A Guide to Downtown Toronto for Tourists

Toronto is a vibrant, multi-cultural city that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for some of the best shopping in Canada, charming restaurants and pubs, or exciting attractions, you’ll find it all in Downtown Toronto. This guide will provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of the city, highlighting some of the best places to visit and things to do while you’re in town.

History and Overview of Downtown Toronto

Toronto is the capital of Ontario and one of the largest cities in Canada. Founded in 1793 by John Graves Simcoe, the city has grown to become the fourth biggest city in North America and the fifth most populous city in the world. It is home to over 2.7 million people from all over the world, making it one of the most diverse cities on the planet.

The city’s downtown core is the commercial and cultural heart of the city. It is filled with towering skyscrapers, vibrant neighbourhoods, exciting attractions and world-class restaurants. It also includes attractions such as Toronto Islands, Lake Ontario, and Queen’s Park. The downtown area also features numerous museums and galleries, historic architecture, sports venues, theatres, and more.

Places to Visit in Downtown Toronto

When it comes to things to see and do in Downtown Toronto, there’s something for everyone. From art galleries and museums to historical sites and parks, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the top places to visit in Downtown Toronto:

CN Tower

The iconic CN Tower is one of the most recognizable attractions in all of Toronto. Located in the heart of the downtown core, it is a must-see for any visitor to the city. At 1,815 feet tall, it is one of the tallest structures in the world and offers breathtaking views from its observation deck. The tower also features a revolving restaurant and a glass floor that allows visitors to look down at the city below.

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a chain of islands located just off the coast of downtown Toronto. The islands are accessible by ferry and offer visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you will find beautiful beaches, bike paths, picnic areas, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The islands also feature an amusement park, an outdoor theatre, and Centreville Amusement Park, which is a great place to take kids.

Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada’s largest art galleries and features a wide range of exhibitions from around the world. It houses more than 80,000 works of art spanning from the Renaissance to present day. The AGO also features numerous interactive exhibitions and activities that are perfect for families or those looking for an educational experience.

Kensington Market

Kensington Market is a vibrant neighbourhood located in downtown Toronto that is filled with unique shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. The area is known for its bohemian atmosphere and its diverse range of cultures and cuisines. Here you’ll find vintage clothing stores, art galleries, street food vendors, and more. There’s also plenty of live music venues to check out as well as numerous street festivals throughout the year.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Canada’s biggest museums and offers visitors a chance to explore history and culture from around the world. The museum houses more than 40 galleries ranging from natural history and archaeology to art and culture. It also features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for both children and adults alike.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Located in downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. This state-of-the-art facility showcases more than 16,000 sea creatures from around the world. Here you’ll find interactive exhibits, touch tanks, educational programs, and more. The aquarium also features a glass tunnel that allows visitors to walk through a tank filled with sharks and other sea life.

Distillery District

The Distillery District is a vibrant neighbourhood located in downtown Toronto that was once home to one of North America’s largest distilleries. Today it is home to chic boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, cafes and more. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets lined with 19th century industrial buildings or attend one-off art exhibitions and performances at any given time.

Popular Tours in Downtown Toronto

In addition to all the great attractions to explore in Downtown Toronto, there are also numerous popular tours that offer visitors a unique way to experience the city. Here are two popular tours that are worth checking out:

Toronto City Sightseeing Tour

The Toronto City Sightseeing tour takes visitors on an exciting journey through Downtown Toronto as they explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The tour includes stops at attractions such as CN Tower, Kensington Market, Distillery District, Queen’s Park, Royal Ontario Museum and more. The tour also includes an onboard guide who will provide interesting facts about each stop along the way. Guests will also have plenty of time for photos and souvenir shopping at each stop as well as free time for exploring on their own. To book this tour, click here.

Toronto Food Tour

The Toronto Food Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Downtown Toronto through its culinary offerings. Guests will visit some of the city’s most popular restaurants as they sample delicious local dishes like Poutine, Dim Sum and Butter Tarts. The tour also includes stops at markets, cafes and food stores where guests can sample local cheeses, chocolates and other treats as well as learn about their history from experienced guides. To book this tour, click here.

Conclusion

Downtown Toronto is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do for every type of traveler. From iconic landmarks like CN Tower to charming neighbourhoods like Kensington Market, there’s something for everyone in this bustling part of town. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to explore some of the city’s best attractions, Downtown Toronto has something for everyone. And if you’re looking for an even more unique experience be sure to check out some of the popular tours available in the area that offer an up close look at this beautiful city.