What to do in Toronto Downtown: 8 Attractions

Toronto is one of the most famous places in the world at the moment. It is not only the largest Canadian city, but it is also one of the most distinct tourist attractions in the country. What to do in Toronto Downtown is one of the most common questions asked by tourists.

Here in this article, we have curated a list of some of the best things you can do in Downtown Toronto.

1. What to do in Toronto Downtown 

No matter what time of the year you plan to visit Toronto, you will always have something or the other that will amaze you. From visiting the national monuments in Toronto to experiencing the Toronto International Film Festival, you are sure to love every bit that this place has to offer.

Visiting Toronto would go to waste if you miss out on the art gallery. There are a number of art galleries in Toronto that will amaze you. The Lawrence market and the Toronto food market are some of the things you are sure to enjoy.

Without delaying any further, let us dive into the best things you can do when you are in Downtown Toronto.

1.1 Royal Ontario Museum

Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto is one of the best things you can do when you are here. If you are interested in knowing the history of the city and also the country, then this place should be your first preference.

Not only in history, this place also has a sincere connection with science, arts and music.

1.1.1 Attractions

• The Royal Ontario Museum has over three million items in over three dozen galleries.

• Here you will be able to find things that are both prehistoric and historic.

• They also host amazing temporary exhibitions.

Timings: The place opens around 10 am in the morning and closes around 5.30 in the evening. You are free to visit any time in between.

The place also has certain entry fees. It is completely dependent on the age of the person.

1.2 Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Are you someone who loves aquatic experience? Then the Ripley’s 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.

The place contains information about different kinds of fish and their breeds. Here you will be able to find a variety of fishes that you might have never seen or heard of before.

1.2.1 Attractions

• There are hundreds of various species of aquatic life.

• The place also hosts special events and occasions like the Friday Jazz.

• There are different ticketing options available at this place.

• This huge aquarium is a great place for children.

Timings: The place opens at around 9 in the morning and closes around 11 at night.

A special type of ticket, known as the Express Anytime Ticket can be used anytime within a year from the purchase date.

Overall, it is one of the best places for recreational and educational purposes.

1.3 The Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario is another exciting place to spend an entire day. You will be amazed by some of the finest art here.

This historic building is in action for over a century and is still considered one of the best tourist attractions in Ontario.

1.3.1 Attractions

• There are various art pieces that go back even a thousand years.

• Apart from art, you will also be able to see various things related to education.

• If you are an art lover, then this place is definitely for you.

Timings: This place opens around 10.30 am in the morning and closes around 5 in the evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Wednesdays and Fridays, it opens around 10 in the morning and closes around 9 at night. And on the other days, it is open from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm.

The place has different admission fees for people from different age groups.

1.4 Niagara Falls

Many people might have already seen Niagara Falls from the United States side. But 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 from all over the world come to this place to experience the magnificent natural beauty.

1.4.1 Attractions

• You will be able to experience very good exposure to the Niagara Falls.

• On Canada’s side of Niagara Falls, you will be able to experience the Horseshoe Falls as well.

• If you want o get even closer, you can go on a boat tour as well.

• While travelling via boat, you will be able to experience some of the most beautiful views of mother nature along the way.

Timings: Make sure to visit this place during the day time to get the best experience.

Make sure to keep your children safe and do not let them go near the falls as it can get risky. You can also find experienced tour guides there, who can help you explore the place in a better way.

1.5 CN Tower

The CN Tower is one of the most magnificent tourist attractions in Toronto. Not only in Canada, but the monument has become one of the most famous places in North America as well.

When you make your way to the top, you will be able to appreciate the genius architecture.

1.5.1 Attractions

• Given its height, it is a great place to experience.

• When you get to the top of the tower, you will be able to see the entire city.

• Standing on the top of this tower at night or in the evening will award you an amazing view of the city and the city lights.

• Given its popularity, it is a must-visit.

Timings: The place remains open from 8.30 in the morning and closes around 11 at night.

Make sure to keep your kids nearby and do not let them go near the edges.

1.6 Toronto Zoo

If you want to experience the biodiversity of Toronto, then you will have to visit the Toronto Zoo. Located in a prime location, this place attracts a lot of tourists every month, especially the kids.

All the animals that are present here are not native to Canada, but the caregivers of the zoo ensure that they always feel at home.

1.6.1 Attractions

• You will be able to see some of the animals like rhinos, lions and pythons.

• The animals are from all over the world, South America, North America, Asia, Australia, and Africa.

• You will also be able to see the different conservation habitats that are made inside the zoo for different animals.

• Apart from animals, this place also has various species of birds and other creatures.

Timings: The place opens around 9 in the morning and remains open up to 7 in the evening.

It is one of the best places for educational as well as recreational purposes.

1.7 Kensington Market

One of the great markets in Toronto 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 like China, Scotland, Central America and Africa have found new homes in this marketplace.

1.7.1 Attractions

• One of the most distinct cultural hubs, this place is the best place if you want to learn about the raw cultures of different countries.

• You can find plenty of shops that sell traditional items from each country.

• Apart from that, this place also has a lot of eateries and restaurants that serve authentic dishes from Toronto as well as other countries.

• All the items sold here are reasonable and people are sure to enjoy this place.

Timings: Since it is not a particular shop but an entire neighbourhood, you will find this place open every day. In some emergencies, some shops could be closed on particular dates.

1.8. Bata Shoe Museum

Are you someone who is very 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 will be able to earn 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.

1.8.1 Attractions

• The place shows how people from different regions of the world have handled the terrain and weather conditions through their footwear.

• The place holds different exhibitions for showcasing 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 in the morning and closes around 5 to 8 at night.

2. Conclusion 

These are some of the best things you can do when you are in Toronto. Apart from these, there are other things you can enjoy in Toronto as well as this city has so much to offer to its visitors.