Fun Things To Do in Downtown Toronto

Whether you’re visiting Toronto for the first time or have lived here your entire life, exploring the downtown area of this vibrant city will never get old. From top-notch museums and educational attractions to unique shopping experiences and delectable dining options, there’s something for everyone to do in Downtown Toronto. Here we’ll explore some of the best activities and attractions that Downtown Toronto has to offer, as well as two popular tours that you can book for an unforgettable experience.

A Brief History of Downtown Toronto

The area now known as Downtown Toronto has been inhabited for centuries, well before the establishment of the City of Toronto in 1834. For thousands of years, Indigenous people from various Nations have lived, hunted, and traded in this region. When Europeans began to settle in the area, they established a small settlement known as York near the shore of Lake Ontario. As the settlement grew, it was eventually incorporated as the City of Toronto in 1834 and officially declared the capital of Upper Canada in 1867.

Throughout the 20th century, Downtown Toronto experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The CN Tower was constructed in 1976 and is now a beloved landmark in the city. Toronto is also home to a wide range of cultural and educational attractions, including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ontario Science Centre.

Today, Downtown Toronto is a bustling hub of activity and culture. The city is one of the most ethnically diverse metropolitan areas in the world and is home to over 2.9 million people. It is renowned for its vibrant art scene, dynamic nightlife, and wide selection of world-class restaurants. In addition to a variety of cultural attractions and events, Downtown Toronto also offers plenty of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Exploring Downtown Toronto

Downtown Toronto is home to a wide range of attractions, activities, and experiences that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in Downtown Toronto:

Take In the Views at CN Tower

The iconic CN Tower stands at 553 meters tall and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Canada. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, it offers stunning views of the city skyline as well as panoramic views of Lake Ontario. Take a ride up to the LookOut Level or EdgeWalk for an unforgettable experience.

Visit Distillery District

The Distillery District is a unique and vibrant neighborhood located in Downtown Toronto. This pedestrian-only village is home to an array of galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafes housed in historic Victorian industrial buildings. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of this charming neighborhood.

Shop at St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is one of Toronto’s oldest and most beloved attractions. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, this bustling market features over 120 vendors offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, and more. This is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs or to grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls.

Experience Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most iconic neighborhoods and home to an array of eclectic shops and restaurants. This vibrant area is an eclectic mix of cultures and styles with something for everyone to enjoy. Browse through vintage stores, independent boutiques, art galleries, and more for a truly unique shopping experience.

Explore the Harbourfront Area

The Harbourfront area offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a stroll along the waterfront boardwalk or explore Queen’s Quay Terminal for some unique shopping and dining experiences. In summer months, enjoy live entertainment or take part in one of the many special events happening along the waterfront.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring all that Downtown Toronto has to offer on your own, there are also plenty of tours available that can make your experience even more memorable. Here we’ll explore two popular tours that you can book for an unforgettable experience:

Toronto City Tour

Embark on a journey through one of North America’s most dynamic cities on this three-hour tour. Get acquainted with the history and culture of Toronto as you are guided through the city’s major attractions including CN Tower, Distillery District, St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, Harbourfront area, and more. Your guide will provide insight into each area as well as give advice on places to visit afterwards. Book your Toronto City Tour today for a truly unforgettable experience!

Brewery Tour

Discover some of Toronto’s best breweries on this four-hour tour! You’ll have a chance to sample some delicious craft beers as you visit three different breweries with your guide. Learn about the brewing process at each brewery while tasting unique flavors that you won’t find anywhere else! Book your Brewery Tour today for an unforgettable afternoon!

Conclusion

No matter what your interests or budget may be, there’s something for everyone to do in Downtown Toronto! From iconic landmarks to unique shopping experiences and delectable dining options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city. With so much to explore and experience, Downtown Toronto is an ideal destination for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike!