53 awesome ideas for your Toronto bucket list

Toronto is a pretty awesome destination, with fascinating buildings, natural beauty, and some pretty awesome bars. If you are planning to visit Toronto here are 53 of the most awesome ideas to add to your Toronto bucket list.

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For the purposes of this Toronto bucket list, we have put things into categories such as food, attractions, buildings etc, to help you plan and organise your own list. So let’s start!

Toronto bucket list ideas involving buildings

Toronto is a bustling metropolis and there are a number of buildings that we think should make your Toronto bucket list.

1. Visit the CN Tower

When I lived in Toronto for a year, the first thing I did was visit the CN Tower. It’s very much the symbol of the city, and dominates the skyline.

It was built in 1976 as a communications tower by the Canadian National Railway and was once the world’s tallest tower.

These days though it’s a top tourist attraction. Once you purchase your tickets you will reach the 114th story in under 1 minute.

The reason this is number 1 on our Toronto bucket list is because once you reach the top you are treated to 360 degree views of Toronto.

2. Do the CN Tower Edgewalk

This is a Toronto bucket list idea for those of you who aren’t scared of heights. The Edgewalk is the world’s highest full circle hands free walk. You are basically harnessed in and circle the exposed top of the tower. Just a reminder this is 356 metres high!

3. Shop in the Eaton Centre

Visiting the Eaton centre is a great excuse to get out of the cold in winter, or get into the aircon in the summer. There are around 230 stores, restaurants, and cafes here to keep you entertained. And there are also some pretty quirky sculptures and artworks around the place.

4. Hangout at the U of T

The U of T or the University of Toronto is one of the top universities in Canada. So it is definitely worth visiting when you are in the city. The architecture alone is pretty noteworthy, so take a stroll in the university grounds.

5. See the flatiron building

One of the most iconic buildings in downtown Toronto is the Gooderham Building or as commonly known the Flatiron. It’s a historic office building which you will find at 49 Welling Street East. It also has a pub in the basement, so why not grab a drink in one of Toronto’s most iconic bits of architecture.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving attractions

Here are some bucket list attractions for your next visit to Toronto.

6. Explore Casa Loma

Casa Loma should be added to your Toronto bucket list because it is the only castle in North America. It was built in 1914 by a Canadian businessman and is now a museum. It’s an incredible piece of architecture with secret passages, and grand features. Plus you also get some pretty incredible views of Toronto from here.

7. The Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario is located in Toronto, on Dundus Street West. It takes up around 45,000 square metres which makes it one of the biggest art museums in North America. It is also the second largest museum in Toronto after the Royal Ontario Museum.

The permanent collection of the museum include over 120,000 works of art covering the first century to today. It includes a number of works from Canadian, First Nations, and many more ethnic groups.

8. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum known as the ROM to locals is a must for your Toronto bucket list. For starters the external building is pretty out there. Apparently it is inspired by the gem and mineral collection inside the museum. It is supposed to resemble a crystal on the streets of Toronto.

The interior is also pretty impressive. The ROM is a museum that houses works of art, culture, and natural history. It is one of the largest museums in North America, and the biggest in Canada. It’s also the most visited museum in Canada.

9. Photograph the Toronto sign

Another bucket list activity for Toronto is to grab a picture of the Toronto sign. Located in Nathan Phillips Square it’s an illuminated 3D signs that spells out the city name.

The site of the sign, Nathan Phillips Square is a key part of the city. It’s where many concerts, art displays, farmers markets, and much more are held.

10. Medieval Times

For something totally random when visiting Toronto you should head to Medieval Times. It’s a themed show that involves jousting and horse-riding. And you also get a meal that is served without utensils.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving the outdoors

There are so many awesome outdoorsy things to do in Toronto. These are the highlights.

11. High Park

Despite the cold winters, Canadian’s absolutely love making the most of the outdoors. High Park is one of the best parks in Toronto to visit because it’s the biggest at 400 acres. Within it you will find historical buildings, some awesome hiking trails, a free zoo, and a greenhouse.

There is so much to do here, and it’s one of those places you should visit particularly in the summer months to make the most of the great weather. It’s also a great place to visit for families.

12. Watch the sunset from Toronto Islands

One of my absolute favourite things to do in Toronto is heading to the islands to watch the sunset. It’s honestly one of the most beautiful things to do as you breathe the fresh air and watch the sun disappear behind the skyline.

If you are interested in visiting the area here is a great Toronto Islands guide.

13. Go Kayaking or Canoeing Around Centre Island

If you love a good adventure make sure you add kayaking or canoeing around the Toronto Islands to your Toronto bucket list. It’s perfect for a summers day and the views are just incredible. If you are wondering where to go just head to The Boat House on the island and they will sort you out.

14. Boat around Lake Ontario

Toronto is a beautiful city and it’s even more beautiful when you are looking at it from the water. If you get the chance make sure you add a cruise around Lake Ontario to your Toronto bucket list. Cruises usually happen from May to early October and are obviously weather dependant.

15. Riverdale Park East

Another cool place for your Toronto bucket list is Riverdale Park East. The best thing about this park is that it offers some pretty impressive skyline views of Toronto. It’s particularly nice at sunset. And in the winter it’s prime tobogganing territory.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving sport

Sport in Toronto is a big deal and you won’t get away with ignoring it I can tell you. Here are some of the more sport orientated Toronto bucket list ideas.

16. Hockey Hall of Fame

If you want to see just how important Hockey is to Canadian’s you should visit the Hockey Hall of Fame. But even if you aren’t into it at all it’s a fun museum with some interactive games where you can test your own hockey skills.

17. Watch the Toronto Raptors

Canadian’s love sport and basketball is incredibly popular on this side of the pond. The Raptors are a Canadian team based in Toronto. They also compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA) so tickets can be pretty popular. Their home stadium is the Scotiabank Arena, which was known as the Air Canada Centre previously.

18. Watch the Maple Leafs

Even more popular than basketball is of course Ice Hockey as we have eluded to previously. Toronto’s home team are the Maples Leafs. They play as part of the NHL and their home stadium is also the Scotiabank Arena. Tickets can be hard to get so if you really want to see a hockey game you might be best off trying to get tickets to a Marlies game instead.

The Marlies are part of the AHL or the American Hockey League, which is essentially the developmental league for the NHL.

19. Watch the Blue Jays

Another popular sport in Canada is Baseball. Toronto are represented by the Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Baseball. The team play their home games at the Rogers Centre in Toronto.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving neighbourhoods

Toronto has some incredible neighbourhoods with their own charm and character. Here are some of the must see neighbourhoods.

20. Kensington Market

Kensington Market is the quirky centre of Toronto. It’s got a bohemian vibe, and somewhere you can go to just chill out.

There is a ton to do here, for starters you can checkout the street art, go vintage shopping, or head to one of the very cool bars. There are also some great and cheap places to eat here.

21. Little Italy

Another Toronto neighbourhood for your bucket list is Little Italy. It’s a strip alone College Street with several cafes, pizzerias, gelato shops, and trattorias. There are also a number of cool bars and venues including the Mod Club with attracts a lot of students. Summer is when Little Italy really comes to life with outdoor patios opening up.

22. Greektown

What we love about Greektown is that even the signs are in Greek! It’s a lively area with a real international mix of restaurants and bars, and of course many Greek Tavernas. If you love your food then this is one of the best places in Toronto for you. And if you are visiting during the Taste of the Danforth festival in August you will be treated to foods stalls, live music, and much more.

23. Yorkville

Yorkville is more of a high end part of Toronto with it’s fashionable boutiques, and design studios. There are a number of fancy hotels that usually host guests during the Toronto International Film Festival. As well as that there are some great bars and fine dining restaurants in the area. You will know you are in the right place when you spot the perfectly manicured Victorian homes and gardens.

24. The Annex

The Annex is another area for your Toronto bucket list, especially if you like indie bookshops and bars. It’s close to the University of Toronto’s St George campus so it attracts a lot of students. There are some great places to eat and drink here especially if you are after something a little more casual.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving music

Music lovers will absolutely love Toronto, so here are some must dos in the city that involve music.

25. Watch a band at the Horseshoe Tavern

The Horseshoe Tavern is an iconic Toronto bar that is pretty chilled and just has an overall grungy vibe. There is a back room where you can pay to see local and international up and coming bands play. It’s a must for music lovers.

26. Canadian Music Week

If you are in Toronto for Canadian Music Week you are in for a treat. It is an industry conference and music festival held in the city over 10 days. You can catch some up and coming bands during the festival at over 50 venues in the city.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving food

Food is a huge part of any trip so here are some of the must try tasty treats when visiting Toronto.

27. Eat a Tim Hortons Breakfast

Tim Horton’s is a Canadian institution. It has gotten me through many a hungover morning with it’s potent coffee and sweet treats. And despite the fact that there are Tim Horton’s popping up around the world, nothing compares to a Timmy’s breakfast in Canada. Maybe it’s nostalgia for me, but give it a go!

28. Poutine

So officially Poutine is not from Toronto, and it is more of a thing in Quebec, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add it to your bucket list. There are heaps of places in Toronto that serve this delicious dish.

It is essentially chips, gravy and cheese curds and whilst that might not sound amazing it is! You can add all sorts of additional toppings like mushrooms and onions, and they are especially tasty after a few drinks.

Try Poutini’s House of Poutine on Queen Street West for some of the best in the city. Also I desperately need to add that the picture below does not do it justice at all. Honestly you need to try it!

29. St Lawrence Market

Foodies should add a visit to St Lawrence Market to their Toronto bucket list immediately. It’s the place to go for fresh seafood and veg, but also Ice Wine and Maple Syrup.

It’s also a really cheap but great place to eat lunch. It’s very multicultural and much to my delight there is even a shop selling Ukrainian treats like Veranyki (Perogies).

You can do a food tour of the market if you are stuck and not sure where to start.

30. Chow down on dumplings in Chinatown

Chinatown is one of my favourite places to eat in Toronto. There is so much variety and it’s pretty cheap too. I still crave the dumplings I used to eat here back in the day.

31. Eat Street Meat

When visiting Toronto you may notice those hot dog vendors on street corners. Don’t just walk on by, Toronto street meat is actually pretty decent. And yes admittedly it’s even more attractive after a night out.

Basically you get your hot dog and bun, and load up with fillings such as relish, mustard, onions and pickles. Basically don’t fear the street meat!

Toronto bucket list ideas involving drinking

Toronto has some incredible bars and breweries that you need to discover. Here are some of the best that should definitely make your Toronto bucket list.

32. Bellwoods Brewery

For some of the best food and drink under one roof head to Bellwoods Brewery in Ossington. It’s a local favourite for good reason.

Behind the shop is the brewery and you can see some of the pipelines running across the dining area. Belwoods have created about 643 unique beers over the last 10 years. One of the most popular lines is the Jelly King and you should give the Montmorency Cherry a go.

The food here is also impressive with ingredients sourced from local farms.

33. Distillery district

The Distillery district is a must for your Toronto bucket list. It’s a pedestrianised part of Toronto with 19th Century buildings that was once home to a whiskey distillery. These days though there are several cool bars and restaurants. It’s also home to Toronto’s Christmas Markets in December.

34. Steam Whistle Brewery

Another Toronto bucket list idea is to head to the Steam Whistle Brewery. It’s pretty close to the CN Tower and is located in a historic brick railway building. In fact it was previously the site of the Canadian Pacific Railway steam locomotive repair facility.

Tours are available in the brewery and you can learn how they brew their own pilsner. They also do tastings.

General Toronto bucket list ideas

Here are some of our general Toronto bucket list ideas that don’t fit into other categories.

35. Do a day trip to Niagara Falls

If you have the time a day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls is a must. You can get to Niagara in under 2 hours by bus, and it’s also relatively cheap with Megabus often having great deals for $20.

The falls in case you don’t know are a group of three waterfalls on the border of Canada and the US. The falls are a pretty remarkable sight that you can visit at any time of the year. My personal favourite though is winter when the falls freeze over. It’s simply beautiful.

36. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley located in the Fashion District of Toronto is another must see, particularly if you are into street art. It used to be a hotspot for illegal graffiti and so a fight for legalisation began. These days it’s just a cool place to showcase some talented street art.

37. Shop for bargains in Chinatown

Chinatown is not only for food, it’s also a great place for bargain hunters. When I first arrived in Toronto and had to buy saucepans and cutlery Chinatown was by go to. I think at some point I also purchased a pet fish, some playing cards, and a generic Canadian Hockey shirt. Basically you can find pretty much anything in Chinatown.

38. Ride the TTC

A ride on one of Toronto’s distinguishable red trams is a must when visiting the city. They are easy to hope on and off. You can purchase tokens to ride just make sure if you are transferring you collect a transfer ticket upon boarding.

39. Spot some urban wildlife

Urban wildlife in Toronto is incredibly diverse. All you need to do is wander around the city (usually at night) and see what you find. You have animals like foxes, racoons, skunks, opossums, squirrels and birds. No matter how long I lived in Toronto I think it is fair to say that I never tired of seeing the urban wildlife. Particularly the racoons.

The main thing to remember here is to observe these creatures from afar as if they feel threatened they may scratch or bite. Or in the unfortunate event that you threaten a skunk you will probably get sprayed.

Toronto bucket list ideas in summer

Here are some must dos in Toronto particularly in the summer months.

40. Visit the Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands makes both our summer and winter Toronto bucket list. The reason being that depending on which season you visit you will have a completely different experience. In the summer, Centre Island comes to life with cafes, and rides in full swing.

A visit to the islands is a summer right of passage as you can explore the beaches, sunbathe or have picnics. It’s lots of fun and a great place to meet friends and family on those bright summer days.

41. Explore the waterfront

Strolling along the waterfront is a fantastic thing to add to your Toronto bucket list any time of year. Summer is when you can really make the most of it though.

The waterfront spans 46km along the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s great for walking as the views are pretty awesome, although you should pick an area because it is a large stretch.

Highlights include The Beaches, the Scarborough Bluffs, and a secret garden hidden in Toronto’s harbour.

42. Woodbine Beach

I mentioned the Beaches area of Toronto above, and this is a great area to explore in the summer. The largest of the 4 Beaches in the area is Woodbine. It’s popular for picnics, swimming , and sunbathing.

43. Drink at a Patio Bar

Patio season in Toronto is a pretty big deal. The season usually starts in about May and runs until November each year. You’ve got all sorts of things going on during this time like live music, but the main thing is is that it is all outdoors. Make sure you add this to your Toronto bucket list in the summer.

44. Take up water sports on Lake Ontario

Another fantastic summer activity in Toronto is engaging in water sports on Lake Ontario. You can do everything from kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding whilst taking in the gorgeous city views. A lot of places do lessons and guided sessions so no matter your skill level you can give it a go.

Toronto bucket list ideas in winter

For those of you visiting Toronto in the winter, here are some bucket list ideas for when the weather turns incredibly chilly.

45. Visit Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands in the winter is very different to the summer months. For starters you can only visit Ward’s Island which is where the houses are. It is still very much worth a visit, as the island is almost magical at this time of year. Just make sure you dress appropriately as it does get windy on the island.

The views of the Toronto skyline are amazing from here, and the cosy walkways and beaches are great for a romantic stroll.

46. Use the PATH network

If you are visiting Toronto in winter and you don’t know about the PATH network you should look it up immediately. It’s basically a network on underground pedestrian walkway that connects different Downton offices, and shopping centres.

Winters in Toronto are seriously cold, so the cool thing is you can use the path network to get around large chunks of the Downtown area without having to face the outside.

More than 75 buildings are connected to the path, and you can also access the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Eaton Centre, and much more via the network.

47. Ice Skate at Nathan Phillips Square

One of the best things to do in the winter months in Toronto is to ice skate One of the most famous rinks in the city sits at Nathan Phillips Square. It’s been around for years and usually with the backdrop of a pretty awesome Christmas tree. The rink opens towards the end of November, and it’s one of the must dos when visiting.

48. Ice Skate at The Bentway

An even cooler ice skating rink (no pun intended) is The Bentway. It’s a public space situated under an expressway and come December it is turned into a winter wonderland with a 220 metre skating trail.

It’s free to access although you do need to pay for skate rental. This is usually in the region of $10.

Toronto bucket list ideas involving festivals

Finally you can’t visit Toronto without attending one of the super cool festivals that takes place throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights.

49. Nuit Blanche

Nuit Blanche is one for your Toronto bucket list, because the city really comes to life during this time. It’s an annual event usually towards the end of September. It is basically an all night celebration of contemporary art, and art installations. It’s an incredibly colourful event, modelled off the original in Paris and is such a fun night that you have to experience.

50. Caribbean Carnival

Another incredible festival for your Toronto bucket list is the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. It’s essentially a festival of Caribbean culture held each year. In fact it is one of North America’s largest street festivals with over 2 million visitors each year.

The festival is usually held from July to the beginning of August, and showcases everything to do with Caribbean culture. If you love food, fashion, and dancing this is the place for you. Events are held over several weeks but the grand finale is the Parade of Bands. This includes costumed dancers, and live music.

51. Toronto Pride

Pride Toronto is one of the hot events of the year. It is usually held in June and consists of a whole month of celebrations. There are parades, marches, drag shows, music performances and so much more. It’s a joyous celebration of being who you are, and Pride Toronto showcases just how incredibly diverse Toronto is.

52. Toronto International Film Festival

One of the more well known events in Toronto is of course the International Film Festival or TIFF. It is one of the biggest publicly attended film festivals in the world, attracting over 480000 people each year.

The festival includes screenings, lectures, workshops discussions, and a chance to meet filmmakers from around the world.

TIFF is usually in September so check the official website for exact dates and events.

53. Doors Open Toronto

Doors Open Toronto is one of the best events of the year, particularly if you have ever looked at a building and wondered what is inside. It’s an annual event where the public are given access to 150 buildings of architectural, cultural, and social, importance.

It’s usually in September so if you are visiting the city around this time do a quick google search for exact dates.

Toronto bucket list – a recap

Hopefully this Toronto bucket list will inspire you to tick off some of these on your own trip. Toronto really is a cool city with so much to see and do, and this list will hopefully give you some fun ideas to start your holiday.

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Happy travels!

And for more on Toronto you can checkout our Toronto weekend itinerary. or this post to help you decide if Toronto is worth visiting.