Discover the Top 7 Things to Do in Toronto!
Are you ready to explore the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Toronto? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this guide will unveil the top 7 must-do activities that will make your trip to Toronto unforgettable1. With around 27.5 million domestic and international visitors annually, Toronto is a true hub of captivating experiences waiting to be discovered. Prepare to embark on a journey that will leave you with lasting memories of this remarkable Canadian destination.
Key Takeaways
- Uncover the aquatic wonders at Ripley’s Aquarium, a must-visit attraction in Toronto.
- Immerse yourself in the botanical beauty of Allan Gardens Conservatory, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city.
- Discover the city’s lesser-known treasures and explore the top things to do in Toronto.
- Ascend the iconic CN Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline1.
- Delve into the rich cultural heritage at the renowned Royal Ontario Museum.
Exploring Toronto’s Aquatic Wonders at Ripley’s Aquarium
Situated in the heart of Downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by marine life and aquatic habitats2. The aquarium boasts an impressive 135,000 square feet of space, which is home to over 20,000 exotic sea and freshwater specimens from nearly 500 species3. Visitors can embark on a captivating journey through a variety of galleries, including the vibrant Rainbow Reef, the serene Canadian Waters, the interactive Discovery Centre, and the awe-inspiring Dangerous Lagoon2.
The Dangerous Lagoon, the focal point of the aquarium, is a truly immersive experience2. This exhibit features a mesmerizing array of marine life, including sand tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, roughtail stingrays, long-comb sawfish, and captivating green sea turtles2. Visitors are transported into the heart of the ocean, where they can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats3.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers a wealth of educational and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages4. From sensory Sundays and field trips to summer day camps and volunteer opportunities, there is something for everyone4. The aquarium also supports important conservation efforts, such as the Ocean Wise Seafood program, which aims to promote sustainable seafood choices and protect our oceans4.
Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply seeking a captivating and educational experience, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a must-visit attraction in Toronto2. With its stunning exhibits, interactive displays, and commitment to environmental stewardship, it’s no wonder this aquarium has become one of the city’s top aquatic attractions3.
Allan Gardens Conservatory: A Botanical Oasis in the Heart of the City
Nestled in the heart of Toronto, the Allan Gardens Conservatory stands as a serene oasis of natural beauty. This iconic landmark, inaugurated by the Toronto Horticultural Society in 1858, has expanded over the years to encompass a series of connected Victorian-era greenhouses spanning 16,000 square feet5.
The centerpiece of the gardens is the stunning Palm House, a magnificent glass and iron structure designed by architect Robert McCallum and opened in 19105. Visitors to the conservatory can explore a diverse array of plant life, including a tropical house, an orchid house, a temperate house, an arid house, and a children’s conservatory6.
The Arid House in the Northwest section of the conservatory displays a variety of unusual cacti and succulents, while the Tropical House in the Northeast area showcases plants from equatorial regions7. The Orchid and Bromeliad House in the Southwest greenhouse features a stunning collection of equatorial plants, and the Temperate Show House in the Southeast part of the conservatory hosts seasonal flower shows and includes a Koi pond7.
Surrounding the conservatory, the outdoor arboretum features 55 species of trees, providing a lush green space for visitors to enjoy6. The gardens host three seasonal floral shows throughout the year, offering a vibrant and ever-changing spectacle of colors that delight the senses7.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse plant life, the Allan Gardens Conservatory stands as a true *botanical oasis* in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life5.
Top things to do in Toronto: Discovering the City’s Hidden Gems
While Toronto is renowned for its iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions, the city also boasts a wealth of lesser-known hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For travelers seeking a more authentic and immersive experience, exploring the city’s local haunts and off-the-beaten-path destinations can be a rewarding and enriching adventure8.
From cozy neighborhood cafes and independent art galleries to charming alleyways and vibrant street markets, Toronto’s hidden gems offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse culture and lively spirit8. By venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist trails, visitors can create a truly memorable and personalized itinerary that captures the essence of Toronto’s unique character.
One of the city’s hidden gems is the Vog Vault at the Fluevog shoe store, open from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on Sundays9. Another local favorite is Balzac’s Coffee, which operates from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from Monday to Friday9. For those seeking a more lively experience, the Cloak Bar is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 7 pm until late, with customers spending an average of at least two hours there9.
Bibliophiles will delight in discovering the Monkey’s Paw bookstore, with hours from 11 am to 6 pm from Tuesday to Saturday and noon to 5 pm on Sundays9. Literature enthusiasts can also explore the Arthur Conan Doyle Room at the Toronto Reference Library, open from 9 am to 8:30 pm, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays, and 1:30 pm to 5 pm on Sundays9.
For a touch of history, the Campbell House Museum is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Sundays from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, with admission at $10 per person9. Visitors can also venture to the Necropolis Cemetery, where the gates usually open from 8 am to 6 pm or 8 pm, depending on the day9.
By exploring these hidden gems, travelers can immerse themselves in the local experiences and unique things to do in Toronto, creating a truly memorable and off-the-beaten-path adventure8.
CN Tower: Towering Above the City’s Skyline
A visit to Toronto would not be complete without a trip to the iconic CN Tower, a towering Toronto landmark that has become synonymous with the city’s skyline. Standing at an impressive height of 553 meters (1,815 feet), the CN Tower offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings10. Ascend to the observation deck or the SkyPod for an unparalleled perspective of Toronto, including sweeping vistas of Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands, and the bustling cityscape below10.
The tower’s unique architecture and engineering feats make it a must-see attraction for both first-time and returning visitors, offering an unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s dynamic energy and grandeur11. Completed in 1976, the CN Tower remained the tallest free-standing structure in the world for 32 years until 200711. Today, it continues to be a beloved Toronto landmark, attracting over 2 million international visitors annually12.
Whether you’re admiring the tower’s sleek design, taking in the stunning panoramic views from the observation deck, or exploring the entertainment complex within, the CN Tower is a true testament to Toronto’s architectural and engineering prowess11. This iconic structure has become an integral part of the city’s identity, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit10.
The Royal Ontario Museum: A World of Cultural Treasures
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Toronto at the renowned Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), one of the largest museums in North America13. Boasting a vast collection of over 13 million artifacts, artworks, and exhibits, the ROM invites visitors to explore the diverse histories and traditions from around the world13. From ancient Egyptian mummies and Chinese ceramic masterpieces to contemporary Canadian art and cutting-edge scientific discoveries, the museum’s galleries and exhibitions offer a captivating journey through time and across cultures13.
Whether you’re interested in art, archaeology, natural history, or world civilizations, the Royal Ontario Museum provides an exceptional opportunity to delve into the extraordinary depth and breadth of human creativity and knowledge13. The museum boasts a collection of around one million objects of art and culture from various time periods and regions13, as well as Canada’s largest collection of natural history specimens13.
Established in 1914, the Royal Ontario Museum is the biggest museum in Canada and the fifth largest in North America13. Situated on the ancestral lands of several First Nations, the museum’s rich collection includes a diverse array of artwork, fossils, cultural items, and more13. Visitors can enjoy a garden and a view of the crystal-shaped facade in the courtyard, as well as explore the museum’s impressive dinosaur fossils that span hundreds of millions of years13.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum is a must-visit destination, offering a world-class cultural experience and a deeper understanding of the vibrant history and diversity of the city13.
Toronto Islands: An Urban Oasis in Lake Ontario
Nestled just a short ferry ride from the bustling heart of Toronto, the Toronto Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque archipelago, spanning over 820 acres14, provides visitors with a verdant oasis to enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities and serene natural scenery15.
Accessible by three main ferry docks – Ward’s Island, Centre Island, and Hanlan’s Point16 – the Toronto Islands are a car-free haven, inviting travelers to explore the island’s winding, bike-friendly pathways. Rent a bicycle or kayak and immerse yourself in the stunning views of the Toronto skyline and the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario1516.
Beyond the scenic trails, the Toronto Islands offer a wealth of recreational opportunities. Spend a leisurely day at the beach, where the Centre Island beach often achieves the prestigious Blue Flag certification for its water quality16. Discover the island’s natural beauty by hiking through the lush greenery and diverse ecosystems, or attend a free concert at the enchanting Toronto Music Garden15.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful respite from the urban landscape or a day of outdoor adventure, the Toronto Islands promise an unforgettable experience. As an island park in Toronto, this hidden gem offers the perfect opportunity to escape the city and immerse yourself in outdoor recreation just minutes from the heart of the city151614.
Conclusion
Toronto, a vibrant and multifaceted city, offers a wealth of captivating experiences for visitors to discover. From the aquatic wonders of Ripley’s Aquarium, which houses over 20,000 marine species in 5.7 million litres of water17, to the botanical oasis of Allan Gardens Conservatory, the city’s diverse array of attractions cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Explore the hidden gems that showcase Toronto’s unique character, such as the 30 km of underground pathways in the PATH network that provide access to all of downtown on foot18, and the ten-foot tall Toronto sign in Nathan Phillips Square that attracts tourists for photos18.
Ascend the iconic CN Tower, a top tourist destination in Toronto1917, that offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline, and immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of the Royal Ontario Museum. Escape the urban hustle on the serene Toronto Islands, a famous group of islands known for their beaches and scenic views17, and create lasting memories of your time in this remarkable Canadian destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide has unveiled the top 7 things to do in Toronto, ensuring an unforgettable and enriching experience.
From the vibrant nightlife scene with drag shows in the Gay Village19 to the diverse dining options for all budgets19, Toronto offers something for everyone. Explore the city’s hidden gems, from the Kensington Market’s unique and quirky character19 to the free attraction of Graffiti Alley19, and discover the city’s true essence. Whether you’re visiting Toronto for its shopping, foodie hotspots, offbeat gems, or museums17, this guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the top attractions and experiences to make your visit truly unforgettable.
