Growing up in Vancouver, I’ve always had this steadfast sense of rivalry whenever anyone mentioned Toronto… but maturing is realizing you can enjoy both. After all, Toronto is a dynamic city with plenty to see and (most importantly) eat.

Is it better than Vancouver? Of course not, how dare you.

But it IS a vibrant metropolis filled with options for every kind of visitor, whether you want to dine your way through the cuisines of the world, visit a unique museum, or ooh and ahh your way through a fairytale castle, library or miniature wonderland.

I’ve visited many times, always in the context of seeing friends, so I’ve gotten a good mix over the years of both touristy vs. local Toronto (plus Toronto during the holidays!), and I’m beyond excited to share this list with you today – filled with activities I’ve personally enjoyed and also quirkier items that have been on my Toronto to do list for years.

So, read on for a list of fun and unique things to do in Toronto! I hope you find it helpful.

1. Marvel at the CN Tower

We of course have to start with a big one – the most iconic symbol of Toronto, the CN Tower, once the tallest freestanding structure on the planet. 

Today, it continues to be home to the world’s tallest wine cellar, and the world’s tallest metal staircase (climbable only during two annual charity events, in case you’re wondering).

Now, no trip to Toronto is complete without a look at this epic landmark, which is easy since you can see it from everywhere… but as for whether or not it’s worth going up, I say it depends on your time, budget & visibility conditions. I’ve been up there a handful of times, and while the view is cool when the weather is nice, I wouldn’t necessarily rank it as a Toronto must-do, especially given its price point. That money could be better off spent on drinks at one of the city’s many rooftop bars!

NOTE: If you pay for a prix fixe menu at the 360 Restaurant, you can access the observation platforms for free! Might be better value if you’re looking to splurge on a meal.

Or for a more thrilling visit, you can try their SkyWalk experience which is (indeed) as terrifying as it sounds.

2. Wander around Kensington Market 

As for fun things to do in Toronto, one of my personal favourites is a visit to Kensington Market, a bohemian neighborhood filled with street art, vintage shops, and plenty of great finds.

Beyond shopping though, one of the most enticing wonders of Kensington Market is its abundance of tasty eats.

Here are some of my favourites:

• Rasta Pasta for their Jamaican-Italian fusion (their dumplings are SO good) 
• Patty King for affordable beef patties

If I have one piece of advice for you, it’s to come here hungry.

Listen, if you’re even the slightest fan of hockey, Toronto’s Hockey Hall of Fame is a must visit.

At $25 per person, it’s one of the more reasonably priced attractions in Toronto, especially when you consider that entry includes all of the following…

• Interactive games where you can test your hockey skills 
• A 3D movie made especially for the attraction
• Hundreds of pieces of hockey history including the gold medal winning stick puck and net from the 2010 Olympics Men’s hockey game 
• A close look at the Stanley cup and many other shiny trophies 

Honestly the room housing the Stanley Cup is one of the most ornate rooms I’ve ever seen in Canada.

4. Eat your way through St Lawrence Market 

Known for its abundance of droolworthy options, St. Lawrence Market is a Toronto institution that has been serving and feeding Torontonians for over 100 years.

The building itself has a bit of a unique history, as it used to be the city’s first city hall and jailhouse, constructed in 1845 by architect Henry Bowyer Lane… but when Toronto’s city hall was moved to what’s now called Old City Hall, it was converted into an indoor market and has remained that way to this day!

Housed in a two-storey building, you’ll find mostly food vendors on the upper level and crafts and antiques below, with tons to ogle, along with mezzanine seating on three sides so you can sit and enjoy your haul. Art exhibitions can also be found in the former Council Chambers, with special food making classes too if you’re looking for something more hands on.

On that note, if you want to feel especially local, you can head here for some ingredients to whip up a fresh and tasty meal at home. I’ve heard glorious things about the Tri Sauce at St. Lawrence Pizza & Pasta, which is literally a vat of pesto, alfredo and marinara sauce tossed together.

… I’m sure you’re at least a little intrigued.

5. Go see a fountain dedicated to dogs 

Okay, now onto the REALLY fun stuff. The Berczy Park Dog Fountain is one of my personal favourite places in Toronto.

Sure, there’s not much to do there besides stare at annoyingly adorable sculptures of dogs, but if you’re into quirky and delightful spots, this is one to put on the list… especially because loads of people just walk past.

We owe this whimsical wonder to a park re-design between 2015-2017, which included the installation of this two-tiered fountain featuring 27 different dog breeds, all gazing at a golden bone on top of the fountain as they gleefully spurt water from their mouths. There’s also one cat, which (in true feline fashion) doesn’t spit water and instead looks off towards a sculpture of birds.

Go in the winter and they’re even decked out in scarves. I kid you not. Get ready to ‘aww’ your face off.

6. Explore the Distillery District

Another fun area to see while frolicking around Toronto is the Distillery District.

This historic neighbourhood has a distinctly different vibe to the glassy skyscrapers that surround it… thanks to its colourful history as the original site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, one of the largest distilleries in the world at its peak.

Operating from 1832 until the 1990s (with a merger along the way), this distillery was famous for its whiskey and variety of spirits, along with wild deaths and tax evasion. Their Wikipedia here is a fun ride, if you’re curious.

In any case, after the distillery ceased operations, the area fell into disrepair, serving briefly as a go-to filming location until the 2000s when it was revitalized into a pedestrian-only village filled with shops, cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and theaters. These days, visitors will see that the historic buildings are well-preserved, with cobblestone streets ideal for a charming wander, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

You can also join a walking tour if you want to learn more about the history of the area from a local guide.

NOTE: This neighbourhood is where the main Toronto Christmas Market is held every year!

7. Head to Nathan Phillips Square

As far as “iconic” spots go in Toronto, there are few as well-known as Nathan Phillips Square, a prominent public square in downtown Toronto named after Nathan Phillips, who was the city’s mayor from 1955 to 1962.

If you’ve seen any photos or videos from Toronto, odds are you’ve seen this square.

Dominated by the iconic Toronto City Hall (designed by architect Viljo Revell), which features a striking modernist design, there are also various public art installations scattered throughout the square, including the famous “Three-Way Piece No. 2: Archer” sculpture by Henry Moore – and the famous TORONTO sign of Instagram fame!

Of course, the square is more than just a photo opp – it also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and cultural celebrations. In the winter months, the square is even transformed into a skating rink, perfect if you’re looking for an ultra Canadian activity.

For magical things to do in Toronto (that feels worlds away from the big city), I can highly recommend Casa Loma – a majestic castle-like mansion filled with secret passages and enchanting gardens.

It’s also fairly famous for its starring role in many productions over the years, including Scott Pilgrim and many of the X-Men movies.

Casa Loma was constructed between 1911 and 1914 by Sir Henry Pellatt, a prominent Canadian financier, industrialist, and military officer. Pellatt was inspired by the grandeur of European castles and wanted to create his own lavish residence in Toronto, so as any old man with resources would, he went ahead and did it!

The mansion was designed by architect E.J. Lennox and built in the Gothic Revival style, featuring towers, turrets, secret passages, and luxurious interiors. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, with tons of different activities available including even an escape room.

I personally visited for their gorgeous holiday displays, and was shocked by how beautiful the property was – I can’t wait to go back sometime during the regular season to get a good look at the house. Sorry – I can’t help it that I’m nosy.

9. Enjoy a night out on Ossington Ave

Ask some Toronto locals about their favourite places to eat and go out, and invariably someone will bring up the much beloved Ossington Strip.

This trendy hotspot is packed with delicious restaurants and fun bars to pillage. If you’re looking for somewhere in Toronto to munch and booze to oblivion, this is the place.

If you’re having trouble deciding where to go, I can definitely vouch for Mamakas, known for their elevated Aegan cuisine. Their food is absolutely delicious (although a little on the pricier side).

Known by most impatient locals simply as the “ROM”, the Royal Ontario Museum is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history housed in the city’s most striking building.

Founded in 1912, the ROM is now considered among the world’s leading museums of natural history and world cultures. Its original purpose was to showcase the collections of the Ontario government and the University of Toronto, but over the years, it has expanded significantly, both in terms of its collections and its physical space.

Today, their collections span a wide range of disciplines, including natural history, world cultures, art, and archaeology. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of galleries and exhibitions, including prominent displays like the Bat Cave (home to 20 bat specimens and 800+ models), the James and Louise Temerty Galleries of the Age of Dinosaurs, the Gallery of China, and the Teck Suite of Galleries: Earth’s Treasures.

If you’re looking for something fun to do in Toronto when it rains, this is a great bet!

11. Go for a walk along the Harbourfront

Now, when you’re surrounded by the mega-tall skyscrapers of Toronto’s downtown core, it can be easy to forget that you’re literally right next to a gigantic lake.

… Luckily, a walk along Toronto’s Harbourfront can help with that!

This scenic slice of Toronto’s downtown is too often overlooked in favour of the glassy and bustling core, with a number of gorgeous parks, a beach and lots of beautiful architecture. Make sure you check out the Toronto Music Garden which was inspired by Bach’s Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello, Sugar Beach with pink umbrellas everywhere and the Harbourfront Centre cultural hub.

A stroll here is definitely (in my opinion) a Toronto must-do.

12. Visit an All-You-Can Play Arcade 

If you’re looking for rainy day friendly activities in Toronto, or just looking for plain fun things to do, I can highly recommend a visit to FreePlay Toronto.

This unique arcade bar allows you to unlock free reign at dozens of arcade and console games for only $5 entry and no real pressure to buy food or drinks. They have everything here, from classics like Pacman and Street Fighter to addictively competitive games like mini basketball throws.

… Just thinking about it is making me itch for another go. Honestly, this is a great way to spend a few hours and a very fun Toronto activity to add to your itinerary.

13. Get a random book at the Bibliomat

For book lovers, one of the top things to do in Toronto is no doubt a visit to the Monkey’s Paw, a quirky bookstore known for its unique selection of books and its fun Bibliomat (book vending machine) which perches prettily at the back of the shop.

When you choose your book, it’s spat out in a hilariously aggressive manner, and is just overall a fun way to secure your next read. Be sure to check it out if you’re in the area!

“Little Canada” is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions, and for good reason – it’s absurdly adorable.

As its name might indicate, this tourist spot is known for its mini intricate displays of Canada’s most beloved landmarks. Spread out over 45,000 square feet are mini versions of Niagara Falls, Toronto, Quebec, and the East Coast, all built to a 1:87 scale.

Along with the adorable miniature scenes (complete with a red moose called Maurice to find all over the place) you can even get yourself turned into a tiny figurine to either leave at Little Canada to be inserted into a scene or take home in your own little scene from the gift shop.

I admit, I still haven’t had a chance to see this Toronto attraction for myself, but if there’s one thing I love, it’s a delightful miniature… so it’s safe to say I’ll be headed here on my next trip!

15. Visit the most beautiful library 

The Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library is a renowned research library located at the University of Toronto, housing one of the largest collections of rare books and manuscripts in North America.

The library is particularly known for its specialized collections in areas such as Canadiana, English literature, Shakespeare, theology, natural history, and exploration. It also houses the Robertson Davies Collection, the largest collection of Canadian author Robertson Davies’ personal papers and manuscripts.

Beyond what it has inside though, the library is also aesthetically a stunner, a fact that you can confirm for yourself through a visit! To see the inside, there are often special exhibitions on and if you get a day pass then you can even request to view some of the rare books in a reading room.

NOTE: If you’re really into libraries (no shame in that!), the new Toronto Reference Library building looks just like the TVA headquarters from Loki… oh and be sure to visit the secret Sherlock Holmes Room while you’re there.

16. Check out a museum dedicated to shoes

Book tickets here

Oh yes. This exists. Another fun thing to do in Toronto (if you’re a nerd addicted to quirky museums like me) is a visit to the Bata Shoe Museum.

This museum is (true to its name) dedicated to shoes from across centuries and places, with more footwear to admire than you ever thought possible. Highlights of the collection include silk-satin shoes once worn by Queen Victoria, French chestnut-crushing clogs (for when a Nutcracker just won’t do!) and traditional shoe styles from all around the world.

And while I still haven’t gotten a chance to visit this museum yet (I blame the reluctance of my travel buddies), this is definitely one I’d love to cross off my Toronto bucket list ASAP.

17. See the gorgeous Aga Khan Museum

Another museum on my ‘must see for next time’ list is the Aga Khan Museum, which houses Islamic art and artifacts in one of Toronto’s most stunning contemporary buildings.

Here, visitors can explore galleries dedicated to Islamic art, including ceramics, textiles, manuscripts, metalwork, and architectural elements. The collection spans over a thousand years of history, offering insights into the richness and diversity of Muslim cultures.

Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Aga Khan Museum building itself is a work of art. Its modernist design incorporates elements of Islamic architecture, such as geometric patterns and light-filled spaces. The museum is also surrounded by landscaped gardens featuring impressive fountains and cherry blossom trees that look amazing in spring.

Along with the museum, gardens and gift shop there’s also an excellent restaurant on the site, called Diwan, which offers a menu inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.

17. Eat as much as humanly possible

I get it – this is a vague suggestion, but trust me when I say that one of the highlights of visiting Toronto is honestly going out to eat and enjoy the city’s vibrant foodie culture.

In addition to the spots I’ve mentioned above, a few other places I’ve enjoyed eating at are…

• Piano Piano downtown: Get a table downstairs because they have a fun carousel bar!
• PAI: Amazing (and relatively affordable) Thai food
• Papi Chulo’s Mexicana: Super delicious tacos (and very fun festive decor)

18. Try some unique coffees

In need of fun things to do in Toronto for coffee lovers? Fret not – this city is nothing if not overly driven and overly caffeinated.

The good news is, Toronto’s cafe culture has a lot of unique gems to offer if you ever tire of your standard Americanos and lattes.

For instance, you can…

• Enjoy gorgeous cloud lattes from Plearn 
• Cozy up in a poop cafe (Yikes. Never thought I’d say those words, but here we are)

(The bad news is of course that you might end up in a poop cafe in the name of whimsical exploration)

19. Enjoy some retail therapy

As the largest city in Canada, Toronto has no shortage of places to shop. One area I can highly recommend for this is Queen Street West, known for its abundance of on-trend boutiques with plenty of representation from independent retailers.

More into thrifting? Toronto has loads of options on that front too. Some popular places include…

• Black Market: where everything is $10 (yes, in this economy!!)
• Common Sort: There are actually three different locations throughout the city to choose from (or visit them all)
• Courage My Love: A funky shop at Kensington Market with a $5 rack at the entrance
• Double Take: For vintage clothes, houseware and furniture

20. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario

Book tickets here

And for art lovers, another Toronto must-do is the Art Gallery of Ontario, home to a vast collection of Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven.

Originally founded in 1900 as the Art Museum of Toronto, it has since grown into a world-class institution. Today, the AGO’s collection spans centuries and includes over 90,000 works of art, representing a diverse range of artistic styles, movements, and cultures. Like many of the Toronto museums I’ve mentioned, the building itself is also pretty spectacular!

Highlights here include the collections of European masterpieces, Canadian art, Indigenous art, African art, contemporary art, photography, prints, and sculptures. Notable artists represented in the collection include Rembrandt, Monet, van Gogh, Picasso, Thomson, Carr, and Hockney, among many others… so yes, definitely a great stop for art lovers!

21. Visit the world’s last double decker theatre

As far as dreamy places to visit in downtown Toronto go, few can match the vibes of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre.

This spot is known as the last double decker theatre in the world, meaning two separate theatres were built on top of each other. The Elgin Theatre on the lower level is decked in regal reds and golds while the Winter Garden Theatre above has been made to look like a literal indoor garden.

Over the years both theatres were essentially abandoned, but then rescued and restored so that audiences can once again enjoy them. Of course, the only way to guarantee a look inside is to book tickets to a show here, which I haven’t had a chance to do yet. Suffice to say, it’s on my Toronto bucket list!

22. Visit a marvellous Hindu temple

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple in Toronto is a prominent Hindu place of worship and cultural center located in Etobicoke, a suburb to the northwest of the city near the airport.

Part of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Hindu organization known for its devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, its architecture is inspired by traditional Hindu temple design and was constructed primarily from marble and limestone.

Today, while the temple serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Hindu community in the Greater Toronto Area, it also welcomes visitors of all faiths. There’s also a heritage museum to learn more but make sure you check out the opening times and visitor guidelines on the website before you go.

23. Go back in time at Medieval Times

This may well be one of the cheesiest things to do in Toronto, but why not? When in Toronto, another fun activity to try is a visit to the Medieval Times.

… Not literally – it’s more of an immersive theatre/dining experience, but fun nonetheless, especially for history buffs (and ‘drinking mead from goblet’ buffs).

Long story short: Medieval Times is a dinner show themed as a Spanish royal banquet where you can enjoy a four-course feast while watching armor-clad knights swordfighting and jousting for the title of Defender of the Throne! There are also beautiful Andalusian and Friesian horses if you’re into horses, along with a falcon flying show.

I mean… why not feast on a turkey leg and pretend that the knights are jousting in your honour?

BONUS: Venture out to the Toronto Islands

Finally, when weather permits, another great thing to do in Toronto is a trip out to the Toronto Islands, where you can rent a bike or kayak, relax on the beach, and enjoy stunning skyline views.

The Toronto Islands refer to a group of 15 interconnected islands located just offshore from downtown Toronto. Some of the attractions located on the islands include Centreville Amusement Park, the Far Enough Farm petting zoo, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and the ruins of the Hanlan’s Point Hotel.

You could also do a romantic sunset sail around the islands if you’re short on time but still want to see them!

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Toronto?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Toronto activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂