Toronto Island Things To Do – A City Guide for Tourists

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is one of the largest cities in Canada and a major international financial and cultural center. With a population of over three million people, it is no wonder that Toronto is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The city is home to a variety of attractions, ranging from world-renowned museums and galleries, to the iconic CN Tower, to top-notch restaurants and lively nightlife. But when it comes to exploring the best of Toronto, few places offer more than Toronto Island.

Just a short ferry ride away from downtown Toronto, Toronto Island is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in the city. It is a collection of islands located in Lake Ontario and is home to a variety of activities and attractions. From biking and hiking trails, to beaches and parks, to unique attractions like Centre Island’s amusement park and the island’s lighthouses, there is something for everyone on Toronto Island. In this post, we will take an in-depth look at all the things to do on Toronto Island.

Getting to Toronto Island

The first step to exploring Toronto Island is getting there. Fortunately, Toronto Island is easily accessible for both tourists and locals alike. The ferry docks are located at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal on Queens Quay in downtown Toronto. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes each way and is free for pedestrians and cyclists. There are also car ferries available for those who want to drive onto the island.

Exploring Toronto Island

Once you have arrived on Toronto Island, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Here are just a few of the things to do on the island:

Bicycle Tour of the Island

One of the best ways to explore the island is by bike. There are several bike rental companies located near the ferry dock that offer a variety of bicycles, from mountain bikes to beach cruisers. Once you have your bike, you can hop on the many trails that wind their way around the island. This is a great way to take in all the sights and sounds of the island without missing a beat.

Centreville Amusement Park

One of the most popular attractions on Toronto Island is Centreville Amusement Park. This family-friendly amusement park has been around since 1967 and features more than 30 rides and attractions, including carousels, roller coasters, antique cars, ferris wheels, and more. It is the perfect place for a day of family fun!

Exploring the Nature on the Island

Toronto Island is home to a variety of natural wonders, including a number of parks and beaches. The beaches are perfect for swimming, picnics, or simply lounging in the sun. The parks are ideal for exploring nature trails and spotting wildlife like birds and rabbits. There are also numerous picnic areas throughout the island, so visitors can enjoy a lunch with a view of the lake.

Admiring the Island’s Lighthouses

The island is also home to two historic lighthouses – Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and Tower Lighthouse. Both lighthouses were built in 1808 and are considered significant landmarks in Canadian maritime history. Visitors can explore both lighthouses and take in stunning views of Lake Ontario from their rooftops.

Book a Tour: The Most Popular Tours on Toronto Island

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore Toronto Island, why not book a tour? There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of Toronto Island, including biking tours, walking tours, kayaking tours, and more. Here are two popular tours that you can book on Viator:

Toronto Islands Bike Tour

Take an adventure around Toronto’s beautiful islands by bike with this half-day tour from Viator! You will be able to explore all the sights of Toronto Island at your own pace as you cycle along picturesque trails with a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with fascinating insights about the area’s history and culture. The tour includes bike rentals and all necessary safety equipment, as well as stops at scenic points along the way such as Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and Centreville Amusement Park. Book your Toronto Islands Bike Tour here.

Toronto Island Kayak Tour

Experience Toronto’s picturesque islands from a different perspective with this half-day tour from Viator! Paddle through tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery as you explore the islands with an experienced guide who will provide you with fascinating insights about the local wildlife and history. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as stops at scenic points along the way such as Centreville Amusement Park and Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. Book your Toronto Islands Kayak Tour here.

Book an Activity: What Else Can You Do on Toronto Island?

In addition to booking tours, there are plenty of other activities available on Toronto Island. Here are two popular activities that you can book on GetYourGuide:

Toronto Islands Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience

Explore Toronto’s beautiful islands by stand up paddle board with this adventure from GetYourGuide! You will be able to enjoy stunning views of Lake Ontario from atop your board as you paddle along with an experienced guide who will provide you with safety tips and fascinating insights about the area’s history and culture. The experience includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as stops at scenic points along the way such as Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and Centreville Amusement Park. Book your Toronto Islands Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience here.

Toronto Islands Wildlife Watching Tour

Immerse yourself in nature with this wildlife watching tour from GetYourGuide! You will be able to explore the natural wonders of Toronto Island as you search for birds, rabbits, foxes, beavers, and other wildlife with an experienced guide who will provide you with fascinating insights about local flora and fauna. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as stops at scenic points along the way such as Centreville Amusement Park and Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. Book your Toronto Islands Wildlife Watching Tour here.

Conclusion

Toronto Island is one of the most beautiful places in Canada’s largest city. From biking trails to beaches to amusement parks, there is something for everyone on this picturesque island just minutes away from downtown Toronto. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax by the lake, there is no shortage of things to do on Toronto Island! So why not grab your bike or kayak and set sail for this amazing place?