As someone who calls Toronto home, I’ve come to appreciate just how much this city has to offer. While visitors often arrive with the CN Tower at the top of their list, Toronto is far more than its skyline. From peaceful island escapes and scenic waterfront trails to vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class museums, and incredible food from around the globe, there’s always something new to discover.
One of the things I love most about Toronto is its diversity, not just in its people and cuisine, but in its experiences. Among the best things to do in Toronto, you can spend the morning exploring a historic market, cycle along the shores of Lake Ontario in the afternoon, and finish the day watching the sunset over the city skyline from the Toronto Islands.
Few cities offer such a unique blend of urban attractions and outdoor spaces, from iconic attractions to lesser-known gems.
Whether you’re visiting Toronto for the first time or rediscovering the city as a local, this guide highlights my favourite things to do in Canada’s largest city!
Quick Guide to Toronto at a Glance
| Attraction | Best For | Time Needed |
|---|
| CN Tower | Iconic views | 1–2 hrs |
| Toronto Islands | Outdoor escapes | Half day |
| Distillery District | History & dining | 2–3 hrs |
| St. Lawrence Market | Food lovers | 1–2 hrs |
| Royal Ontario Museum | Culture | 2–3 hrs |
| Kensington Market | Neighbourhood exploring | 1–2 hrs |
Hop-On-Hop-Off double-decker bus tour for 24 or 48 hours with a guide.
Interactive Map of Toronto Attractions
1. Visit the CN Tower
Toronto’s most recognized landmark.
The CN Tower is located downtown with the Rogers Centre and Ripley’s Aquarium as neighbours. You will be taking the high-speed elevators to the highest observation platform in the Western Hemisphere. At 447 meters (1,465 feet) high, you can see all the way to Niagara Falls from the Main Observation Level on a good day. Sometimes you can even feel the Tower move in the wind.
But there are so many other activities to do here. The Lower Observation Level has some other viewpoints. There is a glass floor for a different perspective and an Outdoor Terrace. Also at OverView, you step up to the edge, lean over and gaze out, and Artmosphere is an immersive, interactive art showcase (both included with your ticket).
The 360 Restaurant provides an interesting dining experience as your view changes while you are enjoying your meal. Visit near sunset for the best city views.
While I have not attempted EdgeWalk, it is for those daredevils who want the unique experience of hanging over the edge of the tower with only the straps holding them. People who love that sort of thing seem to love it, but again, I have not experienced it.
2. Escape to the Toronto Islands
One of the best urban escapes in Canada
The Toronto Islands are a quick 10 to 15-minute ferry ride across Toronto Harbour.
In summer, there are ferries to Wards Island, Centre Island (the most popular) and Hanlans Point at the west end. No cars are permitted on the island, but you can rent bicycles for the 5 km ride across. Go for a walk to the maze, the kids’ garden, the lighthouse (it may be haunted), a pier jutting into Lake Ontario, and other trails.
Relax at the beaches, bring a picnic, or order lunch at one of the cafes. During the summer months, Centreville is open with rides for kids and a small farm with goats, donkeys, and other animals. You can also rent boats to tour the canals.
In the winter, only the Wards Island ferry is operating and walking the paths here among the cottages is whimsical, as is nearby Algonquin Island. Restaurants are closed, but heated washrooms are available. Weather permitting, there may be skating on the canals.
3. Wander the Distillery Historic District
The Distillery District is located just to the east of downtown. Rundown Victorian industrial buildings from Gooderham & Worts were refurbished, and today you will find art galleries, cafes, restaurants, shops, and sometimes entertainment.
In the summer, I often stop by Balzac’s coffee shop for a relaxing morning when it is not as crowded. There are often seasonal events, so check their schedule.
The biggest event is the Christmas Market. I visit midweek when it is less crowded (it is still very busy) and there is no entrance fee. You can still listen to the singers and visit all the booths. On weekends, you will need to buy a ticket, and the crowds are insane. For me, this has become an annual tradition.
Insider Tip: Go by TTC Transit (streetcar), as parking is very difficult to find.
4. Explore St. Lawrence Market
Among the world’s great food markets
The bustling St. Lawrence Market is walkable from downtown Toronto (and the subway) and is now located in two buildings. The original south building is where most people, including myself, head to enjoy a peameal bacon sandwich or other food options. Closed on Mondays.
The new and modern St. Lawrence North building hosts a Saturday Farmers’ Market. There is a guided food tour of the St. Lawrence Market & Distillery District.
5. Discover Kensington Market
Toronto’s most eclectic neighbourhood
Kensington Market is located to the west of downtown and can be reached by the Spadina Avenue streetcar (from the subway) and other routes. Kensington Market is a National Historic Site, and there are guided food tours available.
It is best known for its independent multicultural shops selling everything from food to clothing. It is an interesting area with street art, vintage shops, and cafes with international foods.
6. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is huge, with exhibits on Indigenous history, Ancient Egypt, Dinosaurs, Natural history collections, plus special displays. Royal Ontario Museum Admission ticket for quicker entry.
The original building was designed in 1914, with further additions throughout the years. The latest is the iconic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, made of angular glass and aluminum, designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.
The museum is located next to the Ontario Legislative Assembly, which is also worth a tour.
7. Explore the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
The impressive Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) building was designed by a local boy, the famous architect Frank Gehry, and is located within walking distance of the Dundas Subway Station.
Inside, you can see Indigenous works, Canadian art, Group of Seven paintings and special exhibits.
The Group of Seven were painters who, about 100 years ago, visited Algonquin Park, Lake Superior and other Northern Ontario regions to reveal the area through their art. A major collection of their works can also be found at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection just north of Toronto.
8. Walk Along the Harbourfront
Harbourfront is a short walk or streetcar ride from the Union Station Subway Station. Most of the harbour cruises depart from here; there is public art, outdoor concerts, shops, restaurants, and a relaxed feeling as you wander along the shores of Lake Ontario.
While most visitors just walk through the area, I often cycle the Waterfront Trail, which also goes through the area on a separate path. In winter, there is a skating rink.
9. Tour Casa Loma
Toronto’s famous castle in the middle of the city
Many cities have eccentric people, and in Toronto, between 1911 and 1914, Casa Loma was built by Sir Henry Mill Pellatt. For a visit exit at the Dupont Subway Station and walk up the stairs. Pre-book your Casa Loma Entry Ticket to explore all floors.
Inside, there are historical exhibits, towers, gardens, secret passages and special exhibits to visit. In summer, there are often concerts and at Christmas, special seasonal displays.
10. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Over 20,000 aquatic animals and North America’s longest underwater viewing tunnel
Ripley’s Aquarium is located downtown next to the CN Tower and is one of Toronto’s most popular attractions. Lots to see, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish.
For me, the very long lagoon tunnel was the favourite display. It can get busy, so it is best to get your timed ticket in advance.
11. Explore the Toronto Eaton Centre
The major downtown shopping centre
The Toronto Eaton Centre is huge, covering several blocks, and can be reached from both the Queen and TMU subway stations.
There are over 235 stores on several levels, including clothing, electronics, and more. They say they have restaurants, but I find mostly it is fast food or specialty food outlets in the food courts, good for a quick bite, but not for a dining experience.
12. Walk Through the Entertainment District
Area for arts, culture, nightlife, and major league sports
The entertainment district is just to the west of downtown and includes theatres, sports venues, and restaurants.
13. Catch a Blue Jays Game at the Rogers Centre
Experience Toronto’s sports culture.
The Rogers Centre is the home of the Toronto Blue Jays, and it is always a fun experience to catch a game. It can be reached by walking from the Union Subway Station.
Toronto is a sports town with professional baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, and football. There are both men’s and women’s teams for most of these sports.
14. Visit Nathan Phillips Square
Toronto City Hall has many public activities
Nathan Phillips Square is part of Toronto City Hall with its unique architecture. Many people want to have their picture taken next to the Toronto sign. And there is a reflecting pool in summer, which turns into a popular skating rink in winter (rental skates are available).
As the center of the city is always hopping, there are often concerts, displays, markets and other activities happening all year. A row of food trucks can be found along Queen Street.
Also nearby and across from the Eaton Centre, Sankofa Square, which also has plenty of activities and where some of the city bus tours depart.
15. Stroll Through High Park
Toronto’s largest public park.
High Park can be reached by subway (High Park Station) and has numerous walking trails, gardens, Grenadier Pond, and a small zoo. I usually stop by the Grenadier Restaurant for a coffee and a snack.
Especially busy in the spring for people viewing the Cherry blossoms. This park is huge and takes a while to fully explore.
16. Explore Rouge National Urban Park
Canada’s first national urban park bordering Toronto
Rouge National Urban Park borders Lake Ontario and the eastern end of Toronto and continues to Stouffville, way to the north. There are numerous hiking trails for all levels, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, a beach, and scenic vistas. There is no charge to use this park.
In 2026, construction is underway at Rouge Beach and Zoo Road for a new Visitor Centre.
17. Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame
A must for all hockey fans
Toronto is the center of the Hockey Universe, although the Maple Leafs have not been playing well, and it is located downtown and walkable from Union or King Subway Stations to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
If you are a fan of the sport, you will want to visit. Hockey Hall of Fame entry ticket to see the world’s finest collection of hockey artifacts.
18. Walk the Evergreen Brick Works Trails
A hidden urban nature escape.
The Evergreen Brick Works are located in a former factory in the Don Valley. There are special exhibits, walking trails in a former quarry, and a cafe. There is a farmer’s market on Saturdays.
19. Explore Graffiti Alley
Amazing street art
Graffiti Alley is a series of streets on the western side of downtown that make for an interesting walking tour, and a place photographers will love.
20. Shop and Dine in Yorkville
Toronto’s upscale neighbourhood.
Yorkville is best known for luxury shopping, art galleries, and patios. During the TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) every September, you can often see celebrities.
21. Experience Chinatown
Authentic Chinese cuisine
There are several areas to experience Toronto’s Chinatown. Just north of City Hall and along Spadina Avenue (near Kensington Market). You can try Dim Sum, Bubble Tea, and Asian baked goods.
Although called Chinatown, there are other Asian cultures represented in the restaurants in the area.
22. Cycle the Martin Goodman Trail
A scenic waterfront route perfect for walking or cycling
The 56 km Martin Goodman Trail is the section of the Waterfront Trail which goes from the Niagara Region to the Quebec border and Montreal. In the west, the trail follows the Lake Ontario shoreline, crossing the elegant bridge at the Humber River.
Next, continue along the lake, passing Ontario Place and Coronation Park. You then enter Harbourfront with both pedestrian and cycling paths and lots of people, restaurants, and parks, all very scenic. At Bay Street, there is a connection to the Toronto Island Ferry.
Continue east to the Portlands, which is under development. Many cyclists will want to take a side trip on the car-free Leslie Street Spit, which juts out into the lake. The eastern end is a mix of quiet residential streets and a bicycle trail along the Toronto beaches. The final section is a bike path ending at Rouge Beach.
23. Visit the Aga Khan Museum
To create wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures
The Aga Khan is one of Toronto’s most beautiful museums, connecting Muslim and other cultures through the arts housed in an inspiring building since 2014. There are often special exhibitions.
24. Take a Harbour Cruise
See Toronto’s skyline from Lake Ontario
There are sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, and sunset cruises of the Toronto harbour, with most departing from Harbourfront. Many cruise through sections of the Toronto Islands as well. Expect to see great views of the Toronto skyline from the water.
A guided Toronto Harbour and Islands sightseeing cruise is the best way to view the city. Even more interesting is a Toronto Harbour Cruise with lunch, dinner, or brunch.
25. Enjoy Toronto After Dark
Toronto is a theatre town with many plays, but get your tickets in advance as they sell out. Mirvish alone operates 4 downtown theatres, but there are others.
Very lively at night, visit some rooftop patios, see live music, or attend a sporting event.
Suggested 1-Day Toronto Itinerary
Morning
- Distillery District
- St. Lawrence Market, and maybe get lunch items
Afternoon
- CN Tower
- Ripley’s Aquarium
- Harbourfront
Evening
- Toronto Islands sunset or dinner downtown
Suggested 2-Day Toronto Itinerary
Day 1: Downtown Highlights
- CN Tower
- Ripleys Aquarium
- Harbourfront
- Distillery District
Day 2: Neighbourhoods & Culture
- ROM or AGO
- Kensington Market
- Chinatown
- High Park
While not in Toronto, many visitors also take a guided Niagara Falls day tour.
Best Time to Visit Toronto
Spring: pleasant weather and perhaps see the Cherry blossoms in High Park.
Summer: while there are festivals all year round, there are more in the summer, including many street festivals. Visit the Toronto Islands. It can get hot and humid during the summer months, so anything indoors or along the lake is best.
Fall: is the best time to visit with mild weather and lots happening
Winter: holiday markets, including the one in the Distillery District, skating rinks and trails
FAQs: Best Things to Do in Toronto
What are the top attractions in Toronto?
The CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, St. Lawrence Market, ROM, Toronto Eaton Centre, and the Distillery District are the top attractions.
Is Toronto worth visiting?
Absolutely, Toronto is worth visiting. The city offers world-class museums, diverse neighbourhoods, waterfront parks, great dining, professional sports, and easy access to nature.
How many days do you need in Toronto?
Two to three days allow visitors to experience the city’s major attractions and neighbourhoods.
What is Toronto famous for?
Toronto is famous for the CN Tower, multicultural neighbourhoods and dining, professional sports teams, and its location on Lake Ontario.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Toronto
Toronto has a wide range of attractions to keep any visitor busy. Located along Lake Ontario, there are harbour cruises and the Harbourfront. You can view the city from the CN Tower or see marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium.
If you love sports, watch one of the professional teams and visit the Hockey Hall of Fame.
A very multicultural city with great dining, interesting neighbourhoods, and street festivals. Start planning your visit to Toronto now!
