Must Do Things in Toronto for Every Visitor

Toronto is a city that rewards curiosity. From world-famous landmarks and waterfront views to lively neighbourhoods, hidden cafés and cultural attractions, there are countless things to see and do across the city. Whether you’re visiting Toronto for the first time or returning for another weekend in the city, there’s always something new to discover. 

For visitors arriving by air, getting into the heart of the city is easy with UP Express. The direct train connects Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station in just 28 minutes, giving you a convenient way to start exploring as soon as you arrive. From Union Station, many of Toronto’s top attractions are within walking distance, while the city’s subway, streetcars and buses make it easy to explore neighbourhoods outside of the core. 

If you’re planning your first Toronto adventure, add these must-do things to your itinerary for a trip that takes you from iconic landmarks to local favourites.

First Time in the City? Must Do Things in Downtown Toronto 

If it’s your first time in Toronto, downtown is the perfect place to start. The city centre is home to some of Toronto’s most famous attractions, along with historic neighbourhoods, cultural institutions and scenic waterfront spaces. With so many highlights close together, you can easily spend a full day exploring downtown on foot. 

Start your visit with one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks: the CN Tower. Rising more than 550 metres above the city, the tower offers incredible views of Toronto and Lake Ontario from its observation levels. On a clear day, you can see far across the city and beyond. For an extra thrill, EdgeWalk lets adventurous visitors walk along the outside of the tower’s main pod, high above the ground. 

Just steps away, you’ll find Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to thousands of marine animals from around the world. Walk through the underwater tunnel at the Dangerous Lagoon, watch sharks and rays glide overhead and explore exhibits featuring colourful tropical fish. It’s an especially great option if you’re travelling with family, but there’s plenty to enjoy for visitors of all ages.

From there, head east toward the historic St. Lawrence Market. One of Toronto’s best-known food destinations, the market is a great place to grab lunch, browse local vendors and get a taste of the city. Pick up everything from fresh produce and baked goods to prepared meals and specialty foods, then continue exploring the surrounding neighbourhoods, especially the Distillery District. 

A short walk north will bring you to Nathan Phillips Square, one of the most recognizable gathering places in the city. The large public square sits directly in front of Toronto City Hall and is home to the famous TORONTO sign. It’s a popular spot for photos throughout the year, with seasonal events and activities often taking place in the square. In winter, the reflecting pool becomes a skating rink, while warmer months bring outdoor events and plenty of opportunities to relax downtown. 

For a change of scenery, make your way south to the waterfront. Toronto’s Harbourfront is a great place to slow down and take in views of Lake Ontario. Walk along the waterfront trails, stop for a coffee or enjoy the view from one of the many public spaces along the shoreline. The area also offers access to boat tours and ferry services, making it a great starting point for exploring Toronto from the water. 

Must Visit Places in Toronto You’ll Love 

Toronto’s biggest attractions may be on every visitor’s list, but some of the city’s best experiences come from exploring its neighbourhoods. One of Toronto’s defining characteristics is its diversity, and each area has its own atmosphere, architecture, shops, restaurants and cafés. 

Kensington Market is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience one of Toronto’s most eclectic neighbourhoods. Wander through streets lined with colourful storefronts, vintage shops, independent businesses and restaurants serving food from around the world. The area is also known for its street art, making it an easy place to spend a few hours simply exploring at your own pace. 

For a different side of the city, head to Yorkville. Once known for its bohemian roots, the neighbourhood is now one of Toronto’s most upscale areas, filled with designer boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafés. Stroll along Bloor Street, explore the smaller streets around Cumberland and Yorkville Avenues, and stop for a coffee or meal while taking in the neighbourhood’s elegant atmosphere. 

Queen Street West is another Toronto favourite. The lively stretch is packed with independent shops, restaurants, bars, cafés and galleries, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. Continue west along Queen Street, and you’ll find even more local businesses and creative spaces, with plenty of opportunities to wander off the main street and explore nearby areas.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed neighbourhood experience, consider visiting Roncesvalles or Bloor West Village. These west-end communities are known for their tree-lined streets, independent shops, restaurants and cafés. They’re also close to High Park, Toronto’s largest public park and one of the city's best parks, where you can escape the busy downtown streets and explore its walking trails and green spaces. Even better, UP Bloor Station is just a 10-15 minute walk from these neighbourhoods!  

No Toronto itinerary is complete without a visit to the Toronto Islands. Just a short ferry ride from downtown, the islands feel worlds away from the city. Spend the day walking or cycling along the trails, relaxing on the beach, enjoying a picnic or taking in the skyline views from across the harbour. Centre Island is a popular choice for families, while Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island offer their own unique atmosphere. 

And, of course, leave some room in your itinerary for Toronto’s food and café scene. The city is home to restaurants and coffee shops representing cultures from around the world. Stop by local favourites such as Jimmy’s Coffee for a caffeine break or Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, conveniently located in UP Union Station, for a cup of locally roasted coffee in a characterful setting. Exploring Toronto one meal or coffee at a time is one of the easiest ways to get to know the city. Even better, many of the best coffee shops in Toronto are located close to Union Station! 

Discover the Must-See Sights in Toronto 

Toronto has no shortage of photo-worthy places, whether you’re looking for iconic architecture, colourful street art or skyline views. Bring your camera and make time to explore some of the city’s most recognizable sights. 

The Gooderham Building is one of Toronto’s most photographed landmarks. Also known as the Flatiron Building, this distinctive red-brick structure sits at the intersection of Front, Wellington and Church Streets. Its narrow, wedge-shaped design makes it stand out among the surrounding buildings, and the nearby intersection provides a great perspective for photos.

Street art fans should make their way to Graffiti Alley, a colourful laneway running behind Queen Street West. The walls are covered in constantly changing murals and graffiti, offering a glimpse into Toronto’s creative side. Take your time walking through the alley and look closely at the details, as the artwork can change over time. 

Toronto is also a great destination for museum and gallery lovers. The Art Gallery of Ontario houses an extensive collection spanning Canadian, European, contemporary and Indigenous art. The Royal Ontario Museum is another must-see, with galleries covering natural history, world cultures, art and more. Both offer a chance to spend a few hours discovering something new, especially on a rainy day. 

If you’re interested in contemporary art and culture, explore some of the independent galleries and cultural spaces throughout neighbourhoods such as the Annex and the Distillery District. You may even discover a new favourite artist or exhibition along the way.

Must See Iconic Attractions in Toronto 

If you’re building a classic Toronto bucket list, there are a few attractions that deserve a spot near the top. These are the places that have helped shape the city’s identity and offer a great introduction to Toronto’s history, culture and entertainment scene. 

The CN Tower is an obvious choice, but there’s another castle-like landmark worth adding to your itinerary: Casa Loma. Located just north of downtown, this grand historic house was built in the early 20th century and features ornate rooms, towers, gardens and hidden passageways. Explore the elaborate interiors, climb the towers for city views and learn about the fascinating history behind one of Toronto’s most distinctive buildings. 

Sports fans should make time for the Hockey Hall of Fame. Located downtown near Union Station, the attraction celebrates the history of hockey through exhibits, memorabilia and interactive experiences. You can see famous hockey artefacts, learn about legendary players and even test your skills in interactive games. 

Baseball fans can head to Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. Located directly beside the CN Tower, the stadium is one of Toronto’s most recognizable venues. If the Blue Jays are in town during your visit, catching a game is a quintessential Toronto experience, especially on a warm summer evening. 

For history and food, return to St. Lawrence Market and the surrounding Old Town area. The market has been part of Toronto’s food culture for generations and remains one of the best places to experience the city’s culinary diversity. After exploring the market, wander through nearby streets to see historic buildings and some of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods. 

And if you haven’t already visited the Distillery District, make sure it’s on your list. The pedestrian-only neighbourhood is known for its preserved Victorian-era industrial architecture, cobblestone streets, galleries, shops, restaurants and cafés. Its atmosphere changes with the seasons, making it worth visiting whether you’re exploring Toronto in summer, fall or winter. 

Make the Most of Your Toronto Visit 

With so many things to do in Toronto, the best itinerary is one that balances famous attractions with time to explore. Spend a morning visiting the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium, wander through St. Lawrence Market and Old Town in the afternoon, then head to the waterfront for sunset. On another day, explore neighbourhoods like Kensington Market, Queen Street West or Yorkville before taking a ferry to the Toronto Islands. 

The city is especially easy to explore when you start at Union Station. If you’re arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport, UP Express gets you downtown in just 28 minutes, so you can spend less time worrying about traffic and more time enjoying your visit. Once you arrive, Toronto’s downtown attractions, neighbourhoods and transit connections are all within easy reach. 

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for a longer trip, Toronto offers a mix of big-city attractions and local experiences that make it easy to create your own perfect itinerary. From iconic skyline views and historic landmarks to hidden neighbourhood gems, there’s a reason to keep exploring around every corner. And when you’re travelling with family or friends, the UP Group Pass makes it easy to get around together while saving on your journey. 

So make your list, hop on UP Express and get ready to discover some of the must-do things in Toronto!