Things to do in Downtown Toronto This Weekend

Downtown Toronto is the bustling hub of activity, culture, and entertainment in Canada’s largest city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore new sights, one thing is certain – there’s always something to do in Downtown Toronto.

A Brief Overview of Downtown Toronto

Toronto, the capital of Ontario and the most populous city in Canada, was founded in 1793 as the small town of York. Since then, it has grown into a major international centre for business, finance, arts, and culture. Today, Downtown Toronto is home to more than 3 million people and is known globally for its diverse population, vibrant nightlife, and iconic skyline.

The main hub of activity in Downtown Toronto is the Financial District, home to numerous corporate headquarters and bustling with financial activity on weekdays. Other popular destinations in Downtown Toronto include the Entertainment District, Harbourfront Centre, and Yonge-Dundas Square. These areas are popular for their lively atmosphere, shopping, and entertainment options.

Popular Attractions in Downtown Toronto

Downtown Toronto is full of exciting attractions to explore. Here are some of the top spots to check out during your visit:

CN Tower

The CN Tower is a well-known Toronto landmark and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Standing at a height of 553.33 meters (1,815 feet), the CN Tower was once the tallest free-standing structure in the world. Visitors can take the elevator up to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. There is also a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower with stunning views of the cityscape.

Ripley’s Aquarium

Ripley’s Aquarium is a popular destination for families and tourists alike. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, the aquarium houses more than 16,500 aquatic animals from 450 species. Visitors can explore nine galleries with themed exhibits such as Dangerous Lagoon, Rainbow Reef, Discovery Centre, and Shark Lagoon. The aquarium also has a number of interactive activities such as touch pools and dive experiences.

Toronto Zoo

The Toronto Zoo is a popular destination for families and animal lovers alike. It is home to over 5,000 animals from over 450 species, spread over 700 acres of land. Visitors can explore seven different themed areas such as Eurasia Wilds, African Savanna, Australasia Pavilion, and Canadian Domain. The zoo also has a variety of interactive activities and experiences such as animal encounters and keeper talks.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of the largest museums in North America and a popular destination for visitors. The museum houses more than six million artifacts from around the world, spanning from ancient cultures to modern times. Visitors can explore collections organized by geographical area or by topic such as Natural History, World Cultures, and Art Gallery. The museum also offers a variety of interactive activities and experiences such as tours and lectures.

Popular Tours in Downtown Toronto

Downtown Toronto offers a variety of tours to suit any interest. Here are two popular options:

Toronto City Sightseeing Tour

This comprehensive tour covers the best of Downtown Toronto in a single day. Tour highlights include visits to top attractions such as CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ripley’s Aquarium. Guests will also enjoy a cruise along Lake Ontario and explore Chinatown and Kensington Market. This tour offers an immersive experience with knowledgeable guides who will provide insights into the city’s history and culture. Book a Toronto City Sightseeing Tour here.

Toronto Culinary Tour

This unique tour offers an insight into Toronto’s diverse culinary scene. Guests will explore vibrant neighbourhoods such as Kensington Market and Chinatown and experience authentic local dishes from different cultures. The tour includes visits to local food vendors, markets, and restaurants with knowledgeable guides who will provide insight into Toronto’s food culture. Book a Toronto Culinary Tour here.

Conclusion

From its iconic skyline to its vibrant neighbourhoods and exciting attractions, Downtown Toronto offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for thrilling attractions or immersive cultural experiences, there’s always something to do in this bustling hub of activity. From sightseeing tours to culinary experiences, there’s no shortage of options for visitors looking to explore Downtown Toronto this weekend.

An Insider’s Guide to Toronto, Canada

Planning a visit to Toronto soon? As a local, I’ve put together this insider’s guide that will take you off the beaten path and introduce you to some hidden gems and unique experiences that you won’t find in most tourist guides.

Local Attractions

First on the list is the Toronto Islands. This is a group of small islands located just a short ferry ride away from the city. It is a peaceful and serene getaway, offering stunning views of Lake Ontario. You can run, walk, bicycle, have a picnic, or even take a guided tour. The islands are home to some beautiful beaches, namely Gibraltar Point Beach and Hanlan’s Point Beach, which are worth a visit.

Another hidden gem worth checking out is Graffiti Alley. This hidden alleyway is located between Queen and Richmond streets and is a vibrant, colorful spot that showcases some of the city’s best street art. It is a unique and fantastic spot to take Instagram-worthy photos.

Dining Spots

Toronto is famous for its diverse food scene. If you are looking for a uniquely Canadian cuisine, try poutine, a dish made of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. The city has an array of poutine joints, including Smoke’s Poutinerie, which offers different variations of the dish. If you’re in Chinatown, stop by Dim Sum King, a family-owned restaurant that is known for its delicious dumplings and noodle dishes.

Did you know that Toronto is the birthplace of the famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich? It was created by British immigrant William Davies in the early 1900s. St. Lawrence Market is the best place to try this iconic dish. Carousel Bakery, a family-owned bakery, has been serving this sandwich for over fifty years and is a must-visit spot.

Cultural Experiences

Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a mix of cultures, traditions, and festivals. One of the most significant cultural events is the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, which takes place in July. It is one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in North America, known for its vibrant costumes, music, and festive atmosphere.

If you are a fan of contemporary art, visit the Art Gallery of Ontario, which has a world-renowned collection of Canadian and international art. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions from famous contemporary artists like Yayoi Kusama.

Local History

Did you know that Toronto was once called York? The city has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Visit Fort York, a historic site that played a vital role in Canada’s early military history. You can learn about the War of 1812 and explore the barracks, buildings, and authentic fortifications.

Another fascinating part of Toronto’s history is the Distillery District, a pedestrian-only area that dates back to the 19th century. The site consists of several Victorian-era buildings that were once part of a large whiskey distillery. Today, it is a cultural and entertainment hub, with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Looking for something extraordinary? Check out the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition), also known as The Ex, which takes place annually in August. It is a two-week-long event that combines a fairground, exhibition, and entertainment venue. Expect to see exciting attractions, like an indoor skydiving experience and a superdogs show. You can also try traditional carnival foods such as deep-fried Oreos and funnel cakes.

If you’re a fan of craft beer, don’t miss a visit to Bellwoods Brewery. This independent microbrewery is famous for producing some of the best beers in the city. The brewery consists of two locations, the bar and the bottle shop, both of which are worth a visit.

Conclusion

Toronto is an exciting city with so much to offer. I hope this insider’s guide to Toronto has helped you discover some unique and hidden gems that will make your visit unforgettable. Don’t be afraid to venture from the common tourist spots and explore all that Toronto has to offer. You’ll find that the city has a lot more to offer than what meets the eye.