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The Ultimate Toronto Bucket List has 31 of the best activities to make the most of your trip. Including local experiences that will make you an honorary Torontonian. That being said, let’s start crossing them off!
First up, one of the best things to do in Toronto: view the city from the CN Tower. Needless to say, this soaring monument is an experience for all. In addition to the views, you can also stand on a glass floor and walk along the edge. Though these activities are not for the faint-hearted!
The Toronto islands are a popular summer hang-out spot for those looking to get away from the city. Moreover, the 15-minute ferry ride runs daily (in the summer months) and often. Not only that, but you can also catch great Toronto skyline captures.
The ultimate Toronto bucket list would not complete without adding a sports event! If you love sports, watching a game is a must-do. Even if not, this activity should be on your list. Overall, the lively atmosphere makes for a fun few hours for everybody.
The Royal Ontario Museum has plenty to offer in world culture and natural history. With this in mind, head to the crystal-shaped building to learn and gaze at the amazing dinosaur exhibit. As well as the other awesome permanent and temporary exhibits!
Hidden behind Queen Street is an art-filled area called Graffiti Alley. Of course, here you can spot some quirky and interesting works of art. In order to find it, head south on Spadina Road at Queen Street West. Soon, you will see a sign showing you the way.
Kensington market is popular amongst locals for shopping, grabbing a drink and wandering. Moreover, this bohemian neighbourhood has many unique shops and excellent lunch spots. However, it can get very busy on the weekends, so try to go earlier if you want to avoid crowds.
The PATH is an underground complex connecting over 70 buildings in the city. In other words, it is a giant underground maze. However, there are many stores for shopping, and it is great to explore on a rainy day. If you manage to get lost, look for the subway signs (pictured above) that will lead you to the street.
Stroll through the busy neighbourhood of Chinatown for fresh produce at the markets. As well as many popular Chinese and Asian restaurants. Though, if you are not hungry, just go to see one of many dynamic neighbourhoods in the city.
Hungry after a night-out? In that case, head to the street food stalls! Apart from your regular hot dogs, there is a variety of options, even for vegetarians. Additionally, some food trucks even sell the famous poutine! In Toronto, you can find them around main intersections and popular attractions.
The all-way intersection, better known as the pedestrian scramble, is where cars in all directions of an intersection are stopped. Subsequently, pedestrians can move freely in the middle of the intersection. Note that the pedestrian scramble is not exclusive to Toronto, as some other countries have them as well. However, it is a neat part of Toronto for first-timers!
Just outside of the city in Vaughan is an amusement park called Canada’s Wonderland. Undoubtedly, you can easily spend an entire day here having a blast. Apart from the many exciting rides, be sure to enjoy sweet treats like the funnel cake! Also, do not forget to wear sunscreen.
Yonge Street is a main road in the city, and it acts as the divider between East and West. Along the road you will discover shops and fast-food spots. As well as the local, and eccentric, people of Toronto.
At Nathan Phillips Square, find government buildings, skating, and most importantly, the Toronto Sign. Along with frequent yearly events! Note that skating only happens in winter.
Yorkville is a quaint upscale neighbourhood around Bloor Street. If you want to shop at Louboutin, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton for instance, make your way here. Not only that, but you can also find good restaurants, cafes, and even art galleries.
East of downtown is Woodbine beach, a hot-spot in the summer months. In particular, it is a great place to walk along the boardwalk and of course, suntan. Not only that, but you may also find yourself strolling through events. Such as the food truck festival!
The Distillery District is a historic area with cobblestone streets, bars, small museums, and boutique shops. As well as some popular restaurants. Indeed, it is a great little place to walk around and enjoy a few hours. Also, stop by the Christmas Market during December when it gets especially lively! Note that tickets are required for the Christmas Market.
This bucket list attraction is only 2 hours away from Toronto! With that in mind, plan a day or weekend in Niagara Falls. It should be noted that a car ride will get you to Niagara quicker. However, there are buses to take you from Union Station if you want to save money.
It seems around every corner there is a Tim Hortons. Undoubtedly, almost every Canadian has visited the Canadian coffee chain once in their life. If you visit during summer, buy an iced cappuccino for a super refreshing treat! Also, you can buy pastries, breakfast and lunch on the go.
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Brunch is a favourite meal and activity for many Torontonians. Consequently, there are many places with a great brunch menu. In addition to long line-ups! Though, it is an experience and you will be sure to eat some good food. Also, bonus points if you find bottomless mimosas and a place on a patio!
The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) is used to get around on buses, streetcars, and subways. In addition, you can also get to know the city by people-watching on the subway. If you want to have fun with it, ride the loop from Bloor station south to St. George station!
You might be thinking 10 is a lot, but in the city of Toronto, it is not! Without a doubt, you will pass by multiple construction sites and road blocks. For this reason, why not make a game of it and see how many you pass in a single day!
You will no doubt have someone pester or ask you for something on the streets. For example, a homeless person or someone working for an organization. You might be surprised by their Canadian friendliness and charm.
Toronto’s art and design school features a ginormous black and white table with multicoloured legs. Despite the rather random structure in the area, it is an interesting sight. That being said, you can find it just south of the Dundas and McCaul intersection.
Almost everyone who has lived in the city has visited Black Market once in their lives (thanks to a vintage-loving friend!). Therefore, browse around the store to make you an unofficial local.
Raccoons are everywhere in the city rummaging through trash. Admittedly, they can be cute, but also terrifying. Especially when they hiss at night! That being said, do not try to pet them. In fact, leave them alone all together.
If you visit Toronto in the middle of a season, you are likely to experience some chaotic weather. For example the beginning of the day is cold and rainy. Followed by a sunny, warm afternoon, then snow in the evening! On the other hand you might be hit with a huge downpour followed by summer beach vibes! In other words, Toronto weather is very dramatic.
If you have the chance to drive through the city then you should definitely go for a cruise! Even though it can be a hectic experience, it is a fun ride. Especially alongside your favourite music.
The University of Toronto is conveniently located between a few popular attractions. It’s worth a stroll through campus to see why. In particular, discover historic buildings, hang-out spots, and views of the CN Tower.
You might have heard that Canadians say sorry a lot, and it’s totally true! Even if someone runs into another person on the street, you will likely hear both say sorry. Undoubtedly, there is nothing more Canadian than apologizing for something you didn’t do!
At the intersection of Church and Wellington streets is the historical flat-iron Gooderham building. Currently the building is home to a few offices and a bar but many come to see and capture the exterior.
While you explore the city, see if you can spot the Arrival Plans logo! Note that a handful of stickers were placed near popular attractions. If you find any, be sure to snap a picture and tag @arrivalplans or #myarrivalplans.
We hope you have fun crossing off items on the Ultimate Toronto Bucket List! And don’t forget check out our comprehensive Toronto City Guide.
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2 Responses
This is great. I’ve only been to Vancouver so far but Toronto is definitely on my list to explore more of Canada.
Thanks Nick! Toronto and Vancouver are both great cities to explore in Canada 🙂