Toronto is the city in which we live, do business and play. Over the years we've seen Toronto and the GTA grow with us. Today the cities have the best in entertainment, culture and beautiful landscapes that can be enjoyed year round. Regardless of whether you live here or you are out of town visitors, we've compiled the best of what to see and what to do in Toronto and the GTA.
Things To Do In Toronto and the GTA
Posted on July 30, 2020
Things you don't want to miss in Toronto:
Spring and Summer in Toronto are awesome! As the weather gets warmer and the sun stays out longer, our appreciation for our beautiful city grows. Toronto is one of the most lively cities in the world, let's make the best of it with a few of these fun Toronto activities:
Barbecue in a park - If you haven't done this at least once, you're missing out. Take advantage of the BBQ grill in Toronto parks while you can; they're unfortunately a dying breed. Just to name a few, you can enjoy delicious steak under the sun at Toronto Island, Cherry Beach and Centennial Park.
Check out street festivals - Nothing says Toronto culture quite like street festivals. Starting as early as spring, our city will be busting out the best food trucks and live music. There's too many to count, but some of our favorites are Taste of Little Italy, Waterfront Festival, Salsa on st. Claire and Caribana.
Get entertained- No matter where your interests lie, whether that's getting acquainted with furry friends at the Toronto Zoo, catching a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre or expanding your horizons at the Royal Ontario Museum, there is really no reason to be bored in our adventure of a city.
There you have it, these are some of our favorites, but there is definitely a lot more to choose from.
Tell us what Toronto activities and events your most looking forward to- we'd love to hear it!
Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto
If you're visiting Toronto for the first time, or even if you're looking to explore your city even further, here's a list of the top attractions that you don't want to miss.
CN TowerThe CN Tower is the most recognized attraction within Toronto, and for good reason too. As the tallest free standing building in North America, it offers a breathtaking view once you've reached the top. You can also take the opportunity to circle the tower's main pod-completely hands free at 1168ft above ground. Or hey, feel free to dine at their restaurant with a spectacular city view instead.Hockey Hall of FameIt doesn't get more Canadian than this, eh? Check out the most iconic Hockey artifacts, browse the game's best players and teams and then shoot a puck yourself in a game. Before you leave, don't forget to snap a picture of you and the legendary Stanley Cup for keepsake.
If you're visiting Toronto for the first time, or even if you're looking to explore your city even further, here's a list of the top attractions that you don't want to miss.
CN TowerThe CN Tower is the most recognized attraction within Toronto, and for good reason too. As the tallest free standing building in North America, it offers a breathtaking view once you've reached the top. You can also take the opportunity to circle the tower's main pod-completely hands free at 1168ft above ground. Or hey, feel free to dine at their restaurant with a spectacular city view instead.Hockey Hall of FameIt doesn't get more Canadian than this, eh? Check out the most iconic Hockey artifacts, browse the game's best players and teams and then shoot a puck yourself in a game. Before you leave, don't forget to snap a picture of you and the legendary Stanley Cup for keepsake.
Toronto Eaton Centre
If you prefer to shop till you drop, the Toronto Eaton Centre has you covered with over 200 stores at your leisure. Once you leave the mall, you'll be pleasantly surprised to see the surrounding streets have a variety of brand name and boutique shops to choose from.
Yorkville
If you're looking for high end shopping, great food and lots of celebrity shopping, Yorkville is the place to be. With designer and boutique stores lining the street, you'll have a true city shopping experience.
The Beaches
Known as the Toronto Beaches, this area is full of sandy beaches, beautiful boardwalks, vibrant shops
and food trucks. The perfect place to spend a mellow and relaxing afternoon by the water.
Queens Quay
Come here to hop on a boat tour to enjoy a scenic view or you can grab a Ferry to the Toronto Islands. You'll also get a chance to shop and dine on truly waterfront properties.
Experience Culture and History in Toronto
The Distillery District
Never a dull moment, you can shop boutiques, browse art galleries and eat at some of the finest restaurants all while drinking an Ontario produced spirit. The area is sure to attract a crowd with its lively atmosphere.
Chinatown
Bordering Kensington Market (another Toronto gem), Chinatown is a hub for culture and festivity. You'll find sidewalks full of street side shops and a blend of vintage and funky merchandise. The food is plenty and you can find tastes as oriental as you would like.
St. Lawrence Market
National Geographic has ranked the St. Lawrence Market as the world's best food market. Need we say more?
AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario)
Located in downtown Toronto in the Grange Park district, you have the opportunity to see over 80,000 beautiful pieces of art. You'll be fascinated to know that the pieces are aged from the 1st century until today.
Family Friendly and Informative Places to See in Toronto
ROM (Royal Ontario Museum)
As Canada's largest museum, you'll find fascinating history and culture from around the world that is great for the whole family.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
With over 14,000 water inhabitants, the aquarium offers an educational and exciting experience. Visitors walk through the tunnel which is lined with glass that separates the beautiful aquarium from guests, making for an unforgettable experience.
Casa Loma
Equipped with secret doors and an underground tunnel, this castle is North America's only full sized castle. Dating back to 1914, this attraction is beautifully kept.
Ontario Science Centre
A great way to spend a day off, the Ontario Science Centre offer hundreds of interactive displays, a playground for children, a theatre and a planetarium. It's a great way to expand your mind while enjoying the fun atmosphere and engaging exhibits.
Canada's Wonderland
Catch all of the thrills at Canada's Wonderland, a 330-acre amusement park located in Vaughan. Experience everything from Canada's fastest roller coaster- Leviathan, Splash Works, KidZville to even a Dinosaur park. Swing by on special occasions like Canada Day for spectacular fireworks.
Toronto Zoo
If you're looking to catch a glimpse of some of your favourite animals in an exciting environment, Toronto Zoo is the place to go. They'll be starting 2015 off with with a brand new Panda Bear exhibit, adding to their collection of over 5,000 animals. You'll also enjoy walking trails, Discovery Zone and rides.
Playdium
Located in Mississauga, Playdium offers over 200 rides, attractions and simulators with something to entertain every age group. When you're in an adventurous mood you'll find that Playdium has everything from arcade games, bungee trampolines, go-carts to mini-golf.
Toronto Festivals:
The summer of 2016 in Toronto is promising to entertain people of all ages. With festivals taking place across the city and throughout the spring, summer and fall months, you have lots of choices. The array of food trucks, music and culture are bound to entertain.
Here are just some of the popular festivals you'll want to catch:
Toronto Jazz Festival
Redpath Waterfront Festival Toronto
Pride Toronto Festival
Digital Dreams Festival
Summerlicious
Salsa on St. Clair
Caribbean Carnival
Taste of the Danforth
Redpath Waterfront Festival Toronto
Pride Toronto Festival
Digital Dreams Festival
Summerlicious
Salsa on St. Clair
Caribbean Carnival
Taste of the Danforth