Toronto offers a unique blend of vibrant urban life, rich history, and natural beauty. My recent journey through this city revealed a selection of extraordinary places, each with its own story and character. Here are six unmissable attractions in Toronto, described in detail to help future travelers make the most of their visit.
1. CN Tower: Standing Tall Above Toronto
Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada
How to Get There:
The CN Tower is centrally located in downtown Toronto, close to the city’s main Union Station. From Union Station, it’s just a 10-minute walk along Front Street and up Lower Simcoe Street. If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Toronto, taking the subway to Union Station is straightforward, with options like the Line 1 (Yonge-University) providing convenient access. Alternatively, Toronto’s streetcar and bus systems are reliable, and there are many taxi and ride-share options available if you’re staying in nearby accommodations.
Discounts and Tickets:
The general admission to the CN Tower for adults costs around CAD 43, while children’s tickets are around CAD 30. For added thrill, the EdgeWalk experience costs around CAD 195. Purchasing tickets online through the CN Tower’s official website allows you to avoid long lines and sometimes offers small discounts, especially if bundled with other city attractions.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
I’d rate the CN Tower a 9/10 for first-time visitors and anyone interested in panoramic city views. For photography enthusiasts, the views at sunset are unparalleled. If you’re okay with heights, the EdgeWalk experience is unique, offering a chance to walk on the edge of the Tower with only a harness – a once-in-a-lifetime thrill!
2. Royal Ontario Museum: A Journey Through History and Art
Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada
How to Get There:
Situated on the corner of Bloor Street and Avenue Road, the Royal Ontario Museum is accessible via the TTC subway system. The closest subway stop is Museum Station on Line 1, which is directly adjacent to the museum entrance. For those staying further out, street parking is available nearby, but it can be a challenge to find a spot during peak hours.
Discounts and Tickets:
Admission prices are CAD 23 for adults, while students and seniors enjoy reduced rates. The museum offers free admission on the third Monday of each month from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Tickets are available on their official website, and booking in advance is recommended, especially for exhibitions that often sell out quickly.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
The museum gets a solid 8.5/10 for its blend of world history, art, and science exhibits. The dinosaur section was particularly impressive, with lifelike skeletons and interactive displays. The museum’s detailed exhibitions make it ideal for families and history buffs alike, and it’s easy to spend hours roaming through the diverse collections.
3. St. Lawrence Market: Toronto’s Culinary Heart
Location: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada
How to Get There:
Located just a short walk from the King Station on the Yonge-University subway line, St. Lawrence Market is nestled in Toronto’s Old Town. It’s also accessible via the 504 King Streetcar, which has several stops close to the market. There’s limited parking in the vicinity, so public transportation is the easiest way to get there.
Discounts and Tickets:
St. Lawrence Market is free to enter, and you only pay for the items or meals you choose to purchase. The market operates Tuesday through Saturday, with extended hours on Saturday for the bustling weekend crowd.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
This market deserves a 10/10 for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of local and international foods. From fresh seafood to handcrafted cheeses and baked goods, the market caters to all tastes. It’s especially great for breakfast or brunch, with an amazing selection of artisan products. My personal favorite was the peameal bacon sandwich, a Toronto classic that’s both filling and flavorful.
4. Toronto Islands: A Natural Escape from the City
Location: Accessible via Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3, Canada
How to Get There:
The Toronto Islands are a quick ferry ride away from downtown Toronto. The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is easy to reach from Union Station; it’s about a 5-minute walk down Bay Street toward Queens Quay. Ferry tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance.
Discounts and Tickets:
Round-trip ferry tickets cost around CAD 8.70 for adults and CAD 4.10 for children and seniors. If you plan on visiting multiple times, season passes are also available. The islands themselves are free to explore, though some attractions may have separate entrance fees.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
A solid 9/10 for a peaceful, scenic experience. The islands are an ideal place to unwind, with ample spaces for picnics, beaches, and bike rentals. My personal highlight was Ward’s Island Beach, where the water was clean, and the views of Toronto’s skyline were stunning. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and anyone wanting to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a day.
5. Distillery District: Toronto’s Historical Gem
Location: 9 Trinity St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
How to Get There:
The Distillery District is a short streetcar ride from King Station. I took the 504 King Streetcar and disembarked at Parliament Street, from which it’s about a 10-minute walk. There are signs directing visitors to the district, and the walk is quite pleasant, with views of the historic architecture coming into view as you approach.
Discounts and Tickets:
Entry to the Distillery District is free, though shops and attractions within have varying prices. Certain events, such as the annual Christmas Market, may have separate ticketing costs, which can be checked on the Distillery District’s official website.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
With its cobblestone streets and restored Victorian industrial architecture, the Distillery District scores a 9/10. It’s perfect for leisurely strolls, boutique shopping, and trying artisan foods. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting in the evening when the area is lit by string lights and lively with music. Make sure to visit during one of their special seasonal events for an even more immersive experience.
6. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): A Cultural Oasis
Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4, Canada
How to Get There:
Located in Toronto’s Chinatown, the AGO is easy to access by public transport. The closest subway station is St. Patrick on Line 1, a short walk away. If you’re driving, there are several parking garages in the area, though they can be pricey.
Discounts and Tickets:
Admission fees for adults are CAD 25, with discounts for seniors, youth, and students. The AGO offers free admission on Wednesdays from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, but tickets can book up fast, so reserving online is recommended.
Personal Recommendation and Rating:
The AGO gets a 9/10 for its extensive collection of Canadian art and rotating exhibitions. The Frank Gehry-designed building itself is a sight to behold, with unique architectural features like the spiraling staircase. One of my personal highlights was the collection of Group of Seven paintings, which captures Canada’s natural beauty in vivid detail. The gallery is well-curated and spacious, making it easy to spend a full afternoon here.
