Is Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market Worth Visiting? A Local’s Guide
What You Need to Know: St. Lawrence Market is one of the most iconic places to visit in downtown Toronto. Whether you explore on your own or take a St. Lawrence Market tour, this historic food market is absolutely worth adding to your Toronto itinerary.
If you’re planning a trip to Toronto and wondering whether St. Lawrence Market lives up to the hype – spoiler alert: it absolutely does.
As a Toronto local who visits the Market nearly every weekend, I can confidently say it’s not just worth a stop – it’s one of the best ways to experience the city like a local.
But is it really worth it if you’ve only got a couple days in Toronto?
Whether you’re a first-time visitor hoping to eat like a local, a foodie planning your dream market crawl, or just wondering what all the fuss is about, this guide walks you through everything you need to know. From where to park, what to eat, and when to visit, to hidden gems inside the South Market and the best walking tours nearby – I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into one of Toronto’s most iconic spots (and why it might just become your favourite part of your visit to the city).
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Where Is St. Lawrence Market and How Do You Get There?
St. Lawrence Market is right in the heart of downtown Toronto, sitting at the southwest corner of Front Street and Jarvis Street. It’s part of the city’s historic Old Town neighbourhood and super easy to get to – whether you’re walking, taking the TTC, or riding the Hop On Hop Off sightseeing bus (yes, it’s one of the stops!).
If you’re already downtown, it’s just a 10-minute walk from Union Station or the Hockey Hall of Fame, and about 15 minutes to the Toronto Islands ferry terminal. So even if you’re short on time, it’s easy to fit into your day.
Want a local hidden gem? Head over to Berkzy Park just beside the market. It’s a quiet little spot most tourists miss, and there’s a fun little display there that adds a bit of charm to your visit.
What Makes St. Lawrence Market Special?
St. Lawrence Market is one of the world’s top food markets and it’s been part of Toronto’s story since 1803. Located in the middle of the city’s Old Town, it’s a historic site that’s still very much alive and buzzing, especially on weekends.
The market includes more than 120 vendors selling everything from fresh pasta and baked goods to live lobsters and international cheeses. You’ll find butchers, fishmongers, cheese vendors, and specialty food stalls all packed into one place. It’s the kind of spot where you can come for lunch, shop for dinner, and leave with something you didn’t plan to buy but couldn’t resist.
St. Lawrence Market is made up of a few different areas: the South Market (the main building most people know), the North Market, the stretch of Market Street, and a temporary tent space that currently holds vintage vendor stalls.
The best part? It’s completely free to explore. But if you’re only in Toronto for a short time, try to go on a Saturday morning – that’s when both markets are in full swing and the neighbourhood is at its liveliest.
Just don’t go on a Monday – it’s closed.
South Market: The Heart of It All
The South Market is the heart of St. Lawrence Market – and probably the part you’ve seen in most photos. It’s housed in a huge turn-of-the-century red brick building, with a soaring cast-iron ceiling inspired by London’s St. Pancras train station. Inside, it’s a food lover’s dream.
The building is multi-level and packed with over 120 vendors offering everything from fresh pasta, seafood, and produce to baked goods, cured meats, preserves, and specialty cheeses. It’s mostly food-focused, but you’ll also find a few stalls selling unique gifts, handmade accessories, and Canadian souvenirs.
If you’re cooking during your trip, this is one of the best places in Toronto to buy meat, seafood, and poultry. We pick up ingredients for dinner here all the time – and always get our Thanksgiving turkey from one of the vendors.
There’s something about walking through with an apple fritter in hand and deciding on dinner while the smell of fresh-baked bread or grilled seafood floats by. Pro tip: go hungry. You’ll want to try everything.
If you’re not sure where to start—or want someone to show you the best dishes without the guesswork – a walking food tour is a great option. You’ll get to sample top picks, meet local vendors, and learn why this place is so iconic.
My Favourite Vendors: Perfect for a Self-Guided Food Tour
- Buster’s Sea Cove – My personal favourite. The lobster roll is killer – fresh, buttery, and totally worth the line.
- Carousel Bakery – You can’t come here without trying the iconic peameal bacon sandwich. They also sell apple fritters from The Big Apple (a fun local treat – saves you the drive to Cobourg).
- Stack’d Deli Kitchen – If you like a good meat sandwich, don’t miss this place. Their Montreal smoked meat sandwich is legit.
- St Lawrence Pizza & Pasta – Love Italian? This is your go-to spot for fresh pizza or homemade pasta and lasagna.
- Paddington’s Pump Restaurant – Great for a sit-down breakfast or brunch, especially if you’re there early. Bonus: they’ve got a little outdoor terrace for people-watching.
☞ Prefer a guided tour? Here’s my top pick. Take this highly recommend guided food tour of the market that takes you straight to the highlights – plus stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
What’s New at the North Market?
Right across the street from the South Market is the newly redeveloped St. Lawrence Market North Building – home to Toronto’s beloved Saturday Farmers’ Market. This spot has deep roots: the farmers’ market has been running here since 1803, making it one of the city’s longest-standing traditions.
After years in a temporary structure, the North Market finally reopened in 2025, and the new space is stunning. It’s a multi-level, glass-fronted building designed to highlight views of St. Lawrence Hall, the South Market, and the surrounding Old Town neighborhood.
During the Farmers’ Market local growers and makers from across Southern Ontario bring in the best of the season. Think fresh-picked apples and sweet corn, sunflowers and tulips, and homemade goodies like jams, baked goods, and honey. It’s one of the best ways to shop local in Toronto—and everything is free to browse.
Local Tip: Some vendors are still cash only, so it’s a good idea to bring a bit with you just in case.
Temporary Market in the Tent: Vintage Finds and Handmade Treasures
Just south of the South Market, at the southeast corner of The Esplanade and Market Street, you’ll see a big white tent – that’s the Temporary Market. It used to house the farmers’ market during the North Market redevelopment, but now it’s taken on a new life.
On Sundays, the space transforms into Sunday Variety at St. Lawrence Market – a vintage, antique, and handmade market that’s perfect if you’re into unique finds or just want to browse something totally different from your average souvenir shop.
You’ll find everything from mid-century furniture and vinyl records to vintage clothing, purses, handmade jewellery, original art, books, and even small-batch baked goods. It’s a mix of curated and quirky, and always fun to wander through.
If you’re into vintage shopping or love discovering one-of-a-kind pieces, this is the place to come. We’ve found some great gifts and cool home pieces here – plus it’s just a fun way to spend a Sunday morning.
Market Street: Grab a Seat and Soak It All In
Just west of the South Market, you’ll find Market Street – a pedestrian-only block with Muskoka chairs and outdoor seating. It’s the perfect spot to sit down with whatever you’ve picked up from the market – whether it’s a peameal bacon sandwich, a smoked meat on rye, or a bag of pastries you swore you weren’t going to buy. We’ve spent plenty of sunny mornings here just relaxing and watching the world go by.
Market Street also hosts free public events throughout the year – everything from live music to dance lessons. One of the highlights is the Winter Market, which runs each November and December and brings extra festive energy (and great snacks) to the area.
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or the holiday season, this street adds a little something extra to your market day.
Visiting in Winter? Don’t Miss the Holiday Market
If you’re visiting Toronto between late November and mid-December, the St. Lawrence Market Winter Market is a cozy little bonus. Running from late November to late December, it’s open Thursday through Sunday and totally free to visit.
You’ll find it right on Market Street, just outside the South Market. It’s only a block long, with about 20 vendors, but it has a relaxed, festive vibe that makes it worth checking out if you’re already in the area. There are stalls selling hot drinks, snacks, local crafts, and a few seasonal treats.
There’s also free entertainment like outdoor movies, carousel rides, skating (on select weekends), and even free photos with Santa inside the Market – which is especially great if you’re visiting Toronto with kids.
We usually like to wander through after shopping in the Market, grab a hot chocolate, and sit by one of the fire pits to take in the holiday atmosphere. It’s not nearly as big or flashy as the Distillery Winter Village, but it’s low-key, easy to enjoy, and doesn’t require tickets or planning ahead.
☞ Looking for even more festive fun? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Toronto during the winter holidays. It’s packed with seasonal events, markets, and lots of holiday lights.
What About the Market Gallery and St. Lawrence Hall?
If you’re looking up St. Lawrence Market, you might come across mentions of the Market Gallery on the second floor of the South Market. It’s a small museum space that highlights the history of the Market and Toronto’s development over time. But honestly? It’s not really a must-do.
The gallery has very limited hours and isn’t usually busy – and unless you happen to be visiting during Doors Open Toronto (when they sometimes host special exhibits), it’s probably skippable. If you are looking for a great museum in Toronto, there are much better options.
A few blocks away, you’ll also find St. Lawrence Hall, a beautiful heritage building from 1850 that now mostly hosts private events like weddings. It’s worth admiring from the outside if you’re already walking through Old Town, but it’s not a tourist stop on its own.
Best Tours of St. Lawrence Market
If you’re like me and enjoy learning more about the history and culture of a place – not just eating your way through it – then a local tour of St. Lawrence Market is absolutely worth considering. Whether you’re into food, history, or a mix of both, there are a few great tour options that dig a little deeper into what makes this spot special.
Here are three walking tours of St. Lawrence Market I’d recommend booking:
1. My Top Pick: Culinary Adventure Co. Food Walking Tour
If you’re looking for the most in-depth food experience at St. Lawrence Market, this is the one I always recommend. Culinary Adventure Co. has been leading food tours in Toronto for years and have won multiple tourism awards, including TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for 9 years in a row.
The tour runs Thursday through Sunday at 11 a.m. and lasts about two and a half hours. It’s a small group tour (12 people or fewer), which makes it feel more personal and relaxed.
You’ll sample 15+ tastings, meet expert butchers, bakers, and fishmongers, and learn how this market became a cornerstone of Toronto’s food scene. Along the way, you’ll stop at a number of market stalls, meet longtime vendors, and sample a generous range of local and seasonal foods. It’s a great way to combine history with hands-on tasting—without feeling rushed.
This one blends food with stories and history in the best way possible. If you’re only picking one tour, this is the one to take.
2. Great Combo Tour: St. Lawrence Market + The Distillery
If you’re hoping to explore beyond the Market itself, this tour offers a great mix. Over three hours, you’ll visit both St. Lawrence Market and the nearby Distillery District, two of the most historic and vibrant neighborhoods in the city.
The tour blends food with local history, offering interesting stories about the market’s role in Toronto’s past (and present), as well as background on the dishes you’re sampling.
The pace is easygoing, and the food is always a highlight – fresh, local, and a good mix of classic Canadian treats. Book this tour if you are looking for a fun way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re new to the city and want a taste of everything in one go.
3. Old Town Food and History Walking Tour
This tour is a great pick if you want to explore Toronto’s history through its food. It starts with locally roasted coffee, followed by a visit to St. Lawrence Market where you’ll try a peameal bacon sandwich (or a vegetarian alternative), and continues through the cobblestoned streets of the Market District.
Your guide weaves together stories about immigration, reform, prohibition, and Toronto’s early days – turning what could be a standard walk into something much more engaging. It’s about 1.5 kilometers (just under a mile), so the pace is relaxed and easy to follow.
The tour ends at a neighbourhood pub where you can sample a few local craft beers, which is a nice way to wrap up. Whether you’re new to Toronto or have lived here for years, this tour of St. Lawrence Market offers a refreshing perspective on the city’s history and flavours.
Where to Stay Near St. Lawrence Market
If you’re planning to spend time at St. Lawrence Market and want to stay nearby, you’ve got some great options – whether you’re looking for convenience, luxury, or a killer city view. Here are the three hotels I personally recommend:
✓ Closest and Most Convenient: Novotel Toronto Centre
If you’re after location and value, Novotel is hard to beat. Just a 5-minute walk from the Market, it’s newly renovated and perfectly placed to explore downtown Toronto. You’re close to Union Station, the Toronto Islands ferry, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and venues like Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Centre.
It’s also well-connected to public transit – including the subway, UP Express to Pearson Airport, and GO Trains (ideal for day trips to Niagara Falls). Lots of great restaurants nearby, too.
Looking for something clean, convenient, and walkable to everything downtown? Check current rates at Novotel Toronto Centre if you want to stay just steps from the Market in the heart of downtown Toronto without breaking the bank.
✓ Best for a Special Occasion: Fairmont Royal York
For a luxury stay with a touch of history, the Royal York is a Toronto icon. It’s located right across from Union Station and still within easy walking distance to the Market. The building has a unique old-world feel – perfect for a romantic weekend or a special occasion. If you go, make time for a drink at the cozy Library Bar. It’s the perfect place to wind down after a full day exploring the city.
If you want a stay that feels like a special occasion, the Royal York blends luxury with heritage. It’s perfect for couples, anniversaries, or anyone wanting that classic Toronto experience. Book a room at the Fairmont Royal York today.
✓ Modern Comfort and Great Views: Delta by Marriott Toronto
If you’re okay with a slightly longer walk (about 20 minutes), the Delta is a sleek, modern option with fantastic views of Lake Ontario. It’s right next to the CN Tower and Rogers Centre, which makes it ideal if you’re catching a Blue Jays game or a concert, or planning to visit the Aquarium. From here, you can easily hit all the major downtown attractions.
Prefer modern style and epic city views? Then the Delta is a great pick – especially if you’re also planning to visit the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, or catch a Leafs hockey game. Check availability at Delta Toronto.
Parking Near the Market
Driving to St. Lawrence Market? Despite what you might hear, parking really isn’t that bad – especially if you know where to look.
There are two Green P parking lots very close to the Market. The newest one is at the St. Lawrence Market North building. It’s modern, well-lit, and still a bit under the radar, so it usually has spaces available even on weekends.
Another great option is the Church Street Green P lot, especially on Saturdays. Last time we went, we paid just $1.00 for an hour of parking – which is almost unheard of in downtown Toronto.
If you’re planning to drive in, these two spots are your best bet for affordable and convenient parking.
So, Is St. Lawrence Market Worth Visiting?
If you’ve made it this far, you probably already know my answer: yes, it’s definitely worth it.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, stocking up on groceries, or just wandering with a coffee in hand, St. Lawrence Market is one of those rare places that locals and visitors both genuinely love. It’s not flashy or overhyped – it’s just a solid, feel-good part of Toronto that delivers every time.
We come here nearly every weekend, and even after years, there’s still something new to discover. So if you’re in town, carve out a morning or afternoon and go see it for yourself. Grab a breakfast sandwich, stroll through the stalls, and enjoy some of the best people-watching in the city.
And if the sun’s out? Take your food outside, find a picnic table, and soak it all in. That’s when the Market really shines.
Toronto Attractions Close to St. Lawrence Market
Wondering what else to visit that’s close to St. Lawrence Market? Here are some suggestions.
- Historic Distillery District – boutique shopping, excellent restaurants, cozy cafes – just a 15 minute walk from the market.
- Toronto Islands – the ferry to the Toronto Islands is a 20 minute walk – with gardens, parks, beaches, Centreville, restaurants and more, the islands in summer are a must-visit.
- Sugar Beach – an iconic Toronto Instagram spot, this urban beach is known for its distinctive pink umbrellas and beach chairs.
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