WHY VISIT?
Looking for a vacation from the norm without traveling too far? Oh Canada!
Toronto is Canada's largest city. It's a fun, clean, safe destination with plenty to see and do. Ontario's capital is nicknamed the "city of neighborhoods" each one of the 240 areas with its own unique character. Toronto is a perfect spot for the family or even just a quick weekend getaway with friends.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
You need a passport, but no visa is needed.
Toronto Pearson International is about 25 miles (30-50 minutes) from downtown Toronto - where I recommend you stay.
A taxi to/from the airport will cost appx. Canadian $50/each way. Typically only cash is accepted.
I do not recommend taking public transportation to/from the airport because it requires multiple connections and longer travel times.
Don't bother renting a car you can get most places on foot, and it's not worth paying the overnight parking fees most downtown hotels charge.
Canadian (not U.S.) dollar is the accepted currency. An ATM withdrawal is the most cost-effective way to exchange money. Common banks include: CIBC, Royal Bank & Scotia Bank.
Tipping is very similar to the U.S.: 10-20% gratuity is customary.
There are 2 official languages in Canada: English & French. You will have no problems speaking English in Toronto.
It's easy to get around on foot or with public transportation. Buses & streetcars are available. The cost is $3/ride for adults, but multiple-day passes are available.
Toronto is less than a 2 hour drive from Niagara Falls. If you have time, make the trip. The Falls are particularly beautiful from the Canadian-side.
TOP 10 TO SEE & DO:
- CN Tower The world's tallest tower, according to Guiness Book of World Records, offers spectacular views of the city. Avoid the crowds and arrive by 9 AM or after 5PM. Hours change seasonally, but typically run from 9 AM to 11PM. Don't miss staring out the 2 1/2 inch thick glass floor for some views which will certainly jump start your heart. Here's a preview:
- Dundas Square Toronto's Times Square
- Rogers Centre Baseball may be America's favorite pastime, but our neighbors to the north catch the Toronto's Blue Jays in action at the city's Sky Dome. The locals call it the "concrete convertible" as it's retractable roof was the first of its kind for a major stadium.
- Hockey Hall of Fame Great fun for all. Lots of hands-on activities, including touching and posing with the Stanley Cup!
- Tim Horton's coffeeStarbuck's, who? Dunkin Donuts, whatever. For Canadians, there's only one true morning brew. The donuts aren't too shabby either.
- St. Lawrence Market This beautiful Victorian building once housed City Hall. The market has a lot to offer for the serious foodie or even the curious tourist. Try it in the morning for a wallet-friendly breakfast.
- Honest Ed's New York has Macy's. London has Harrod's. Toronto has Honest Ed's. The huge sign on Bloor Street makes this bargain-lover's paradise hard to miss. Prepare to dig for deals.
- Walk on the beach Sure, Toronto may not be the first place you think of when you want to dip your toe in the water, but the boardwalk area on the Lake Ontario is a great place to bike, stroll, or catch some rays.
- Eaton Centre250 stores make up this beautiful glass-enclosed shopping center in the heart of Toronto. Ask your hotel about free shuttle service. If you are interested, visit the nearby Hockey Hall of Fame (only a few blocks south) the same day.
- Wayne Gretsky's RestaurantFun bar/restaurant, jam-packed with hockey memorabilia. Swing by after catching a comedy show at nearby Second City or a game at the Rogers Center. Located at 99 Blue Jays Way (at King Street West).
DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME:
- Royal Ontario Museum - The "ROM" - the largest museum in all of Canada - is a good museum for families, but can easily become crowded and not worth your time.
USEFUL LINKS:
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