So you’re coming to Toronto? Trust me—you’re going to spend a lot of time downtown. It’s the heart of the city: busy, colorful, a little crazy, but always full of energy. Downtown Toronto is where sleek skyscrapers tower over old buildings, where you can go from an art gallery to a baseball game in the same afternoon, and where every neighborhood has its own vibe.
With a population of about 7 million (2025), it’s Canada’s biggest city centre by far, but somehow it still feels surprisingly easy to get around. Whether you’re here for a few days or a longer stay, downtown has a lot to offer.
Historic Landmarks
1. CN Tower
Let’s get the obvious one out of the way: you have to see the CN Tower. Standing 553 meters tall, it’s still one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. The EdgeWalk—where you actually walk around the outside rim—is probably one of the most Toronto things you can do if you’re feeling brave.
2. St. Lawrence Market
This place has been around since 1803 and was even named the best food market in the world by National Geographic. Get a peameal bacon sandwich (a local classic) and wander the aisles—there are over 120 vendors here selling everything from fresh seafood to maple syrup.
3. Old City Hall
Right across from the Eaton Centre, Old City Hall is a beautiful 19th-century building. If you’re into photography, the clock tower makes for an amazing shot, especially at sunset.
Arts and Culture
4. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
One of the largest museums in North America, ROM is chock-full of art, culture, and natural history. With over 13 million artifacts, you could spend an entire afternoon—and still not see everything.
5. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
The AGO has more than 90,000 works of art, including a huge collection of Canadian pieces. The building itself, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is a work of art too.
Pro tip: it’s free on Wednesday evenings! (only the first ones of each month, though)
6. Graffiti Alley
If you love street art (or just need a cool Instagram backdrop), head to Graffiti Alley near Queen Street West. It’s basically an ever-changing outdoor art gallery where every wall tells a different story.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
7. Toronto Islands
Hop on the ferry from Jack Layton Terminal and in about 15 minutes, you’re in a whole different world. The Islands are peaceful, green, and the views back toward the downtown skyline? Unbeatable.
8. Nathan Phillips Square
Right outside City Hall, this is where the iconic TORONTO sign sits. In winter, the reflecting pool turns into a skating rink, and there’s always something going on—concerts, art installations, farmers’ markets.
9. Allan Gardens Conservatory
This one feels like a secret oasis. Allan Gardens has been around since 1858, and it’s free to visit. Inside, you’ll find tropical plants, cacti, and a Victorian-style glasshouse that’s totally dreamy.
Shopping and Entertainment
10. Eaton Centre
You can’t really say you’ve visited Toronto if you haven’t at least wandered through the Eaton Centre. It’s huge—over 235 stores—and the massive flock of fiberglass geese (“Flight Stop” by Michael Snow) flying overhead is basically a local icon.
11. Yonge-Dundas Square
Think of it like Toronto’s version of Times Square, just slightly less overwhelming. It’s full of billboards, live events, and street performers. Grab a coffee, people-watch for a bit, and soak up the buzz.
12. Scotiabank Arena
Whether you’re into sports or music, chances are something awesome is happening at Scotiabank Arena. Home to the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) and the Toronto Raptors (NBA), plus tons of major concerts.
One More Thing…
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Available for both Android and iOS users, this one’s a perfect travel buddy. Your kind of travel—bold, curious, or tranquil—is what Canada Hustle is designed for.
Why Downtown Toronto Should Be on Your Must-Visit List
Really, Downtown Toronto isn’t just a city centre—it’s an experience.
It’s standing at the base of the CN Tower, looking up at the sky. It’s getting lost in a sea of food stalls at St. Lawrence Market. It’s watching a Raptors game and feeling the crowd’s energy reverberate off the walls. With culture, history, green spaces, and endless things to do packed into a few square kilometres, Downtown Toronto is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
