Best Things to Do Alone in Toronto: The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide
Traveling solo in Toronto? Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned independent traveler, Toronto is an amazing city to explore alone.
From world-class museums and scenic waterfront trails to hidden gems and buzzing neighbourhoods, there’s no shortage of things to do alone in Toronto—you just need to know where to look!
As a Toronto local and frequent solo traveler, I’ve explored this city from top to bottom—on my own. I know exactly which spots are fun, safe, and easy to enjoy solo.
This Toronto solo travel guide covers everything you need to know, including:
✔ Iconic attractions that are perfect for exploring at your own pace
✔ Unique neighbourhoods where solo travelers feel right at home
✔ Scenic outdoor spots for relaxing walks, biking, and even beaches
✔ The best places to eat solo without feeling awkward
Keep reading to learn about the best solo things to do in Toronto that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here.
Toronto Attractions
Toronto has an endless list of attractions and hidden gems worth visiting. Here are a few highlights that I recommend, especially for first-time visitors.
CN Tower
No trip to Toronto is complete without visiting the CN Tower. As a solo traveler, you can take your time soaking in the breathtaking views from the observation deck.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the EdgeWalk, where you can walk along the tower’s outer rim for an unforgettable experience.
While I haven’t been brave enough to try the EdgeWalk yet, I do recommend paying extra to go to the level above the main observation deck (known as The Top). From here, I found the views even more impressive. I spent a lot of time taking photos of the city from above!
Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus
Whenever I travel solo, I love finding a Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour to help me get oriented in a new city. Toronto is no exception! Toronto has a fun sightseeing bus that will take you to all of Toronto’s main downtown attractions.
I recently took this tour myself and was impressed with how much of the city I got to see. I found it a stress-free and safe way to explore the city’s main attractions, neighbourhoods, and museums.
If it’s your first visit to Toronto, it’s an ideal way to familiarize yourself to the city and finalize your itinerary.
⭐️ Want to explore without the hassle of planning? This guided Toronto sightseeing tour is solo-friendly and covers all the must-sees!
Casa Loma
Visit Toronto’s very own castle! Casa Loma is a dream for history and architecture lovers. My favourite spot in Casa Loma are the towers at the very top of the castle. There are some awesome views of the Toronto skyline from turrets at the top.
Visiting solo means you can explore the grand halls, hidden tunnels, and beautiful gardens at your own pace. You can also download the audio guide to get the full historic appreciation of the attraction.
This is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist destinations. I highly recommend going early and heading to the towers first to avoid the crowds.
☞ What to know more about this famous Toronto attraction? Read my complete guide to visiting Casa Loma.
Little Canada
At first glance, Little Canada might seem like a Toronto attraction for kids, but trust me—this miniature world is just as fascinating for adults. I highly recommend adding it to your solo itinerary!
With two floors of miniature models (it’s much bigger than you might expect) it’s the perfect spot to explore at your own pace. You will start to appreciate how impressive Canada is and can examine the displays without feeling rushed.
I was so impressed during my recent visit that I unexpectedly spent several hours here. It even inspired me to begin planning my next Canadian vacation!
⭐️ Explore Canada in miniature! From the Toronto skyline to the Rocky Mountains, Little Canada brings the country to life in stunning detail. Book your tickets now and experience this tiny world up close! ☞ Get Tickets Now
Toronto Islands
One of the prettiest spots to visit just minutes from downtown are the Toronto Islands. You can take a short ferry ride or water taxi to Centre Island and within minutes you’ll be in another world!
With beaches, trails, gardens, an amusement park, water sports, restaurants, cafes and more these 15 islands are definitely worth including in your solo travel itinerary, particularly in summer.
One of my favourite solo activities is bringing (or renting) a bike and riding along the trails. It’s peaceful and the views of the Toronto are unbeatable!
⭐️ The best way to explore the Toronto Islands? By bike! Ride scenic trails, soak in stunning skyline views, and discover hidden beaches on a guided bike tour. Book your bike tour today for an unforgettable ride! ☞ Reserve Your Spot Now
Museums and Art Galleries
Toronto is a dream city for museum lovers, offering a mix of world-class galleries, quirky collections, and historic sites that are perfect for solo visitors.
If you love museums, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario are two of the top solo things to do in Toronto—wander at your own pace and soak in world-class art and history.
✓ Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – A must-visit for history buffs, this museum takes you through everything from towering dinosaurs to ancient Egyptian artifacts.
One of my favourite solo experiences here? Wandering through the stunning gallery of Gems and Gold with almost 600 rare gems. Also be on the lookout for the very rare and valuable blue diamond named The Light of the Desert.
⭐️ Dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and world-class exhibits—explore it all at the ROM! Wander at your own pace and dive into history, culture, and science. Get your tickets in advance and skip the wait! ☞ Book Now
✓ Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) – Home to over 90,000 artworks, including iconic Canadian pieces and international masterpieces. The massive Frank Gehry-designed spiral staircase alone makes this visit worth it!
✓ Bata Shoe Museum – Love fashion or quirky museums? This one is a hidden gem, showcasing thousands of shoes from all over the world, including ones worn by celebrities, royalty, and ancient civilizations.
✓ Gardiner Museum – A peaceful spot for pottery lovers, featuring incredible ceramic art from around the world. I love their hands-on workshops, where you can actually try pottery-making yourself!
✓ Historic Museums for Free – Toronto has several free historical sites, like Fort York, where you can step back into Toronto’s military past, and Campbell House, a well-preserved 19th-century Georgian mansion.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Toronto might be a bustling city, but it’s also packed with green spaces, perfect for solo travelers looking to relax, walk, or explore the outdoors.
✓ Outdoor Skating (Winter Must-Do!) – Skating outdoors in Toronto is magical in the winter. My personal favourite is the Bentway Skate Trail, where you glide under an urban highway with city lights twinkling above. Don’t have skates? Many rinks offer rentals!
✓ Best Parks for a Stroll or Hike
- High Park – Toronto’s biggest park, with hiking trails, cherry blossoms (springtime favourite!), and even a small zoo.
- Kew Gardens – A peaceful beachfront park in the Beaches neighbourhood, great for a quiet walk.
- Evergreen Brickworks – A former industrial site turned eco-park, with scenic trails, a farmers’ market, and stunning city views.
✓ Gorgeous Gardens – If you love flowers and peaceful escapes, don’t miss Allan Gardens Conservatory, the Toronto Music Gardens, or Edwards Gardens.
✓ Beaches & Waterfront Escapes
- Woodbine Beach – One of the most popular spots for a lazy beach day.
- Centre Island Beach – A quick ferry ride takes you to one of Toronto’s most scenic beaches.
- Bluffer’s Park Beach – Nestled below dramatic cliffs, this beach is one of Toronto’s most Instagram-worthy spots.
✓ Bike Rentals & Scenic Rides – Grab a Bike Share Toronto rental and ride along the Martin Goodman Trail for beautiful waterfront views or explore the car-free Toronto Islands.
Explore Toronto’s Many Neighbourhoods
Toronto’s neighbourhoods are vibrant, diverse, and perfect for solo wandering. Hop on a streetcar or subway and discover what makes each area special!
✓ The Beaches – One of Toronto’s safest, most scenic neighbourhoods with a wooden boardwalk stretching 3 km along Lake Ontario.
Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy a relaxing stroll along Lake Ontario. It is one of my favourite places to see the fall colours in the autumn.
✓ Kensington Market – This artsy, bohemian area is filled with vintage shops, international street food, and vibrant murals. I love spending time here just soaking in the energy and grabbing a bite from a local vendor!
✓ Downtown Core – The busiest part of Toronto, but also the most walkable! Explore the underground PATH, visit the CN Tower, browse shops at the Eaton Centre, or check out the bustling Financial District.
✓ Distillery District – The Distillery District is a historic pedestrian-only area in Toronto, known for its charming cobblestone streets, preserved Victorian-era architecture, and vibrant arts, dining, and shopping scene. It’s one of my favourite things to do at Christmas with it’s holiday market, but it’s worth visiting any time of year.
Toronto’s Waterfront
Toronto’s waterfront is one of the best areas for solo travelers—a mix of relaxing patios, scenic walks, and water activities.
✓ Lakeside Patio Dining – Enjoy a meal with a view at one of Toronto’s lakeside restaurants, like Amsterdam Brewhouse or The Goodman Pub and Kitchen.
✓ Harbour Cruises – Hop on a sightseeing cruise for a different view of the skyline and islands —the sunset tours are extra special! ☞ Check out the best cruises here.
✓ Ice Skating by the Lake (Winter Only!) – Harbourfront Centre’s rink is one of my favourite winter spots—it’s right by the lake, and skating under the CN Tower is pure magic.
✓ Scenic Waterfront Walks & Bike Rides – The Martin Goodman Trail is a solo traveler’s dream—ride or stroll along the water with stunning skyline and lake views.
✓ Canoe, Kayak, or Paddleboard – If you want to try out some water sports on Lake Ontario, rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard, book a lesson or take a guided tour with paddletoronto.com
✓ Urban Beaches – Relax at HTO Park or Sugar Beach, where you’ll find colourful umbrellas and beach chairs perfect for an afternoon break and Instagram pictures.
Toronto’s Restaurant Scene
Toronto is a food lover’s paradise, and dining alone here is easy and enjoyable with plenty of casual spots, food markets, and scenic restaurants.
✓ Food Markets – My go-to spot for trying different foods!
- St. Lawrence Market – Famous for its peameal bacon sandwiches & international stalls.
- Chef’s Hall – A trendy food hall with a mix of global cuisine.
- Wellington Market – Inside The Well, the Wellington is Toronto’s newest food market. Lots of unique eateries and perfect for a solo meal.
✓ Picnic in the Park – Grab takeout and head to Trinity Bellwoods Park, Kew Gardens, or visit the Toronto Islands for a relaxing solo picnic.
✓ Dining with a View – If you want a meal with stunning views, check out:
- 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower – A rotating restaurant with skyline views.
- Canoe – High-end dining with a view of Toronto’s waterfront.
- BlueBlood Steakhouse – A unique experience inside Casa Loma’s castle.
Entertainment, Sports, and Concerts
One of the best perks of solo travel? It’s easier to snag last-minute tickets! Toronto has world-class theatre, live music, and exciting sports events year-round.
✓ Theatre, Ballet, & Symphony – Catch a Broadway-style show at the Ed Mirvish Theatre or experience the Toronto Symphony Orchestra at Roy Thomson Hall.
✓ Sports Games – Toronto is obsessed with sports, and solo travelers can easily find single tickets:
- Baseball – Cheer on the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre.
- Basketball – Catch the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena.
- Hockey – Experience a Maple Leafs game (if you can score a ticket!).
✓ Live Concerts – Almost every major artist stops in Toronto. In fact, I recently grabbed a last-minute solo ticket to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—sometimes going alone means getting the best seat in the house!
Shopping in Toronto
Toronto is a shopper’s dream, offering everything from high-end designer stores to quirky vintage shops.
Best Places to Shop
- Toronto Eaton Centre – A large shopping mall with top brands.
- Yorkville – High-end designer boutiques for a luxury shopping experience.
- Queen West – Trendy boutiques & independent designers. Don’t miss Graffiti Alley for amazing street art!
- Kensington Market – A goldmine for vintage finds and unique souvenirs.
- The Well – Toronto’s newest shopping hub with a mix of retail & dining.
Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls
If you have an extra day in your Toronto itinerary, Niagara Falls is an incredible solo adventure that’s just a short trip away!
Whether you prefer to explore independently or join a guided tour, this world-famous destination offers breathtaking scenery, fun attractions, and easy transportation options from Toronto.
Getting There: The Best Ways to Travel Solo
✓ By GO Train or Bus: The most budget-friendly option is taking the GO Train or bus from Toronto’s Union Station to Niagara Falls. The ride is relaxing and scenic, and once you arrive, the WeGo bus system makes it easy to get around.
✓ Guided Tour (Best for Convenience): If you prefer a stress-free experience, consider booking a Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto. These tours often include hotel pickup, transportation, and skip-the-line access to top attractions—perfect if you want to maximize your time.
☞ Check out the best guided tours here!
Top Solo-Friendly Activities at Niagara Falls
✓ Journey Behind the Falls – Walk through tunnels behind the waterfall for a powerful, up-close experience.
✓ Niagara City Cruises – Hop on a boat tour that takes you right to the base of the falls—prepare to get misted!
✓ Walk Across the Rainbow Bridge – Cross into the U.S. for a different perspective of the falls (just bring your passport!).
✓ Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake – If you love wine, take a short trip to this charming town known for its world-class wineries.
☞ For even more ideas, read my One Day Niagara and Two Day Niagara Itineraries.
My Personal Tip for Solo Travelers
I’ve visited Niagara Falls solo multiple times, and my favourite way to experience it is by arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise, if possible.
I love walking along the scenic promenade with a coffee in hand, soaking in the misty air before the tourists arrive.
If you want an extra thrill, I highly recommend Niagara City Cruises—standing on the boat deck while the falls thunder down around you is an unforgettable experience!
Is It Worth the Trip? Absolutely!
Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most iconic natural wonders, and it’s a perfect solo day trip from Toronto. Whether you go for the waterfalls, adventure activities, or a relaxing wine tour, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
☞ Ready to plan your trip? Book a Niagara Falls tour or check out the best ways to get there from Toronto!
Where to Stay in Toronto if You’re Travelling Solo
Choosing the right place to stay is key to a stress-free solo trip, and Toronto has plenty of safe, well-located hotels that make getting around a breeze.
Whether you want luxury, convenience, or a social atmosphere, here are my top solo-friendly hotel recommendations:
The Fairmont Royal York – Best for Classic Luxury & Easy Transit
If you want a luxurious stay in one of the most historic hotels in Toronto, I recommend the Fairmont Royal York.
The Royal York Hotel sits directly across from Union Station, making it incredibly easy to access the Toronto International Airport and navigate the city via the TTC.
This luxury hotel also features high-class on-site bars and restaurants, so you can enjoy a great meal or a nightcap without venturing far.
The Royal York is ideal for feeling safe and pampered, with elegant rooms, on-site dining, and a historic charm that makes it feel special.
✓ Best for: Solo travelers who want a luxury experience with unbeatable convenience.
☞ Check availability & rates here
Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto – Best for Modern Comfort & Prime Location
Located right beside the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Toronto waterfront, The Delta Toronto is a great pick for modern, comfortable accommodations within walking distance of top attractions.
Plus, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning city views making it a fantastic place to unwind after a day of exploring.
✓ Best for: Travelers who want a central location with a sleek, modern vibe.
☞ See rates & book your stay
The Annex Hotel – Best for a Stylish, Social Vibe
If you prefer a boutique, design-forward hotel with a community feel, The Annex is a fantastic option. As a bonus, complimentary breakfast is also included.
It’s located in a trendy neighbourhood filled with cafés, bookstores, and indie shops, making it a great base for exploring like a local.
It’s close to the Spadina subway station and walking distance to Yorkville and the Royal Ontario Museum.
With keyless check-in, cozy common spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great alternative to traditional hotels—especially if you want a social yet laid-back solo experience.
✓ Best for: Independent travelers who love boutique hotels
☞ Book your stay at The Annex
Why Toronto Is a Great Destination for Solo Travellers
Solo travel in Toronto is incredibly easy. The city is safe, well-connected by transit, and full of friendly locals who make it an ideal place to explore alone.
Whether you’re taking in breathtaking views from the CN Tower, biking through the Toronto Islands, discovering hidden cafés, or catching a last-minute show, you’ll never run out of things to do alone in Toronto.
Wondering what to do alone in Toronto during the winter? Try ice skating by the waterfront, warming up with a coffee in a cozy café, or checking out the city’s many indoor markets and museums.
As a local solo traveler, I know firsthand that Toronto offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation—without ever feeling out of place on your own.
With its diverse neighbourhoods, vibrant food scene, and endless cultural experiences, it’s a city where solo travelers can truly enjoy every moment at their own pace.
So whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable solo trip to Toronto!
Related Posts
Planning your trip to Toronto? Here are a few additional articles to help you plan your vacation to the city.
