Top Things to Do in Toronto Canada

Toronto is a bustling cosmopolitan city that is full of life and culture. Situated on the north shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is the capital of the province of Ontario and the most populous city in Canada. From art galleries to sports stadiums, Toronto has something for everyone. With a population of over 3 million people, Toronto is known for its vibrant culture and its wonderful attractions. Here is a guide to the top things to do in Toronto to help you make the most of your visit.

A Brief History of Toronto

Toronto has a long and storied history, dating back to its establishment as a trading post by the French in 1750. The city was officially founded in 1793, when it was named York. In 1834, York was incorporated as the City of Toronto after it was chosen as the provincial capital for Upper Canada. Following the Great Fire of 1849, much of the city was rebuilt in the Victorian style and many of these buildings still stand today.

Throughout most of the 20th century, Toronto experienced tremendous growth, becoming an important financial and manufacturing hub. By the 21st century, Toronto had become one of the most diverse cities in the world. With over 140 languages spoken and a large influx of immigrants, Toronto is now home to people from all over the world.

What to Do in Toronto

With so many things to do in Toronto, it’s hard to narrow it down to a few must-see attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Toronto:

Explore the Culture and Arts Scene

Toronto is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), located in downtown Toronto, is one of Canada’s largest museums and houses numerous exhibits on art, science, and history. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is another popular destination for art lovers and features works by internationally renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo. Those looking for a more contemporary art experience can check out the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCCA), which showcases modern and experimental works from around the world.

The city also has numerous theatres, including the iconic Elgin & Winter Garden Theatres which offer both musicals and plays from some of the world’s best producers. For music lovers, there are also plenty of live music venues, such as the iconic Massey Hall and the historic Opera House.

Visit Popular Attractions

Toronto has numerous popular attractions that are sure to delight visitors. The iconic CN Tower stands 1,815 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck. Another popular attraction is the Toronto Zoo, which houses over 5,000 animals from around the world. The Distillery District is a historic neighborhood located east of downtown Toronto and is home to numerous restaurants, shops, galleries, and theatres.

For those looking for more nature-based activities, there are plenty of parks and trails located throughout Toronto. The city is also home to numerous beaches along Lake Ontario which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a picnic lunch.

Experience Shopping and Nightlife

Toronto is known for its vibrant shopping scene, with retailers ranging from luxury brands to vintage boutiques. The city is also home to several popular malls including the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale Shopping Centre. For an outdoor shopping experience, head to Kensington Market which features over 150 independent retailers selling everything from clothes to antiques.

The city is also known for its thriving nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Popular spots include The Drake Hotel which offers live music every night as well as craft cocktails and delicious food. Another popular spot is Bar Hop which features over 300 beers from around the world.

Popular Tours in Toronto

Toronto offers several popular tours for visitors to enjoy. One such tour is the Historic Distillery District Tour which takes guests on a two-hour walking tour through one of Toronto’s oldest neighborhoods. Visitors will learn about the area’s history as well as visiting some of its most popular attractions. Tour-goers can also sample some of the delicious food offered by its many restaurants and cafes.

For those looking for a more active tour, the Harbourfront Kayak Tour is a great option. This two-hour tour takes guests on an adventure around one of Toronto’s most beautiful parks while paddling through the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario. The tour includes a safety briefing as well as a brief history lesson about the area before heading out on the kayaks.

Finally, for those looking for an educational tour, there is the Royal Ontario Museum Tour which takes guests on a two-hour journey through some of the museum’s most impressive exhibits. The tour includes an audio guide providing information about each exhibit as well as a knowledgeable guide who can answer any questions about the museum’s history or artifacts.

Conclusion

From art galleries to sports stadiums and everything in between, there’s something for everyone in Toronto. This guide has highlighted some of the top things to do in Toronto but there’s really no limit on what you can experience during your visit. Whether you’re looking for culture, shopping, or just want to relax on one of Toronto’s beautiful beaches, this vibrant city has something for everyone.