Any Canadian frequent-flyer will likely find themselves stuck in Toronto Pearson International Airport from time-to-time. We certainly have. And if you’re flying on points or looking to save some money, a couple of hours can turn into a whole day or more. We encourage you to venture out into the city (it’s a whole lot more accessible and affordable now with the UP Express train) and see what Toronto has to offer.
Lucky for you, we have the perfect formula for a day in the Six (or any city for that matter): landmark + lunch + museum/exhibit. It’s pretty common sense and not too original, but it’s tried and true.
Let’s talk landmarks: the CN Tower (obv), Toronto Island, Harbourfront, Rogers Centre (Skydome), Casa Loma, St. Lawrence Market, Union Station, and the Gooderham Building are some well-known ones that you can’t go wrong with checking out at least once in your life. I also love the Distillery District for the museums, shops, and gorgeous brick buildings.
After you’ve had your fill of Instagram photo ops and tourist traps, treat yourself to a bite to eat. Toronto has such a vibrant food scene. You can pretty much go to any part of the city and find something amazing. Whether it’s a franchise like the Rec Room, Elephant and Castle, Moxie’s, or Mill Street (plus a million other options) or a unique joint like the Addisons Residence, you’re bound to have some mouthwatering options. On my most recent trip to the city, I tried out Stormcrow Manor on Church Street, known as Canada’s nerdiest bar. I didn’t get all the geek references but I could certainly relate to some! The food is delicious, the drinks are bomb, and you can roll a 20-sided D&D die for a shot.
Let your food settle while you stroll around a museum (or make yourself sick in the Museum of Illusions–that’s what I did). If you haven’t been to the Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, or if you’re a fan, the Hockey Hall of Fame, you should definitely visit those. I also recommend the Museum of Illusions (despite the potential for motion sickness) and the totally hyped Ripley’s Aquarium.
What do you recommend doing during a day in Toronto? Which of these activities have you tried? Tag us in your pictures on Instagram and Facebook, @twowildtides. We love hearing from our readers!
xoxo,
char
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