Known to Canadians both affectionately and not so affectionately as the Centre of the Universe, Toronto is both the biggest city in Canada and the country's unofficial cultural capital. It's also a true world city and one of the most cosmopolitan places on earth, thanks partly to generations of immigration to the city.
This has given Toronto an incredible food scene and a culture all of its own. But if you want to see a more hidden side of the city, you'll have to do some digging. Away from well-known tourist attractions like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum, the real heart of Toronto lies waiting to be discovered.
These tips can help you see the city like a local and get a deeper understanding of exactly what makes Toronto one of a kind.
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Soak Up the Culture at Kensington Market
Toronto is very much a city of neighbourhoods. While some, like the Financial District or Chinatown, are more famous than others, Kensington Market is definitely one of the coolest. This historic market neighbourhood is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing vintage stores and independent boutiques, listening to buskers, and eating your way through international cuisine from the many eateries lining the streets.
Kensington Market is also a great place to people-watch — one of the most ethnically diverse neighbourhoods in the city, where you'll see everything from hipsters to hippies to families out enjoying a sunny day. For a real taste of Toronto culture, time your visit around one of the many festivals and events held here throughout the year.
Enjoy a Drink at The Rooftop Terrace, Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel is one of Toronto's most iconic landmarks — a historic building, once a department store, transformed into a luxury hotel with a rooftop bar offering some of the best views in the city.
For a drink with a view, The Rooftop Terrace is the place to be — panoramic views of the skyline, Lake Ontario, and the CN Tower. If you get hungry, the bar also serves small plates like charcuterie boards and flatbreads.
Rooftop Terrace Tip
Go for sunset if you can — the views over Lake Ontario and the skyline are at their best in the golden hour before dark, and it's a genuinely memorable way to start an evening in the city.
Admire Street Art at Graffiti Alley
Toronto is filled with incredible street art, and Graffiti Alley is the best place to see it. This narrow laneway, just south of Queen Street West, is covered top to bottom in colourful murals and graffiti.
Wander down the alley and admire the artwork, which changes on a regular basis. If you're feeling inspired, you can even add your own tag — just bring your own spray paint.
See Up-and-Coming Comedy Stars at Second City
Second City is the world-famous comedy theatre that launched the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy, including Tina Fey, Mike Myers and Martin Short.
For a laugh, Second City is the place to be — nightly shows featuring some of Toronto's best up-and-coming talent. If you're feeling brave, you can even try stand-up during one of the theatre's open mic nights. Be warned though — Toronto audiences know their comedy and may not be particularly merciful if you bomb. Even famed Canadian politeness only goes so far.
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Take the Ferry to the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A short ferry ride from downtown gets you stunning skyline views, plus the chance to relax on the beach or hike through forest trails.
The islands are also home to several attractions, including an amusement park, a petting zoo, and an outdoor theatre. Plenty of picnic spots and cafés to choose from if you're hungry — just bring your sunscreen.
See a Maple Leafs Hockey Game
There are few more typically Canadian experiences than watching a hockey game, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are known for having some of the most passionate fans in North America. If you can get tickets to a home game, it's genuinely an experience worth having.
Even if you're not a huge hockey fan, the atmosphere at a Maple Leafs game is electric and sure to make for a fun night out. Just don't expect too much silverware — the team hasn't won a Stanley Cup championship in over 50 years.
Explore Toronto's LGBTQ2+ Scene
Toronto is known as one of the most LGBTQ2+ friendly cities in the world, and there's no better place to explore its vibrant queer scene than Church Street. This lively street is lined with bars, clubs and restaurants catering to the LGBTQ2+ community.
No matter what time of day or night, there's always something happening on Church Street. Whether dancing the night away at a club or simply enjoying a drink with friends, it's a genuinely welcoming and inclusive place to spend an evening.
Practical Information
Best time to visit: May through September offers the most comfortable weather for exploring on foot. Winters are cold, but the city stays lively with indoor attractions and winter events if you don't mind the temperature.
Getting around: The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) covers subway, streetcar and bus routes across the city, making most of these spots easily accessible without a car.
Currency: Canadian Dollar. Tipping around 15-18% is standard at restaurants and bars.
As the biggest city in Canada, Toronto is the gateway to this vast country for many visitors. But Toronto isn't really like anywhere else in Canada, or anywhere else in the world — the multicultural vibe of this city has given it a culture entirely its own.
Check out some of these activities and you'll be seeing the city like a local. Before you know it, you'll probably be planning your next trip back.
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Frequently Asked Questions
One of Toronto's most historic and diverse neighbourhoods — vintage stores, independent boutiques, buskers and international food stalls lining the streets. It's genuinely one of the best places in the city for an afternoon of browsing and people-watching.
