Visiting Toronto for the First Time? Here's What To See and Do

St. Lawrence Market is a dream location for food lovers, offering a window into Canadian culinary culture. You’ll find dozens of vendors selling everything from local produce to small-batch maple syrup, even a stall that sells only mustard. Take in the market during a food tour of the city, or swing by to grab the famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich from Carousel Bakery. Be sure to arrive before the lunch rush and bring cash.

Built in the early 1900s, this Gothic Revival-style home was built for Sir Henry Pellat, who brought over artisans from across Europe to design the decadent building. In recent years Casa Loma has been used as a filming location for everything from the musical Chicago to Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.

Today, visitors can explore the museum, which highlights Canadian and Torontonian history, or put themselves in the shoes of Sir Henry and enjoy a luxurious meal at the onsite BlueBlood Steakhouse. In the summer, Casa Loma hosts an orchestra concert series in the expansive gardens, the perfect way to enjoy Toronto’s balmy summer weather.

If you’re craving time in nature or just want to see Toronto from a different angle, a visit to the Toronto Islands is a must. The small island chain is scattered throughout Lake Ontario, offering a calm (and convenient!) respite from city living. A ferry service runs year-round to three different ports, or you can arrive by private water taxi. Explore the Toronto Islandsby bike, sail around them on a day cruise, or spend your time lounging at one of the many beaches.

The expansive green complex of Evergreen Brick Works hosts summer movie nights, performing artists, and farmers’ markets, and even features an outdoor ice rink in the winter. The space was reborn in 2010 as a hub for sustainable innovation, offering visitors a chance to see what the future of cities could look like. Stop by on a bike tour or check their programming calendar to see if any events will match up with your visit.

Related: 7 Toronto Festivals Worth Planning Your Trip Around

Housed in a sparkling white building with geometric patterns, the Aga Khan Museum is home to one of Canada’s most impressive collections of Islamic art and historical objects. Visitors can marvel over illuminated manuscripts (some of which date back to the 10th century,) vibrant textiles, and ancient ceramics. The grounds are just as enticing as the museum itself, with manicured gardens and peaceful ponds. The museum is the best place in Toronto to explore the impact of the Islamic community in the city.

Located in the downtown core of Toronto, Chinatown is a top destination for foodies. It’s also the heart of Toronto’s thriving Chinese community, which has massively influenced the city’s cultural and culinary scene. Opt for a walking tour through the neighborhood to get the inside scoop, snacking on soup dumplings, noodles, and bubble tea. Dim Sum King is the spot for a sit-down meal, while Juicy Dumplings is where you can grab plenty of delicious takeaway.

Overlooking Lake Ontario, High Park is full of activities fit for every visitor. In the spring, vibrant cherry blossoms attract crowds hoping to picnic under the pink branches while kids show off at the ice rink in winter. Discover a zoo, hiking trails, tennis courts, and swimming pools at this magical green space.

If you don’t have time to wander through the park itself, you can opt for an aerial helicopter tour instead to spot landmarks in the park far below. It’s an ideal destination for wandering on a sunny day or people-watching from a picnic blanket.

The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most recognizable symbols. It towers above surrounding buildings, providing stunning views of the city and surroundings. At 1,815 feet (553 meters), it was the world’s tallest free-standing structure when it was completed in 1976.

Today, visitors can step out onto the glass floor on the observation deck or seek an adrenaline rush during the EdgeWalk around the exterior of the tower. For an unforgettable experience, get a panoramic view of the tower on a helicopter tour around the structure.

With cobbled streets and 19th-century buildings, the Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most popular entertainment districts. Here, you’ll find pubs, live music venues, boutiques, and picturesque architecture. It’s especially charming during the holiday season, when its light displays create a festive atmosphere, and visitors and locals gather for merriment. Take a walking tour to learn more about the neighborhood’s history, or stop for a drink at one of the district’s offbeat establishments.

Hockey is synonymous with Canada, and the Hockey Hall of Fame is the perfect place to discover the country’s famous sport. See the coveted Stanley Cup in person, pick up some merch at the gift store, and test your reflexes against some of the legends of Canadian hockey. Filled with memorabilia and interactive exhibits, it’s a fun destination for everyone (not just the sports fans). It’s also one of the stops on the Toronto hop-on hop-off bus, located on busy Yonge Street.