T-dot is the spot for tourism!
Sometimes Toronto can feel overwhelming, to say the least. At times, we have all felt like tourists in our own city — but Toronto tourism isn’t just limited to visitors!
Maybe you’ve seen the more obvious sights that the city has to offer (like the CN Tower, for instance)? Perhaps you’ve even sampled some of Toronto’s most unique restaurants, but wish to try even more under-the-radar food spots?
There is so much more out there, and with reading week coming up at the University of Guelph-Humber from Oct. 13 to Oct. 17, and Humber Polytechnic the week after, students finally have some time off and a whole city waiting for them to explore!
Not sure where to start? Let’s dive right in and explore together.
Landmarks
Toronto is home to many interesting and world-famous museums and landmarks! The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum, and features unique exhibitions that are worth visiting (and at a reasonable price point).
If you find yourself downtown with time to spare, why not check out the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada? It’s a must-see landmark that features 20,000 aquatic animals and 5.7 million litres of water, all for your viewing pleasure! Not only is it “wildly” entertaining, but you can learn a lot about our aquatic friends. About 71 per cent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, so there is a ton to explore!
Are you into Gothic-style castles? You don’t have to travel far to experience one! Casa Loma gives you a European feel at a convenient location in midtown Toronto — just the castle grounds alone are worth a visit. The backstory behind the building of this castle is fascinating (completed in 1914), and for those wishing to travel back in time and experience this piece of Toronto’s history, Casa Loma is worth the price of admission.
For the foodies
Who doesn’t like good food? I know I do. Listing every great food spot in the city would be next to impossible, but we’ll try and highlight some hidden gems. These are all spots I’ve tried and can personally recommend. The food alone in our city is a reason enough for Toronto tourism.
Korean
bb·q Chicken: This Korean restaurant specializes in different variations of chicken, with their specialty being fried chicken. You have to try their Gangnam style chicken; it’s battered in a black pepper sauce and topped off with garlic and onions. It’s got some kick to it, and their portion sizes are enormous. Top it off with some rice and their signature Kimchi Fries and you’re off to the races.
Location: 652 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5S 2H7.
Jamaican
Scottybons Caribbean Grill: This delectable food spot is nestled downtown. They have a number of different food options, but I would recommend their “Large – Scotty Bowl” which comes in a Jerk Chicken or BBQ Chicken variation. You can add toppings like rice and peas, mango chutney, hot sauce and plantain. Grab a mango juice and you’re good to go!
Location: 402 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1X5.
Italian
Pizzeria Libretto: Toronto is home to a number of different Italian-style pizza spots, but if I had to choose one (and there are way more that should definitely be frequented), Pizzeria Libretto would be it. It’s Neapolitan-style pizza, with a commitment to a true southern Italian experience. The menu has a number of different styles of pizza, pasta and antipasti, with a great selection of desserts as well.
Location: 221 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z8.
Toronto sports
Are you a sports fan? Why not catch a game and cheer on one of Toronto’s many sports franchises? Let’s take a look at three of the biggest and most popular teams in the city. Sports are a huge draw for Toronto tourism.
The Leafs: If you make your way to Scotiabank Arena and are lucky enough to snag some tickets, check out the Toronto Maple Leafs! The atmosphere is electric, and if you’re a hockey fan, the on-ice product is fun to watch. Stars like Auston Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares are a must-see. The camaraderie with like-minded fans could prove to be a memorable experience.
The Raptors: A personal favourite of mine, the Raptors are Toronto’s (and indeed Canada’s) only basketball team in the NBA. The team last won a championship in 2019 and has since been rebuilding around fan favourite Scottie Barnes and a slew of young talent. Catch a game and enjoy high-level basketball with a roaring fanbase at your back.
The Blue Jays: Toronto’s most successful franchise this year, the Jays finished with a 94-68 record, leading the AL East division and are currently in the playoffs! Tickets are generally more affordable when compared to the other two major sports. Games tend to generally be quite long, but it’s well worth attending at least once, particularly while the weather is still warm. They play at the Rogers Centre, formerly SkyDome.
Location: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J3.
The city within a city
People from all over the world come to see these wonders, and for students of Humber and UofGH, they are just a train ride away! Using public transit is the best way to get around the city, particularly downtown, if you want to beat the city’s traffic and congestion.
Whatever you choose to do with your time, consider visiting one of the many options listed and look out for IGNITE discounts! Interested in catching a Raptors game in particular? IGNITE has ticket giveaways through our Instagram — follow us and keep an eye out! In general, look out for student discounts so you get more for your money and get to experience what Toronto tourism has to offer.
Feature image courtesy of Berkay Gumustekin via Unsplash.
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