Welcome to Downtown Toronto Sightseeing

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the capital of the province of Ontario. A vibrant and dynamic global center, Toronto is a major international hub for commerce, culture and entertainment. With its bustling streets, iconic skyscrapers and vibrant neighborhoods, Downtown Toronto is an exciting destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re coming to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage or simply soak up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.

History of Toronto

The history of Toronto can be traced back to the 18th century when it was a French trading post known as Fort Rouille. After the British took control of the city in 1759, the settlement was renamed York and was made the capital of Upper Canada (now Ontario). In 1834, York was incorporated as the City of Toronto and quickly grew into a major urban center. By the late 19th century, Toronto had become Canada’s largest city, a major financial hub and a major port of entry for immigrants from around the world.

Today, Toronto is a vibrant and diverse city with a population of approximately 2.8 million people. It is home to numerous cultural institutions, world-class universities and a thriving business district. The city is also renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant neighborhoods and diverse cultural attractions.

Things to Do in Toronto

Downtown Toronto has something for everyone, with plenty of attractions and activities to suit every interest. Here are just some of the things that you can do while visiting the city:

Exploring the Waterfront

Toronto’s waterfront is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Stretching from Lake Ontario to the Leslie Street Spit, the waterfront offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and recreational activities. Enjoy stunning views of the Toronto skyline from the waterfront trail or take a tour on a boat or sailboat. There are also plenty of waterfront cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Visiting the Historic Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic neighborhood located just east of Downtown Toronto. The area was once home to a large distillery that produced spirits for over a century before it was converted into an arts and culture hub in 2001. Today, the district is home to dozens of galleries, cafes, restaurants and boutiques as well as numerous cultural attractions.

Shopping on Queen Street West

Queen Street West is one of Toronto’s most iconic shopping districts. Stretching from University Avenue to Bathurst Street, Queen Street West offers an eclectic mix of independent stores, art galleries and vintage shops. You can also find plenty of trendy restaurants and cafes as well as plenty of street art to explore.

Exploring Chinatown

Toronto’s Chinatown neighborhood is one of the oldest in North America. Located just east of Downtown Toronto, Chinatown is home to numerous Chinese restaurants, shops and cultural attractions. Browse through the markets and shops or visit one of the many temples in the area. You can also enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Visiting the Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada’s premier art galleries. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, the AGO houses an impressive collection that includes works by Canadian masters such as Tom Thomson, David Milne and Emily Carr as well as international artists such as Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt van Rijn. The gallery also hosts various exhibitions throughout the year so be sure to check their website for more information.

CN Tower Experience

The CN Tower is an iconic landmark in Downtown Toronto that stands at 553 meters tall. Take an elevator to the observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of the city or enjoy some fine dining at the revolving restaurant. The CN Tower is also home to a 4D cinema experience and an outdoor skywalk where you can walk around on top of the tower.

Popular Tours in Downtown Toronto

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Downtown Toronto, then consider booking one of these popular tours:

Toronto City Food Tour

Discover Toronto’s vibrant food culture on this guided walking tour through Downtown Toronto. Sample dishes from some of Toronto’s most iconic restaurants such as Fran’s Restaurant & Bar or Schmaltz Appetizing while learning about the city’s unique culinary history. The tour also includes visits to local markets where you can sample traditional snacks such as poutine or beaver tails. Book a Toronto City Food Tour here.

Toronto Sightseeing Bus Tour

This guided tour takes you around Downtown Toronto on an open-top double decker bus. Stop at popular attractions such as Kensington Market or Chinatown before taking in views of Lake Ontario from the CN Tower observation deck. The tour also includes visits to popular museums such as The Art Gallery of Ontario or The Royal Ontario Museum. Book a Toronto Sightseeing Bus Tour here.

Toronto Craft Beer Tour

Experience Toronto’s vibrant craft beer scene on this guided tour through some of Downtown Toronto’s best craft breweries. Sample unique beers from local breweries such as Left Field Brewery or Bellwoods Brewery while learning about the history and culture of craft beer in Toronto. The tour also includes visits to local pubs and bars where you can sample traditional Canadian dishes such as poutine or smoked meat sandwiches. Book a Toronto Craft Beer Tour here.

Downtown Toronto is an exciting destination for visitors looking to explore Canada’s largest metropolis and experience its vibrant culture and history. From exploring the waterfront to discovering some of Downtown Toronto’s best restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city center. Take advantage of popular tours such as a food tour through Chinatown or a craft beer tour through local breweries to really make the most out of your visit to Downtown Toronto. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just want to take in all that Downtown Toronto has to offer, there’s something here for everyone!