20 Things to Do in Toronto: Hidden Spots and Places to Visit

Toronto is a vibrant city rich in culture, history, and entertainment. Whether a local seeking something new or a visitor keen to be exposed to a multitude of attractions, hidden gems, or seasonal event activities, this city always has something to experience. Iconic spots to secret locations known by only a few, this guide will help you make the best use of your weekend in Toronto. 

Must-See Attractions in Toronto

1. CN Tower and EdgeWalk 

A trip to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic CN Tower. With a height of 553 meters, the monument gives fantastic views of the whole city along with Lake Ontario. The Glass Floor allows looking straight down through the air at 342 meters, and the LookOut Level provides stunning views from a full 360 degree. For the adrenaline-junkies, the EdgeWalk – world's tallest hands-free walk on a building – lets people step out in the direction of the tower's exterior before walking 1.5 meters wide along a narrow ledge, suspended 356 meters above earth. If you'd rather chill, dine in at the slowly rotating 360 Restaurant so you can appreciate sure-to-be-amazing views while indulging in your five-star meal.

2. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) 

The largest museum in Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum houses over six million artifacts encompassing the natural history of people and world cultures and art themselves. Some of the highlights include the Dinosaur Exhibit, the Egyptian Mummies, and the amazing Biodiversity Gallery. Rotating exhibits often have rare artifacts from all over the world, making each visit special.

3. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada 

Ripley's Aquarium, located right next to the CN Tower, exhibits over 20,000 different aquatic animals. Dangerous Lagoon is the most famous tunnel, where sharks and stingrays swim overhead. Other displays are Planet Jellies, which holds mesmerizing displays of jellyfish, and the Rainbow Reef, an explosion of underwater colors. Touch a stingray or horseshoe crab for a sneaky thrill – and enjoy it at any age.

4. Distillery District 

Cobblestones and some of Toronto's finest boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes could abundantly fill a pedestrian-only neighborhood. Visit the Spirit of York Distillery for its hand-crafted spirits, enjoy the Toronto Light Festival during winter, or get a latte fix at Balzac's Coffees Roasters, that cozy cafe housed inside a 19th-century building.

5. St. Lawrence Market 

If you really love food, you have to visit St. Lawrence Market. Voted as the world's best food market, it has more than 120 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international delicacies. Don't leave without having the famous peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery – a Toronto staple!

6. Toronto Islands & Centre Island 

Just a short distance from downtown is where one can find the Toronto Islands, the perfect getaway from the city. Rent a bike, paddle on a kayak, or just rest at Centre Island Beach. There are also Ward's Island and Hanlan's Point for those who want a bit of solitude in nature – tranquil walking trails and magnificent views of the skyline can be discovered.

7. Casa Loma 

What can you say about Casa Loma? I mean, Toronto has its very own fairy-tale castle – a mansion that comes with secret passageways, imposing towers, and beautifully restored rooms. Gothic Revival architecture, gardens to stroll through, or an escape room adventure that happens right inside the castle.

8. The Aga Khan Museum 

The Aga Khan Museum, one of the most distinctive in Toronto, specifically aims at Islamic, Iranian, and Persian art and culture. The museum itself is a sheer architectural masterpiece, with tranquil reflecting pools on the outside making it an ideal place to come for a quiet retreat.

9. Evergreen Brick Works 

Evergreen Brick Works is a community hub for sustainability today but was once a factory dedicated to the making of bricks. Visit the farmers' market, hike through scenic trails, or venture onto the Don Valley Trails for awe-inspiring views of the city.

10. Graffiti Alley 

East Queen Street West, Graffiti Alley is what would be called a living gallery – an outdoor gallery where some of Toronto's best muralists have painted fantastically incredible street art. Because of turnover, it would be just a matter of time until each visit would truly feel entirely new.

11. Scarborough Bluffs 

A treasure for nature lovers, Scarborough Bluffs possesses some of the greatest hiking and picnic places in all the city with its high white bluffs, definitely overlooking Lake Ontario.

12. Bata Shoe Museum 

They wondered about the history of shoes, the Bata Shoe Museum houses thousands of shoes worldwide, from Native American moccasins and ancient Egyptian sandals to even celebrity footwear!

13. Allan Gardens Conservatory 

A lovely indoor botanical garden, Allan Gardens Conservatory houses a wide variety of tropicals, orchids, succulents – all in a spectacular Victorian greenhouse. It's a great photo setting or just a peaceful escape from the city.

14. Kensington Market 

Arguably the most eclectic neighborhood in Toronto, Kensington Market is a really fabulous area, lively and colorful, with vintage shops, record stores, international restaurants, and an eclectic mix of cafes. Dig into the Caribbean patties, Mexican tacos, and local craft beers while bumping around this bohemian hotspot.

15. The Flower Market of Toronto (Spring and Summer)  

It opens to plant lovers in the spring and summer, making Toronto Flower Market a paradise for plant-lovers because all this for about the weekend stroll.

16. Underground Donut Tour of Toronto  

This is a guided tour where you will visit some of the best donut shops around the city sampling classic donuts as well as gourmet and internationally inspired ones. A fun and sweet-tasting way to explore the city!

17. Sunday Antique Market at St. Lawrence Market  

Every Sunday, the St. Lawrence Market is transformed into an antique market where you could discover rare collectibles, vintage decor, and treasures from bygone eras.

18. New Nathan Phillips Square Winter Ice Skating 

Winter visits are the time to experience the magic of ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square. Rent some skates and glide under the magical sparkle of lights, with the Toronto sign as your backdrop.

19. Toronto's Secret Bars and Speakeasies. 

Hidden from the curious naked eye, Toronto houses many secret bars and speakeasies. Civil Liberties is known for its no-menu cocktails, where the mix-master crafts the beverage per preference. Another is The Cloak Bar, an underground dimly lit speakeasy hidden underneath Marben restaurant.

20. High Park Cherry Blossoms 

April and May are also times when High Park comes alive with throngs of cherry blossoms. This is one of the best sights you'll get in the city in spring.

Final Thoughts

Toronto is a vibrant city that offers a perfect mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, making it an exciting destination for every traveler. Whether you're marveling at the CN Tower, strolling through Kensington Market, or discovering secret speakeasies, there's always something new to explore. This weekend, take time to enjoy both the bustling crowds and the more tranquil, lesser-known spots of the city.

Whether you’re indulging in great food, soaking up history, or exploring nature, Toronto has something for everyone to enjoy with family and friends. At TaskOpus, we believe in giving you more time for what matters most—spending quality moments with loved ones and relaxing. While you explore the city or unwind at home, let us take care of the cleaning. Our professional team provides flexible and affordable cleaning services across the GTA, from deep house cleaning to office maintenance.