This Toronto Bucket List covers the best things to do in Toronto; from popular attractions to unique neighborhoods and delicious food.
Toronto, one of the best places to visit in Canada, is a vibrant metropolis brimming with diverse cultures, world-class attractions, and a bustling arts scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something exciting to do.
Here’s your ultimate Toronto bucket list, including tips on how to get there and a handy link for easy travel planning.
Toronto Bucket List
1. CN Tower
The iconic CN Tower is a must-visit for anyone in Toronto. Standing at 553.3 meters, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond. For the thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk lets you walk hands-free on a ledge encircling the top of the Tower.
How to Get There: Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, it’s accessible via Union Station, which is connected by subway, bus, and train. From Union Station, it’s a short walk to the Tower.
2. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum, featuring extensive collections of art, culture, and natural history. With over six million items and 40 galleries, it offers a fascinating journey through the history of the world.
How to Get There: The ROM is conveniently located at the corner of Bloor Street and Avenue Road. Take the subway to Museum Station, and you’ll find the museum right there.
3. Toronto Islands
Just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto, the Toronto Islands offer a perfect escape from the city hustle. The islands are car-free, making them ideal for biking, picnics, and beach activities. Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point each offer unique experiences.
This is a calmer activity in Toronto, contributing to the city being one of the best places to move to in Canada.
How to Get There: Ferries depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, which is accessible from Union Station. During summer, the ferries run frequently, providing a quick and scenic route to the islands.
4. St. Lawrence Market
Indulge in gourmet food and local delicacies at St. Lawrence Market, voted one of the world’s best food markets. The market has been a meeting place for Toronto’s communities since 1803 and is home to over 120 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more.
How to Get There: Located at 93 Front Street East, the market is easily accessible by public transit. Take the subway to King Station and walk east on King Street until you reach Jarvis Street.
5. Distillery District
The Distillery District is a pedestrian-only village known for its well-preserved Victorian industrial architecture, art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. This area hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the famous Christmas Market.
How to Get There: Take the subway to King Station and then the King Streetcar eastbound. Get off at Parliament Street and walk south to Mill Street.
6. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Home to over 90,000 works of art, the AGO is a haven for art enthusiasts. The gallery features Canadian, Indigenous, African, and contemporary art, among others. Don’t miss the stunning Galleria Italia, a light-filled sculpture gallery.
How to Get There: The AGO is located at 317 Dundas Street West. Take the subway to St. Patrick’s Station and walk a few blocks west.
7. Kensington Market
Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most eclectic neighborhoods, known for its vintage shops, vibrant murals, and diverse eateries. It’s a cultural melting pot where you can find food from all over the world, unique clothing, and lively street performers.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Spadina Station and walk south, or take the Spadina streetcar southbound to College Street.
8. Casa Loma
Explore this majestic castle, complete with secret passages, towers, and beautiful gardens. Casa Loma was built in the early 20th century and offers a glimpse into Toronto’s past. The castle also hosts various events, including escape games and seasonal displays.
How to Get There: Located at 1 Austin Terrace, Casa Loma is accessible by taking the subway to Dupont Station. From there, it’s a short walk north.
9. Hockey Hall of Fame
Celebrate Canada’s favorite sport with exhibits, memorabilia, and the Stanley Cup. The Hockey Hall of Fame is a shrine to the history of ice hockey, featuring interactive displays and a replica of the Montreal Canadien’s dressing room.
There may be plenty of museums and attractions on your USA bucket list but make sure to head up to Canada, across the Niagara Falls border, so you can check out these Toronto bucket list attractions.
How to Get There: The Hall of Fame is located in Brookfield Place, accessible from Union Station. Follow the signs within the station to the PATH underground walkway for a direct route.
10. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Discover the wonders of the aquatic world with over 20,000 marine animals at Ripley’s Aquarium. Highlights include the Dangerous Lagoon, a moving walkway through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, and the interactive Discovery Centre.
How to Get There: Ripley’s Aquarium is located near the CN Tower, accessible from Union Station. Follow the signs to the aquarium from the station.
11. High Park
Enjoy the natural beauty of Toronto’s largest park, featuring hiking trails, a zoo, and seasonal cherry blossoms. High Park offers a mix of recreational activities, including sports facilities, gardens, and playgrounds.
How to Get There: Take the subway to High Park Station. The park entrance is a short walk from the station, located at Bloor Street West and High Park Avenue.
12. Toronto Zoo
Visit one of the largest zoos in the world, home to over 5,000 animals from around the globe. The Toronto Zoo is divided into seven geographic regions, each featuring animals native to that area. Highlights include the Giant Panda Experience and the Gorilla Rainforest.
How to Get There: The zoo is located in the northeastern part of Toronto. It’s best accessed by car, but you can also take a TTC bus from Scarborough Centre Station.
13. Rogers Centre
Catch a Blue Jays game or a concert at this multi-purpose stadium with a retractable roof. Rogers Centre, formerly known as SkyDome, is a landmark in Toronto’s sports and entertainment scene.
How to Get There: Located next to the CN Tower, Rogers Centre is accessible from Union Station. It’s a short walk from the station along Front Street West.
14. Eaton Centre
Shop till you drop at Toronto’s premier shopping destination with over 230 retailers. The Eaton Centre is a massive shopping complex featuring both high-end and budget-friendly stores, dining options, and an impressive glass ceiling.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Queen or Dundas Station, both of which connect directly to the mall.
15. Yonge-Dundas Square
Often compared to Times Square, this is Toronto’s hub for events, performances, and people-watching. Yonge-Dundas Square is a bustling public space surrounded by shops, restaurants, and theaters.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Dundas Station. The square is located at the intersection of Yonge Street and Dundas Street.
16. Harbourfront Centre
Enjoy cultural events, concerts, and waterfront activities along Lake Ontario at the Harbourfront Centre. This cultural hub offers year-round programming, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Union Station and walk south along Bay Street until you reach Queens Quay.
17. Evergreen Brick Works
This former quarry has been transformed into a cultural and environmental hub with markets, workshops, and trails. Evergreen Brick Works is dedicated to sustainable living and offers a farmers’ market, hiking trails, and educational programs.
How to Get There: Take the shuttle bus from Broadview Station or bike along the Beltline Trail. The site is located in the Don Valley, making it a scenic destination.
18. Nathan Phillips Square
Famous for its Toronto sign and ice rink in winter, Nathan Phillips Square is a must-visit spot in front of City Hall. The square hosts various events, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and the annual Cavalcade of Lights.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Queen or Osgoode Station. The square is located at 100 Queen Street West.
19. Toronto Botanical Garden
Explore beautiful themed gardens and trails at the Toronto Botanical Garden, perfect for a relaxing day out. The gardens feature 17 themed areas showcasing diverse plant species and sustainable gardening practices.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Lawrence Station and transfer to the 54 Lawrence East bus. Get off at Leslie Street and walk a short distance to the gardens.
20. Ontario Science Centre
Engage with interactive exhibits and live science demonstrations at the Ontario Science Centre. The center offers hands-on learning experiences in science and technology, making it a great destination for families.
How to Get There: The Science Centre is located at 770 Don Mills Road. It’s best accessed by car, but you can also take a TTC bus from Eglinton Station.
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