A Guide to Visiting Toronto for the First Time

Toronto is an incredible city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada. It’s home to a vibrant culture, a bustling nightlife, and some of the best views of the world-famous CN Tower. As the largest city in Canada, most people know Toronto for its urban vibes and cityscape, but the city has much more to offer than that. Whether you’re visiting as a tourist or just passing through, there’s plenty to see and do in Toronto.

History and General Facts

Toronto is the capital of Ontario, and it is the most populous city in Canada with a population of over 2.7 million people. The city was founded in 1793 and has grown to become a major global city with a thriving economy. Toronto is a culturally diverse city with many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor. The city is also known for its world-class restaurants, art galleries, and museums.

The CN Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Toronto and is a must-see for any tourist visiting the city. The tower stands at 1,815 feet tall and offers incredible views of the city and Lake Ontario. The tower also has an observation deck, a restaurant, and a glass floor where visitors can look down over the city streets below.

Another popular destination in Toronto is the Toronto Islands. Located just off the shore of downtown Toronto, these islands are a great place to explore nature and enjoy some peaceful relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a ferry to Centre Island where they can enjoy swimming, biking, and even a mini-golf course.

For tourists looking to explore the city’s diverse art scene, there are plenty of options. The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the best art galleries in Canada and features works from some of the most famous Canadian artists. The Royal Ontario Museum is another great option to explore, with its numerous collections and exhibits on everything from history to science.

Unique Activities

Toronto is home to some unique activities that make it stand out from other cities. One such activity is the Toronto Hockey Hall of Fame, located in downtown Toronto. This interactive museum celebrates the history of hockey in Canada and features exhibits on some of the most famous hockey players and teams from around the world.

Another unique activity that tourists can take part in is a game of street hockey at Nathan Phillips Square. This public square in downtown Toronto often hosts large events and festivals throughout the year, but it also doubles as a street hockey rink on weekends. Visitors can join in on public games with locals or simply watch as others play.

For tourists looking to explore the city’s music scene, there are plenty of options. The Music Garden offers free concerts throughout the summer months, featuring classical music from around the world. The Horseshoe Tavern is another great option for those looking to experience live music from both local and international acts.

Popular Tours

For tourists looking to explore Toronto in more detail, there are plenty of great tours available. One such tour is the local food tour offered by Local Tasting Tours Toronto. On this tour, visitors can explore some of Toronto’s best culinary hot spots, including Chinatown, Little Italy, Kensington Market, and more. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample dishes from different cultures while learning about the history of each neighborhood they visit. Those who book this tour can also look forward to discounts at select restaurants throughout the city.

Another popular tour option is the CN Tower Edge Walk offered by Viator. On this tour, visitors will have the chance to walk around the circumference of the CN Tower at 1,168 feet above ground level! This tour includes a safety briefing as well as access to an exclusive observation deck with incredible views of the city below. Tour-goers will also get to take home a souvenir photo of their experience.

Finally, visitors who want to explore Toronto’s diverse culture should check out GetYourGuide’s City Culture Tour in Toronto. On this tour, visitors will get to experience some of Toronto’s best cultural activities, including exploring art galleries, visiting local markets, and experiencing live music performances. The tour also includes visits to some of Toronto’s hidden gems like Kensington Market as well as plenty of opportunities for shopping along Queen Street West.

Conclusion

Toronto is an incredible city with plenty to explore and experience. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just passing through, you won’t be disappointed by what this vibrant Canadian city has to offer. From the iconic CN Tower to unique activities like street hockey at Nathan Phillips Square or exploring some of Toronto’s best cultural activities with GetYourGuide’s City Culture Tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Toronto!