7 of the best free attractions in Toronto to check out this summer, according to a local
Looking for a perfect day in the city that won't break the bank? There are tons of free things to do in Toronto this summer that don't require you to spend a dime.
From museums and indoor attractions to stunning parks, these free attractions are some of the best that the city has to offer -- take it from someone who's been to each many times over.
Whether you're a local or a newcomer to the city, these spots are worth visiting this summer -- especially since you can do so for free. Here are seven free attractions in Toronto that you'll want to check out.
St. Lawrence Market
Address: 25 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The St. Lawrence Market is a marketplace filled with organic groceries, restaurant stalls and antique dealers where you can walk, shop, and eat your way around, and is totally free to visit.
The historic building is home to more than 100 vendors selling baked goods, fresh produce, and unique dishes, and was named the world’s best food market by National Geographic.
You'll find places to get anything and everything you could want to eat, from seafood to Greek cuisine and crepes.
Every Saturday, there's also a Farmers’ Market where you can peruse goods from local farmers and artisans.
The market also hosts events like a Sunday Variety Vintage Market and live music events throughout the summer.
Toronto Islands
Address: 9 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Toronto Islands are truly an underrated gem in the city with endless things to do.
The Toronto Islands consist of several islands, with the most popular islands being Ward’s Island, Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point.
On these islands, you'll find pleasant beaches (including Ontario's only nude beach on Hanlan's Point), an amusement park, restaurants, a "haunted" lighthouse, trails and more that make for a great way to spend a summer day.
On Centre Island, you can walk down to the pier and gaze out onto the water of Lake Ontario, with a charming little protected beach located just steps away.
There's no admission fee to visit the islands, though you do have to pay for transport, either by water taxi or ferry.
High Park
Address: 1873 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: High Park is a beautiful green space in the city that's free to visit and offers tons to do and see.
The huge urban park, which is the largest in the city, is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle, with a slew of attractions including restaurants, a zoo, picnic areas and lakefront views.
In the park, you'll also find trails, an outdoor pool, a wading pool, a playground, and lush gardens to explore.
You could easily spend a day here wandering the park and taking in the sights of Grenadier Pond, the maple leaf garden, and more. Be sure to stop in at the Grenadier Cafe for a bite while you're here.
Art Gallery of Ontario
Address: 317 Dundas St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, with a collection of more than 120,000 works of art including contemporary work and significant art by Indigenous and Canadian artists and European masterpieces.
The gallery is home to classic works set in the beautiful building. It also regularly hosts special and unique exhibitions and has an espresso bar and bistro onsite where you can grab a bite.
The art gallery is free for those 25 years old and under. Those above the age of 25 can visit the art gallery for free using their Toronto Public Library card to book a free pass.
You can also visit the AGO for free on the first Wednesday night of each month, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The gallery advises booking your free general admission tickets online in advance to ensure entry.
Royal Ontario Museum
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: While the Royal Ontario Museum isn't free year-round, the museum offers free admission on the third Tuesday night of each month.
As Canada's largest and most comprehensive museum, a visit here is well worth even the regular admission price of $26, so it's absolutely worth going on free admission nights.
The museum is home to several incredible permanent galleries and exhibits, including the Age of Dinosaurs where you can see towering fossils of the larger-than-life creatures, the Samuel European Galleries, where you can view the legacy of European style through the ages, and the Gallery of Greece, where you can see over 1,500 objects from Ancient Greece, including statues and sculptures.
The free admission nights occur on the third Tuesday of each month from 4:30-8:30 p.m. A list of upcoming dates can be found on the ROM's website.
Distillery District
Address: 55 Mill St., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Toronto's historic Distillery District is an arts and culture hub that is absolutely worth a visit.
Featuring restored Victorian industrial architecture, cobblestone streets and charming boutiques, the area is an otherworldly spot on the outskirts of the downtown core that's totally free to visit.
Here, you'll find theatres and art galleries, public art, more than 40 boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops, and a number of restaurants nestled in picturesque corners just waiting to be explored.
If you're into coffee, a number of cafes can be found in the district where you can get a quality cup of java. Be sure to also check out spots like the giant heart (perfect for snapping a pic with a loved one) and Soma Chocolate Maker for a sweet treat.
Scarborough Bluffs
Address: Scarborough, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Scarborough Bluffs are a serene spot to visit that will make you feel like you're a world away from Toronto.
With 11 parks dotting about 15 kilometres of shoreline, the Bluffs offer a beautiful nature escape from the city that's totally free.
Bluffer's Park is a popular spot here where you can enjoy a sandy beach and marvel at magnificent bluffs which formed as a result of sedimentary deposits over 12,000 years ago.
You'll also find hiking, beautiful viewpoints and restaurants in the park, making it easy to spend a whole day here.
Be sure to stick around for the sunset views at Scarboro Crescent Park, where you can watch from high above Lake Ontario.
Enjoy!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
