A Guide to the Best Places to Go in Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. As Canada’s largest city, it has a population of more than 2.7 million people, making it the fourth most populous city in North America. It’s the cultural, financial, and commercial hub of the country, and is home to a vibrant arts scene, an ever-growing foodie culture, and an abundance of outdoor activities. With its history stretching back centuries and its modern-day amenities, there are so many things to do and see in Toronto.

History and General Information

Toronto was founded in 1793 when the British Crown purchased the land from the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. Since then, the city has grown and evolved, becoming one of the most diverse cities in the world. Toronto is home to numerous ethnicities and cultures, including Chinese, Filipino, Indian and Caribbean people. This gives Toronto its unique character and atmosphere, with neighbourhoods throughout the city offering a diverse range of experiences.

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural offerings. There are countless festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year, and the city is home to a number of world-renowned galleries and museums. From the Toronto Zoo to the Royal Ontario Museum and the iconic CN Tower, there’s something for everyone in Toronto.

Must-See Attractions

When it comes to attractions, there are too many to count in Toronto. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

CN Tower

The CN Tower is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Toronto. Standing at more than 1,815 feet tall, it’s one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world. Visitors can take the elevator up to the observation decks for a stunning view of the city below. There’s also a glass floor on the observation deck for those who are brave enough to stand on it!

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is an amazing sight to behold. Located downtown near the CN Tower, it’s home to more than 16,000 aquatic animals from around the world. Visitors can explore the underwater tunnels and get up close and personal with some of the fish and other aquatic creatures. There’s even an interactive stingray experience!

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of the largest museums in Canada and is home to collections from around the world. It covers art, culture, natural history and more. There’s also an interactive exhibition space where visitors can explore different themes related to the museum’s collections.

Popular Activities

When it comes to activities in Toronto, there are countless things to do. Whether you’re looking for something active or relaxing, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Outdoor Activities

Toronto is home to many parks and outdoor spaces, making it a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. There are numerous trails throughout the city for both experienced hikers and beginners alike. For those looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of companies that offer kayaking tours on Lake Ontario or along the city’s rivers.

Shopping

From huge malls to small boutiques, there’s something for every shopper in Toronto. There are two big malls in downtown Toronto – Eaton Centre and Yorkdale – as well as plenty of smaller independent stores throughout the city. For those looking for something a little different, head to Kensington Market or Queen Street West for vintage stores and unique finds.

Food & Drink

Toronto is home to a vibrant foodie culture with cuisines from all over the world. From fine dining restaurants to hole-in-the-wall eateries and food trucks, there’s something to satisfy every palate. There are also a number of craft breweries and craft cocktail bars throughout the city where you can sample some of the best drinks in town.

Arts & Culture

Toronto is home to a thriving arts scene with galleries, museums, theatres, and more. The city is home to numerous festivals throughout the year including TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival), Luminato (a festival celebrating the arts), NXNE (a music festival), and Pride (the city’s annual LGBT pride parade). There are also countless independent galleries throughout the city featuring local artists.

Popular Tours

When it comes to tours in Toronto, there are plenty of options for visitors looking to explore the city in style. Here are two popular tours that offer a unique experience:

Niagara Falls Day Trip from Toronto

This tour takes visitors on a day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls – one of Canada’s most iconic natural wonders. The tour departs from downtown Toronto and takes approximately two hours by bus to reach Niagara Falls. Once there, visitors will have time to explore both sides of Niagara Falls – Ontario and New York – as well as experience an exciting boat ride at the base of Horseshoe Falls. Afterward, there will be time for lunch at Niagara-on-the-Lake before heading back to Toronto. Book this tour here.

Toronto Sightseeing Tour

The Toronto Sightseeing Tour is perfect for visitors who want to get a comprehensive overview of Toronto in one day. The tour departs from downtown Toronto and takes visitors on a journey through some of Toronto’s most iconic sites including Queen’s Park, Chinatown, Kensington Market and more. Along the way, visitors will learn about the city’s history and culture from knowledgeable guides who will provide insight into each destination. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Toronto is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From world-class attractions like CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada to outdoor activities, shopping experiences, and foodie offerings, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing escape, Toronto has you covered. And with popular tours like Niagara Falls Day Trip from Toronto or Toronto Sightseeing Tour, visitors can experience all that Toronto has to offer in style!