Discover Toronto
Toronto is a thriving metropolis located on the shores of Lake Ontario, defined by its multicultural neighborhoods, stunning skyline, and endless entertainment options. Whether you are looking for world-class museums, professional sports, or unique culinary delights, Toronto delivers an exceptional experience for every type of traveler.
At-a-Glance For more, see Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Areas for First-Time Visitors. For more, see Best Hotels in Downtown Toronto.
| Category | Top Recommendation | | :--- | :--- | | Must-See | CN Tower | | Best Park | High Park | | Family Fun | Ripley's Aquarium | | Best Culture | Royal Ontario Museum | | Best Shopping | Distillery District |
Top Attractions
No trip to Toronto is complete without visiting the CN Tower. Standing at 553.3 meters, it offers unparalleled views of the city and Lake Ontario. If you are feeling brave, book the EdgeWalk. Just steps away, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada offers a mesmerizing underwater tunnel experience that is a hit for all ages.
History buffs should visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), which features world-class natural history and world culture exhibits. For a touch of the past, the Distillery District provides a pedestrian-only village filled with restored Victorian-era industrial buildings, now housing unique boutiques and cafes.
Outdoor Activities
Toronto boasts a surprisingly green landscape. High Park is the city’s crown jewel, offering hiking trails, a zoo, and stunning cherry blossoms in the spring. For a unique view, take the Toronto Island ferry to explore the Centre Island parkland, where you can rent bicycles and enjoy beach time at Hanlan’s Point.
Free Things to Do
Exploring Toronto does not have to break the bank. You can walk through the vibrant Kensington Market to soak up the eclectic culture or head to St. Lawrence Market to window-shop the fresh food stalls (admission is free). The Toronto Public Library’s branch at the Toronto Reference Library is an architectural gem worth visiting for free.
Things to Do With Kids
Families often flock to the Ontario Science Centre, where interactive exhibits spark curiosity. During the summer, Centreville Amusement Park on the islands provides a nostalgic experience with classic rides. In colder months, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see for young sports fans.
Things to Do for Couples
For a romantic outing, walk hand-in-hand through the Edwards Gardens or enjoy a sunset stroll along the Queen's Quay. Many couples choose to spend an evening catching a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre followed by an intimate dinner in the trendy King West district.
Things to Do in Winter
Winter in Toronto is vibrant despite the chill. Head to Nathan Phillips Square for outdoor ice skating in front of the iconic Toronto sign. If the weather gets too cold, explore the PATH, an extensive underground network of shopping and dining, or warm up with a hot chocolate in the cozy cafes of Yorkville.
Things to Do in Summer
Summer is festival season. From the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the city comes alive. Outdoor patios across the city fill up quickly, making it the perfect time to enjoy the city's beer garden scene.
Day Trips
If you have extra time, a Toronto to Niagara Falls day trip is essential. Whether you drive or take the GO Train, you can reach the falls in under two hours. Alternatively, visit the charming town of Elora for its famous limestone gorge.
Tours and Experiences
- Food Tours: Explore the diverse culinary scene in Chinatown or Little Italy.
- Sightseeing Tours: Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour to cover the main highlights.
- Boat Tours: See the skyline from the water during a summer harbor cruise.
Where to Stay
For luxury, the Fairbanks area or downtown core offers high-end hotels like the Shangri-La. For a more boutique feel, stay in the West End. You can find more details in our hotels in Toronto guide.
