TORONTO > SIGHTSEEING

Overview

 

 

The French influence is strong in Toronto, but you don't need to speak the language to get around. The dominant language is English, but you'll get a chance to practice your high school French because advertisements and street signs are in both French and English. Actually, Toronto has been influenced by many cultures, earning it the reputation for being one of the most ethnically diverse city in the world.

 

The Asian influence is obvious in the city's neighborhoods. Toronto is home to the second largest Chinatown in North America. Visitors will be astounded at the countless markets, restaurants and herbalist stores that make up this unique village. Take a stroll down Dundas Street and Spadina to soak up the atmosphere. 

Most popular sightseeing tours take place in the downtown area and most of the attractions are within walking distance from the heart of downtown (Yonge and Dundas Streets).  Within a short five- or six-block radius from here are several excellent attractions including the unique Museum For Textiles, Old City Hall, and the historic Mackenzie House. Just north of downtown are some unique-only-to-Toronto sites like the Spadina House, Casa Loma and the intriguing Bata Shoe Museum.

In addition to the downtown attractions, much of Toronto's tourism takes place on Toronto Islands, where visitors can spend an entire day enjoying parks, beaches, amusement rides, eateries, boating activities and more. Toronto Islands is just a very short and enjoyable ferry ride from downtown's Harbourfronte Centre, the hub of Toronto's nautical attractions. Located here are The Pier Museum, The Power Plant and the Harbourfronte Antique Market. 

Toronto is the third largest theatre center in the English-speaking world. The Theatre District is also located in the heart of downtown off King Street West and York Street. In keeping with the arts, the museums and galleries here are some of the best in Canada. The Royal Ontario Museum, located north of downtown at Bloor and University Streets, is the largest art museum in Canada, housing about 6 million pieces of art work. Head south from here on University to Dundas Street and visit the Art Gallery of Ontario and The Grange House, also popular museums in the city. 

For history lovers, Toronto offers historic attractions such as Fort York, the Campbell House and the Mackenzie House, all of which played a significant role in the forming of this Canadian metropolis.

Shopping in Toronto is as diverse as in any major city anywhere. From the eclectic thrift-shops and one-of-a-kind storefronts of trendy Queen Street West to the upscale stores of Bloor Street, there is never a shortage of styles or items here for any type of shopper. Don't forget to check out the Toronto Eaton Center, the premier shopping complex in the city. 

Equally as diverse as the city's shopping is its dining and nightlife scene. The city is extremely cosmopolitan with international influences and these qualities are expressed most poignantly in the city's cuisine and nightlife, which are sure not to fail any visitor.