Toronto, the capital city of Ontario, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. With its vibrant arts scene, world-class museums, stunning architecture, and thriving food culture, it's no wonder that Toronto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada. In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 must-see attractions in Toronto, so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible city.
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Little about Toronto
Toronto is known for its multiculturalism, with over 140 languages spoken in the city and more than 50% of the population born outside of Canada. This diversity is reflected in the city's many neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. From the trendy and hip neighbourhoods of Queen Street West and West Queen West, to the bustling financial district and the picturesque Victorian homes of Cabbagetown, there's something for everyone in Toronto.
So without further ado, here are our top 10 places to visit in Toronto.
1. CN Tower
The CN Tower is one of Toronto's most iconic landmarks, standing tall at 1,815 feet. Visitors can take the elevator to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and lake Ontario. For the more adventurous, the CN Tower EdgeWalk allows you to walk around the outside of the tower's main pod, 116 stories above the ground.
2. Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum is one of the largest museums in North America, showcasing over 6 million artifacts from around the world. From natural history to world culture, the museum has something for everyone, including the popular Bat Cave and Egyptian galleries.
3. Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario is a world-renowned museum, showcasing over 90,000 works of art from Canada and around the world. From contemporary art to classical masterpieces, the gallery has something for everyone, including the popular Group of Seven and First Nations collections.
4. Casa Loma
Casa Loma is a historic castle in the heart of Toronto, built in the early 1900s by financier Sir Henry Mill Pellatt. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and gardens, as well as take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.
5. Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a group of small islands located just off the shore of Toronto, accessible by ferry. Visitors can enjoy beautiful parks and beaches, take in stunning views of the city skyline, and visit the Toronto Island Park and Centreville amusement park.
6. Kensington Market
Kensington Market is a colorful and vibrant neighborhood in Toronto, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street vendors. Visitors can explore the many vintage clothing stores, artisanal food shops, and ethnic restaurants, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this unique neighborhood.
7. St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is one of Toronto's oldest and most famous markets, dating back to 1803. Visitors can explore the many stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods, and sample the delicious street food.
8. Distillery District
The Distillery District is a historic neighborhood in Toronto, once home to the Gooderham and Worts distillery. Today, it's a vibrant arts and cultural hub, with galleries, theaters, shops, and restaurants housed in restored 19th-century buildings.
9. Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world, home to over 5,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can explore the many habitats and exhibits, including the Canadian Domain, Africa, and the Tundra Trek, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect endangered species.
10. Hockey Hall of Fame
The Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-visit for any hockey fan, showcasing the history and achievements of the sport, including the Stanley Cup, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can see memorabilia from some of the greatest players in the game and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the NHL's broadcasting studio.
Putting all this together, here is a travel itinerary which I would consider while visiting Toronto:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Toronto and check into your accommodation
- Explore the downtown area and grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant
- Visit the CN Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from the top of a tower
- Check out the Toronto Eaton Centre, a popular shopping mall with over 250 stores
Day 2:
- Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, which houses a collection of art, cultural artifacts, and natural history exhibits
- Go for a stroll through Kensington Market, a vibrant neighborhood with markets, galleries, and unique shops
- Check out the Art Gallery of Ontario, which houses a collection of over 95,000 works of art
- Have dinner at one of Toronto's many diverse restaurants
Day 3:
- Take a trip to Niagara Falls, a stunning natural wonder just a short drive from Toronto
- Go on a boat tour to get up close to the falls
- Visit the Niagara Fallsview Casino, which offers gaming, dining, and entertainment
- Have dinner at a restaurant with a view of the falls
Day 4:
- Visit the Toronto Islands, a chain of islands in Lake Ontario that offer beautiful views of the city and the waterfront
- Go for a bike ride or a hike through the islands' trails
- Have a picnic on one of the islands' beaches
- Take a ferry back to the mainland and visit the Distillery District, a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and craft breweries
Day 5:
- Visit the Toronto Zoo, which is home to over 5,000 animals from around the world
- Check out the Ontario Science Centre, an interactive science museum with exhibits and demonstrations
- Have dinner at one of Toronto's many Korean BBQ restaurants
- Catch a movie or a show at the Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Day 6:
- Go for a hike in the Toronto ravine system, which offers a variety of trails through the city's natural areas
- Visit the Toronto Music Garden, a public garden with a musical theme and live performances
- Check out the St. Lawrence Market, a historic market with food stalls, artisanal products, and farmers' markets
- Have dinner at a local restaurant
Day 7:
- Visit the Toronto Art Museum, which houses a collection of over 9,000 works of art
- Go for a stroll through the Toronto Beaches, a neighborhood with a laid-back vibe and beautiful waterfront views
- Have lunch at a local café or restaurant
- Visit the High Park, Toronto's largest park, which offers a variety of activities such as hiking, swimming, and picnicking
- Have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your trip to Toronto
This is just one example of a 7-day travel plan for a trip to Toronto, and you can customize it based on your interests and the length of your stay. There are plenty of other things to see and do in Toronto, such as visiting the Toronto Zoo, the CN Tower, and the Toronto Art Museum.
I hope this itinerary gives you some ideas for your trip to Toronto and that you have a great time exploring this vibrant city.
FAQs about Discovering the Best Places to Visit in Toronto
What are the most popular tourist attractions in Toronto?
The most popular tourist attractions in Toronto include the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, Casa Loma, Toronto Islands, Kensington Market, St. Lawrence Market, Distillery District, Toronto Zoo, and Hockey Hall of Fame.
What is the best time to visit Toronto?
The best time to visit Toronto depends on what you're looking for. The warmest months are June to September, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Winter is cold, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 30°F, but it's also a great time to enjoy indoor attractions and holiday festivities.
How can I get around Toronto?
Toronto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, streetcars, and subways, making it easy to get around the city. You can also rent a bike or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, and taxis are readily available.
Ready to tour Toronto?
Toronto is a dynamic and diverse city with a rich history and culture. From the iconic CN Tower to the historic St. Lawrence Market, there's something for everyone in Toronto.
We hope this guide has given you a taste of what the city has to offer and inspired you to discover the best places to visit in Toronto on your next trip.
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