Hey everyone! This past weekend I took my first trip north of the border — up to Toronto, Ontario. (I don’t really think I count the quick stop we made on a road trip as a kid, just to say we did it.)
I didn’t really know what to expect, but I landed at the airport with an open mind and zero plans. That’s one of the best things about traveling alone! But thanks to my AMAZING Airbnb hosts, Zairah and Martin, my weekend unfolded quite nicely.
Here are my top 3 recommendations for unique things to do in Toronto.
1. Distillery District
When Zairah and Martin mentioned taking me to the “Distillery District,” I imagined taking a tour of a famous distillery that perhaps existed in Toronto. Well, I was wrong! Instead, this is a historic area that has been transformed into a haven for shopping, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and the arts. The wide streets are made of red brick, and pedestrians and bikers move freely about: no cars allowed.
BONUS: Take a Segway tour to learn more about the rich history of the area and the distillery that did once exist, Gooderham & Worts. This was my first time on a Segway, and I had a blast! If that’s not your thing, there are also walking tours available.
2. Ferry to Toronto Islands
I’m always on the lookout for the best views whenever I travel somewhere new. Who doesn’t want that picture-perfect panorama? Instagram helped me determine that the place to go were the Toronto Islands. I was running short on time and $CAD, but luckily it was quick and easy to take the ferry from York Quay to Centre Island. $10 gets you a one-way ticket across the harbor, and the return trip is free.
Once you’re on the island, you’re basically in a park that has amazing views of the Toronto skyline. Whether you want to bring a book and enjoy the serenity away from the city or just wander along the trails, the island doesn’t disappoint. I’m so glad I brought my DSLR camera! Just be sure to bring snacks — there weren’t many options for food when I was there.
3. Toronto FC Game at BMO Field
I didn’t expect for this to happen AT ALL, but right after landing in Toronto I realized that my/my sister’s favorite German soccer player, Bastian Schweinsteiger, in Toronto at the same time. He was playing with his team, Chicago Fire, against Toronto FC that night! I thought about going alone, but after talking to Zairah and Martin (who is German), it turned out they were going too.
We met up at the game, and even though we were in one of the highest-up sections, I had a really good time. I’m a huge fan of my home MLS team, Sporting Kansas City, so it was so interesting to watch two other teams at a different stadium. Get tickets from Toronto FC’s website or StubHub (some of the prices dipped down to $10 in the hours before the game).
What are your favorite unique things to do in Toronto? Let me know in the comments!
Cathy
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Originally Published on April 27, 2017.
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