Along the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto bustles with lively neighborhoods and multicultural diversity. Popular spots across and beyond the downtown core ensure there are always fun things to do in Toronto any day of the year. The city is also a favorite spot for green spaces, with parks making up the urban nature corridor. Are you looking for things to do in Toronto this weekend or in the months ahead? Check out our curated Toronto itinerary.
How To Spend 3 Days in Toronto as a First-Time Visitor
You have three days in Toronto, the largest city in Canada. What’s the best way to see all the major attractions or enjoy day trips rich in culture and natural history? Here are some options.
Experience Epic Skyline Views at the CN Tower
If you’re ready to go sky-high with things to do in downtown Toronto, there’s no better place than the CN Tower. This 1,815-foot tower near the harbor front is part of Toronto’s iconic skyline, standing out against the city’s skyscrapers.
A few blocks from City Hall, the CN Tower has several features to impress visitors. At the 1,136-foot-high Observation Level, you can get 360-degree views of the city and a chance to walk the Glass Floor. This level also holds the rotating 360 Restaurant, the perfect spot to dine and watch the city go by.
If you’re a thrill seeker, you won’t want to miss EdgeWalk, where you strap into thick cables and walk outside the Observation Level roof. For indoor adventures, take the elevator to SkyPod at 1,465 feet for unbelievable views of Toronto and Lake Ontario.
Discover Toronto Harbor with City Cruises Toronto
During your three days in Toronto, see downtown from a different perspective when you get on board with City Cruises. The one-hour cruise takes you into Toronto Harbor, where you can spot places like the Toronto Islands, HTO Park, Roger’s Centre, Centreville Amusement Park, and Sugar Beach.
As you head across the water, you’ll hear fun commentary about the city’s history and famous sites. You might even catch word of hidden histories. City Cruises Toronto takes off from Queen’s Quay West at the edge of the Waterfront Trail. The ferry, named Oriole, is a replica of a Great Lakes steamship, giving you an old-school ambiance as you cruise the harbor.
Visit Niagara Falls for Scenic Views
World-famous Niagara Falls is another must-see attraction that’s an easy day trip from Toronto. This trio of iconic falls is among the best known in North America, with the larger Horseshoe Falls plunging down the Canadian and American border from 512 feet.
You can enjoy one of several sightseeing tours, along with the popular Journey Behind the Falls experience. This tour gets you right up to the roaring waterfall. For a more cinematic view, consider enjoying the falls from the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. The rotating tower even has a restaurant for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Enjoy Delicious Food at Kensington Market
A culturally diverse hotspot, Kensington Market is a laid-back neighborhood with bohemian vibes. It’s also a food lover's delight. The central part of Kensington Market is home to independent grocers, shops, restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and other foodie favorites.
You can take the Dundas Street tram to Denison and walk up the street to tasty treats. While enjoying the food on your three-day trip to Toronto, keep wandering the neighborhood to admire the street murals, Victorian homes, and other vintage finds.
Become a History Buff at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
One of the largest museums in Canada, the ROM has four floors of incredible art, sculpture, pottery, natural history, gemstones, and cultural discoveries. The museum has online and in-person exhibits, along with audio tours that provide more information about what you’re seeing.
If you love gems, head to Earth’s Treasures. If you’re a nature fan, you’ll love the permanent exhibit on biodiversity. Elsewhere, exhibits on the Ancient World reveal their bounty of coins, pottery, busts, mosaics, and other intricate items from the past. Along with other permanent exhibits, there are rotating collections that reveal beauty in many forms across many lands. History comes alive at the Royal Ontario Museum, so check it out.
Experience the Elegance of Casa Loma
This Gothic-style mansion, built in 1914, was the former residence of Sir Henry Pellatt. Constructed as a castle complete with secret passageways, stained glass windows, and soaring turrets, Casa Loma changed owners several times before becoming the attraction it is today. With its elegance and lively history, Casa Loma is one of the all-time best places to see in Toronto.
When you arrive, make sure you save time to check out the architecture, exhibits, incredible gardens, and overall ambiance. If you want to savor the experience further, stop at the on-site BlueBlood Steakhouse for delicious food in opulent heritage surroundings.
Take a Stroll Through Chinatown and Queen Street West
If you’re still wondering what to see in Toronto in three days, head to Chinatown and Queen Street West. These two areas are not even one block apart, and there’s plenty to enjoy. Get ready to stretch your legs and see art galleries, food stalls, restaurants, boutiques, street art, and cultural festivals.
As you wander the streets of Chinatown, don’t forget to sample the delicious street food. This area overflows with some of the best Asian cuisines in the city. You may even get to watch a stunning cultural celebration during your visit. Continuing to Queen Street West, you’ll find art in many forms — from street murals to heritage architecture and gallery exhibitions.
Explore Interactive Exhibits at Ontario Science Centre
One of the best things to do in Toronto is visit the Science Centre, an interactive museum with hands-on learning about science, nature, physics, engineering, and other STEM disciplines.
Test out the Van de Graaf generator for a hair-raising experience, cycle your way to electricity production, or touch moon rocks and check out galaxy displays about the wonders of the universe.
Whether traveling with kids or adults, you should make time for the Ontario Science Centre.
Plan Your Trip to Canada’s Largest City and Create Unforgettable Memories
Toronto is a beautiful city pulsing with energy while offering peaceful areas perfect for a stroll. It is also a top destination for attractions. With CityPASS® tickets to Toronto’s hottest destinations, there’s no need to search for what to do in Toronto. You can save up to off the price of admission, leaving more money for a return trip.
Lodging in Toronto
Need lodging for your trip to Toronto? Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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