If you wish to explore Canadaโs largest city, Toronto but are confused about where to go, donโt worry. I have curated a list of some of the best things you can do in Downtown Toronto. Toronto is one of the most famous places in the world and one of the countryโs most distinct tourist attractions.
No matter what time of year you plan to visit Toronto, you will always find something that will amaze you. From visiting the national monuments to experiencing the Toronto International Film Festival, I am sure you will love everything this place offers. The city offers unique tourist destinations for all visitors with different choices. From art galleries to extravagant markets, itโs all fun to stroll around with your family and friends.
1. Royal Ontario Museum
ย Are you interested in learning about the history of this city or country? I suggest you visit the Royal Ontario Museum.
Not only in history, but this place also has a sincere connection with science, arts and music. The Royal Ontario Museum has over three million items in over three dozen galleries. Its collections include prehistoric and historic items, as well as excellent temporary exhibitions.
Timings: The place opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5.30 p.m., so visit anytime between. The entry fees depend on the visitorโs age.
2. Ripleyโs Aquarium of Canada
Are you someone who loves aquatic experience? Then, I would suggest that the Ripleyโs Aquarium can be one of the best places for you. It is one of the major attractions in Toronto that people do not like to miss. Tourists from all over the world come to experience the amazing beauty of this place.
Offering all the information about different kinds of fish and their breeds allows you to explore a variety of fish you might have never seen or heard of before. There are hundreds of various species of aquatic life. The place also hosts special events and occasions like the Friday Jazz. Different ticketing options are also available. Ripleyโs Aquarium is undoubtedly one of the best options for taking your children.
Timings: The place opens at around 9 in the morning and closes around 11 at night.
A particular type of ticket, the Express Anytime Ticket, can be used anytime within a year of purchase. Overall, it is one of the best places for recreational and educational purposes.
The Canada Hustle team talked toย Hasan Hanif, the Director and CEO ofย Colour Vistas, about his memorable experiences in Downtown Toronto. Here is what he said:
โAs a resident of Waterloo, Ontario, I have visited downtown Torontoโs attractions several times. Among the places I found most memorable during my visit to Toronto are the Butterfly Park and Science Museum, both providing contrasting yet equally compelling experiences.
The former is a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city,ย which encouragesย introspection and appreciation for natureโs beauty. Meanwhile, the latter sparks curiosity and innovation, inspiring new perspectives and ideas.
Finally, relaxing on the lakeside offered a moment of tranquility amidst the urban chaos, which highlighted for me Torontoโs harmonious blend of urban vibrancy and natural serenity.โ
3. The Art Gallery of Ontario
Next on my list is the Art Gallery of Ontario. It is another exciting place to spend an entire day and experience an immersive artistic experience. So if you get overwhelmed with impressive artwork, you will surely enjoy visiting here.
This historic building has been in operation for over a century and is still considered one of the best tourist attractions in Ontario. The collection area has around 95,000 artworks, including Canadian, European, modern, and contemporary photography, prints, drawings, and more.
Timings: This place opens at 10.30 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays and closes at 5 pm on Thursdays. On Wednesdays and Fridays, it opens at 10 am and closes at 9 pm. On the other days, it is open from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm.ย
The admission fees vary for people from different age groups.
4. Niagara Falls
Many people might have already seen Niagara Falls from the United States side. But trust me, experiencing it from the side of Toronto is one hell of an experience. Once you are here, you will not want to go back, considering the beauty and ambience of this place. Tourists worldwide come to this place to experience the magnificent natural beauty.
To experience unique exposure to Niagara Falls, you must visit when in Toronto. The Horseshoe Falls is an unforgettable attraction there. I suggest you take a boat tour to enjoy the scenic beauty there.
Timings: Make sure to visit this place during the day for the best experience.
Also, ensure your childrenโs safety, and do not let them go near the falls, as it can get risky. You can also contact experienced tour guides to help you explore the place better.
5. CN Tower
The CN Tower is not just a magnificent tourist attraction in Toronto but also one of the most famous places in North America, not only in Canada. Given its height, it is a great place to experience. Standing on top of this genius architecture at night or in the evening will give you a fantastic view of the city and its lights.ย
Timings: The place remains open from 8.30 in the morning and closes around 11 at night.
Keep your kids nearby, and do not let them go near the edges.
We interviewedย Caio Bersot, Editor atย Rank-It.ca, about the most memorable experiences in Toronto. Here is what he had to say:
โToronto is a wonderfully walkable city, especially the downtown core, so itโs a great experienceย to just walkย and watch life unfoldย in front ofย you.
The city hides many gems, such as bars, restaurants, and local shops, so you need to walk with an open eye to such hidden spots. Thereโs always a tiny basement door here or alleys with something interesting going on there.
Thatโs why I donโt recommend you drive or take the subway all the time. Taking long walks in Downtown Toronto brings manyย niceย surprises.ย
One of the most memorable experiences in Toronto was connecting with people. I would ask for directions or local tips, and most people would be incredibly open. Coming from Alberta, I was surprised to see people in such aย hugeย city having the time to stop and be so welcoming and warm.ย
So donโt get shy about the thousands of people in a rush if you haveย a question. Most of them will be super friendly if you approach them. Not many large cities across the globe are like this.โ
6. Toronto Zoo
If you want to experience Torontoโs biodiversity, visit the Toronto Zoo. Located in a prime location, this place attracts many tourists, especially kids.
Although all the animals present here are not native to Canada, the zooโs caregivers ensure that they always feel at home. Many animals are from South America, North America, Asia, Australia, and Africa. Witness the different conservation habitats made inside the zoo for other animals. Apart from animals, this place also has various species of birds and other creatures. I am sure children would love this spot. So enjoy there with family and kids. It is one of the best places for educational and recreational purposes.
Timings: The place opens around 9 in the morning and remains open until 7 in the evening.
7. Kensington Market
If you are also a shopaholic like me, I suggest you not miss a visit to the Kensington market. It is one of the biggest markets in Toronto and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The market is spread over an entire neighbourhood and has everything one needs.
Over centuries, people from different countries, such as China, Scotland, Central America, and Africa, have found new homes in this marketplace. Learn about the raw cultures of different countries, such as China, Scotland, Central America, Africa, etc. There are plenty of shops that sell traditional items from each country. In addition, this place has many eateries and restaurants that serve authentic dishes from Toronto and other countries.ย
Timings: Since it is not a particular shop but an entire neighbourhood, this place is open daily. However, in emergencies, some shops may be closed on specific dates.
Michael Sawyer, the Operations Director atย Ultimate Kilimanjaro, talked to the Canada Hustle team about Downtown Torontoโs attractions. Here is an excerpt from the interview:
โDiscovering new places on my trips in life usually results in life-changing events, and Downtown Toronto was no exception.
Even if many people connect Toronto with urban development, a quick drive to the Scarborough Bluffs provides a peaceful haven surrounded by stunning scenery.ย
One of the highlights of my visit was hiking the craggy Bluffs, which offer expansive vistas of Lake Ontario. My whole opinion of Torontoย was improvedย by the unusual urban experienceย thatย wasย createdย by the contrast of the vast, calm lake with the busy downtown.
A breath of fresh air for both city people and tourists, the Bluffs are a magnificent natural treasure.ย
This nearby natural site demonstrates Torontoโs dedication to protecting and showcasing its natural environments. It highlights how nature and urban settings can live together and make a place more appealing, drawing inย bothย outdoorย aficionadosย and city explorers.โ
8. Bata Shoe Museum
Are you fond of shoes? Then, the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto should be your first destination. The place is very different from a regular shoe shop. Here, you can also learn the history behind the shoes and their making. The culture of shoe-wearing dates back to the times of kings and queens. Since then, the culture has evolved, and today, we wear all the latest models of shoes. If this history excites you, then you will surely love this place.
The place shows how people from different regions have handled the terrain and weather conditions through footwear. It organizes different exhibitions to showcase the shoes worn by influential people. Apart from that, this place will also tell you the preferred shoe choice according to your outfit.
Timings: The timing is a bit different and is not the same for every day, but this place generally opens around 10 am.
So, Whatโs the Plan?
Friends, I have covered the most popular tourist spots in Toronto that one shouldnโt miss, even if on a small trip. All these spots are budget-friendly, and you can go there with family and kids.ย
Guest Author: Saket Kumar
Last Updated on May 17, 2024 by Saket
Toronto is in my bucket list and I’m definitely going to visit this place once in my life. This article has helped me to make what to do in Toronto list.