Is Toronto Worth Visiting? Your Ultimate Guide to One Day in Toronto
Toronto, Ontario, is a thriving Canadian city just under two hours from Niagara Falls. Think towering skyscrapers, passionate hockey fans, and maybe some maple syrup. But, you still may be thinking, “Is Toronto worth visiting?” My short answer would be yes! Toronto is absolutely worth visiting. And, by using the Toronto CityPASS and City Sightseeing bus, you can explore the whole city, even if you only have one day.
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Why Toronto is a Must-Visit
Toronto isn’t just another big city. It’s a dynamic and culturally rich metropolis that feels like a global village.
With over 140 languages spoken, it’s one of the most diverse cities in the world. Toronto’s diversity isn’t just about the people. You will see it in the food, art, and energy that make the city come alive.
Add to that iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and a stunning waterfront, and you’ve got a city that’s equal parts exciting and welcoming. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, foodie, or just someone who appreciates a great skyline, Toronto delivers.
Combine Toronto and Niagara Falls
On my visit to Toronto, I arrived from a weekend in Niagara Falls, which is just a 90-minute drive away. After marveling at the beauty of the falls, stepping into Toronto’s city life felt like the perfect contrast.
Both destinations complement each other beautifully, making for an unforgettable trip.
You, too, may want to consider combining these two spots when making your plans especially if you are looking for day trips from Niagara Falls or vice versa.
See the Best of Toronto
One way you can see the best of Toronto and save money is with the Toronto CityPASS.
If you love a good deal as much as I do, the Toronto CityPASS is your new best friend. It gives you discounted access to five of Toronto’s top attractions and lets you skip the ticket lines.
You can buy the Toronto CityPASS online and download the pass directly onto your phone. Use your mobile ticket to bypass the line at the attractions.
The Toronto CityPASS is sometimes available on Groupon, a discount coupon site. Check there first to save even more money. You have nine days to use your pass.
Use a Toronto CityPASS
The CityPASS includes admission to the CN Tower and admission to three more from the following Toronto attractions:
- Casa Loma
- Toronto Zoo
- City Cruises Toronto
- Royal Ontario Museum
- Ontario Science Centre
Combine Your CityPASS with a City Sightseeing Bus Tour
The best way to utilize a Toronto CityPASS is by combining it with a City Sightseeing Tour.
You can catch a City Sightseeing bus at Yonge Dundas Square. This is an area similar to Times Square in New York City, with large marquee signs and a bustling center.
Buy your tickets for the City Sightseeing bus for the Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour in advance to save time or through one of the ticket agents in the area.
The red and yellow City Sightseeing signs are hard to miss.
Purchase your tickets online and use the mobile voucher for a more convenient option.
The bus’s upper deck is open-air, allowing you to get great pictures throughout the city.
The bus stops at all the major attractions, and the tour guides comment about each place you see along the way.
I found some tour guides are better than others, so you can always hop on a new one if you find the same.
If you purchase the Toronto CityPASS, this tour is an excellent addition as it provides transportation around the city.
Your Perfect One Day Toronto Itinerary
Start your day at the CN Tower, preferably early to beat the crowds. The panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular.
CN Tower
- Location: 290 Bremner Blvd.
- Hours: 10 AM – 9:00 PM
- Cost: $43 Adults (14-64), $30 Youth (6-13), $14 Child (3-5)
- Reservations required
- Included on Toronto CityPASS
The Canadian National Tower is a broadcast tower for 16 Canadian television stations and numerous FM radio stations.
Visitors ascend to the top of the Tower for views spanning over 100 miles on three different observation decks.
360 The Restaurant is located in the CN Tower.
This rotating restaurant makes a complete circle offering full window views of the entire city, similar to the Tower of Americas in San Antonio, Texas.
For an additional charge, visitors can add on other experiences such as the SkyPod, which takes you even higher, or the Edgewalk, where you walk outside on the edge, harnessed, of course!
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
A quick walk from the CN Tower and next to The Rogers Centre, where the Toronto Blue Jays play baseball, is Ripley’s Aquarium. Even if you’re not typically an aquarium enthusiast, this one is worth a visit.
- Location: 288 Bremner Blvd
- Hours: 10 AM – 8:00 PM
- Cost $44 Adults (14-65) $29 Youth (6-13) $12.50 child (3-5)
- Online reservations and timed entry required
- Not Included on the Toronto CityPASS at this time
The aquarium is crowded during summer days, but the crowds are manageable.
The displays of fish are stunning. The Aquarium includes North America’s longest underwater viewing tunnel and over 100 interactive possibilities.
The underwater tunnel makes you feel like you’re swimming with sharks—minus the danger. It’s equal parts mesmerizing and calming, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good jellyfish photo op?
Casa Loma
Another sight worth visiting in Toronto is Toronto’s very own castle, Casa Loma.
Yes, a castle in the middle of the city. It’s as grand as you’d imagine, with secret passageways, stunning gardens, and sweeping views of the city.
- Location: 1 Austin Terrace
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Cost: $40 Adults (18-64), $35 Youth (14-17), $20 Child (4-13)
- Reservations required for admission
- Included in Toronto CityPASS
Casa Loma was originally built by Sir Henry Pellatt, an entrepreneur and the first investor of electricity for the city.
He invested over $3 million in the early 1900s to see the dream of his castle built. Unfortunately, the significant and risky investments that brought him riches also bankrupted him.
Eventually, the castle was sold and used as a hotel and other entertainment venues.
However, with the Great Depression, the venue sat vacant, which led to it being sold to the City of Toronto for a little more than $25,000, the amount owed in back taxes.
The views from the top floor of the mansion overlooking the gardens are unbelievably beautiful and give you a glimpse of the entire city.
The lush gardens with the opulent water feature are a popular spot for professional photographs and movies.
You should expect to spend about an hour to an hour and a half at this stop.
Harbour and Islands Cruise
Toronto has an amazing skyline and there is no better way to appreciate it, than taking a Harbour Sightseeing Tour, included in the CityPASS.
This leisurely 60-minute boat ride gives you stunning views of Toronto’s skyline and a chance to unwind after a busy morning. It’s the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation.
This Is a lovely way to learn about the city from a new perspective.
Don’t Skip These Hidden Gems
When you are done with your cruise, hop back on the CitySightseeing Bus to the next stop to visit Berczy Park and the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Berczy Park Dog Fountain
Berczy Park is a small downtown park with a most delightful surprise, thanks to its whimsical dog fountain.
Yes, a fountain featuring dog sculptures. It’s quirky, fun, and a great spot for a quick photo.The fountain features a variety of dog breeds playing in the water while staring down the bone in the center.
While you are there, see if you can spot the one cat and two birds placed at the fountain.
Hockey Hall of Fame
Canadians love their hockey teams, and when in Toronto, you have to root for the home team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. But, even if you’re not a die-hard hockey fan, the Hockey Hall of Fame is worth a visit.
The exhibits are interactive, and seeing the Stanley Cup up close is a uniquely Canadian experience.
Nathan Phillips Square
The Nathan Phillips Square is home to the brightly lit Toronto sign.
It was initially installed as a temporary exhibit for the Toronto Pan American Games but became a permanent fixture because it was so popular.
You can also find an outdoor skating rink in this area.
St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is a vast indoor farmers’ market with shops and food vendors.
You will find souvenirs here, along with a specialty grocers market. It is worth a look around when you are in the area.
Love Locks Sculpture – Distillery District
Another Toronto spot worth visiting is the Distillery District, which is 100% for pedestrians only.
The Distillery District is a trendy spot with art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
It is here that you will find The Love Locks Sculpture. Couples bring a lock to add to the wall. While we were there, a man was selling locks for $10. We settled for a picture instead.
Other Toronto Tourist Attractions
Toronto Graffiti Tour
Toronto has a vibrant street art scene, and when visiting Toronto, you should try to check it out. I recommend that you book a free Graffiti Tour with the Tour Guys.
The tour takes you through the streets of Toronto, where you will find prominent street art.
Areas like these are becoming very popular in other cities, including Santurce in Puerto Rico, and Magazine Street in New Orleans.
Going on the Graffiti Tour is a fun way to spend the afternoon walking around the city after the bus and harbor tours.
The Underground City PATH way
Toronto has over nineteen miles of underground paths connecting the central Financial District offices, shops, and restaurants.
The PATH has numerous entrances and exits, including one at Yonge Dundas Square and Saks Fifth Avenue. Despite the maps located throughout, I found it quite challenging to navigate.
I can only imagine how beneficial this PATH is during the winter months.
Where to Stay for One Night in Toronto
If you’re staying overnight, location matters. You want to be close to the action to make the most of your time.
The Cambridge Suites, located at 15 Richmond St E, Toronto, is the perfect place to stay in Toronto.
It is within walking distance of many of Toronto’s famous sights, including the Eaton Centre, St. Lawrence Market, Brookfield Place, and the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The hotel is also connected to the Toronto PATH, where you can reach the Rogers Centre and Ripley’s Aquarium.
The Cambridge Suites has large rooms with a separate living area and bedroom. Most units have a wet bar area with a sink, a small fridge, a microwave, and a coffee maker.
The employees are friendly and extremely helpful, answering questions about parking, and giving directions and recommendations as needed.
Getting To and Around Toronto
The main airport in Toronto is the Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is around fourteen miles away from downtown Toronto.
The City Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus is a lifesaver for first-time visitors. It’s convenient, informative, and lets you cover a lot of ground without the stress of navigating public transit.
Some other top stops include:
- Kensington Market: A bohemian neighborhood with vintage shops, colorful murals, and food from around the world.
- Harbourfront Centre: A lovely spot to stroll and enjoy the waterfront.
- Queen Street West: Considered Toronto’s trendy hub, Queen Street West runs parallel to Graffiti Alley and is known as one of the coolest streets in the world for its eclectic cafes, art galleries and boutique shops.
Tips for First-Time Toronto Visitors
- Try Local Food: Don’t miss a peameal bacon sandwich from St. Lawrence Market—it’s a Toronto classic.
- Pack Comfy Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
- Use Public Transit: The TTC is reliable and easy to navigate. Grab a day pass if you’re planning to hop around.
- Best Time to Visit Toronto: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Carry Cash: Most places take cards, but it’s always good to have a little Canadian currency on hand.
Final Thoughts: Is Toronto Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re scaling the CN Tower, strolling through the Distillery District, or cruising along the harbour, Toronto offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation that’s hard to beat.
It’s the kind of place where every moment feels like an opportunity to discover something new. And if you’re combining it with a trip to Niagara Falls? Even better. Together, they make for a trip that’s as memorable as it is fun.
So, is Toronto worth visiting? Without a doubt.
Pack your bags, grab a Toronto CityPASS, and get ready to explore one of Canada’s most exciting cities.
