There is hardly anyone unaware of the capital city of Ontario, and the largest city in Canada Today, n number of people flock off to Toronto to live the ultimate Canadian dream. With its unparalleled diversity, rich inter-mixing of cultures, and fast-paced urban lifestyle, Toronto has emerged not only as a land of job opportunities but also as a major tourist attraction, with people looking for the best places to visit in a short time. The city is easy to navigate, with good GPS connectivity, clear signboards, and helpful locals. Whether you are an art freak or science geek, a history buff or a shopaholic, Toronto will have something that you would love to indulge in. here is our list of 10 places you must visit when in Toronto:
1. C.N. Tower:
No matter where you are in the city, you cannot miss seeing this feature in the skyline. The construction lasted from 1972-76, and at one time was the tallest free-standing tower in the world, standing 553-meters tall.. The Sky Pod is the highest viewing place, at a height of 447 m, which allows the viewer to enjoy a bird’s eye view over the Lake Ontario, and goes up to the New York State. The look out level has floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and a floor made entirely of glass. The Edge Walk is a hands-free walk on the outside edge of the main pod, where you walk at a height of about 365 m, which provides the participants with an unparalleled adrenaline rush. Safety measures are taken, and the walkers are fastened with ropes and harnesses to prevent accidents. If all that adventure has made you hungry, go ahead and enjoy a meal at 360 Restaurant. The diners are provided special access to the Look out and Glass Floor levels of the tower.
2. Royal Ontario Museum:
Popularly known as ROM, this museum has an excellent international reputation that precedes it. It houses some of the most outstanding relics from all over the world, and the variety of exhibits will surely keep the visitors entertained. The inclusion of the Michael Lee Chin crystal in 2007 into the exhibits was controversial, but has surely increased the appeal of this place among the tourists.
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada:
The facility opened in 2013 and has been a sensation among tourist attractions since then. It is located at the foot of the C.N. Tower and houses some of the largest varieties of marine life under one roof. The moving sidewalk under the gigantic underwater tunnel gives one the literal feel of the phrase “walking on water”. While you stand under the massive tanks and watch the ocean move around you with all its life, you might mentally strike-off deep sea diving from your list. Visitors are also allowed to touch selected fish at routine times, in a secure and controlled environment.
4. Art Gallery of Ontario:
Also known as AGO, this gallery is one of the largest museums in North America. It’s is an absolute delight for art enthusiasts, and has around 95,000 artworks from all over the world. The huge collection boasts of a lot of contemporary work, as well as old European art. There is a large display of the works of Group of Seven, which is very popular in Canadian art. The quaint building hosts a number of art shows and exhibitions all round the year and is forever bustling with activity.
5. High Park:
Complete with swimming pool, kid’s playgrounds, dog’s walk, forests, boating activities and forest trails, the Grenadier Pond, as well as a zoo, High park is the ultimate picnic spot. The park spreads over an area of 400 hectares and was given by Howards to Canadian authorities on 1873. In the months of July and August, the amphitheater is jam-packed when the beloved Shakespeare in the Park is performed. The park is not only the lungs of this city but is also a visual treat.
6. Casa Loma:
This marvelous building will teleport you back into medieval times. It was originally built for Sir Henry Pellatt, who happened to be one of the first few Canadian millionaires. The castle, now converted into a museum, has around 100 rooms and 36 bathrooms. Complete with secret passages, a tunnel, towers, a lush green estate, and even horse stables, this “Hill House” is the ultimate Gothic fantasy.
7. Distillery District:
A reminiscent from the times of Victorian industrialization, this place was the home of the largest whiskey producer of the British Empire. The cobbled pathways brick depositories are a treat to look at and can be easily navigated with the help of guides, who give an all-round tour of the boutiques, artist’s studios, galleries and eating joints. The place is an absolute must-visit, especially during the time of Christmas.
8. Toronto Islands:
The tour to these marvelous islands starts from the Queen’s Quay Terminal. As one glides into the blue waters, one will find a variety of places to visit, which include the famous beach at Hanlan’s Point, the fancy Yacht Club, which will take care of all your luxury living fantasies, and the Centreville Amusement Park. On pleasant days, don’t miss out on the breathtaking skyline of the city.
9. Hockey’s Hall of Fame:
Toronto has been the home of ice hockey since 1917 when Toronto Maple Leaf was founded. For all the enthusiasts of this game, this Hall is like a Christmas present. It houses the prestigious Stanley Cup and has displays about the greatest players of all times, complete with some personal belongings like jerseys and sports equipment. The genius interactive multimedia points allow the players to play against the legends in realistic virtual matches, and films displayed from time to time highlight the greatest events in the sport.10. Lawrence Market:
Built in the 1800s, a shopping experience here can be best described as visiting a market from the times gone by. There is a wide variety of street food to choose from, and the shops also retail in quaint little objects and flowers. This place was a popular meeting place back in the day, and today, a large number of films, music videos and commercials are shot here.