TORONTO — Canada’s largest city is dynamic; there’s no other way to describe it.
While it’s often been used in films as a stand-in for New York City, TO, as some call it, actually has several parallels to the Big Apple.
Toronto offers diverse attractions, from small history museums to stunning views to culinary delights. Perhaps more than anything, it’s a city of contrasts, blending modern skyscrapers, historic neighborhoods and diverse cultures.
Start with Toronto’s iconic CN Tower
No trip to Toronto is complete without heading to the top of the iconic CN Tower. The 553-meter-tall architectural marvel on Front Street in the heart of the city on old railroad grounds offers one-of-a-kind views of the city and Lake Ontario.
The CN Tower in Toronto was built as a symbol of the Canadian National Railway’s strength in the late 1960s. It opened to the public in June 1976 and features a rotating restaurant and observation deck. It stands near the Rogers Center, Union Station and Roundhouse Park.
Hit the Hockey Hall of Fame
Visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame on Yonge Street in the heart of Toronto, where it’s been since 1993, is integral to any trip to Toronto. The Temple de la renommée du hockey, as it’s known in French, dates to 1943.
Roughly 400 people — from players to referees — have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Even those who aren’t die-hard hockey fans will enjoy walking through the 60,000-square-foot museum, exploring its heaps of memorabilia and learning about the story of hockey from its early days to modern times.
Toronto Railway Museum
The Toronto Railway Museum opened in the John Street Roundhouse in 2010. The roundhouse, constructed by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1929-31, is a National Historic Site of Canada and the only remaining roundhouse in downtown Toronto.
The museum houses locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts that showcase the history of railroads in Toronto and Canada. Situated within the 17-acre Roundhouse Park, the museum has also preserved several historic buildings, including the 1896 Don Station, originally located at the Don River and Queen Street East.
The museum is near the Rogers Centre and CN Tower, making it easy to visit. Better yet, it’s also near Steam Whistle Brewing, which makes just one type of beer — pilsner — but does it right. So, after pondering railroad history and exploring the museum’s exhibits, cap off the day with a cold one.
Step back in time in the Distillery District
Toronto’s Distillery District is a beautifully preserved historic area transformed into a pedestrian-only village filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. The cobblestone streets and Victorian-era industrial architecture provide a charming backdrop for exploring local shops and enjoying a coffee at one of the many trendy cafes.
Eat your heart out at St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is a must-visit for foodies and is often ranked among the best food markets in the world. It is located in the Old Town district of Toronto. The south building of the market, dating back to 1845, includes a structure once used as Toronto City Hall. Today, the market offers a great opportunity to explore Toronto’s diverse cuisine from a single location. Be sure to visit Carousel Bakery for its award-winning “World Famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich.”
Be the first to comment