Top Attractions in Toronto, Canada

From iconic monuments to food tours, interactive museums to sporting events, world-class shopping to peaceful nature, Toronto has something to offer just about any visitor.

So many activities, in fact, that planning a trip to this cosmopolitan city can feel overwhelming if you are only coming for a short period of time. Let us help by providing a list of essential experiences you shouldn’t miss when visiting Canada’s largest city.

1. Take in the views from the CN Tower

Once the tallest structure in the world, the CN Tower is a symbol of the city and one of the most visited places in Toronto. Ride the elevator to the main observation deck to take in stunning views of Toronto’s skyline from 346 meters (1136 feet). For those with a strong stomach, you can ascend even higher to the 447 meters (1465 feet) SkyPod, where you can actually feel the tower swaying in the wind.

Detour: Adventure seekers should consider the EdgeWalk, the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk around the tower’s edge, 116 stories above the streets below. Wheelchair accessibility is available for the EdgeWalk as well.

2. Eat your way around Chinatown

Toronto’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and liveliest areas. With busy local markets and colorful neon signs, it’s a visual feast; however, you’ll want to dive into the pan-Asian food scene as well. Taste a variety of dishes from dumplings and dim sum to hot pot and pho—be sure to arrive hungry.

Detour: To experience Chinatown fully, consider embarking on a food tour. An expert guide will lead you to a selection of favorite spots, with smaller portions allowing you to try a wide array of flavors.

3. Catch a game

Toronto is home to numerous professional sports teams, with games happening year-round. If you know your travel dates well in advance, consider attending a game featuring the Raptors (basketball), Blue Jays (baseball), or Maple Leafs (hockey) and join the locals in cheering for your team.

4. Browse through St Lawrence Market

Historic St Lawrence Market is a key attraction in Toronto. While it’s a popular spot for tourists, many locals also come here to shop. Discover specialty food shops and local businesses, with Saturday farmers’ markets and Sunday antique markets highlighting the week.

Detour: Visit the Market Gallery on the second floor of the South Market for rotating exhibitions showcasing creative works from local artists.

5. Enjoy drinks in the Distillery District

Skip the downtown bars and head to the Distillery District. Known for arts, entertainment, and dining, this historic neighborhood is centered around an old whiskey distillery. You can try SpiritHouse for top-shelf cocktails or head to Mill Street Brewery for a pint of Canadian craft beer.

Planning tip: If you’re in town for the holidays, Toronto’s charming Winter Village Christmas Market takes place here annually.

6. Explore Kensington Market

In a city full of luxury and skyscrapers, Kensington Market offers a bohemian atmosphere. This eclectic neighborhood features vintage shops, unique boutiques, and diverse art spaces. Don’t miss the quirky “garden car,” adorned with herbs, flowers, and even a lawn growing out of a painted sedan.

Planning tip: While shopping is a highlight here, it’s also worthwhile to try one (or more) of Kensington Market’s many international restaurants. The district is adjacent to Chinatown, making it easy to enjoy a combined food adventure.

7. Salute Canada’s hockey legends

As hockey holds a special place in every Canadian’s heart, the official Hockey Hall of Fame in the Financial District is a crucial stop for visitors. This family-friendly attraction boasts the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world, including the Stanley Cup. Here, you can learn about the sport’s history and try shooting against the world’s best goalies in an interactive exhibit.

8. Admire the cherry blossoms at High Park

During spring, Toronto bursts into bloom with breathtaking cherry blossoms, particularly at High Park, which features the city’s largest concentration of sakura cherry trees.

Planning tip: Cherry-blossom season typically occurs from the end of April to early May, lasting only about a week. Track the season by calling the Cherry Blossom Hotline.

9. Celebrate with the city

Torontonians love a good party, and annual festivities include the vibrant Toronto Pride and the famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Don’t miss other exciting events like the Toronto Jazz Festival, Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Luminato Festival, Canadian Music Week, and Nuit Blanche.

Planning tip: Since festivals attract large crowds, plan and prepare ahead of time if you intend to visit during these events.

10. Step onto a movie set at Casa Loma

While Casa Loma may never have housed royalty, it has played host to numerous film productions. This scenic palace is a tourist attraction, event venue, and film set, and you might recognize it from movies like X-Men.

11. Snap a selfie with street art

Street art captures Toronto’s creative spirit, and some of the best examples are found in Graffiti Alley. Stretching around 400 meters (1000 feet), this narrow street is adorned with vibrant artwork from top local artists.

Detour: Graffiti Alley is just the beginning; consider exploring other street art locations throughout the city.

12. Ride a roller-coaster at Canada’s Wonderland

A fantastic option for families, Canada’s Wonderland is just 40 minutes outside of Toronto and offers 17 roller coasters, a massive water park, and exciting seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. Don’t forget to try the park’s famous funnel cake!

13. Enjoy a beach day

Lake Ontario provides perfect opportunities for beach days, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, picnic, or play volleyball. These public beaches offer great chances to chill with locals on sunny summer days.

Detour: For a more tranquil escape, head to one of Toronto’s islands, which feature several beaches and boat-rental options.

14. Get your footwear fix at the Bata Museum

The Bata Shoe Museum is one of Toronto’s unique attractions, showcasing exhibits of extravagant footwear, including towering high heels and other fascinating designs. With a collection of over 15,000 artifacts spanning 4500 years, it has the largest shoe collection in the world.

15. Learn about the local Indigenous community

Modern Toronto was built on the traditional territory of several Indigenous nations, and today it is home to a sizable First Nations population. Visitors can engage with Indigenous traditions through art, cuisine, and cultural celebrations. Check local resources to discover experiential offerings related to Indigenous culture in Toronto.