You may not expect it, but Toronto is a city that’s buzzing with culture, food, music and even beaches! Canada’s largest city is truly cosmopolitan and has a plethora of activities to excite and dazzle visitors no matter what type of vacation they’re looking for.
If you’re thinking about visiting Toronto but aren’t sure where to begin, we’ve put together a helpful guide when planning your next trip to Hogtown (yes, that’s a real nickname for Toronto).
What Time of Year Should You Visit Toronto?
The most obvious time of year to visit Toronto would seem to be summer (June, July, August). While you may have the best chance of getting good weather, you may want to consider traveling in a different season to take advantage of thinner crowds.
In fact, many Torontonians would say late April through May and September through October are the best times of year to visit their great city. However, if you do decide to travel in late spring or autumn, be sure to pack an extra layer or two as a light cold snap or unexpectedly warm day can occur. Torontonians are particularly proud of the vibrant autumn foliage that occurs in the cooler months and is definitely worth seeing in person to correctly experience the dazzling autumnal colors – Ontario is said to have one of the most beautiful autumns in the world!
Outdoor Activities to do in Toronto
Enjoy the urban outdoors when you come to Toronto. If you come in the warmer late spring and summer months, you can enjoy numerous beaches and waterfront paths to soak in the sunshine. Kayaking and paddleboarding around the Toronto Islands are other activities that you’ll see many locals and tourists alike enjoying throughout the year. High Park and Kew Gardens are spectacular green spaces in the city that are perfect for a wander and a picnic.
Wander the Toronto Harbourfront (located at the foot of Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown) where you will find The Harbourfront Centre, which hosts summertime concerts, activities and festivals, HTO Park with lake views, beach and umbrellas and the Toronto Music Garden, a scenic little spot where locals enjoy intimate summer concerts.
Arts & Culture
Toronto is known as a city with a very diverse population, making for a multitude of cultural activities and organizations throughout the city. From the unique Bata Shoe Museum to the Art Gallery of Toronto, Toronto has no shortage of museums and galleries to visit. The stunning Elgin & Winter Garden Theater is always worth a visit (it’s not open – do you want to leave this in?); plus you can enjoy a bit of Shakespeare in the park! What about the ROM?
If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of Toronto, don’t miss out on the iconic CN Tower. For the truly brave at heart, you can try the EdgeWalk. This is the world’s highest, hands-free walk on a 5ft wide ledge encircling the top of the Tower’s main pod. The Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown is a 10 minute-walk away from this unique attraction, and guests of the hotel can enjoy the view of this landmark from their rooms.
Where to Eat in Toronto
Toronto’s diversity is most evident in its eclectic choices for food. Torontonians love to eat out, so you’ll likely be able to find a food truck or sidewalk bistro no matter where you wander in the city. No trip to Toronto is complete without a stop at the St.Lawrence Market. With over 120 specialty food shops and stalls, you can taste a little bit of every part of the world when you visit. Make sure to try a peameal-bacon sandwich from the Carousel Bakery and an authentic Montreal style bagel from St.Urbain.
No matter what you’re looking to do when visiting Canada’s largest city, the newly revamped Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown makes the perfect base for exploring the city. With its city center location and stunning views of the city or Lake Ontario, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more stylish and central stay for your trip to Toronto.