10 Things Every Tourist Needs to Do in Toronto

Planning a trip to Toronto? There are so many things to do! If you’re short on time and don’t know what you should consider the essentials, we’re here to help. Here are ten things every tourist needs to do in Toronto.

 

photo via Unsplash / Unsplash


1. Niagara Falls

Let’s start out with the truly spectacular! One thing you can count on at Niagara Falls, no matter the weather, is the incredible view. These are the three waterfalls straddling the international border between the province of Ontario and New York State. You’ll be among 30 million visitors who come to see Niagara Falls each year.

 

2. Axe Throwing

We’re not suggesting your trip to Toronto will be rage-filled, but if you have some steam to blow off then Toronto’s axe throwing ‘scene’ might be just up your alley! Between the Backyard Axe Throwing League and Bad Axe Throwing, you’ll find a party, demonstration or class to suit your skills and needs.

 

3. CN Tower

The CN Tower is a communications and observation tower overlooking Downtown Toronto. At 553.3 metres tall, the building gives some truly stunning views. The Edge Walk in particular is great for the thrill-seekers among you, letting you walk hands-free around the tower’s main pod. Don’t look down! Unless you want to, of course…

 

Photo via Wikimedia / Wikimedia

 

4. Toronto Island Park

Toronto Island Park is located in Lake Ontario. There are 230 hectares of park land, an amusement park with more than 30 rides, regular ferry cruises to help you explore the chain of islands and a whole host of other things to keep you amused.

 

5. Royal Ontario Museum

Beautiful architecture? Check. Art, world, and natural history exhibits? Check. More than one million visitors come to the Royal Ontario Museum each year, and it’s easy to see why. And with a constantly changing program of events throughout both the night and day, there is truly something here for everyone.

 

6. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley in the Fashion District is a bit of a hidden gem of Toronto. If you’ve ever appreciated the beauty of impromptu graffiti in the cities you live in, then you have to give this alley a look. There’s about a one kilometre stretch of art for you to enjoy, which is constantly updated, so even if this is a second or even third visit to Toronto for you, you’ll see something different.

 

Photo via Wikimedia / Wikimedia

 

7. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium is a must-see if you like all things aquatic. This is an educational aquarium with exhibits suitable for all members of the family, and plenty of demonstrations to keep even your most fussy party members amused. You’ll need about two and a half hours to see everything, so make sure you’re wearing some comfortable shoes.

 

8. Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame is almost a pilgrimage if you’re a hockey fan. The exhibits cover the history of hockey in North America, its players, teams, trophies, and trivia. There is a great gift shop that you’re bound to come away from with some hockey memorabilia, and lots of interactive activities for you try that both celebrate and teach you more about the beautiful game.

 

9. St. Lawrence Market

If National Geographic ranked St. Lawrence Market the best food market in the world, it’s safe to say this is one of the best places for you to eat. With all the typical market food you would expect as well as some surprises, make sure you go to St. Lawrence on an empty stomach.

 

10. Distillery District

The pedestrianized Distillery District is home to indie bars, restaurants, and boutiques. There are art galleries, sculptures, and all kinds of performances for you to feast your eyes on, and even Toronto’s Christmas Market if you happen to visit during the festive season. The Distillery District is one of the most vibrant areas of Toronto and an absolute must to visit.

With art, history, science, culture, and nature in some of its most beautiful settings, Toronto is a beautiful city to visit no matter what you choose to do. Whatever the season or weather, there’ll always something to keep you busy. The only question for you now is, when are you going?