Top Free Experiences in Toronto

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto is one of Canada’s most exciting cities. Shining skyscrapers, diverse neighborhoods, and even some lakeside beaches – there’s plenty to keep you busy in the capital of Ontario. The best part? Despite Toronto being an expensive city, there is quite a lot you can experience for absolutely nothing. Here’s our list of the top things to do in Toronto for free.

1. Photograph Graffiti Alley

Like many major cities, Toronto has a debate between what is known as street art and what is vandalism. Rush Lane, better known as Graffiti Alley, is meant to be an art space and has become a Toronto favorite, especially among photographers, artists, and Instagrammers thanks to all the colorful murals. The alley is about 400m (1312ft) long and is covered in art from some of the city’s most notable street artists. While some pieces have remained over time, many others get regularly painted over so there is always something new to check out.

Planning tip: You’ll want to visit during the daytime, ideally on a nice day, to get some great shots of the artwork (and keep your camera dry!). Consider an early start before it gets too busy.

2. People Watch in the Historic St Lawrence Market

St Lawrence Market is an iconic institution in Toronto. Open since 1803, it remains an important part of the city over 220 years later. The market holds a number of different retail businesses, specialty item stores, an exhibition space, plus a weekly antique market and farmers market that are always a huge hit. Locals and tourists alike come here to shop, but you don’t need to spend money to enjoy the atmosphere of St Lawrence Market. It’s fun to browse, people watch, and experience a little bit of Toronto’s history in what is considered to be one of the world’s greatest markets.

Planning tip: St Lawrence Market is covered, making it a great free indoor activity in Toronto on a rainy day. The farmers’ market takes place on Saturday, and the antique market takes place on Sunday, so plan your visit accordingly based on your interests.

3. Catch the Action at Nathan Phillips Square

Considered to be the heart of Toronto, Nathan Phillips Sq is probably best known by visitors as the home of the Toronto Sign – the big block letters that every visitor (and some locals!) loves to take photos with. In addition to the iconic sign, the plaza also hosts a number of special events. From the New Year’s Eve party to Remembrance Day celebrations, concerts, and more, there’s often something going on in this part of the city, so be sure to stop by and check it out.

Planning tip: The Toronto sign is best seen at night when it is lit up and colorful.

4. Visit the Animals at High Park

Visitors looking for free outdoor activities in Toronto should head to High Park. As the largest public park in the city, it’s a great spot to escape in search of nature. There are walking trails, play parks for children, a waterfront space, and the High Park Zoo, which is free to visit from 9 am–5 pm throughout the week. The zoo is home to a variety of animals including bison, capybaras, llamas, peacocks, and more.

Planning tip: High Park is considered to be the best place to see cherry blossoms in Toronto, so be sure to stop by if you are visiting in the spring.

5. Soak up the Sunshine at Toronto’s Beaches

Beaches may not be what comes to mind when you think of Toronto, but many of the city’s waterfront parks do have sand and pebble beaches where visitors and locals can relax to sunbathe, swim, or even play beach volleyball. The official beach season runs between June and September, which is when lifeguards are on duty, but beaches can be visited year-round.

Planning tip: Consider taking a ferry to one of Toronto’s islands for beautiful views of the city during your beach day.

6. Browse Through Toronto’s Free Museums and Historical Sites

As of May 2022, the city of Toronto made general admission to 10 history museums and sites across the city free for visitors. These include top picks like Colborne Lodge, Fort York National Historic Site, Gibson House Museum, and more. The initiative aims to provide cultural history access to all, with a specific focus on re-evaluating the exhibits from a position of anti-racism.

Planning tip: While major museums in Toronto usually charge an entry fee, they offer free admission during specific hours, such as the Royal Ontario Museum’s free general admission on the third Tuesday of every month from 5:30–8:30 pm.

7. Window Shop in the Distillery District

Thanks to its Victorian buildings, Toronto’s Distillery District is a national historic site. Once a whisky distillery founded in 1832, it is now regarded as a top arts, culture, and entertainment destination not only in Toronto but throughout Canada.

In this charming district, you won’t find any chain businesses. Instead, it features one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, theaters, and more. Even if you don’t plan on making a purchase, browsing through the distinct galleries and businesses located in these picturesque Victorian buildings is a delightful experience.

Planning tip: Explore Toronto’s Distillery District, especially during the annual Winter Village, which transforms the area into a festive market. While some specific times do require ticket purchases, admission is free during the majority of the winter season.