Toronto abounds in popular landmarks, famous tourist attractions, exciting events and enticing getaways. You can walk down few blocks in any part of the city and notice billboards on upcoming events or lobbyists handing out pamphlets for popular tourist attractions. However, it is worth noting that this diverse city has much more to offer than just postcard-worthy images.
Photo by: Martin St-Amant
Visit Toronto and browse through my list of the top 10 unique experiences in the city that are sure to make your visit more colourful and truly memorable.
Photo by: Wladyslaw
Lie face down or tap dance on the glass floor of CN Tower
The glass floor of CN Tower hangs 342 meters (1,122.0 ft) above Toronto’s street level. Peeping straight down from this height through a transparent floor can certainly give you butterflies in your belly. Do not grab whatever you can spot around you with the fear of crashing through the floor — it can withstand the weight of 14 fully-grown hippos!
Say cheers to the Steam Whistle Brewery
Located at the foot of the CN Tower, the Steam Whistle Brewery is set up in one of Toronto’s historic buildings, The Roundhouse. The brewery offers tours and gives you the opportunity to taste the signature pilsner for free.
Visit the diverse neighbourhoods
The presence of various ethnic communities in Toronto truly makes it the “City of Neighbourhoods.” Toronto is home to approximately 250 neighbourhoods that were established by immigrants over the course of time. The traditional ethnic zones and districts have retained their historical heritage and offer a unique taste of their community. Visit the local stores and restaurants in Corso Italia, Chinatown, Greektown, Little India, Koreatown, Jewish District and other fascinating culture communities.
Drool over the delicacies at St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is situated in a building that was originally built as the first city hall of Toronto in 1844. The food market started springing up around the hall in the early 1900s and presently it is considered as one of the best food markets in the world. You can relish local and imported food, including fresh seafood and a variety of cheeses. On the north side across Front Street, a plain brick building opens its doors every Saturday morning to a 200-year-old farmer’s market. You can buy quality homemade jams and sauces that are produced in the farms situated in the north of Toronto.
Ride a bike on Toronto Island
Toronto Islands presents the perfect getaway from the mundane city life. This quaint island community contains refreshing trails, lovely beaches, and thrilling amusement parks. Take a ferry ride across the lake to reach this blissful spot. You can carry your bicycle on board, or, if you do not have one, you can hire a suitable bike on the island. They also offer 4-seater bikes for groups or families. So pedal at your own pace to explore the capturing surroundings and appreciate the view of the Toronto skyline.
Travel aboard Toronto’s local streetcars
Toronto has a network of eleven streetcar routes that are operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). It is the largest streetcar system in the Americas and most parts of the network date back to the 19th century. Take a ride on these classic-style streetcars and check out the sights as you pass through the streets of Toronto.
Get inspired with Contemporary Canadian Art
The contemporary art galleries of Toronto are worth a visit if you carry a creative itch. Begin your awe-inspiring journey at the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA) on Queen Street West. It is a not-for-profit contemporary art gallery that highlights and showcases contemporary art of Canadian and international artists. The museum maintains a pay-what-you-can entry charge and the exhibitions change monthly. After visiting MOCCA, head to the Edward Day gallery next door and other galleries down Queen Street West and Ossington Street.
Immerse in the beauty and diversity of High Park
High Park is the perfect place for groups, families, couples, solo wanderers… or just anyone! It is the biggest and most diverse park in Toronto that includes a zoo, huge playgrounds for kids, trails, sport facilities, picnic areas, restaurants, hot dog vendors and much more. Above all, you can enjoy it for free. During summer, take a ride on the park’s trackless train that winds its way through 399 acres of scenic beauty.
Tour the majestic Casa Loma
Casa Loma is Toronto’s charming castle on top of the hill. Constructed in a period of three years from 1911 to 1914, it was the dream home of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt. Currently, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and a historic landmark in Toronto. Step back in time as you explore the rooms, hallways and secret passageways of the castle with self-guided audio tours. Moreover, the castle is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is perfect for a pleasing stroll.
Explore the PATH
The PATH is the largest underground shopping complex in the world. Running between Toronto’s downtown core and business district, the complex extends over an impressive stretch of 27 kilometers. Try not to get lost in the huge network of tunnels (although you are certain to get lost). If you do get lost, there are direction arrows and maps everywhere in the PATH that can help you find your way.
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This is a sponsored guest post contributed by Vinay Shingornikar. A dedicated writer and explorer, Vinay has shared several travel-related articles and tips on popular online publications. Currently, he represents Flight Network, which ranks among Canada’s top online travel agencies. Having cemented partnerships with leading airlines, Flight Network enables you to book cheap flights for domestic and International destinations from the United States to Australia and anywhere in between!
Aww my home town! The only thing I would suggest, as a foodie, is skip St.Lawrence Market as it´s more of an upscale market and head to Kensington market off downtown Chinatown (yes we have)which has great ethnic food and a fantastic history.
Ayngelina recently posted..Sound less like a gringo using Ecuadorian slang
Thanks for the tip, Ayngelina! I’ve only been to Toronto once, and it was way back in seventh grade. I really need to make it back there again sometime soon.
Funny, I lived in Toronto for over 10 years, and it’s amazing how many of these things I didn’t do! There is a lot to experience there.
I feel like we’re all guilty of not ever exploring the places where we live! You’re definitely not alone.
Never been! But someday, someday…I’ll make it to Taranta.
Candice recently posted..Candice Does…Photography
I’ve been once… but I don’t remember much about it, other than laying down on the glass floor of the CN Tower. It was seventh grade. It was a bus trip to Toronto and Niagara Falls. And I was much more concerned with my friends and “boyfriend” than the travel itself! Pity, really. But that just means I need to go back soon!
Great suggestions! I spent a few days in Toronto but didn’t check out most of these places. I’ll have to stop by on my next visit.
LeslieTravel recently posted..Skiing diary- A New Yorker rediscovers his Utah roots
What a coincidence, I’m in Toronto now
Ryan is originally from a city only 2 hours from here.
We did the CN Tower and Casa Loma long time ago. Will add ROM to the list. I like that museum.
Dina recently posted..Ballsy Kangaroo
A coincidence, indeed! I hope you’re enjoying Toronto!
Would love to visit Toronto too and experienced the great activities there. I’m looking forward to be at the High Park with family. A great place where we can have most probably a whole day bonding.
Samantha Dermot recently posted..Teeth Grinding In Children
I love the glass of the CN tower. It definitely separates the folks who are afraid of heights but come along anyway and we who are not.