Toronto is one of North America’s most exciting cities, with world-class attractions, live entertainment and neighbourhoods packed with things to do. Whether you live in the GTA or are visiting, here are the best entertainment spots to put on your list in 2026.
Iconic attractions
- CN Tower: the city’s signature landmark, with a glass floor, a revolving restaurant and the EdgeWalk for thrill-seekers.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: right next door, famous for its underwater tunnel with sharks and rays.
- Casa Loma: a castle in the middle of the city, with gardens, secret passages and seasonal events.
- Toronto Zoo: one of the largest zoos in Canada, in the city’s east end.
Museums and culture
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): dinosaurs, world cultures and natural history.
- Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Canadian and international art in a building designed by Frank Gehry.
- Hockey Hall of Fame: a must for hockey fans, home to the Stanley Cup.
- TIFF Lightbox: year-round film screenings and the hub of the Toronto International Film Festival each September.
Live entertainment
- Theatre District: Broadway-style shows at the Princess of Wales and Royal Alexandra theatres.
- Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall: concerts in historic and acoustic landmark venues.
- The Second City: sketch and improv comedy.
- Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Centre: Leafs, Raptors and Blue Jays games plus major concerts.
Neighbourhoods to explore
- Distillery District: cobblestone streets, galleries, cafés and seasonal markets.
- Kensington Market: vintage shops, street food and murals.
- St. Lawrence Market: one of the world’s great food markets.
- Harbourfront Centre: free waterfront festivals and events, especially in summer.
Day trips from the city
- Toronto Islands: a short ferry ride to beaches, bike paths and skyline views.
- Canada’s Wonderland: the country’s largest amusement park, in Vaughan.
- Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake: about 90 minutes away by car.
Tips for saving money
- Toronto Public Library cardholders can borrow free attraction passes through the Sun Life Museum + Arts Pass program.
- Many museums offer free or discounted evenings; the AGO offers free admission for visitors 25 and under with registration.
- Check Harbourfront Centre and city event listings for free festivals.
Hours and prices change, so check each venue’s official website before you go. Find more ideas in our Entertainment section and our guide to the best photo spots in Toronto.
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