Toronto
Best Places to Visit in Toronto — Landmarks, Food & Hidden Gems
Writen By: dyvarcity
Toronto
Toronto isn’t just Canada’s largest city—it’s a vibrant mosaic of cultures, cuisines, and creativity that transforms every visit into an unforgettable experience. From world-famous landmarks to cozy hidden gems tucked away in its lively neighborhoods, Toronto invites travelers to explore its rich history, diverse flavors, and modern charm. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to rediscover the city, these are the best places to visit in Toronto, Canada, that promise excitement, discovery, and inspiration at every turn.
Downtown Icons: Toronto’s Unmissable Landmarks
1. CN Tower
Soaring 1,815 feet above downtown, the CN Tower dominates Toronto’s skyline — and your bucket list. The panoramic views from the SkyPod stretch across Lake Ontario and, on clear days, as far as Niagara Falls.
For thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk offers an adrenaline-pumping, hands-free stroll around the tower’s outer ledge. Inside, you’ll also find the revolving 360 Restaurant, where world-class cuisine meets jaw-dropping views.
Book VIP skip-the-line access:
From
$189
Toronto Sailing Adventure: Harbour Views & Island Life!
The 2hr Shared Sailing Experience in Toronto offers a tour of the harbour and Lake Ontario, passing the Toronto Islands and Eastern Gap. Observe sailing races, island homes, and possibly cruise ships. Includes sights of Sugar and HTO Park, waterfront condos, marine fire station and CN Tower. A licensed captain and vessel are provided.
Book Now2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Just beneath the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is a mesmerizing underwater journey featuring over 20,000 marine creatures. Glide through the Dangerous Lagoon tunnel as sharks, stingrays, and green sea turtles drift above. Interactive touch pools let kids feel horseshoe crabs and rays, while the colorful Planet Jellies exhibit creates an ethereal glow.
3. Rogers Centre
The beating heart of Toronto’s sports scene, the Rogers Centre hosts the Toronto Blue Jays and some of the world’s biggest concerts. Its fully retractable roof means events run year-round, rain or shine. Stadium tours reveal locker rooms, press boxes, and a behind-the-scenes look at this architectural marvel — one of the first stadiums of its kind.
4. Harbourfront Centre & Toronto Waterfront
Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre blends culture, leisure, and lakeside beauty. Walk or bike along the Waterfront Trail, explore contemporary galleries like The Power Plant, and dine at restaurants overlooking sailboats on Lake Ontario. During summer, outdoor concerts, craft markets, and film screenings turn the area into a festival zone.
Browse Dyvarcity for curated Toronto Yacht Cruises and waterfront tours to experience the skyline from the water.
Cultural & Historical Highlights
5. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
A masterpiece of modern and classical architecture, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) houses 13 million artifacts that span art, science, and history. Wander through Egyptian mummies, dinosaur fossils, and Indigenous art that tells stories of Canada’s First Nations. The museum’s crystal façade, designed by Daniel Libeskind, makes it one of the most photographed buildings in Toronto.
Book ROM entry through Dyvarcity:
From
$26
Explore World Wonders: Royal Ontario Museum Adventure
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada's most visited museum, showcasing 18 million artworks, artifacts, and specimens. Experience world-class collections of art, culture, and nature suitable for all ages. Don't miss the special immersive exhibits like 'Earth' and 'Wildlife Photographer of the Year'.
Book Now6. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Designed by Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry, the AGO is both a work of art and a home to it. Inside are over 90,000 pieces, from the Group of Seven’s landscapes to African sculptures and cutting-edge contemporary works. The gallery’s spiral wooden staircase and glass façade overlooking Grange Park make it a haven for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
7. St. Lawrence Market
Named one of the world’s best food markets by National Geographic, St. Lawrence Market has been a Toronto institution since the 1800s. Its stalls brim with artisan cheeses, maple syrup, fresh bagels, and the city’s iconic peameal bacon sandwich. Local chefs and home cooks flock here for farm-fresh produce and gourmet finds.
Join a food tour for tastings and stories from local vendors:
From
$44.2
Toronto Walking Tour: See the City in 3 Hours!
Show me the City! A Small Group Walking Tour of Toronto is a great way to see Toronto. This 3-hour walk takes you through the heart of the city. You'll get a good feel for life in this diverse place. There are many chances to see famous sights.See cool places like the CN Tower, Union Station, and the St. Lawrence Market. The tour also goes by the waterfront, Entertainment District, PATH (underground city), and the Rogers Centre. Hear stories about Toronto's past, culture, and how people live here. Expect a fun and easy walk where you can ask questions. This small group tour keeps it personal, with no more than 10 people.What to Expect: Walk through Toronto’s exciting downtown. See the CN Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings. Check out the busy St. Lawrence Market, filled with yummy food. Explore the PATH, a city under the city! This tour includes local taxes. It doesn't include tips or hotel pick-up.
Book Now8. Fort York National Historic Site
History buffs will love Fort York, the birthplace of modern Toronto. Built during the War of 1812, it’s the city’s oldest military site, with restored barracks, interactive exhibits, and costumed reenactments that bring the 19th century to life. Guided tours trace Toronto’s transformation from a colonial outpost to a thriving metropolis.
Architectural Marvels & Urban Icons
9. The Distillery Historic District
A pedestrian-only hub of heritage and creativity, the Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Its cobblestone lanes are lined with boutiques, artist studios, and cozy cafés housed in preserved Victorian industrial buildings. The area hosts art festivals, open-air installations, and the beloved Toronto Christmas Market, one of the city’s most photogenic events.
10. Osgoode Hall
A neoclassical landmark dating back to the 1830s, Osgoode Hall serves as the seat of Ontario’s highest courts. Beyond its ornate iron gates lie tranquil gardens, intricate stained-glass windows, and Canada’s largest law library. It’s a hidden gem for architecture fans and history lovers alike.
11. University of Toronto St. George Campus
Wander through the University of Toronto’s Gothic architecture, ivy-draped courtyards, and historic colleges. Highlights include the stunning Knox College cloisters and the Hart House cultural center, where visitors can attend concerts, art shows, or grab a cozy coffee under vaulted ceilings.
Neighborhoods to Explore
12. Kensington Market
A bohemian paradise of color and creativity, Kensington Market bursts with life. Street art covers every wall, music fills the air, and global flavors fill the streets — from Jamaican jerk chicken to Peruvian ceviche. Don’t miss Blue Banana Market for unique gifts and Seven Lives for the city’s best tacos.
13. Chinatown & Spadina Avenue
Toronto’s Chinatown is a cultural and culinary landmark, where red lanterns sway above bustling sidewalks. Sample dim sum at Rol San, shop for exotic teas, or explore night markets offering everything from bubble waffles to spicy skewers.
14. Little Italy & Little Portugal
Toronto’s west end brings a slice of Europe to Canada. Little Italy hums with trattorias and gelato stands, while Little Portugal charms visitors with its cozy bars, live fado music, and street festivals. On summer nights, patios overflow with locals sipping wine under string lights.
15. Koreatown on Bloor Street
Compact but full of energy, Koreatown is a late-night haven for Korean barbecue, karaoke, and street snacks. Try spicy fried chicken at The Fry or cool off with shaved ice at Snow Time. It’s a vibrant spot to end an evening out in Toronto.
Art & Creativity Everywhere
16. MOCA Toronto (Museum of Contemporary Art)
Located in a repurposed factory, MOCA pushes artistic boundaries with immersive installations, digital art, and avant-garde exhibits. It’s a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts seeking thought-provoking visuals and creative storytelling.
17. Graffiti Alley
Toronto’s Graffiti Alley stretches along Rush Lane, transforming industrial walls into a vibrant urban canvas. Every corner bursts with color and meaning, capturing the city’s creative pulse. It’s one of the top places to visit in Toronto for Instagram-worthy photos.
18. TIFF Bell Lightbox
Film lovers can’t miss TIFF Bell Lightbox, the headquarters of the Toronto International Film Festival. The venue screens indie films, documentaries, and global cinema year-round, and often hosts Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Parks, Nature & Outdoor Escapes
19. High Park
Toronto’s largest park, High Park, spans nearly 400 acres of trails, gardens, and recreational areas. Come spring, cherry blossoms transform the landscape into a pink wonderland. Families love the zoo, while locals enjoy biking and yoga near Grenadier Pond.
20. Rouge National Urban Park
One of the only national parks located within a city, Rouge Park offers beaches, marshes, and hiking trails across 50 square miles. It’s perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, or simply escaping into nature — without leaving Toronto.
21. Tommy Thompson Park
Once a man-made peninsula, Tommy Thompson Park has evolved into a natural habitat for over 300 bird species. Its quiet trails and lake views make it ideal for cyclists and photographers seeking Toronto’s wilder side.
22. Edwards Gardens & Toronto Botanical Garden
Nestled north of the city, Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Garden delight visitors with floral displays, waterfalls, and themed landscapes. Butterfly-friendly paths and educational trails make this spot both beautiful and enriching.
23. Allan Gardens Conservatory
A tropical escape year-round, Allan Gardens is a 19th-century greenhouse filled with palms, orchids, and cacti. Its glass domes glow beautifully in winter, offering warmth and greenery amid Toronto’s snowy streets.
Local Flavor: Food & Drink Experiences
24. Stackt Market
Made entirely from shipping containers, Stackt Market is Toronto’s trendiest hangout. Shop for local crafts, sip small-batch beer, and enjoy rotating food pop-ups in a setting that feels like a living art installation.
25. Queen Street West Food Trail
Running through one of Toronto’s most eclectic neighborhoods, Queen Street West is a foodie paradise. Discover global fusion dining, vegan cafés, and food trucks that change daily — all against a backdrop of street murals and indie shops.
26. The Junction & Dundas West
Formerly industrial, The Junction has evolved into a thriving hub for Toronto’s craft food scene. From microbreweries and brunch cafés to art studios and vintage stores, this district blends creative energy with a relaxed, local vibe.
27. Little India (Gerrard Street East)
Toronto’s Little India is a sensory feast — fragrant spices, sari shops, and Bollywood tunes fill the air. Try samosas, butter chicken, and mango lassi at family-run eateries that have served the community for generations.
Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
29. Evergreen Brick Works
Once a brick quarry, Evergreen Brick Works has transformed into a sustainability hub surrounded by nature. Visit weekend farmers’ markets, cycle along the Don Valley, or join eco-friendly art workshops.
30. Aga Khan Museum & Park
The Aga Khan Museum celebrates Islamic art and cultural exchange through centuries-old manuscripts, ceramics, and architecture. Its minimalist design and reflecting pools offer serenity and inspiration.
31. Scarborough Bluffs
Toronto’s natural showstopper, the Scarborough Bluffs, offers white limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot for hiking, beach picnics, and golden-hour photography.
32. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery
A leading contemporary art space on the waterfront, The Power Plant offers free admission to world-class exhibits and installations. It’s the ideal stop between waterfront strolls or before a sunset cruise.
33. Lula Lounge
A slice of Latin America in the heart of Toronto — Lula Lounge combines music, food, and dancing. Salsa nights feature live bands, dinner menus, and dance lessons that fill the floor with energy.
34. Comedy Bar Bloor
For a night of laughter, Comedy Bar hosts Toronto’s best improv, stand-up, and sketch comedy acts. With two stages and nightly shows, it’s where rising comedians hone their craft before hitting TV screens.
Shopping Hotspots & Entertainment
36. Eaton Centre
A Toronto icon, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre features more than 230 stores under a soaring glass atrium. Whether you’re after luxury fashion or local brands, this downtown mall is the city’s retail heartbeat.
37. PATH Underground Walkway
Stretching over 18 miles, PATH is the world’s largest underground shopping network, connecting office towers, hotels, and food courts. It’s perfect for exploring places to visit in downtown Toronto during winter.
Check it out:
From
$44.2
Toronto Walking Tour: See the City in 3 Hours!
Show me the City! A Small Group Walking Tour of Toronto is a great way to see Toronto. This 3-hour walk takes you through the heart of the city. You'll get a good feel for life in this diverse place. There are many chances to see famous sights.See cool places like the CN Tower, Union Station, and the St. Lawrence Market. The tour also goes by the waterfront, Entertainment District, PATH (underground city), and the Rogers Centre. Hear stories about Toronto's past, culture, and how people live here. Expect a fun and easy walk where you can ask questions. This small group tour keeps it personal, with no more than 10 people.What to Expect: Walk through Toronto’s exciting downtown. See the CN Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings. Check out the busy St. Lawrence Market, filled with yummy food. Explore the PATH, a city under the city! This tour includes local taxes. It doesn't include tips or hotel pick-up.
Book Now38. Yonge-Dundas Square
Bright lights, big screens, and constant energy — Yonge-Dundas Square is Toronto’s version of Times Square. From live performances to street markets, it’s a hub of entertainment day and night.
39. The Second City Toronto
Catch improv and sketch comedy at The Second City, the legendary venue where stars like Mike Myers, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara began their careers.
Plan Your Toronto Adventure the Smart Way
Toronto is more than skyscrapers and landmarks — it’s a living mosaic of people, flavors, and stories. From gourmet markets and art walks to waterfront adventures and neighborhood secrets, every corner of the city offers something new to discover.
Book your adventures with Dyvarcity — your one-stop platform for tours, tickets, and local experiences designed to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Dyvarcity connects you with the best places to visit in Toronto — all in one place.