James AllenIt’s no secret that Toronto is one of the most beautiful cities in all of North America but where do you start looking to see its wonderful sights? That’s where we come in!
As people who know the ins and outs of the city, we’ve handpicked some of our favourite sightseeing spots in all of Toronto to share with new eyes! Whether it be skylines, natural landscapes or anything in between, you’ll find all the beautiful sights of the city here.
Let’s not prolong this any further! Join us as we tour you to ten of the top spots in the city that offer the best views in Toronto:
- Trillium Park
- Riverdale Park East
- Kensington Market Parking Garage
- CN Tower
- Chester Hill Lookout
- Bathurst St. Bridge
- Lake Ontario Boat Cruise via The Tall Ship Kajama
- Polson Pier Skyline Viewpoint
- Ireland Park
- Toronto Islands
- The Governor's Bridge Lookout
- Woodbine Beach Park Boardwalk
- Hotel X
- The Baldwin Steps
- David Crombie Park
Trillium Park
– Media credits: courtyardtorontomeadowvale
Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6K 3B9, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-314-9900
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Trillium Park is arguably the best place to go if you want to admire the Toronto skyline in its entirety. The park is located along Lake Ontario, and fortunately, it sits opposite Toronto, providing its visitors with unobstructed views of the city.
Aside from the famous skyline, however, the park also features beautiful views of nature, most notably its lush green spaces and tall trees. Of course, there’s also the calming Ontario Lake that glistens as it’s hit by the sunlight.
| Pro tip: As much as possible, we recommend going to this park at night when Toronto is beautifully lit up with city lights. These bright lights will be perfectly reflected on the lake’s calm surface, giving you a photo opportunity like no other! |
Riverdale Park East
– Media credit: juls.ojeda
Address: 550 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2N6, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-2489
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Riverdale Park East is the perfect blend of city and nature, as it offers panoramic views that combine both urban and natural beauty. You can think of it as the ultimate vantage point for sightseeing when you’re on street level.
This 40-hectare land also features well-maintained facilities for those who enjoy sports like Baseball and Tennis. It’s a whole different vibe when you’re sitting on one of the park’s benches admiring the surrounding views while listening to the sounds of these sports being played.
The park itself is also beautiful in its own right and we’re not the only ones that think this. Locals and tourists constantly set up blankets and sit down in the middle of Riverdale Park East just to admire its tall trees and lush green fields.
| Pro tip: If you want to experience a more magical time while you’re here, we recommend visiting during winter. During this season, the park will feature an artificial outdoor ice rink to get you into the holiday spirit! |
Kensington Market Parking Garage
– Media credits: tru.pov
Website: https://auroraculturalcentre.ca/adult-classes/
Address: 20 St Andrew St, Toronto, ON M5T 1K6, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-393-7275
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Kensington Market Parking Garage is the embodiment of don’t judge a book by its cover—or at least in the context of picture-taking. This is because this parking garage is low-key one of the hottest street photography spots in the capital—trust us, the cool kids know this!
It may not seem like it at first, but once you climb to the very top of this parking garage, you’ll be treated to a sight of Toronto from an “urban” perspective. We say urban because it perfectly combines graffitied walls and industrial buildings with Toronto’s famous skyline.
You can even spot the ever-so-majestic CN Tower from here—pretty cool, right?
| Pro tip: Be sure to wear your dopest streetwear fits when visiting this spot, as the urban setting makes for a perfect backdrop for your OOTD photos! |
CN Tower
Website: https://www.cntower.ca
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-868-6937
Operating hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Aside from being one of Toronto’s most iconic structures, the CN Tower is also a great place to admire the capital’s most beautiful views. In fact, it’s arguably the best place to visit if you want to see the Toronto skyline from a bird’s eye view!
What’s specifically great about this 1,815-foot tall tower is that it features different levels to cater to guests with different thresholds when it comes to fear of heights.
If you want to enjoy a thrilling experience, however, we recommend doing the Edge Walk. This attraction essentially lets you walk around the tower through a 5-foot ledge, giving you the best seats in the house for admiring Toronto’s skyline.
| Pro tip: As much as possible, we recommend visiting early in the morning (9 to 10:00 AM) or late at night (8 to 10:00 PM) to avoid crowds. If you want to take your sightseeing experience to the next level, you can also book a table at the 360 Tower Restaurant. This way, you can enjoy good food while you’re basking in the stunning views of the city. |
Chester Hill Lookout
– Media credits: toronto_papi
Address: Chester Hill Rd, Toronto, ON M4K 1V4, Canada
If you ever want to see lush trees combined with the Downtown area of Toronto, Chester Hill Lookout will be right up your alley! Not only that but you’ll also catch glimpses of the Don Valley and the Bloor Viaduct—talk about hitting two birds with one stone!
It’s truly a nice and peaceful spot that’s surrounded by trees, which is the perfect combination for a romantic setting. This being said, we do want to say that there’s a high likelihood that you’ll see couples showing PDAs but hey, at least you’ll be seeing beautiful views!
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to look at the ground while you’re here so that you don’t miss out on one of Toronto’s most iconic street art. Not much is known about the artist aside from being called the King of sidewalk art. |
Bathurst St. Bridge
– Media credit: mr._tade
Address: 9 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5V 0E6, Canada
Bathurst St. Bridge is among the most must-visit bridges in Toronto, especially if you’re a photographer. Also known as Sir Isaac Brock Bridge, it provides its visitors with one of the closest and prettiest views of Toronto’s most notable structure, the CN Tower.
Being this close to the famous attraction will put into perspective how gigantic it is, as you’ll see it towering over skyscrapers that you already think are tall. This will make you feel miniscule in comparison but at the same time, you’ll have first-class seats to admire the Toronto skyline!
The views from here are more exceptional come nighttime when the city is lit up with its beautiful lights. Plus, the railroad at the bottom of the bridge adds more character to the portrait that you’ll eventually take while you’re here.
| Pro tip: If you want to see a different kind of view, all you have to do is turn around! The other side of this bridge will give you panoramic views of Fort York. If you have a DSLR or one of those phones that have a fancy camera, we recommend playing with the shutter speed and exposure settings. From there, you can wait for the train to pass underneath so that you can achieve the long-exposed effect. |
Lake Ontario Boat Cruise via The Tall Ship Kajama
Address: https://www.tallshipcruisestoronto.com
Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2B8, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-203-2322
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Thursday and Friday: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing:
- Adult (16 to 64): $38
- Senior (65 and above): $35
- Child (5 to 15): $28
- Infant (0 to 4): $5
If you want to combine a memorable experience with your sightseeing in Toronto, then a cruise through Lake Ontario should be on your itinerary. Not just any boat cruise, however, but the Tall Ship Kajama boat cruise!
This cruise lets you parade through the massive Ontario Lake on a massive ship reminiscent of the ones used to transfer cargo in the olden days. You can choose from either sunrise or sunset but regardless of which one you choose, we have a feeling that you’ll have a blast.
The iconic lake offers some of the most unique views of Toronto, as it blends in the glistening waters with the sight of the city—a match made in heaven! You can also enjoy unobstructed sights, as nothing is standing between the lake and the city.
| Pro tip: Make sure to visit Tall Ship Kajama’s website beforehand to see the updated schedules and rates for their cruises. |
Polson Pier Skyline Viewpoint
– Media credit: streetsoftoronto
Address: 11 Polson St, Toronto, ON M5A 1A4, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Polson Pier is THE premier spot for sunset watching in Toronto, and coincidentally, it also offers unmatched views of the capital. It’s also a great place to just wind down and be alone with your thoughts while being surrounded by stunning sights.
It’s one of those places in the capital where you’ll feel like you’re in a movie because of how scenic it is. You can easily imagine it in a rom-com scene where one character finally professes their love for the other.
You’ll also see tons of photographers gathering here at around late afternoon to catch the famous golden hour shot.
| Pro tip: Since this spot is a famous attraction, we recommend getting here early before the sunset even occurs so that you can save a good spot on the pier. |
Ireland Park
– Media credit: blogto
Address: Eireann Quay, Toronto, ON M5V 3G3, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-601-6906
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Ireland Park is among the best parks in Toronto because of its peaceful atmosphere, picturesque views and meaningful history. We say history because it commemorates one of the most significant events of the Great Famine when the Irish migrants fled to Toronto’s shores.
Today, it’s one of the best places to just sit down and bask in the surrounding views as well as the Toronto skyline. What’s great about sightseeing in this particular spot is that it’s conveniently located along Toronto’s waterfront, giving its guests a somewhat closer view of the city.
The park itself is worth highlighting as well, as it’s a tranquil spot that features tall oak trees and wide pathways—perfect for morning walks and jogs!
| Pro tip: If you want to enjoy a more magical sightseeing experience, we recommend visiting this park during the winter season. During this time, there’s a high likelihood that the lake will be frozen over, making Toronto look like an Arctic wonderland! |
Toronto Islands
Website: https://www.torontoisland.com
Address: St Lawrence-East Bayfront-The Islands, ON, Canada
What’s great about the Toronto Islands is that it combines exploration with sightseeing. This makes walking through the different footpaths and bridges that much more rewarding, as you’ll get to witness some of the best views that the city has to offer.
For instance, if you want to get an unobstructed view of the city, you can head to Centreville or the Toronto Islands Lookout. Meanwhile, if you want to bask in the photo card-esque nature of Lake Ontario, you can make your way to the Centre Island Pier.
Aside from spectacular views, you can also enjoy a plethora of fun attractions like the Centreville Amusement Park and a handful of beaches.
| Pro tip: If you want to feast on some good food and drinks while admiring Toronto’s skyline, we recommend checking out The Riviera ~ Ward’s Island Kitchen. Aside from serving delicious dishes, it also features an Insta-worthy garden spacious patio. |
The Governor’s Bridge Lookout
– Media credit: favoritecarguy
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-596-1495
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
One thing that The Governor’s Bridge Lookout does exceptionally well is it provides its guests with a painting-like view of Toronto from a distant perspective. This lookout is located in Evergreen Brick Works and it’s a must-visit sanctuary for nature lovers.
This spot is a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively. This is because instead of being the main subject, the Toronto Skyline will look minuscule from this perspective, as the view mostly consists of the lush trees surrounding Evergreen Brick Works.
| Pro tip: Make sure to dress for the occasion! Wear durable and comfortable shoes, as the way up the outpost is quite a hike. |
Woodbine Beach Park Boardwalk
– Media credit: patpessoa8
Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’ve grown tired of the concrete jungle of Toronto, a visit to Woodbine Beach Park Boardwalk will give you that much-needed breath of fresh air. This place will offer a different kind of relaxation, offering its visitors with beautiful glistening waters and pure sand.
Aside from being a great summer destination, however, this beach is a fantastic sightseeing spot all year round. It also gives the best of both worlds, as one side provides a view of the sea as far as the eye can see while the other side treats you to the Toronto skyline.
This is one of those places where you can just take a lovely stroll and not be bored because of the vibes and views that you’ll get to experience.
| Pro tips: During one of your lovely strolls across this beach, make sure to stop and check out some of the cafes and boutiques here! Make sure to apply sunscreen when visiting this spot! Better yet, bring the entire bottle for good measure. |
Hotel X
Website: https://hotelxtoronto.com/en/
Address: 111 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3, Canada
Contact details: +1 647-943-9300
Pricing: $$$
Tons of hotels across Toronto offer spectacular views of the city but none quite like Hotel X. It’s one of the best hotels in the capital because you’re guaranteed to get a first-class view of the skyline with your stay, whether it be in your room or its roof deck.
There’s nothing quite like waking up next to the CN Tower and the rest of Toronto’s towering skyscrapers. Furthermore, you can also catch glimpses of the lush trees of Coronation Park and Lake Ontario—what more could you ask for?
| Pro tips: If you’re looking to experience the panoramic views of this hotel while relaxing, we recommend checking out the rooftop pool. Find the room rates a bit too expensive for your liking? Get a day pass for the hotel’s pool and spa! |
The Baldwin Steps
– Media credit: toronto_papi_
Address: 486 Davenport Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
The Baldwin Steps is one of the oldest set of stairs in Canada, dating back to as early as the 19th century. It’s a public staircase that proves to be quite the exercise, as it features a unique zigzag shape that consists of 110 steps—cardio workout, anyone?
The climb is more than worth it, however, as you’ll be treated to a nice urban view of the Toronto skyline along with some busy streets in the foreground.
What’s great about sightseeing in this particular spot is that it changes with the season. For instance, the rail and steps of the staircase will be icy and sometimes covered in snow during the winter season.
| Pro tip: While you’re here, make sure to stop by the famous Casa Loma, which can be found just to the left once you reach the top of the staircase. |
David Crombie Park
– Media credit: toronto.culture
Address: 131 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4P5, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
David Crombie Park is one of those places in Toronto where you can just walk, wind down and spend a nice afternoon in. It features a playground, a large play area for dogs to run free, a basketball court and benches where you can sit to admire the views of Downtown Toronto.
There are also various murals around the park and they’re great to hunt if you’re looking for something different for the background of your photos.
| Pro tip: While you’re in the area, make sure to stop by the nearby Museum of Illusions! It’s a great place to get your mind blown through mind-boggling illusions and tricks. |
