Is Toronto Worth Visiting in 2024? A Local Guide

Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just curious about what Toronto has to offer, you’re probably wondering if Toronto is worth visiting. As someone who’s lived here for years, I’m excited to share what makes this city special.

I get it—travel decisions can be tough. You might be concerned about things like navigating a big city, dealing with traffic, or managing your budget in an expensive destination. And let’s not forget the weather, which can range from hot summers to cold winters.

Having grown up in Toronto, I’ve had the chance to explore every corner of this beautiful city. From world-class attractions and museums to hidden gems in diverse neighbourhoods, I know what makes Toronto awesome. This blog is my way of sharing my insider knowledge and love for the city with you.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Toronto has something for you. No matter your interests, I’ve got you covered.

I’m excited to show you why I believe Toronto is visiting and falling in love with. Let’s explore what makes Toronto a special place to visit.

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What Makes Toronto Special?

Toronto is often highlighted as a top travel destination, but what truly sets it apart? 

While it’s the capital of Ontario and Canada’s largest city, Toronto’s charm goes beyond the iconic downtown attractions. If you explore a bit further, you’ll find that Toronto offers something unique in every season, from beaches and water sports to hidden gems in its diverse neighbourhoods.

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, delicious food, or searching for unique experiences, Toronto has options for all interests and ages. 

What really makes Toronto truly special are the little moments—relaxing in a park, catching live music, or enjoying a boat tour around the Toronto Islands. Toronto isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s about experiencing the city like a local.

15 Reasons Why Toronto is Worth Visiting

So for those wondering “Is Toronto worth visiting?” here are 15 reasons why I believe this city is truly special and a must-visit destination from my perspective as a local.

1. Toronto Has Lots of Attractions and Landmarks

Toronto is packed with incredible museums and attractions that cover a wide range of interests. 

If it’s your first time in the city, no visit would be complete without checking out some of the iconic spots like the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), and the historic Casa Loma. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and architecture.

For art lovers, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is a must-visit—it’s recognized as one of the best art galleries in the world. Other popular attractions include Ripley’s Aquarium, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and the scenic Toronto Islands. 

St. Lawrence Market is a foodie’s paradise, while the Distillery District offers a charming mix of history, art, and boutique shopping.

For those who love thrilling amusement parks, Canada’s Wonderland has awesome roller coasters and is located close to Toronto. It also holds seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, which are fun to visit in the fall and winter.

If you’re new to Toronto, I find that taking the Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city’s main downtown attractions. 

2. Toronto’s Beautiful Waterfront

Toronto’s waterfront stretches an impressive 43 kilometres along Lake Ontario. This waterfront is what contributes to Toronto’s beauty and iconic skyline. You can walk along the water’s edge or ride your bike along one of the many cycling paths. 

In the downtown core, Harbourfront is the heart of this area, featuring urban beaches like HTO and Sugar Beach, as well as the peaceful Music Garden. 

It’s a perfect spot for watersports enthusiasts, with kayaking and paddleboarding available right on the lake.

Why not enjoy a drink on a patio overlooking the water or take a scenic cruise around Toronto’s harbour while you admire the Toronto skyline? 

You can also escape the city by hopping on a ferry or water taxi for a visit to the Toronto Islands. Here you can enjoy beaches, parks, an amusement park, and patio restaurants. It’s also one of the best places in Toronto to see a sunset.

3. Toronto’s Many Excellent Beaches

You might be surprised to learn that Toronto is home to many excellent beaches. Perfect for a day on the beach, a walk along the boardwalk, or a photographer’s dream, the beaches are a bit of a hidden gem in Toronto.

My favourites include Woodbine Beach, Centre Island Beach, Bluffer’s Park Beach, and Cherry Beach. Water sports like paddleboarding, kitesurfing and kayaking are also big draws here.

But Toronto’s beaches aren’t just for summer—they’re beautiful year-round. Woodbine Beach, for instance, is one of the best places in the city to see the stunning Toronto fall foliage. 

And if you’re up for a scenic walk or bike ride, the Martin Goodman Trail runs along the waterfront, offering lovely views in every season.

4. Toronto’s Multicultural Neighbourhoods

With a population of around 3 million and over half of its residents born outside of Canada, Toronto is a truly multicultural city. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, each offering a unique blend of food, festivals, shopping, and culture.

Whether you’re wandering through the trendy streets of Queen West, indulging in the delicious food in Greektown, or exploring the artistic vibe of Kensington Market, Toronto’s neighbourhoods are full of character and really fun to visit. 

It’s easy to take the TTC to discover areas of Toronto like the Beaches neighbourhood, Yorkville, Chinatown, Leslieville, Liberty Village, and the Gay Village, among others.

As you walk through each of these unique neighbourhoods, you’ll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and local ambiance that make for a really interesting visit and will take you beyond the typical tourist spots.

5. Toronto’s Many Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Did you know that Toronto has more than 10 million trees? Toronto isn’t just a bustling city; it’s also ideal for those who love nature and the outdoors. With over 1,600 parks and 200 kilometres of trails, you can walk, hike, or cycle throughout the city.

You will also find outdoor swimming pools, splashpads, playgrounds, and skating rinks in our city parks. And they are all free to use.

Different seasons also bring different highlights. Toronto’s cherry blossoms are stunning, especially in High Park. 

You can see the Toronto skyline surrounded by the fall colours from the Evergreen Brickworks. And the Toronto Islands in winter are a truly Canadian experience. 

No matter where you are in Toronto, you’re never far from a park or green space, making the city a true destination for nature lovers.

6. A Food Lover’s Paradise

If food is your passion, Toronto is the place to be! The city has thousands of excellent restaurants, food trucks, and festivals, offering everything from Michelin-starred dining to casual eating. 

Whether you’re exploring the historic St. Lawrence Market, enjoying a meal on a rooftop patio with stunning views, or savouring live music at a lively bar, Toronto’s food scene has many options.

You’ll find great breakfast spots, cozy coffee shops, and bars that cater to every taste. 

From gourmet dining to street food, Toronto is a paradise where you could easily spend your entire visit indulging in the city’s diverse culinary offerings.

7. There Are Lots of Free Things to Do in Toronto

Some visitors suggest that Toronto is expensive, but are you aware of how many free things there are to do in Toronto? 

I have already mentioned the many parks, playgrounds, pools, skating rinks, and hiking trails located throughout the city. The Martin Goodman Trail is a cycling path that will take you all along the waterfront from Woodbine Beach to Humber Bay. 

Capture Instagram-worthy shots at spots like Graffiti Alley, the Toronto Sign, and the Guild Inn and Park. Watch a stunning Toronto sunset with views of the Toronto skyline at Riverdale Park, Polson Pier, or Trillium Park.

Explore free gardens such as Edwards Gardens, Kew Gardens Park, Rosetta McClain Gardens, and Allen Gardens. Take a walk along the 3 km long wooden boardwalk in Toronto’s Beaches neighbourhood or through the nature reserve at Tommy Thompson Park.

Toronto’s historical museums, like Fort York and Spadina Museum also offer free admission, making it easy to dive into the city’s history. The Bata Shoe Museum is free on Sundays, and the ROM has free admission one day per month. Other museums also have free admission days.

And, for just a minimal cost, you can ride a streetcar across the city or take a ferry to the Toronto Islands to see even more Toronto highlights.

8. Toronto is Great for Kids

Toronto is a fantastic city for families, offering plenty of kid-friendly activities, many of which are low-cost or free. 

Hop on a streetcar, visit one of the many parks, or spend a day at one of Toronto’s excellent beaches. Kids will love skating, swimming in outdoor pools, or exploring free skateparks like Ashbridges’ Bay Skatepark.

For unforgettable attractions, visit Ripley’s Aquarium, the Toronto Zoo, or take in the views from the CN Tower. Or for something different, check out Riverdale Farm (free), located near Riverdale Park.

Take the ferry over to Centre Island to explore the beaches, parks, gardens, and even a farm! Of course, a popular spot is Centreville Amusement Park with its kiddie rides.

Canada’s Wonderland, featuring the Splash Works waterpark, is also a popular spot to visit with kids, especially for those travelling with teens and young adults. 

9. Niagara Falls is Close to Toronto

Let’s be honest—if you’re visiting Toronto for the first time, a day trip to Niagara Falls is likely on your list. 

Niagara Falls is located less than two hours from Toronto, and it’s easy to make a detour to visit Niagara Falls as part of your travel plans. 

Whether you drive, take the GoTrain, or join a guided tour, travelling to Niagara Falls from Toronto is simple and convenient.

You might be wondering if Niagara Falls is worth visiting, and I’m here to tell you that it absolutely is! And while you are there, don’t forget to visit one of the incredible wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake for a perfect end to your day.

10. Toronto is for Sports Lovers

Toronto is home to many professional sports teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Football Club, the Argos football team, and the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), which kicked off its first season in 2023.

If you are interested in watching a sporting event, Toronto is the place to be! 

In addition to sport teams, Toronto hosts major events like the Canadian Open Tennis, the Honda Indy, the Canadian Open golf tournament, and the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup in 2026. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy the thrill of live sports, Toronto is the perfect place to catch a game or event during your visit.

11. Excellent Shopping in Toronto

Toronto also has some great shopping locations! The Eaton Centre is the city’s most popular shopping mall, while the PATH, the world’s largest underground shopping complex, provides a unique shopping experience.

For luxury shopping, head to Yorkville, where you’ll find high-end brands like Gucci and Chanel. If vintage is more your style, Kensington Market and Leslieville are must-visits. 

Be sure to explore hidden gems like the newly opened Well in downtown Toronto. Here you’ll find a mixture of fascinating architecture, excellent restaurants, and great shopping. 

For outlet shopping, head to Vaughan Mills or the Premium Outlets in Halton and Niagara Falls, just a short drive out of the city.

12. Year-Round Events and Entertainment Venues

Toronto is buzzing with events, concerts, and performances throughout the entire year. 

Toronto hosts many incredible festivals and events year round, including popular ones like the Toronto Jazz Festival, Honda Indy, the Canadian National Exhibition, and the Toronto International Film Festival.

Seasonal highlights include the Santa Claus Parade, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Pride Parade, and spectacular fireworks for Canada Day and Victoria Day. 

Neighbourhood festivals, like Taste of the Danforth, are also great events for visitors and locals to attend.

For music lovers, Toronto has incredible concert venues, including the larger Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Centre to more intimate spots like Budweiser Stage, Danforth Music Hall, and HISTORY. 

13. Exceptional Theatre Scene

Toronto’s theatre scene may not be the largest, but it’s exceptional. Many Broadway hits make their way to Toronto before heading to New York, with shows like Come From Away, The Six, Hamilton, and Les Misérables all having graced Toronto’s stages. 

Tickets here are often more affordable than in New York, without compromising on quality.

Beyond theatre, Toronto is home to the Toronto Symphony, Opera, and Ballet, offering a rich cultural experience. 

For those up for a road trip, the Stratford Festival is also a must-see production just outside the city.

14. A City for All Seasons

Toronto is worth visiting no matter the time of year. 

Summer in Toronto comes alive with festivals, water sports, and outdoor activities. The weather is hot and the days are long. It’s ideal for walks along the beach, swimming in the lake, and picnicking in the park.

Winter in Toronto offers ice skating, tobogganing (sledding), and festive events like the Distillery Winter Market, holiday lights, the Santa Claus Parade, and New Year’s Eve celebrations. For the brave, there’s even the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge.

Fall is all about the breathtaking fall colours. Our 10 million trees are absolutely stunning in the autumn in Toronto — take a walk through the University of Toronto campus or the Glen Stewart Ravine to soak it all in. 

In spring, it’s all about the parks and gardens coming alive with spring flowers. We have incredible spots across Toronto to see the cherry blossoms, and we have tulip farms close to Toronto that are truly stunning. There are many great things to do in Toronto every spring.

15. Toronto is a Hub to Other Destinations

Toronto is not just a destination in itself; it’s also a gateway to other exciting cities. Did you know that New York City is just about an hour’s flight from Toronto? 

In addition to our international airport, the Toronto Island Airport in downtown Toronto has convenient flights to major cities like New York, Washington, Boston, and Chicago.

If you’re interested in exploring more of Canada, Toronto makes it easy. From Union Station, you can hop on a train to cities like Kingston, Ottawa, Montreal, or Quebec City. 

Toronto can be the perfect starting point for your broader North American adventures.

Things to Know Before You Visit Toronto

Before you visit Toronto, there are some tips and facts that I feel are helpful to know before planning your Toronto vacation.

Toronto is Huge, But Downtown is Walkable

Toronto’s size can be surprising to first-time visitors. While downtown is very walkable, the city itself is vast, and some attractions are not in the downtown core. 

Other travel bloggers who aren’t as familiar with the city don’t always highlight the distance between recommended spots, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

City of Toronto vs. Toronto Region

When researching things to do, keep in mind that “Toronto” can refer to both the city itself and the larger Toronto Region. 

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) spans about 60 km from Pickering to Mississauga, so be aware of where attractions are located to avoid long, unexpected commutes.

Use Google Maps for Planning

Before booking accommodations or buying tickets, check Google Maps to get a sense of the distances involved.

For instance, the Toronto Zoo is about an hour from downtown by TTC. A trip from Yorkville (near the ROM) to downtown or the waterfront will require a subway ride. The Scarborough Bluffs beach is not an easy destination to reach without a vehicle.

Itineraries often suggest activities that aren’t close together. To make the most of your visit, group nearby attractions together and consider travel times when planning your day.

Downtown Hotels and Parking are Expensive

Toronto hotels tend to be on the pricier side, likely due to high demand and limited availability. 

Additionally, parking in the downtown core—especially at hotels—can be expensive. If budget is a concern, consider accommodations outside the downtown area. 

The most affordable parking in Toronto is in the city’s Green P parking lots. Look for a Green P lot to help you keep the cost of parking lower.

Toronto Traffic is Challenging

Traffic in Toronto, particularly in and out of the downtown core, can be a significant challenge. 

While there are various reasons for the congestion, it’s something to keep in mind when planning your trip. 

If possible, avoid driving and opt for walking, using the TTC, or relying on taxis and ride share options to navigate the city more easily.

Unhoused People

Like many large cities, Toronto has a visible unhoused population. Generally, they are harmless and keep to themselves, but you may encounter individuals asking for help. 

A polite “no thank you” is usually sufficient, or you can simply cross the street to avoid interaction. If you see a park with tents, such as Allen Gardens, it’s best to walk around the area rather than through it.

Public Transportation Includes Many Options

Toronto’s public transportation system, the TTC, includes streetcars, buses, and subways. At times it can be a bit tricky to navigate if you are not a local. You might also need to use a combination of TTC options to reach your destination. 

Ongoing construction for a new Ontario Subway Line has also disrupted some traditional routes. 

In addition to the TTC, there’s the GO Train, ideal for travel to places like the Exhibition or Union Station from the suburbs. The UP Express connects the airport to Union Station. 

Fortunately, you can easily use any of these services by tapping your credit or debit card.

How Many Days Do You Need in Toronto?

You can experience Toronto in a single day, but you could just as easily spend an entire week or more exploring the city.

If your focus is primarily on the downtown core, I recommend spending three days in Toronto. 

This amount of time allows you to see major attractions, enjoy the diverse food scene, and catch a sporting event or show without feeling rushed. 

For a detailed guide on how to make the most of your three days, check out my article on the perfect 3-day Toronto itinerary.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Toronto?

The best time to visit Toronto, in my opinion, is in June, late August, or September. 

During these months, the weather is warm, the sun is shining, the gardens and parks are in full bloom, and patios are open for dining. 

Attractions are open and the days are long, yet you won’t face the peak crowds of July and early August.

Late August is particularly great, as it coincides with the Canadian National Exhibition, one of Toronto’s top events. Plus, with kids gearing up for school, the city is less busy. 

When is the Worst Time to Visit Toronto?

The worst time to visit Toronto, in my opinion, is typically January and February. The holiday season has ended, the weather is cold, and the skies can be quite grey. 

While there are still some enjoyable winter activities in Toronto, like outdoor ice skating or the winter art installations at Woodbine Beach, you need to be ready to handle the cold to make the most of your visit during these months. 

If you’re not a fan of winter weather, you might want to consider visiting at a different time of year.

Where to Stay in Toronto

There are many hotels in Toronto, ranging in price and location, but I recommend staying in the downtown core, especially if you’re here to visit the main attractions.

Delta Hotels Toronto

⭐️ RATING: 9.2 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 75 Lower Simcoe St, Toronto, ON

For visitors wanting to be at the heart of Toronto’s top attractions, Delta Hotels Toronto offers a prime downtown location. 

Situated right beside the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Rogers Centre, and Scotiabank Arena, it’s perfect for those eager to explore. 

The Delta Hotel is also conveniently close to Union Station, making it easy to reach the airport, subway, and GoTrain to Niagara Falls. Built in 2014, this modern hotel features an indoor pool, adding a touch of relaxation to your stay.

Toronto Sheraton Centre Downtown

⭐️ RATING: 8.8 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 123 Queen St W, Toronto, ON

If you’re looking for a blend of comfort and convenience, the Toronto Sheraton Centre Downtown is an excellent choice. 

This large hotel, which recently underwent multi-million dollar renovations, is ideally located near the vibrant Queen West area, full of restaurants and bars. 

It’s also right beside the Toronto Eaton Centre, the Toronto Sign, and within easy reach of the Theatre District. 

The Sheraton hotel’s standout feature is its impressive year-round indoor-outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

If you are looking for more information this hotel, read my full review of Toronto’s Sheraton Hotel in downtown Toronto.

Westin Harbour Castle

⭐️ RATING: 8.4 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 1 Harbour Square, Toronto, ON

For pet lovers and those wanting to stay by Toronto’s waterfront, the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel is my top pick. 

It’s one of Toronto’s best pet-friendly hotels, with no extra charge for your pets. 

Located on Lake Ontario next to the Toronto Ferry Terminal, it’s ideal for visiting the Toronto Islands, Harbourfront, and Trillium Park. 

Plus, you’re within walking distance of concerts, sporting events, the CN Tower, and Ripley’s Aquarium, making it a great base for your Toronto adventures.

Final Thoughts: So, Is Toronto Worth Visiting?

Is Toronto worth visiting? Absolutely! Toronto is such a fun and diverse city. You can find so many things to do in Toronto at any time of year.

If you are vacationing in Toronto, be sure to dive into this travel blog for detailed itineraries, insider tips, and recommendations that will help you make the most of your visit. As a local Toronto resident, I know this city well, and this blog can be your go-to resource for discovering the best that Toronto has to offer. 

Ready to explore more? Sign up for my first-time visitor’s guide and tips below to ensure your visit to Toronto is nothing short of unforgettable.