Toronto, Ontario is easily one of Canada’s TOP tourist destinations and some would say one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Toronto is known for its cultural diversity and a wide range of attractions that cater to visitors of all interests. Whether you’re spending a weekend or an extended stay, Toronto has something for everyone!
Below are the top activities and sites to see and do in Toronto on the weekend.
What to do in Toronto on the weekend
1. CN Tower
Reach for the sky at Toronto’s CN Tower, a North American landmark and must-visit attraction. The CN Tower, once the world’s tallest freestanding building (now surpassed by the Burj Khalifa), offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
Simply walk around the marvelous building, or purchase a pass to head up to the skydeck. Take the thrilling elevator ride up 114 storeys high.
Have a bite to eat at the 360 restaurant, or if the daredevil in you is calling, complete the famous Edgewalk outside of the CN tower 116 floors above the ground!
2. Day Trip to Tobermory, Ontario
Escape the busy city of Toronto for a refreshing weekend getaway. Ontario, Canada has much to offer outside of Toronto so make sure that you find time to visit some of their gorgeous parks.
Pack your bags and head on the four hour journey north to Tobermory. Spend a day or a few in Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula National Park swimming the turquoise clear waters, exploring Flowerpot Island and hiking along the Bruce Trail.
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Don’t miss the Grotto or the picturesque Big Tub Lighthouse. For a unique experience, hop on a glass-bottom boat tour to glimpse at underwater shipwrecks.
Getting to Tobermory is a breeze if you have a car, if you don’t have a car, worry not! Numerous tour options can swiftly transport you to the beauty of Bruce Peninsula National Park. Unwind and connect with nature on an unforgettable day trip to Tobermory, a serene escape from Toronto’s urban hustle and bustle!
3. Ripley’s Aquarium
Another important stop during your Toronto weekend is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Located right underneath the CN Tower, this tourist stop compliments a visit to the CN Tower. Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the coolest aquariums in the world.
Be mesmerized as the sharks swim above your head, sit for hours staring at the neon jellyfish and visit the stingray bay!
Don’t be fooled, this aquarium is not just for children, Jazz Night is held at the aquarium on the second Friday of every month from 7:00 – 11:00 PM, cocktails and live music under the sharks are waiting for you!
4. St. Lawrence Market
A short walk from the CN Tower and Aquarium is one of the best food markets in North America, the St. Lawrence Market.
Indulge in a famous peameal bacon sandwich, best ones found at Carousel Bakery. On the weekends the St. Lawrence Market has a farmers market on Saturdays, offering fresh seasonal produce, this tradition dating back to 1803. Additionally, on Sundays the St. Lawrence Market hosts an antique fair!
This is a great place to stop for an affordable weekend lunch or snack while touring around Toronto for the day.
5. Kensington Market – Pedestrian Sundays in summer
Another Toronto hot spot for tourists and locals is the bustling Kensington Market. On warmer month weekends in Toronto, Kensington Market hosts a Pedestrian Sundays event (on the last Sunday of the month), where the streets are closed to cars. This event is hosted until the end of October!
Live music and vendors from diverse backgrounds meet to share their talents and goods.
You do not want to miss out on visiting this eclectic and vibrant Toronto neighborhood when you’re visiting Toronto for a weekend.
Enjoy the street art, snack on a traditional Beef patty from Golden Patty, head to Rasta Pasta for some Jamaican fusion pasta or grab a beer at Kensington Brewing Co.
6. Visit one of Toronto’s world-renowned museums: ROM, AGO
Rain or shine Toronto’s museums are well worth the visit. Two notable options are the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). These museums often feature exhibits from renowned artists and provide rich cultural experiences.
These museums offer great Toronto weekend activities when the weather is not the best outdoors! The ROM hosts a monthly weekend event called ROM After Dark where you can enjoy the museum with great music, cocktails in hand, and delicious eats from local food vendors.
One Friday per month the AGO offers a Drawing, Drinks, Social event. Sit back and relax while you explore art, socialize with peers and draw with guided artist instruction.
7. Visit Canada’s Wonderland
For an exhilarating adventure, take a short drive from the city center to Canada’s Wonderland. This amusement park is beloved by both tourists and locals, boasting some of the most thrilling roller coasters.
Be prepared for an adrenaline rush and plenty of family-friendly fun!
Transportation to Canada’s Wonderland is easy and convenient with a car. However, not to worry, the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) train stops at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, where you can take a bus (Route 20) all the way to Canada’s Wonderland.
Want another weekend trip outside of Toronto? Head to the picturesque Niagara on the Lake in any season! It’s the perfect spot for cozy spa days, wine tours, winter getaways, and some quiet alone time.
Founded way back in 1812, Niagara on the Lake is also the perfect spot to frequent cozy shops and enjoy some romantic dinners at beautiful estates.
8. Casa Loma
Finally, make time to visit Casa Loma during your weekend in Toronto. Casa Loma is a historic mansion with beautifully preserved rooms, expansive gardens and exhibits to keep you busy.
Spend time exploring secret passages and hidden corners of this Toronto gem. Casa Loma puts on regular events per season; especially during the summer and holiday months. Check out their event schedule to find something you’re interested in!
Whether visiting for a special occasion or simply because it is raining outside, Casa Loma will have you feeling the magic of the atmosphere.
Final thoughts on spending a weekend in Toronto
In the span of just a weekend, Toronto will have your heart. Toronto will show you culinary wonders, cultural and historical exhibits and thrilling adventures.
From the iconic CN Tower to the vibrant neighborhoods like Kensington Market, the city will show you its rich diversity. Whether immersing yourself in art at the ROM or defying gravity on the Edgewalk, Toronto will give you the weekend of a lifetime!
Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing weekend in Toronto!
Bio: Joanna from Plan Before Land
Joanna is the founder of Plan Before Land, a blog that focuses on detailed itineraries to travel prepared! Joanna has lived in Toronto her whole life and has been on a mission to explore every corner of this Canadian city.
Joanna has been writing itineraries for the last 5 years and has recently put this work into a blog to help those near and far plan their travels! Follow Joanna on Instagram and TikTok.
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