James AllenI know that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you embark on solo, and the best company is your own.
Whether you’re a local seeking new solo experiences or a visitor looking for some personal time, Toronto has a plethora of exciting activities that cater to those who prefer exploring alone.
This guide is your passport to 14 awesome things to do alone in our vibrant city.
- 1. Visit St. Lawrence Market.
- 2. Walk through the Toronto Botanical Garden.
- 3. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum.
- 4. Check out Casa Loma.
- 5. Go up the CN Tower.
- 6. Check out the Science Center.
- 7. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium.
- 8. Go wildlife watching in Algonquin Park.
- 9. See the Hockey Hall of Fame.
- 10. Wander through Gardiner Museum.
- 11. Experience Little Canada.
- 12. Roam around the Textile Museum of Canada.
- 13. Enjoy the beauty of High Park.
- 14. Relax at Hanlan's Point Beach.
1. Visit St. Lawrence Market.
Address: Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada
Phone: 416 392 7219
Website: https://www.stlawrencemarket.com/
St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is like our go-to spot for all things awesome.
First things first, you’ve got to hit up the farmer’s market. It’s a feast for the eyes, with the freshest produce you can imagine.
And trust me, the local vendors bring their A-game – you’ll find everything from killer mustards and fresh pasta to the fanciest lobster and artisanal bread.
In addition to the food market, you can also take a trip upstairs to the 2nd floor of the South Market; that’s where the Market Gallery is. It’s like a time machine, showcasing Toronto’s journey through the years.
They’ve got cool exhibitions with old-school paintings, photographs, maps, and fine art dating way back to the 19th century. It’s a legit cultural adventure, and you’ll leave feeling like a Toronto history buff.
2. Walk through the Toronto Botanical Garden.
Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto, ON M3C 1P2, Canada
Phone: 416 397 1341
Website: https://www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca/
The Toronto Botanical Garden is an awesome non-profit organization that’s all about bringing people, plants, and the natural world together. It encompasses nearly four acres of pure green goodness with 17 cool “city-sized gardens.”
When you stroll in, you can’t miss the Entry Garden Walk – it’s like a warm hug from nature, thanks to Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf’s magic touch.
Additionally, the Woodland Walk showcases the biodiversity of the Carolinian forest and prairie savannah native to the Toronto region.
Now, what will really catch your eye when you visit are the green roofs. They’re not just pleasant-looking; they’re planted with local perennials and sedum varieties, keeping it real with native plants.
The Toronto Botanical Garden is not just about pretty views; it’s also your go-to for fun stuff.
And here’s the kicker: you can soak in all this goodness every day from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee!
3. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum.
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada
Phone: 416 586 8000
Website: https://www.rom.on.ca/
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto is all about art, world culture, and natural history. It’s one of the largest museums in North America and the largest in Canada, drawing in over a million people every year.
Now, what makes the ROM so rad is its massive collection – we’re talking a whopping 13 million objects and specimens.
These treasures span a diverse array of subjects, from the fascinating realms of dinosaurs, minerals, and meteorites to a journey through Canadian and European history.
Plus, there’s this fantastic mix of African, Near Eastern, and East Asian art that just blows your mind.
4. Check out Casa Loma.
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Phone: 416 923 1171
Website: http://www.casaloma.ca/
Casa Loma in midtown Toronto is a Gothic Revival-style mansion and garden that was built by Sir Henry Pellatt between 1911 and 1914.
He was dreaming of a castle-like residence for himself and his family. However, he had to sell the property in 1924 due to financial troubles.
Fast forward to today, and Casa Loma has transformed into this awesome historic house museum and a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Imagine 98 rooms with a library, a conservatory, a great hall, and even a sneaky secret passage.
The mansion comes with a sprawling 5-acre garden featuring all kinds of flowers, trees, and fountains. It’s the perfect chill spot to balance out the fancy vibes inside.
Now, what makes Casa Loma even cooler is its pop culture status. It’s been a star in movies and TV shows like X-Men, Harry Potter, and The Umbrella Academy.
5. Go up the CN Tower.
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada
Phone: 416 868 6937
Website: https://www.cntower.ca/en-ca/home.html
CN Tower is a super tall structure, standing at an enormous 553.3 meters (1,815.3 feet). It used to be the world’s tallest free-standing thing for 32 years until the Burj Khalifa stole the show in 2007.
This tower isn’t just about being tall and mighty; it’s got some seriously cool stuff going on. You can take a stroll on the wild side with the EdgeWalk, where you walk around the outside of the tower.
If you’re more into panoramic views, the SkyPod is your go-to spot for that breathtaking sight of our beautiful city.
You can also step onto the Glass Floor and feel the thrill of standing on see-through ground high above the ground.
And foodies, you’re in for a treat – there’s a restaurant up there called the 360 Restaurant. Not only do they serve up delicious eats, but you get to enjoy them with killer views.
6. Check out the Science Center.
Address: 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON M3C 1T3, Canada
Phone: 416 696 1000
Website: https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/
If you’re looking to have a bit of fun and maybe learn a thing or two, this place is right up your alley. Give the Ontario Science Center a whirl; it’s not your average museum experience.
This place has been a science haven since 1969. It has over 500 exhibits covering everything from space and biology to chemistry and tech.
It’s like a science carnival where you can indulge in the Human Edge, exploring the nitty-gritty of our bodies, or feel the pulse with the Living Earth, which unravels the mysteries of nature and its interconnected ecosystems.
There’s even a Space Hall that’s like a one-way ticket to the stars.
The Science Arcade is a quirky mix of education and entertainment that’ll have you hooked. And for a real show, hop into the OMNIMAX theater; it’s got this mind-blowing dome screen that makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
7. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium.
Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada
Phone: 647 351 3474
Website: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/canada/
Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is a popular attraction downtown. It’s like stepping into a whole new underwater world filled with over 20,000 amazing aquatic creatures from around the globe.
One of its notable highlights is the Dangerous Lagoon, a vast 2.9 million-liter tank teeming with an impressive array of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and sawfish.
You can immerse yourself in this aquatic world by strolling through a 97-meter-long tunnel, allowing for an up-close encounter as these majestic creatures glide above and around you.
For a burst of vibrant hues and tropical charm, Rainbow Reef beckons with its stunning showcase of over 100 species of tropical fish, corals, and anemones.
You can also delight in the daily dive shows and feedings, adding an extra layer of excitement to your exploration.
Now, if you’re into getting hands-on, head over to the Discovery Center. You can touch horseshoe crabs, bamboo sharks, and stingrays, and there are games and videos to check out too.
You’ve also got to see Planet Jellies. It’s this mesmerizing exhibit with all kinds of jellyfish, and the way they’re lit up with different colored lights is just magical.
8. Go wildlife watching in Algonquin Park.
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada
Phone: 705 633 5572
Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/
If the aquarium does not satisfy your desire to see wildlife, consider visiting Algonquin Park!
It’s only about a four-hour drive away from Toronto and is considered Canada’s oldest provincial park. Once you’re there, you’ve got plenty of options to keep yourself entertained.
First up, hit the trails. There are 14 of them, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging treks.
They’re perfect for soaking up the scenery and maybe stumbling upon some historical landmarks and natural wonders.
If you’re into water adventures, Algonquin Park is like a paddler’s paradise, with over 2,000 kilometers of canoe routes.
You can grab a canoe or kayak and get ready to glide through some seriously stunning parks’ waterways.
And don’t miss the Visitor Center. It’s got all sorts of cool stuff to check out, like exhibits, a little theater, and even a bookstore.
Plus, the view from the viewing deck is something else, especially when the wildflowers are in bloom.
If you happen to visit during the winter, Algonquin Park is pretty magical too. Picture yourself cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through a snowy wonderland. It’s peaceful and absolutely breathtaking.
If you’re around in February, there’s this awesome Winter in the Wild Festival happening on February 17, 2024.
It’s like a big celebration of all things winter, with loads of fun activities to dive into.
9. See the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8, Canada
Phone: 416 360 7765
Website: https://www.hhof.com/
You can discover the rich legacy of ice hockey at the Hockey Hall of Fame, an engaging museum in Toronto celebrating the sport’s history and luminaries.
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by the iconic Stanley Cup and a bunch of other NHL trophies. It’s like being surrounded by the sport’s most legendary moments!
You can spend hours exploring all the cool exhibits filled with jerseys, gear, and memorabilia from your favorite players and teams.
Plus, they’ve got these super fun interactive games where you can test your skills in shooting and goaltending. It’s like stepping onto the ice yourself!
You can also catch some awesome films and documentaries about hockey legends in the theater.
And don’t forget to swing by the Spirit of Hockey store on your way out to grab some sweet souvenirs to remember your visit.
10. Wander through Gardiner Museum.
Address: 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7, Canada
Phone: 416 586 8080
Website: https://www.gardinermuseum.on.ca/
Gardiner Museum is where you can dive into the fascinating world of ceramics!
This place is a hub where people come together to celebrate art, culture, and creativity.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a treasure trove of clay wonders from all corners of the globe. From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, each item tells a story that’ll leave you captivated.
You can take your time wandering through the galleries, soaking in the beauty, and gaining insight into the role ceramics have played in various civilizations.
Whether you’re into the pottery of the Ancient Americas, the elegance of European designs, or the intricate craftsmanship of Chinese and Japanese pieces, there’s something here for everyone.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Gardiner Museum hosts special exhibitions that offer fresh perspectives on ceramic art. These rotating displays add a layer of excitement for returning visitors, always providing something new to discover.
For those looking to engage more actively, the museum offers hands-on experiences such as clay classes. It’s a great way to get your hands dirty and learn something new, no matter your skill level.
And when hunger strikes, head over to Clay Restaurant for a bite to eat. The food here is as delightful as the surroundings.
Before you leave, make sure to swing by the Gardiner Shop for some unique souvenirs. It’s the perfect way to take a piece of the museum home with you.
11. Experience Little Canada.
Address: 10 Dundas St E Basement2, Toronto, ON M5B 2G9, Canada
Phone: 647 578 4663
Website: https://www.little-canada.ca/
If you find yourself wandering around Toronto solo, you’ve got to check out Little Canada!
It’s this spot near Yonge-Dundas Square that was previously known as Our Home and Miniature Land. Basically, it’s like a tiny version of Canada, with all its awesome sights and sounds packed into one place.
You can stroll through miniature versions of places like the Golden Horseshoe, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Quebec City, and even Toronto itself.
Imagine tiny cars zipping around, trains chugging along, and little businesses all lit up with twinkling lights. It’s a mini-Canadian adventure right in the heart of the city.
12. Roam around the Textile Museum of Canada.
Address: 55 Centre Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 2H5, Canada
Phone: 416 599 5321
Website: http://www.textilemuseum.ca/
The Textile Museum of Canada is all about celebrating the fascinating world of textiles. It’s actually the only museum in Canada dedicated to this art form, and let me tell you, it’s quite an experience.
When you step inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a permanent collection spanning nearly 2,000 years and consisting of more than 15,000 artifacts.
The museum offers a variety of activities. You can wander through the exhibitions, which are always changing and showcase different cultures and traditions.
Plus, they’ve got these awesome workshops where you can roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with textiles. It’s a great way to unleash your inner creative spirit.
And before you go, don’t forget to swing by the Museum Shop. They’ve got all sorts of goodies, from beautiful textiles to quirky crafts.
It’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your visit.
13. Enjoy the beauty of High Park.
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
Phone: 416 338 0338
Website: http://www.highparktoronto.com/
High Park offers a bunch of chic stuff to do, especially if you’re flying solo.
They’ve got these awesome hiking trails snaking through the park. You can lose yourself in nature with all the diverse plants and trees around.
Here, nearly two-thirds of the park remains in its natural state, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city.
If you’re into sports, you can hit up the tennis courts and soccer fields, or maybe even swing by the baseball diamonds for a game.
And for those seeking tranquility, take a leisurely stroll along the Grenadier Pond, a peaceful spot where you can just chill out and enjoy the view.
Now, if you’ve got a furry friend, there’s a designated off-leash area where your puppy can run wild and make new friends. There’s even a mini-zoo with llamas, buffalo, deer, and other critters to check out.
If you’re into plants, High Park’s got some sweet greenhouses to look into. Plus, there are 18 designated areas to set up a picnic and savor the outdoors with a delightful meal.
In spring, the park transforms into this magical wonderland, with all the Sakura trees in full bloom. It’s seriously breathtaking!
14. Relax at Hanlan’s Point Beach.
Address: Lakeshore Ave, Toronto, ON M5J 2W2, Canada
Phone: 416 392 8196
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/beaches/
Did you know that Hanlan’s Point Beach is one of the oldest surviving queer spaces in Canada? Yep, it even hosted the first Pride celebration back in 1971!
This beach is perfect for solo chill time. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, taking a dip, or maybe even playing some sports, there’s something for everyone.
And if you’re into birdwatching, you can even try it too! The surroundings are a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Getting here is also part of the fun; hop on a ferry from the mainland or take your own boat for a little adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll feel a world away from the city buzz.
