Top 10 things to do in Toronto
Discover Canada’s most populace city.
Canada’s largest city Toronto is the capital of Ontario and welcomes some 40 million visitors each year. From the highest vantage point on the CN Tower to underground shopping malls, Toronto offers an endless choice of alternatives for travelers. So, whether you’re into history, art, culture sport or nature, Toronto’s got you covered.
Here’s our Top 10 things to do while you’re in Toronto
An ever-popular attraction
CN Tower
An unmistakable fixture of the Toronto skyline, the world-famous 553m-high CN Tower has been an ever-popular attraction ever since it first opened in 1976. Take in the 360° views from the observation deck or have a meal at the 360 Restaurant. And, for the adventurous types, there is the EdgeWalk where you can walk hands-free (but with a safety harness) on a ledge around the Tower’s pod 356m up from the ground – not for the faint hearted!
A magnificent must-do
Niagara Falls
Under two hours’ drive from central Toronto, the magnificent Niagara Falls is a must-do for those visiting Toronto. It’s actually a group of three giant waterfalls, the largest of which is the Horseshoe Falls that sits on the border between Canada and the US and has a 50m-plus vertical drop. Bonus tip: Rather than visiting the more touristy center by the Falls, head to Niagara on the Lake, with its charming historic town center and a great place for wine tasting.
The largest museum in Canada
Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto
More popularly known as the AGO, this outstanding cultural establishment was opened back in 1900 and, with some 100,000 artefacts in its permanent collection, it is one of the largest museums in Canada. A great place to learn about Canada’s history and its indigenous culture.
Wander around the quaint streets
The Distillery Historic District
A quaint area studded with 19th century buildings centered around the former whiskey distillery after which it is named, this is a lovely place to while away a few hours in. Located near the harbor, it’s perfect to just wander around the pedestrianized streets taking in the one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and eateries. If you’re lucky, there may be a festival going on there during your stay.
A perfect family excursion
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Just a minute’s walk from the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is one of Toronto’s newer top attractions and a perfect excursion for the whole family. Particular highlights in this water wonder world are a spectacular underwater glass tunnel where all kinds of marine life serenely saunter over your head and the playful, beautifully lit jellyfish display.
For the history buffs
Royal Ontario Museum
Toronto is full of fine museums. History buffs will love the Royal Ontario Museum, (often referred to as ROM) Toronto’s natural history museum. You could spend days here and still not get to see all its six million-plus treasures. Its 40 galleries cover everything from dinosaurs, ancient Egypt and China to the early Europeans and indigenous Canadians.
A must for all hockey fans
Hockey Hall of Fame
More than a sport, ice hockey is almost part of the DNA of Canadians, none more so than in Toronto where the Toronto Maple Leafs’ motif is a ubiquitous sight throughout the city. If you’re not lucky enough to catch a game live while you’re in Toronto, the next best thing is the Hockey Hall of Fame. On display is the Stanley Cup, won by the local team 13 times, although not since 1967, and you can try out your skills with an interactive exhibit.
Relax at Toronto Islands
Toronto Island Park
If you feel in need of a break from the busy city, take a 13-minute ferry ride over to the Toronto Island Park, also known as Toronto Islands. Boats to the Island leave from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the foot of Bay St. and Queen's Quay. There are 15 islands in all to choose from, but the three most popular are Wards Island, Centre Island and Hanlan's Point. Sunbathe on the beaches, paddle board or kayak through the canals that link the various or simply relax and enjoy the fresh Lake Ontario air.
Step into Toronto's gastronomic world
St. Lawrence Market
A trip to a market is always worthwhile in a new city, and Toronto offers something for everyone in that respect. Over 200 years old, St. Lawrence Market is a Toronto institution. Its three different sections house over 100 vendors, it remains one of the bustling culinary hotspots of Toronto. Not just a place for foodies though, you’ll come across a flower market, antiques and much, much more. The markets are open Tuesday-Saturday.
Interactive experiences for all ages
Ontario Science Centre
One of Canada’s most well-visited attractions, the Ontario Science Centre is a perfect excursion for all ages. The museum offers frequently rotating temporary exhibitions along with its permanent features that include some 500 interactive exhibits, including a real-life rain forest, the stunning Space Hall and Ontario’s only IMAX® Dome theatre.
Text by Geoff Mortimore