12 Things to do in Toronto

Although I’m based in San Diego, Toronto will always be home to me. This amazing city is where I was born, raised, and spent 30 years of my life in. I will go so far as to say it’s the best city in the world (mind you I’m quite bias here) but seriously, this multi-cultural city has so much to offer! From museums, architecture, shopping, and food, there’s something to satisfy all your cravings. What’s great is my home city is finally getting the recognition it deserves (we may have to thank Drake, Justin Bieber, or the Weeknd for that one!). But, being the largest city in Canada, it’s not hard to believe that there’s something special about this vibrant city.

If you’re planning a trip to Toronto (yay to you!) there are a ton of places you’ll want to see and explore however, here are the main attractions you simply can’t miss out on. Keep in mind, however, that TO weather isn’t always the greatest! Winters can be quite rough but, if that’s your thing- cool! If walking through a winter wonderland is not your thing, consider planning your visit around the warmer months (May to September) where you can spend more time outdoors (walking is really the best way to enjoy the city!) and even take part in some cool annual festivals that take place during the summertime. With that said, and in no particular order, here are some options to add to your to-do list!

12 Things to do in Toronto

1. CN Tower

Once the tallest structure in the world (yeah that’s right, the WORLD!), this is a must see especially on your first trip to Toronto! Head to the top deck for beautiful panoramic views of the entire city. If you plan to visit in the evening, try the 360 Restaurant – you can enjoy a delicious meal prepared with local ingredients (they have a great wine list too!) while enjoying beautiful nighttime views of the city and rotating around the sky pod of the tower. Yep that’s right, the restaurant subtly rotates around the building – hence the name 360! If you’re an adventure junkie (and not afraid of heights!), the CN tower also offers the ‘Edge Walk’ where you can walk onto the outside platform of the CN tower (while harnessed of course!) lean over the edge, and experience views of the city like nothing else. Highly recommended!

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

A new addition to the city, this aquarium is located just southeast of the CN Tower (basically at the base of the tower) so this would be a great place to stop by after your visit to the CN Tower. This has quickly become a popular place in the city therefore, plan your time accordingly! I’ve visited the aquarium during the day but have been told it’s even better to visit at night, when it’s much quieter! With over 20,000 aquatic animals under one roof, there’s ton to see and do including a movable walkway through a glass tunnel (experience sharks and sting rays floating above you – whoa!), a sting ray petting area and more. Even more, the aquarium also offers evening events like paint nights and cocktail parties!

3. Jay’s game at Roger’s Centre

Whether you’re a Jay’s fan or not, the atmosphere of a baseball game is super fun regardless! The best part about catching a Jay’s game in Toronto however is the Roger’s Centre (also at the base of CN Tower, opposite the Aquarium). Once referred to as Sky Dome (honestly, I still call it Sky Dome as that’s what I grew up with!), this dome-shaped structure is truly unique with it’s retractable roof and seating capacity of over 40,000. When the weather is just right, it’s so lovely to sit in the ‘opened dome’, catching fly balls and admiring an up close and personal view of the neighbouring CN Tower.

4. St. Lawrence Market

If you’re hungry, look no further than St. Lawrence Market! Boasted as one of the best public food markets in North America, this beautiful historic building offers an eclectic mix of foods from meats, seafood, fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, desserts, arts and crafts, clothing – I can go on and on! Located on the southwest corner of Front and Lower Jarvis Streets, there are two extraordinary levels to explore – the upper level for its meats, cheeses, fresh produce, etc. and the lower level for non-food related items like art and crafts, clothing, and more. It can be a little overwhelming as there is so much to see and you’ll want to shuffle through the crowds to get a taste of everything but, take your time and find what speaks to you. At this market, you’re bound to leave with a happy belly!

5. Toronto Sign

Similar to the aquarium, the 3D, illuminated Toronto sign has quickly become a popular stop for Instagram-worthy photo taking. Located in Nathan Phillips Square, adjacent to Toronto City Hall, the iconic sign illuminates and changes color depending on the occasion or to support various causes in the community. Originally installed for the Pan American Games in 2015, it was meant to be dismantled following the games however, due to its popularity with tourists and residents alike, the city decided to let it stick around indefinitely. Day or night, this sign is truly special and showcases the love and appreciation we have for our great city!

6. Eaton’s Centre

Like to shop? Eaton’s Centre will quickly become your favourite Toronto mall! I’ve been going to this mall since I was a little girl and love how it’s popularity has remained so strong after all these years. With new stores being added to the mix (like all the time) it’s hard to imagine it not being as popular as it is. While taking in over 250 shops and some pretty awesome restaurants (man I miss Mercatto!), pause for a moment to admire the ‘flight stop’ geese in the glass galleria that has been there since, forever! A couple of must-see shops I would recommend are the newly added Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstroms. Quite stunning department stores to say the least! If you do plan to pay the Saks a visit, do so via WilkinsonEyre’s passenger bridge that connects the Bay department store to Eatons Centre. An illuminated, twisty glass tube that is another new amazing architectural additional to the city!

7. Taste of the Danforth

I had to throw this one in here be it that I grew up and lived in this neighbourhood for over 20 years! The Danforth, located just east of downtown Toronto and known as Greektown, is lined with endless restaurants, shops, bars, and clubs. When my mom’s side of the family first immigrated to Canada from Greece, this neighbourhood was their home away from home. Not only do people flock to this neighbourhood for the best Greek food in the city but, every summer, the Danforth will host an outdoor food festival dubbed ‘Taste of the Danforth’ (usually it’s the second weekend in August, Friday-Sunday) where the whole street shuts down and restaurant and shop owners alike set up shop outside their stores serving up the best eats for your tasting. Enjoy delicious Greek Honey Balls (Loukoumades), Baklava, Souvlaki, and more! The best part of living in this neighbourhood this time of year were the amazing smells from all the delicious food and being able to assemble a whole meal from a variety of tasty delights. My fav: the gyros at Messini!

8. Distillery District

Situated just east of downtown, is the beautifully preserved Distillery District housing historic 19th century buildings and endless brick-lined pathways. Back in the day, this spot housed the largest distillery in the world but today, it’s home to several art stores, shops, museums, breweries, restaurants and more! I love the historic vibe you feel when making your way through the pathways here, so peaceful and so rich in cultural! Sometimes it’s just nice to sit in one of the courtyards with a coffee and people watch. Over the years, this spot has grown in even greater popularity due to exhibits like Toronto Light Show and the like that have residents and tourists flocking to this spot all year round. My new fav is the Christmas Market that now takes place here every winter – so much fun sipping mulled wine, nibbling some Christmas treats, and maybe even doing a bit of Christmas shopping.

9. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

A stunning museum housing the best of the best in art, natural history, and world culture (and a really impressive fossil collection!). It also just so happens to be the largest and most visited museum in Canada! It’s not hard to believe considering its diverse exhibits and visually dramatic architecture. Originally, this museum was comprised of the original 20th century building designed by Toronto architects Frank Darling and John A. Pearson however, in 2002, major renovations began that would dramatically alter the appearance of this historic museum. Architect Daniel Libeskind’s ‘Michael Lee-Chin Crystal’ was selected in an international design competition to act as the centerpiece to the museum’s major renovation. The design resembles a kind of deconstructed crystal-type form that appears to emerge from the original building (although it doesn’t touch it!). The aim was to drive more visitors to the museum with these significant upgrades while providing a division between the museum and the busy downtown street. I so remember the controversy over the ‘crystal’ and how so many residents thought it didn’t belong but, I personally love the juxtaposition between old and new whether you’re experiencing the museum from the outside or in. It’s a dynamic showpiece that tells the story of vibrant Toronto so well!

10. Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands bring back so many childhood memories as I would often spend time at Centreville Amusement Park with close family and friends, hitting up the rides, enjoying a picnic, or just soaking up Toronto’s summer weather. Take a short ferry ride to get to the island and, if amusement parks aren’t your thing, there are several other spots and activities to embark in. Yacht clubs, beaches, kayaking, canoeing, sailing – the list goes on! No matter what you decide on, it’s a truly beautiful way to spend a sunny summer day in Toronto!

11. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

A prominent art gallery in the city, AGO houses over 95,000 pieces including the largest collection of Canadian art. My favourite are the Group of Seven pieces, so significant in Canadian art and culture ‘til this day. This is a great gallery for the whole family that not only includes a wide variety of pieces but will host specialty exhibits, areas for kids to create their own art, cafes, and even a scavenger hunt (the scavenger hunt is super fun and highly recommended!). Much like the ROM, this gallery is known for is recent renovations that have sparked it’s architectural notoriety. Famous architect Frank Gehry was commissioned to revitalize the AGO which ultimately included a new fourth-storey south wing comprised of glass and blue titanium and a new glass and wood façade. I particularly love these new additions to the gallery as they provide their own unique quality and bring life back to the overall building!

12. Casa Loma

Yup, Toronto even has a castle! Enter little girl version of me who would frequently go on school field trips to Casa Loma, climbing to the top of the highest staircase and looking out a simple gothic-style window looking for my prince charming. Yes, corny of course but a little girl can only dream right? The fact is, Gothic Revival-style Casa Loma (which translates to Hill House) was built by a wealthy financier in the early 1900’s as his residence (can you imagine?!). At 64,700 square feet and standing 7 floors tall, it’s not hard to believe that this was once the largest residence in Canada (talk about humble abode!). Nowadays, Casa Loma is another popular landmark that visitors can peruse through and come up with their own historical fantasies! This spot has also been quite popular for movie and TV filming, weddings, and even house a haunted house every Halloween. Blue Blood Steakhouse, one of the newest editions to the castle, has definitely won my heart! Located on the first floor in the Oak Room, this gorgeously paneled space will make you feel like you’re dining in an old Victorian movie. Overall, the rich history of Casa Loma marks another check on Toronto’s significant architectural scene.