Toronto is a diversified city with several attractions, such as world-renowned museums and art galleries. It also has giant parks and is an excellent area for outdoor activities. So, it offers visitors a wide range of options to explore. If you have not yet visited Toronto, prepare your bucket list as I unfold its most exquisite tourist destinations.
So, here are the best places to visit in Toronto to make your trip memorable:
1. CN Tower
Top on my list is Toronto’s iconic CN Tower. It is a world-famous tourist attraction and landmark. Its viewing platform is 553 meters tall and accessible with a lift. It offers excellent views of the town and surrounding area. One of the amazing places to go in Toronto, guests can also stroll on the platform for a fantastic city view.
The tower also has the facility of a revolving restaurant where you may dine while enjoying the excellent view. I highly recommend you explore the Edge Walk. I am saying this because it is an adrenaline-pumping experience for the tourists as they stroll along a 1.5-meter-wide ledge around the tower’s central pod. If you are visiting Toronto, the CN Tower is an excellent option due to its spectacular experiences and scenery.
2. Toronto Islands
It wouldn’t be wrong if I say that Toronto Islands is the best option for nature lovers who love exploring natural beauty and prefer a peaceful place from the city noise.
Pragya, Canada Hustle
The famous Toronto Islands are an assembly of many tiny islands that can be reached by boats or other water jets. The island has parks and hotels and features calm energy, making it a perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. You can take a boat, bike, or paddle and explore the Toronto islands. You can also see a zoo and some beautiful theme parks.
3. The Royal Ontario Museum of Toronto
The next great option in Toronto is the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). It is a global historical place with hundreds and millions of items and crafts. I have to say this now. Guys, you must have this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The museum’s most famous areas are the dinosaur display, the bat cavern, and the Egyptian tombs. It annually conducts various events, talk shows, and workshops, making it a fantastic opportunity.
The Canada Hustle team talked to Michael Sawyer, Operations Director at Ultimate Kilimanjaro, about Toronto’s rich cultural and artistic offerings. Here is what he said:
“Toronto is a beautiful city, it presents the perfect mix of modern and historic, but how can the city control modernization without losing its rustic charm? Well, I believe it will require a multi-faceted approach.
Toronto will have to look at developing clear design guidelines that encourage any new development to respect the existing history of the city. Put into simpler terms, the city will have to enforce a policy that protects historically significant buildings and areas.
They can look at incentivizing developers who incorporate the heritage of the city’s history into their projects, this can be done either through tax breaks or grants.
Then there is always the possibility of reusing these historic buildings, one such possibility is converting old factories into galleries or office spaces. This approach will allow a breath of fresh air into these buildings while they are being preserved.
A building like the St. Lawrence Market is a great example as it has been a key part of Toronto’s history. This is great for locals and visitors alike, where they can feel the modern touch of the local vendors while enjoying the historic site.”
4. The Distillery District
I can say, that the Distillery District is one of the most visited places in Toronto because it is a great hotspot for museums, restaurants, and boutique stores. You will love to explore the alleys and lanes for photography and educational purposes as they tell a lot about its history and past. It also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as Ontario Square, making it an attractive place for everyone. I can assure you won’t get time to be bored there.
5. St. Lawrence Market
You must have heard about St. Lawrence Market. It is a swarming market in downtown Toronto and a great meeting place for both locals and visitors. It is also famous for its several seminars and events that take place there. Being an ancient market, it also holds a special place for the locals.
6. Kensington Market
I would suggest you visit Kensington Market at least once on your Toronto trip. It is the heart of Toronto’s Bohemian culture. The area is gritty and part chaotic, but it has tons of vibes and culture. The most recommended time to visit is on weekends or Sundays when street parties and festivals are happening all over the area.
You can try restaurants and cafes offering food of different cuisines from different regions of the world. Thrift shops for vintage clothing, coffee places, tattoo spots, art galleries, bars, or clubs are the best places to pass your time. A visit to the Kensington market is a must for all food lovers, explorers, and fashion enthusiasts.
7. The Art Gallery of Ontario
I know any art lover won’t miss this amazing museum, when in Toronto. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of North America’s biggest and most well-known art museums. To your surprise, it boasts an average of 90,000 art pieces. It is a global landmark and one of Toronto’s most innovative cultural destinations. The gallery’s world-class collection includes ancient Canadian and Inuit pieces, in addition to European and conceptual art, all presented in an awe-inspiring edifice. ShopAGO for one-of-a-kind presents, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and gorgeous art books.
After viewing the AGO’s extensive collection, reward yourself with a meal or a bottle of wine at FRANK, the Gallery’s award-winning restaurant.
8. Yonge-Dundas Square
My next recommendation is the bright and welcoming Yonge-Dundas Square. It is Toronto’s equivalent to New York’s Times Square. It’s a bit of a haven in the heart of downtown, away from the massive skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of people and automobiles. Additionally, it organizes some excellent events and concerts and even provides free tickets during the warmer months.
9. High Park
For all the nature lovers out there, High Park is the biggest public area and a popular outdoor attraction in Toronto. Some of the best leisure activities available in the park are hiking routes, picnic areas, and sports facilities. It’s not just the activities, you will also enjoy the park’s stunning scenery. I am telling this for various reasons-
- The park will surely mesmerize you with the beautiful view of the gardens and big trees, as well as the famous Lake Ontario.
- You will find an assortment of fauna and flora, such as songbirds, insects, and tortoises.
- There is also a zoo with local and exotic species of animals.
- During the year, the park also organizes a variety of events and festivals, making it a lively attraction for anyone visiting the place.
Wow! Doesn’t it seem to be a bumper offer in a small package?
10. Casa Loma Castle
Sir Henry Mill Pellatt erected Casa Loma, a beautiful castle in the town’s center. It welcomes tourists to explore its hidden corridors, chambers, and gardens. The castle’s architect is one of the finest, with its glass windows and unique carvings. You can also join the guided tours for gaining better information about the castle’s history. It is also very famous for its variety of special events that happen around the year.
11. The Ontario Science Centre
I think people with kids must not skip any museum. And when it’s about science, kids are even more excited. The Ontario Science Centre is a well-known museum in Toronto famous for its technology and science work. It has several amazing displays, which include telescopes, a cinema, and a theatre. You get to learn about various fields of science, engineering, space-related facts, and many more things. It has many famous living exhibitions and kids ’ play zones.
12. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, located in Toronto at the foot of the CN Tower, is a must-see option due to its incredible view. Get to know about the universe of 20,000 aquatic creatures and get ready to start an adventure with them. The Aquarium provides fun with learning opportunities as well. Come up and personal with marine mammals in many touch displays, as well as regular diving performances every 2 hours. This breathtaking attraction also includes a diverse range of activities that keep visitors and tourists entertained.
13. Graffiti Alley
I would also recommend you visit the Graffiti Alley for a unique experience. A trip to Graffiti Alley in Toronto places you in the center of Toronto’s Queen West area, which means you’re near other major sites in the city. Bars, cafés, restaurants, and boutiques retail, all from clothing and other goods to housewares and cosmetic items to music line Queen Street West. Furthermore, it offers easy access to the Toronto Metropolitan Centre and other notable locations. It reflects the vibrancy and diversity of Toronto’s art culture, making it a must-see for everyone interested in cinematography and street art.
Toronto is a fantastic destination for entertainment and nature lovers, making it ideal for tourists from around the globe. Known for its vibrant diversity, it is one of the most popular cities to visit. To fully experience Toronto’s unique atmosphere, I recommend checking out these 13 must-visit destinations.
Last Updated on May 19, 2024 by Saket
