The city of Toronto is exciting and always buzzing with activities, so how do you pick what you need to see while you’re in the city? Depending on your interests there might be some sites more interesting than others, but no matter where you interest lies here are the activities everyone must see while visiting the city.
The Distillery District
Contrary to its name, this is not an activity based in alcohol. This area of Toronto is pretty unique in what it offers as it’s almost like a village within a city. Over 10 years ago, the old buildings of the whiskey distillery district were converted into a modern, urban space. This district is a pedestrian-only village filled with cafes, designer boutiques, galleries, performance venues for entertainment and many restaurants. During December the streets fill with a Christmas market, and on Sundays in the summer there is a farmer’s market. This area, which runs along Mill Street between Parliament and Cherry Street, is a unique blend of Victorian-era buildings, with historic charm, and modern design. This is a must visit spot while you’re in Toronto.
Nathan Phillips Square
This is kind of like the Times Square of Toronto. Placed right in the heart of downtown Toronto, this urban public plaza is surrounded by skyscrapers of the city but it’s filled with green areas and plenty of places to sit and watch the city go by. There’s usually a free community entertainment event going on at this venue, especially during the summer. During the winter months there’s a huge skating rink that takes up most of the square but it’s a must see for anyone visiting the city. This venue is located along Queen St West, and forms a square north of this street between Osgoode Lane and Bay Street.
The ROM
The Royal Ontario Museum is a really great way to spend a couple hours, or even a whole day. This first-rate venue is incredibly popular among world culture and history buffs. Drawing millions of guests each year, the ROM is one of the largest museums in North America. There are some exhibits that are permanent in the museum, like the dinosaur exhibit, but there will also be special exhibits on display from time to time for visitors to see. There’s also hands-on areas for kids to play and learn. The Royal Ontario Museum is located at 100 Queens Park in Toronto, and it is open year round.
Take in a Game
Depending on what season you’re visiting Toronto in the sports venues might change, but being in the city is a great opportunity to take in a Maple Leafs game or a Blue Jays game. The Toronto Maple Leafs call the Air Canada Centre home, and that can be found at 40 Bay Street whereas the Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre, located t 1 Blue Jays Way. Both teams fill seats every time they play at home so you’re guaranteed to have a great afternoon, or evening, watching them.
The CN Tower
Can you really visit Toronto with out a short, or even long, trip to the CN Tower? This tower was the world’s tallest free-standing structure for over 30 years (only recently beat out by some structures in the Middle East) but it is still the tallest in the Western Hemisphere. Taking a ride to the top will offer you breathtaking and truly priceless views of the city and beyond. You can walk on the glass floor, or if you’re really brave do the Edgewalk which is on the roof of the Sky Pod. This site is, without question, a defining landmark of Toronto so you might feel it’s a little too touristy for you but it’s worthwhile to see it – at least once. Head on down to 301 Front St W and experience this historic landmark for yourself.
