8 things to do in Toronto, Ontario

The Big Smoke. Toronto the Good. The 6ix. None of these nicknames by themselves quite encapsulate what makes Toronto, well, Toronto. But collectively, they begin to describe all the parts of this kaleidoscopic city that make it endlessly fascinating to visitors and locals alike. For newcomers, it can sometimes be difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to planning activities in Hogtown (yet another of the city’s innumerable nicknames). So, we’ve done the work for you.

Whether you’re after a fun day out of sightseeing or looking for fancy drinking spots to add to your bar-hopping itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Toronto.

1. Royal Ontario Museum

When visiting Toronto, you won’t want to miss the biggest and most comprehensive museum in Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Founded in 1914, the museum boasts a 13-million-piece strong collection of assorted cultural artefacts. Kids will want to head to the Tyrannosaurus rex exhibition, featuring fossil specimens documenting the life of this most infamous dinosaur from birth to death. Grown-ups might consider going to the once-a-month ROM After Dark, an event especially curated for adults to enjoy live music performances, thematic food and drinks, and visual art experiences.

2. St. Lawrence Market

Located in the eponymous St. Lawrence neighbourhood in downtown Toronto, this public market is home to almost 100 vendors distributed over two floors. A heaven for gourmets and gourmands both, many of the stalls are still run by the same families since generations past. Be sure to try the artisanal cheeses available at Monforte Dairy Co. in the North Market building, or sample from the wide variety of coffee beans curated by Luba’s Coffee Boutique, located in the upper level of the South Market. Other standouts include Churrasco’s , a Portuguese rotisserie chicken specialist, and Sausage King , which serves sausage-on-a-bun lunches and steak sandwiches.

3. Niagara-on-the-Lake

An hour and a half outside of downtown Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake, is one of the best-preserved villages in all of Ontario.  Sitting on the southern shore of Lake Ontario and nestled amid the fruit fields of the Niagara fruit belt, the village’s accommodations are a popular choice for adventurous travellers looking to explore Niagara Falls and its sights. This place is a  perfect day trip from Toronto in the warmer summer months, with notable shops on its pretty 19th century main street including Greaves Jams , which still occupies its original storefront from 1927 and stocks made-in-Ontario jams and preserves; Maple Leaf Fudge , which serves up handmade fudges and brittles; and Il Gelato di Carlotta , specialising in handmade gelatos and pastries.

4. Kensington Market and Art Gallery of Ontario

Boasting the most diverse and vibrant neighbourhood in Toronto, the bohemian Kensington Market has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada and features more than 240 local businesses within its borders. The market was originally the heart of the Jewish community in the city and shifted towards its current multicultural leanings in the 20th century. Traverse this colourful tapestry of a neighbourhood as well as the adjacent Art Gallery of Toronto.

5. Casa Loma

For the historically inclined, Casa Loma, built in 1914 by a prominent Canadian financier, is a must-see. The main castle is a time machine to the not-so-distant past, epitomising the filigreed European refinement of Toronto in the early 20th century.

The castle will also play host to a new magic show in April, entitled “State of Mind: The Illusion of Choice”; magicians Lawrence Larouche and Jeff Kaylor have curated an experience that challenges the very limits of human consciousness. Explore the castle ground’s beautiful gardens on a guided walking tour , available to Cathay members exclusively.

6. Toronto's Chinatowns

Toronto is home to the second-largest Chinese community in North America after New York City; given this, it’s no surprise there are multiple Chinatowns which have popped up all over the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). More importantly, with the proliferation of Chinese communities in the GTA comes the influx of great Chinese dining options – some of the very best restaurants in Toronto.

The most famous Chinatown is downtown, which still features old stalwarts of the foodie scene, such as Wah Too Seafood Restaurant. Other Chinatowns include new enclaves such as Markham, which has homegrown dining attractions such as Sam’s Congee Delight , or Richmond Hill, where you’ll find a branch of popular Chinese hotpot outlet Xiao Long Kan Chinese Fondue.

7. Theatresports presented by Bad Dog Theatre Company

As an audience member of member of this improvisational comedy show series, you’ll be entertained by opposing teams comprised of some of the funniest improv comedians in Canada – and at the end of the evening, you’ll vote for whichever team you thought was most hilarious.

The show’s frenetic, competitive nature has given birth to some of the most popular stars working in Hollywood today, including Mike Myers and Keanu Reeves. Check out the available shows and get your tickets here .

8. Toronto Bar Crawl Scavenger Hunt

Brainchild of the scavenger hunt wizards Let’s Roam, this Toronto Bar Hunt will be sure to bring out your inner competitiveness. Part bar crawl, part scavenger hunt, it comprises fun activities such as photo and video challenges. It will take you around the best bars in Toronto, from traditional pubs to secret speakeasies – destinations include SPIN Toronto , a rec-room themed bar; Bang Sue Bar , a Thai-inspired speakeasy; and the Ruby Soho Bar , with happy hour every weekday from 5-7pm..