Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the capital city of Ontario Province situated north-western shore of Ontario Lake in south-eastern Canada. The city has a population of over 6 million, famous for business, finance, technology, entertainment, and culture. One of the most multicultural cities in the world. Here is what to see when visiting downtown Toronto!
What To See In Downtown Toronto, Canada
Nathan Philips Square
Named after Nathan Phillips, mayor of Toronto from 1955 to 1962 this urban square is the site of concerts, art displays, a weekly farmers' market, the winter festival of lights, and other public events, including demonstrations. During the winter months, the reflecting pool is converted into an ice rink for ice skating. The square attracts an estimated 1.5 million visitors yearly!
Don't miss taking a selfie in front of the large Toronto sign.
St Lawrence Market
The St. Lawrence Market dates back to 1803 when local farmers brought seasonal produce to sell. Today it is comprised of three main buildings: The South Market, the North Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. With over 120 specialty vendors, discover a wide range of products from mothers, sons, fathers, and daughters who work hard and have a passion for food and craft.
On a Sunday over 80 antique dealers fill the North Market and the surrounding plaza, displaying their wares from dawn to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
Gooderham Building
The modern Gothic and Romanesque Revival architectural styles, of The Gooderham Building, also known as the Flatiron Building, is a historic five-story office building made from Ohio sandstone.
Queens Quay
Spanning more than 3 kilometres, Queens Quay/harborfront is home to the tall ship - KAJAMA, Toronto's largest indoor shopping mall, a number of vintage cinemas, and a healthy nightlife centered on the area's Distillery District bar and clubs.
It is also the gateway to Toronto Island Park.
For great food & drink check out - Amsterdam Brewhouse!
Budweiser Stage
While in Toronto, you might like to take in a concert at the Budweiser Stage. Originally known as the Molson Amphitheatre, It is located on the grounds of Ontario Place and hosts many diverse acts, including genres like rock, pop, country, and jazz. The first musician to perform here was Bryan Adams on May 18, 1995.
Graffiti Alley
Rush Lane just south of Queen West, better known as Graffiti Alley, is home to a massive swath of vibrant street art. In 2011, it was designated as an area of municipal significance, and StreetARToronto, or StART, a program that provides funding and approval for public murals and graffiti art, was born from the struggle.
Kensington Market
Known for its independent spirit, colourful shop-fronts, vibrant murals, charismatic locals, family-friendly Pedestrian Sunday events, and over 240 unique and eclectic businesses.
Don't miss the nearby Burdock Brewery!
Casa Loma
The only castle in North America Casa Loma is a Gothic Revival castle-style mansion and garden in midtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada, that is now a historic house museum and landmark. It was constructed from 1911 to 1914 as a residence for financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Don't miss the secret passageways!
Did you know it is also a film location hotspot? Featuring in X-Men, Strange Brew, Chicago, The Tuxedo, Scott Pilgrim vs.the World, Warehouse 13, Crimson Peak, Twitches, Twitches Too, The Pacifier, and Titans.
As well as all of these fab places to visit, why not make downtown Toronto your hub to visit other great locations such as the world-renowned Niagara Falls, the picturesque wine region of Niagara-On-The-Lake, to the tranquil wilderness of Algonquin National Park?
I hope you have enjoyed reading and feel inspired to visit Toronto. Did you know you can keep up to date with the latest blogs by email subscribing? I can't wait to welcome you to the community.
Happy Travels,
Michelle:)