stretch for 15 km along the Lake Ontario shoreline. There are several parks and trails here, but for probably the most iconic view, head to Bluffer’s Park. From the beach, you may look up on the towering cliffs. It feels more just like the Mediterranean than a serious Canadian city.
How to Plan a Trip to Toronto
Now that you just’re enthusiastic about all of the things to do, let’s get into the sensible side of planning your visit. Here’s our insider advice on getting around, one of the best time to return, and where to remain.
How to Get Around Toronto
- Public Transit (TTC): The best approach to navigate Toronto is by utilizing the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), which incorporates the subway, streetcars, and buses. The subway is fast and efficient for covering long distances north-south and east-west. Our tip: You can tap on and off along with your bank card or phone, or buy a PRESTO card for straightforward travel.
- From the Airport (UP Express): The UP (Union Pearson) Express train is, indisputably, one of the best approach to get from Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Union Station in the guts of downtown. It’s clean, fast (only 25 minutes), and runs steadily. It’s much better than sitting in traffic in a taxi.
- Walking: Toronto’s downtown core and its best neighbourhoods are very walkable. Once you’re in an area like Yorkville or Kensington Market, your individual two feet are one of the best approach to explore.
Best Time of Year to Visit Toronto
Toronto is a real four-season city, but for a first-time visitor, some seasons are definitely higher than others.
- Summer (June – August): This is when the town truly comes alive. Patios are full, festivals are happening every weekend, and the weather is warm. It’s the preferred time to go to, but in addition probably the most crowded and expensive.
- Fall (September – October): This is our personal favourite time in the town. The summer humidity is gone, the autumn colors within the Don Valley and High Park are beautiful, and major events just like the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) happen.
- Winter (December – March): Be prepared for the cold! However, the town will be magical in winter, with outdoor skating rinks at Nathan Phillips Square, the Distillery District Christmas Market, and fewer tourist crowds.
- Spring (April – May): Spring generally is a bit unpredictable (we are able to get snow in April!), but late May is gorgeous when the town’s parks, especially the cherry blossoms in High Park, burst into bloom.
Where to Stay in Toronto
Choosing the fitting neighbourhood is essential to a fantastic trip. WE even have an entire article dedicated to it here. For a brief visit, we recommend staying centrally to maximise your time.
- For First-Timers: Downtown Toronto or the Entertainment District puts you in walking distance of most major attractions.
- For a Posh Vibe: Yorkville is the spot for luxury hotels, high-end shopping, and high-quality dining.
- For a Local Feel: A neighbourhood like Queen Street West, Ossington or the West End offers a more local, less touristy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toronto
We’ve covered quite a bit, but listed below are quick answers to a couple of more common questions we get from people planning a visit to the town.
To get an actual feel for the town and see the essential highlights without rushing, we recommend not less than three to 4 full days. This gives you adequate time to explore a pair of various neighbourhoods, visit a serious museum, and absorb a game or a show.
Yes, for a first-time visitor, we consider it’s. While it’s a tourist hotspot, the views on a transparent day are genuinely incredible and offer you a perspective on the town’s scale that you may’t get anywhere else. Our advice is to book your tickets online upfront to skip the longest lines.
The UP Express train is the undisputed champion. It’s faster (only 25 minutes), more reliable, and infrequently cheaper than a taxi or rideshare, taking you directly from the airport to Union Station in the guts of the town.
Your Toronto Adventure Awaits
Toronto is a city that’s continually reinventing itself, and that’s what we love about it. It’s a mosaic of cultures, cuisines, and experiences, with a proud and welcoming spirit. We hope this guide, built from our 25 years of calling it home, helps you discover the corners of the town that you just’ll fall in love with too.
If you’ve gotten any more questions, drop them within the comments below! We’re at all times glad to assist.
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