Toronto is often described as a big city that some people find underwhelming or even boring. However, with its cultural diversity, thriving arts scene, and vibrant neighborhoods, we felt that Toronto deserved a closer look. So, we decided to give it a chance and explore some of the city’s most popular activities to offer our perspective. From historic landmarks to hidden gems, here are six activities you can enjoy in Toronto that showcase the city’s dynamic character:
- Distillery District
- Casa Loma
- Shopping in Dundas Square
- Dining at a Cute Spot
- Graffiti Alley
- Bins Gone Wild
1
Distillery District
The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming and historic neighborhoods, known for its cobblestone streets and Victorian-era industrial architecture. We visited this area during the Christmas holidays and had a fantastic time exploring the Distillery Winter Village, an annual holiday market featuring artisanal vendors, food stalls, and festive entertainment. The atmosphere was magical, with twinkling lights, holiday music, and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air.
The Distillery District boasts 40 boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops, offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to unique home decor items. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the array of restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries in the area. During Christmas, you can even take photos with Santa and admire the beautiful, towering Christmas tree that adds to the holiday spirit. It’s an ideal place to stroll around, sip a warm drink, and do some shopping, but it’s worth a visit any time of the year. During other seasons, the district hosts art exhibits, cultural festivals, and outdoor dining events, making it a lively destination year-round.
Why Visit: The Distillery District offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern-day charm, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the heart of Toronto.
2
Casa Loma
One of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks, Casa Loma is a castle built in 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Now owned by the City of Toronto, it has become one of the city’s top tourist attractions and hospitality venues. Stepping into Casa Loma feels like entering a fairytale world, with its grand halls, secret passageways, and stunning gardens.
Admission to the castle costs $40 CAD per adult, and in my opinion, it’s well worth the price. The castle’s beautifully preserved rooms and intricate architecture offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Toronto’s elite during the early 20th century. One of my favorite areas was the greenhouse, with its elegant design and lush greenery creating a tranquil escape. Casa Loma also hosts events like concerts, murder mystery dinners, and escape room experiences, adding another layer of entertainment to your visit.
Why Visit: For history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, Casa Loma is a fascinating place to explore, offering both beauty and historical insight.
3
Shopping in Dundas Square
If you’re a fan of shopping or simply love experiencing the energy of a city, Dundas Square is a must-visit destination. Often compared to a mini Times Square, this bustling area is at the intersection of Yonge Street and Dundas Street, right in the heart of downtown Toronto. The square is surrounded by major retailers, street performers, and digital billboards, creating an exciting atmosphere that’s perfect for people-watching or grabbing a quick bite.
While shopping might not be everyone’s favorite activity while traveling, visiting Dundas Square is more about soaking up the city’s vibrant vibe. You can explore the nearby Eaton Centre, one of Canada’s largest shopping malls, offering a wide variety of stores and dining options. The square is also a hub for outdoor events, concerts, and public gatherings, so there’s always something happening.
Why Visit: Dundas Square captures the essence of Toronto’s fast-paced city life and offers a lively experience in the downtown core.
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4
Dining at a Cute Spot
Toronto is home to countless restaurants and cafés that offer not only delicious food but also an aesthetically pleasing environment. Whether you’re looking for a cozy brunch spot, a trendy coffee shop, or an elegant dinner location, Toronto has no shortage of options to satisfy your cravings.
For recommendations on where to eat, be sure to check out my article titled 4 Of the Best Places to Eat in Toronto, Canada. There, I share some of my favorite dining experiences in the city, each offering something unique in terms of cuisine, ambiance, and style. From avocado toasts in quaint cafés to all-you-can-eat sushi experiences, Toronto’s culinary scene is as diverse as its residents.
Why Visit: Discovering Toronto’s food scene is a great way to experience the city’s cultural diversity and taste dishes from around the world.
5
Graffiti Alley
While not necessarily a must-see attraction, Graffiti Alley is an interesting stop if you’re nearby and want to admire some street art. Located in the Queen West neighborhood, this narrow alley features an ever-changing collection of colorful murals and graffiti created by local and international artists. It’s a popular spot for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts looking to capture the city’s urban vibe.
However, it’s important to note that Graffiti Alley is not a dedicated art space or tourist attraction, but rather a small, somewhat neglected alley with street art. The surrounding area can be a bit dirty, and there isn’t much to do here other than taking a few photos. We were initially under the impression that it was a more curated art space, so our expectations were a bit different.
Why Visit: If you’re an art lover or enjoy taking unique photos, Graffiti Alley offers a glimpse into Toronto’s street art culture.
6
Bins Gone Wild
Tiktok made Bins Gone Wild one of the most talked-about activities in Toronto, so we were excited to check it out. This second-hand store, known for its chaotic shopping experience, offers a variety of items at low prices, but you’ll need plenty of patience to find hidden gems. The concept is simple: bins full of random items that you can sift through to discover potential treasures.
Unfortunately, we found the experience overwhelming. The place was crowded and messy, with items scattered everywhere, making it more of a cluttered rummage sale than a pleasant shopping experience. It’s also located quite far from downtown Toronto, so if you’re short on time or prefer organized shopping, I’d recommend skipping this activity. However, if you enjoy the thrill of searching for bargains and have the time to spare, it might be worth a visit.
Why Visit: For those who love treasure hunting and thrifting, Bins Gone Wild can be an interesting experience, but it may not be for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Toronto is a city with many faces, and while it may not have the glitz of places like New York City or the exotic allure of other global cities, it offers a variety of activities that cater to different tastes and interests. From exploring historic districts and iconic landmarks to discovering street art and trendy dining spots, there’s always something new to experience in Toronto.
While some activities may not be everyone’s cup of tea, that’s part of what makes Toronto unique—it’s a city that can surprise you in unexpected ways. Whether you’re drawn to history, shopping, art, or simply enjoying good food, Toronto has something to offer for every type of traveler. So, take the time to explore, keep an open mind, and discover what this diverse city has in store for you.
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