Toronto is a pretty famous name. Capital of Ontario in Northwestern Canada, it’s a bustling, multicultural hotspot, known throughout the world for its iconic skyline and Hockey Hall of Fame. It’s often a bucket list destination for many a holidaymaker due to it being one of Canada’s main hubs for culture, arts, and cuisine. And that’s not even beginning to mention the iconic CN Tower!
But, beyond the tourist-pulling draws of soaring skyscrapers and that Stanley Cup legacy, Toronto keeps a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions and unique experiences hidden in plain sight. Fancy a trip to Toronto that’s far from the norm? Read on to discover the unexpected and extraordinary side of the city.
Take a Trip Back in Time
Let’s start in the logical place – way back. We’re going to explore some of the more historical areas of the city and find ourselves a few top-secret marvels. Winding cobblestone streets will lead us to ancient landmarks where stories of the past linger in every corner. Along the way, we’ll uncover hidden gems that tourists often overlook, the kind of secret spots in Lisbon that locals hold dear. From centuries-old alleyways to charming squares, there’s magic waiting to be discovered at every turn.
Firstly, let’s head back to the height of the British Empire with a quick trip to the (rather amazing) cobblestone streets of the Distillery District. Once home to the largest distillery in the British Empire, the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, this national historic site is now a cultural hub — but that’s not put a dent in its industrial charm.
Explore a selection of art galleries, boutique shops, and cute coffee houses, all situated in beautifully preserved red-brick buildings. As you’re strolling around, don’t miss the outdoor sculptures and installations that cement the Distillery District’s status as a key place for culture.
Visiting after dark? The district comes alive with twinkling lights and vibrant nightlife, offering everything from intimate jazz bars to bustling breweries.
What about something a bit more low-key? Well, make your way to Spadina Park. Tucked away quietly in the core of busy modern-day Toronto… we’ve got the beautiful Spadina Museum, aka Spadina House. As you wander through the meticulously restored rooms of this sprawling Edwardian mansion, you’ll come across pretty amazing artifacts and ephemera that tell the story of the Austin family, the famed banking dynasty, who once called the manor home.
Only in Toronto
So that’s the city’s historic side taken care of; now to highlight those hidden gems that represent modern-day Toronto. For a more unusual way to experience Toronto at night, ferret out one of the city’s many secret rooftop beaches.
Now, you’ll have to do some of your own investigative work here to find them — after all, if we made everything about them public they wouldn’t be secret anymore — but, and here’s a big hint, you’ll find them perched atop private clubs and hotels. Don’t worry; most of these places are also open to the public, especially during specific events.
Picture yourself sipping a cocktail as you kick back and relax on a sandy beach high above the city streets. Sounds idyllic, right?
For those of you who are more adventure-inclined, how does having your mind bent and your senses challenged sound? Pay a visit to the Museum of Illusions! This one-of-a-kind venue places greater emphasis on the interactiveness of exhibits, so it’s filled with works that encourage you to touch, play, and explore.
When Nature Meets Urbanity
One of the standout features of Toronto is the abundance of green spaces here. If parks and the great outdoors are your thing, Toronto has all that in bucketloads. Some of the more popular spots can get quite busy during the holiday season, but not to worry! Not everyone who visits knows about the Evergreen Brick Works.
Believe it or not, this fascinating complex was once an industrial site. Since then, it’s been transformed into an urban oasis. Sustainability and community are the words du jour here, so rock up and participate in workshops on urban gardening and ecology, or simply pop on your hiking boots and head off on one of its many trails that wind through lush ravines.
On weekends, the farmers’ market takes over. Jam packed with stalls selling the most delicious fresh local produce and artisanal goods, be prepared to spend a fortune here! If you’re worried about that, you can check out our handy tips on how to save money on the go. And if you’re lucky and time your visit just right, you might even catch an outdoor cinema event or night market.
Indulge your Inner Explorer
By now, you should have a pretty good idea of the type of off-the-beaten-path style things you can enjoy when visiting Toronto, but maybe you’re looking to do something even more unexpected. Travel guides are a super way to familiarize yourself with an unknown city, but nothing beats your instinctive curiosity… So, get out there and discover your own hidden gems!
Not quite sure of where to begin? As a heads up, base yourself in quirky neighborhoods like Queen West or Leslieville, both of which are known for their cool and artsy vibe. Get chatting with the locals; you’ll be surprised how many recommendations you can walk out of a coffee shop with!
