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Best Things To Do in Toronto

Best Things To Do in Toronto

When talking about Canada it’s impossible not to mention the city of Toronto that not only offers tourists various attractions, but also plenty of festivals and even small beaches. It’s an ideal place for lovers of the outdoors, foodies and those simply looking to escape or dive inside.

Here’s my top list of things to do in Toronto if you’re a traveler, expat or you simply live in Toronto. I had an opportunity to spend quite an extensive time in Toronto, as my family lives there, so I got to know the place quite well.

Best Things To Do in Toronto

Visit The CN Tower

The CN Tower is a classic attraction for anyone who wants to hit the heights. It’s a place you’ll probably want to see only during your first tourist visit, not as an expat.

At 1,815 feet, the CN Tower has lost its title as the tallest free-standing structure in the world, but still attracts millions of tourists, especially because of its glass floor like the one at Chicago’s Sears Tower. I saw a lot of tourists didn’t dare to stand on the glass, but personally I had a blast!

My Tip: A nice way to avoid the entrance fee is simply by making a reservation at the restaurant on the top – you don’t need to order an expensive meal, a simple glass of wine is enough!glassfloor

Royal Ontario Museum

Even if you’re not an art lover you should at least take a look inside the ROM. It’s worth checking out just from the outside because of its bizarre glass architecture. Inside, more than 40 different galleries and temporary exhibitions satisfy visitors of all kinds.

My Tip: If you’re not a museum person take advantage of some free exhibitions – you might fall in love with art 😉

Spend a day on Toronto Island

Lots of Torontonians head to Toronto island on weekends for a brief escape. The place offers picnic space, parks and even a nude beach. You can also rent a bike to enjoy the treasures of the island.

My Tip: Try to head there as early as possible as the place becomes extremely busy in the afternoon. Avoid weekends, unless you really enjoy screaming kids running around. Don’t get me wrong, kids are cute, but I can image some of you don’t like them a lot!cn-tower

Chinese Culture in Spadina

To escape of the busy vibe of Toronto you should poke around Spadina – one of the biggest Chinatowns in North America. it is filled with exotic food, clothing and jewelry. While it is home to many Chinese restaurants, it also has Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine.

My Tip: If you’re looking for a place to eat try to choose one with only Chinese people sitting inside. A lot of places ‘Americanized’ their food to make it more popular, but enthusiasts of authentic cuisine might be disappointed.

Visit The Distillery District

The Historic Distillery District is definitely one of the top places to hang out as either a local or tourist. You can spend a few hours there and not step into any big fast-food chains. The Distillery features a wellness center, bars, restaurants and plenty of local art. The zone is accessible only on foot and it’s photography heaven!

My Tip: Don’t expect to find a place to park your car nearby, even if you’re willing to pay. Simply don’t take your car if you’re planning to visit – use public transport that in Toronto works great!Distillery

Enjoy the Nightlife

Tourists usually head for drinks in downtown Toronto and end up at some expensive bars, while missing out on some good spots. To party with locals visit The Dance Cave nightclub or drink at some bars on College Street and in the King West Village area.

Enjoy one of Toronto’s festivals and street performers

Toronto hosts many festivals, especially during the summer. The largest festival is TheEx in late August offering fun for everyone of all ages. The famous Caribbana festival shows the beauty and fun of Caribbean Culture, including an amazing parade. There is no shortage of street performers, ranging from clowns to stand-up comedians. Take a stroll downtown and you’ll quickly encounter many of them.

My tip: Bring your own snacks – festival food can be quite expensive.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

Spend a day at Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls doesn’t need an introduction. Only 2h from Toronto it’s worth a visit, this waterfall offers incredible view especially from the Canadian side – sorry Americans, but it’s true. I’d also recommend a poke around Marineland where you can touch and feed a killer whale or beluga.

Alison

Saturday 29th of June 2019

You should have gone to B.C. Canada

Anna

Sunday 30th of June 2019

Sure I'd love to, but I didn't choose where my family chose to live :P

Donn Shawl

Friday 18th of April 2014

Wonderful website. Plenty of helpful info here. I am sending it to several friends ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thanks to your sweat!

Adri

Wednesday 26th of March 2014

You're absolutely right, the best view of Niagara Falls is on the canadian side. The second time I went there, I crossed to the US side and I didn't like it (too boring) everything is better on the other side of the bridge. Great blog!

Anna

Thursday 23rd of April 2015

Thanks Adri! Canadian side is definitely way better hehe :)

Em

Saturday 22nd of March 2014

I think its so funny that we had the same idea for our blog names! :)

annalisa1988

Saturday 22nd of March 2014

Haha, true :)

yorkvillexpress

Saturday 22nd of March 2014

Love Toronto!

Em

Saturday 22nd of March 2014

I also love Toronto!

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