Things to do in Toronto

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A city skyline with modern buildings and a prominent tower.
A city skyline with a prominent tower and a stadium.
A frozen ice skating rink in front of a historic building with a clock tower.
A city street with a theater, cars, and pedestrians.
A busy urban street with pedestrians, cyclists, and a delivery truck.

Toronto Attractions

Visitors to Toronto frequently wonder why the city is sometimes called Hogtown by local residents as well as those who visit often. The nickname derived from Toronto's past as an agricultural center that routinely processed an abundant amount of livestock.

At one time in Toronto's history, the city's William Davies Company was the biggest pork processor in the entire British Empire. Another of Toronto's historical nicknames is the Queen City.

Many modern visitors and residents of the city of Toronto refer to it as Hollywood North because of its heavy involvement in the film industry. Toronto's cityscape is dominated by high rises, so urban aficionados will love participating in Toronto excursions throughout the city's business and downtown districts. The Old City of Toronto is a popular tourist destination and contains many historical landmarks. The Toronto Public Library is also in this district.

Although you can get around Toronto's main neighborhoods without a map, having one on hand makes navigating the city streets much easier, particularly if you plan on adventuring in the various eclectic neighborhoods in the city. As guests of the largest city in Canada, you won’t run out of entertainment options for yourself and for your travel companions.

Things to do in Toronto include exploring the city's many well-kept public parks, visiting the Toronto Zoo, the Ontario Science Centre, shopping in the Yorkville neighborhood, and stopping by the Eaton Centre, which is the largest of the tourist attractions in Toronto. Founded in the 19th century, this Toronto shopping mall receives an average of one million visitors a week. The Canadian National Exhibition, which takes place annually every August, is the largest fair in Canada and attended by over 5 million people. Toronto also hosts a Caribbean fair every summer.

If you are seeking information about must see Toronto attractions, Toronto tours, top dining spots and drinking places, as well as the best local Toronto hotels, browse Expedia for the latest deals and specials. We can also help you book the Toronto activities that best suit you and your companions during your Canada visit.

Things to do



Toronto must see attractions

1. Rogers Centre

The Rogers Centre is a multipurpose stadium located in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District. Visit the stadium to watch baseball and football teams in action, to go behind-the-scenes on a stadium tour and to enjoy concerts and family shows. Opened in 1989 as the SkyDome, it became the Rogers Centre in 2005.
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A city skyline with a large stadium and a tall skyscraper.

2. CN Tower

When the CN Tower opened in 1976 it was the world’s tallest free-standing structure. Today, the 1,815-foot (553-meter) communications tower and lookout is Toronto’s most iconic landmark and a very popular attraction. Glass-fronted, high-speed elevators transport you to a series of observation decks and panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario.
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A city skyline with a prominent tower and a stadium by the waterfront.

3. Canada's Wonderland

Ride the fastest roller coaster in the country, float down a lazy river, learn about dinosaurs and race your kids in Canada’s Wonderland.
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A roller coaster with red tracks and yellow supports.

4. CF Toronto Eaton Centre

Shop till you drop at Toronto Eaton Centre, a massive multi-level indoor shopping mall that spans two downtown city blocks. The space is filled with more than 230 retailers and restaurants, including high street and high-end stores.
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A multi-level shopping mall with high ceilings and glass railings.

5. Vaughan Mills Mall

Search through all of your favorite stores to find the garments and accessories you love at Vaughan Mills Mall. Peruse top-of-the-line sports equipment or have a great family outing at the bowling alley.
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A shopping plaza with a blue building, a purple building, and a sign for Legoland Discovery Center.

6. Toronto Zoo

Spread across 710 acres (287 hectares), Toronto Zoo is the biggest zoo in Canada; it attracts around 1.3 million visitors yearly. In the first animal park in North America with a permanent nutritionist, the 5,000 animals that occupy the zoo’s spacious habitats have always received the best care.
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The entrance to the Toronto Zoo with a sign, green gates, and visitors.

What to do in Toronto

Free Things to Do in Toronto

A vacation in Toronto doesn't have to hurt your hip pocket. You can leave your wallet at home if you check out:

Design Exchange - Round up the entire family and set out on an intriguing adventure through history with each other.

401 Richmond - Plan a visit and gain a better understanding of the artistic and cultural side of the region.

Toronto City Hall - Swing by this local landmark and be inspired by its unique design.

Osgoode Hall - If you're interested in the days of old, this is one attraction you ought not to miss.

Nathan Phillips Square - This is a lively place where you can soak in the ambiance and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Grenadier Pond - Slow things down and enjoy some time out near the water.

Toronto-Dominion Centre - Dig out your guidebook and find out why this place deserves a spot on your must-see list.

Church of the Holy Trinity - Work on your spiritual side or simply savor the tranquil ambiance at this religious site.

Hanlan's Point Beach - Breathe in the ocean air and watch the waves splashing against the shore at this stunning coastal spot.

Martin Goodman Trail - Let the natural beauty restore your mind.

Cloud Forest Conservatory - Work on your green thumb and admire the many and varied plants on display.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Toronto? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Stay near popular Toronto attractions

Where to stay in Toronto

Find the best Toronto areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Toronto
Learn more about Toronto

Downtown Toronto

Known for its must-see aquarium and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Toronto. Check out top attractions like CF Toronto Eaton Centre and Scotiabank Arena, and jump on the metro at Dundas St West at Yonge St Stop or Dundas Station to see more of the city.

Yorkville

If you're spending time in Yorkville, you might enjoy attractions like Toronto Public Library and Downtown Yonge. You might also enjoy the neighborhood's ample dining options before hopping on the metro at Bay Station to see more of the city.

Toronto Entertainment District

Travelers choose Toronto Entertainment District for its popular aquarium. Hop aboard the metro at Spadina Ave at Bremner Blvd North Side Stop or Spadina Ave at Front St West North Side Stop and check out top sights like Rogers Centre.

Kensington Market

Noted for its shopping and restaurants, there's plenty to explore in Kensington Market. Top attractions like Spadina Avenue Shopping District and The Great Hall - A Vintage Venue are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Spadina Ave at Nassau St South Side Stop or Spadina Ave at Dundas St West North Side Stop to see more of the city.

West Queen West

Noted for its art galleries and restaurants, there's plenty to explore in West Queen West. Top attractions like Ossington Avenue and Arraymusic are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Queen St West at Shaw St Stop or Queen St West at Ossington Ave Stop to see more of the city.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Toronto

Frequently asked questions

Is Toronto worth visiting?
Toronto offers a unique blend of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or local culinary flavors, there's a lot you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Toronto?
When you've checked off leading attractions like CN Tower and The Distillery Historic District, spend some time discovering Toronto's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Toronto?
The top tourist attraction in Toronto is CN Tower, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Toronto?
Three days in Toronto is plenty of time to visit the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for two days on average. CN Tower, The Distillery Historic District and Royal Ontario Museum are highly rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Mississauga.
Is Toronto a walkable city?
That depends on what you plan to do and see in Toronto. Several top sights, like CN Tower and The Distillery Historic District, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Toronto's best neighborhoods, Downtown Toronto is 0.4 miles away from downtown, while Bay Street Corridor is 1 mile away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Toronto with kids?
What to do in Toronto for adults?
Medieval Times and Scotiabank Pond are just a couple of the things to do in Toronto. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Toronto?
In Toronto, Yonge-Dundas Square is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Toronto.

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