30 Things to Do in Toronto, Canada

Toronto buzzes with cosmopolitan energy, a mosaic of cultures set against a stunning waterfront skyline on Lake Ontario. Canada’s largest city offers world-class museums, distinct neighborhoods, and beautiful green spaces, providing endless exploration opportunities for every visitor; discovering its vibrant street art or relaxing parks also reveals many fantastic free things to do in Toronto. From towering landmarks to hidden local gems, the city blends urban sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere.

This guide presents 30 distinct ways to experience the best of Toronto, covering iconic attractions, cultural deep dives, relaxing escapes, and essential local flavors. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, artistic inspiration, thrilling sports action, or simply want to soak up the diverse city vibe, these suggestions will help you craft an unforgettable journey through this Canadian metropolis. Prepare to discover the unique character of Toronto.

Iconic Landmarks & Views

CN Tower: Ascend Toronto’s most recognizable landmark for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Lake Ontario, and beyond from its observation decks. For thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk offers a hands-free walk on the outside ledge of the main pod.

Casa Loma: Explore North America’s only full-sized castle, a majestic early 20th-century estate featuring opulent rooms, secret passages, and beautiful gardens. Self-guided audio tours reveal the fascinating history of its builder, Sir Henry Pellatt.

Nathan Phillips Square: Visit the bustling square in front of Toronto City Hall, famous for its large reflecting pool (skating rink in winter) and the iconic “TORONTO” sign. It’s a popular spot for photos and public events.

Yonge-Dundas Square: Experience Toronto’s version of Times Square, a vibrant public space known for its dazzling digital billboards, events, and energetic atmosphere. It’s a central hub connecting the Eaton Centre and entertainment venues.

Gooderham Building (Flatiron): Admire the unique red-brick flatiron building located near the St. Lawrence Market, a classic Toronto photo opportunity. Its distinctive wedge shape makes it one of the city’s most photographed historic structures.

Island Escapes & Waterfront Fun

Toronto Islands: Take a scenic ferry ride across the harbour to escape the city bustle on the interconnected Toronto Islands. Rent bikes, relax on beaches like Hanlan’s Point or Centre Island Beach, and enjoy stunning skyline views back towards the city.

Centreville Amusement Park (Seasonal): If visiting the Toronto Islands with family during warmer months, enjoy the charming, classic rides at this small amusement park. It offers nostalgic fun in a beautiful island setting.

Harbourfront Centre: Explore the cultural hub on the downtown waterfront, offering galleries, performance venues, outdoor spaces, and year-round programming. Check their schedule for festivals, concerts, and free lakeside events.

Sugar Beach: Relax on the whimsical urban beach featuring pink umbrellas and white Muskoka chairs set against an industrial backdrop near Redpath Sugar Refinery. It offers unique city views and a playful waterside lounging spot.

HTO Park: Unwind at another urban beach park along the waterfront, known for its sandy patches, grassy hills, and distinctive yellow umbrellas. It provides a relaxed space to enjoy sunshine and lake views.

World-Class Museums

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore Canada’s largest museum, showcasing art, world cultures, and natural history through extensive collections, including impressive dinosaur skeletons and historical artifacts. Its unique Michael Lee-Chin Crystal entrance is an architectural landmark.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Discover a vast collection of Canadian and international art, including the world’s largest collection of works by Henry Moore, housed in a stunning building redesigned by Frank Gehry. Look for free admission nights (currently Wednesday evenings).

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Immerse yourself in underwater worlds, exploring diverse marine habitats featuring sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, and colourful fish. Walk through the Dangerous Lagoon tunnel for an incredible up-close view of aquatic life.

Hockey Hall of Fame: Celebrate the history and legends of hockey through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and the revered Stanley Cup. It’s a must-visit for sports fans, offering a chance to test your skills and see hockey history.

Bata Shoe Museum: Discover the fascinating history of footwear from around the world through a unique collection spanning centuries and cultures. Explore diverse styles from ancient Egyptian sandals to modern celebrity shoes.

Gardiner Museum: Explore the art of ceramics, featuring collections spanning ancient Americas, European porcelain, and contemporary works, located across from the ROM. Participate in clay classes or admire the beautiful ceramic pieces.

Spadina Museum: Step back into Toronto’s past with a visit to this historic house museum depicting life in the city during the 1920s and 30s. Explore the beautifully furnished rooms and gardens of the Austin family estate.

Exploring Diverse Neighbourhoods

Kensington Market: Wander the bohemian neighbourhood filled with eclectic vintage shops, independent boutiques, colourful street art, diverse eateries, and unique grocery stores. Soak up the vibrant, counter-culture atmosphere.

Distillery Historic District: Stroll the charming pedestrian-only village set amidst beautifully restored Victorian industrial buildings, now housing boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and breweries. Visit during the Toronto Christmas Market for extra magic.

St. Lawrence Market: Explore one of the world’s best food markets, especially the South Market (open Tuesday-Saturday), bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods. Grab a famous pea meal bacon on a bun.

Queen Street West: Discover the trendy stretch known for its cutting-edge fashion boutiques, art galleries, live music venues (like the Horseshoe Tavern), and Graffiti Alley. It’s a hub for creative energy and shopping.

Graffiti Alley (Rush Lane): Walk through the vibrant alleyway running south of Queen Street West, completely covered in colourful and constantly changing street art murals. It’s a dynamic outdoor art gallery.

Chinatown: Explore the bustling neighbourhood centered around Spadina Avenue and Dundas Street West, offering numerous authentic Asian restaurants, grocery stores, and unique shops. Enjoy delicious dim sum or browse traditional goods.

Little Italy: Stroll along College Street through the heart of Toronto’s Italian community, known for its lively trattorias, cafes, gelaterias, and vibrant summer street festival. Enjoy classic pasta dishes and soak up the European vibe.

Green Spaces & Urban Oases

High Park: Explore Toronto’s largest public park, offering hiking trails, beautiful gardens (including cherry blossoms in spring), Grenadier Pond, picnic areas, and even a small zoo. It provides a vast natural escape within the city.

Trinity Bellwoods Park: Relax and people-watch in this popular downtown park known for its large grassy areas, tennis courts, dog bowl, and lively atmosphere. It’s a favourite spot for locals to unwind on sunny afternoons.

Allan Gardens Conservatory: Step inside the historic cast-iron greenhouse filled with diverse tropical plants from around the world, offering a warm escape year-round. Explore different themed sections within the beautiful conservatory (free admission).

Evergreen Brick Works: Visit the former industrial site transformed into an environmental community hub featuring a farmers market, gardens, hiking trails into the Don Valley, and sustainability workshops. Explore the unique blend of history, nature, and community.

Scarborough Bluffs: Marvel at the dramatic cliffs stretching along the Lake Ontario shoreline in the eastern part of the city. Enjoy hiking trails at Bluffer’s Park or simply take in the stunning lake views from above.

Entertainment & Local Flavour

Catch a Game: Experience Toronto’s passionate sports culture by attending a Blue Jays (MLB) baseball game, Raptors (NBA) basketball game, Maple Leafs (NHL) hockey game, or Toronto FC (MLS) soccer match. Feel the energy of the hometown crowds.

See a Theatre Show: Enjoy a world-class performance in the Entertainment District, home to numerous historic theatres hosting Broadway musicals, plays, and concerts. Check listings for current shows for a great night out.