Toronto is one of Canada’s most popular cities and a must-do when exploring the East Coast. But it’s also one of Canada’s most expensive cities… The good news is you can still find plenty of things to see and do on a tight budget. We’ve compiled some of the best free (or very cheap!) activities to help you make the most of your time in Toronto.
1. Kensington Market
Kensington Market is not just a market; it’s actually an entire neighbourhood. You can visit at any time of year but the most popular time to go is during Pedestrian Sundays, which takes place on the last Sunday of the month between May and October. As well as exploring the shops and sampling multicultural food, you can enjoy live music and entertainment on Pedestrian Sundays.
2. High Park
High Park is Toronto’s answer to Central Park in New York or Stanley Park in Vancouver. It provides fun for any age, with a pond, dog park, open air swimming pool, playgrounds and even a zoo—all for free! You can easily spend a few hours in the park and it can also be combined with a walk down to the waterfront and Sunnyside Beach for a full day out. Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in the spring.
3. Visit a museum
Toronto has plenty of museums that you can visit at certain times for free. If you’re interested in art, check out the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). The AGO offers free admission to the public every Wednesday evening, plus year-round free entry to Ontarians under the age of 25. The Bata Shoe Museum is free on Sundays and the Aga Khan Museum—showcasing Muslim art and culture—is free on Wednesday evenings.
History buffs will want to check out this list of free history museums, including Fort York National Historic Site. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a mix of art and history, and is free on the third Tuesday evening of each month.
4. The Beaches
Toronto is ideally located for spending a day at the waterfront or relaxing at one of its many beaches. Note that these are lakefront beaches rather than typical, saltwater beaches, so check the conditions of the water before going swimming!
The Beaches is a specific neighbourhood in the East End of Toronto, where you will find family-friendly beaches, a boardwalk and events throughout the year, such as a jazz festival and fireworks for major public holidays.
5. Watch a movie
If you’re visiting Toronto during the summer, be sure to check out an open air cinema. There are many different ones to choose from but some of the most popular include Movies Under the Stars at Downsview Park, Toronto Outdoor Picture Show (multiple locations) and Free Flicks at the harbourfront.
If you’re here during winter, fear not; you can have a night out at the movies for as little as CA$5. Head to The Carlton cinema’s website to find out which films are playing for CA$5 during your stay. You can also find cheaper tickets on Tuesdays at participating Cineplex branches.
6. Distillery district
This distinctive, pedestrianised neighbourhood has various events running throughout the year, including summer and fall markets and the Winter Village. During the summertime, look out for free music concerts in Trinity Square.
It’s also worth taking your time to wander around the cobblestone streets, window-shop in the various boutiques and galleries, check out the street art installations and admire the Victorian architecture. You might even want to treat yourself to a drink in one of the famous bars or distilleries, since you’re in the distillery district!
7. Riverdale Farm
Riverdale Farm is a real working farm that provides fun for all the family, with no entry cost. Come and meet the farm animals, catch one of the daily farmer’s talks at 11.30am, or take a walk through nature on some of the many trails. Pro tip: combine your visit with Riverdale Park East to watch the sunset—you’ll get picture-perfect views of the city skyline here.
8. St. Lawrence Market
This indoor market hall is a great place to try produce and cuisine from local artisans. Some of the most popular foods at the market include the Peameal Bacon Sandwich and bagels from Montreal. But St. Lawrence Market isn’t just home to food vendors; you can also find stalls selling art, jewellery and typical Canadian gifts. Don’t miss the free art gallery on the second floor, depicting the history of Toronto.
9. Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a hit with tourists and locals alike, and the good news is that it can be a cheap day out—an adult return ticket on the ferry is only CA$9.11! You can walk between the different islands, Ward’s Island, Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point. Ferries return to the city from all three islands, so you can start your day at one end and work your way to the other without worrying how to get home.
Whether you want to spend the day at one of the four beaches there, explore the boardwalk and pier, or visit Centreville amusement park (you will have to pay to go on the rides, of course!), you will find plenty to do. Avid photographers will enjoy taking photos of the city skyline from the various viewpoints across the islands. Families visiting with children should head to the Far Enough Farm or the Centreville splash pad.
10. Free walking tour
Finally, one of the best ways to see Toronto is by exploring it on foot. You can either take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour group—note that it is encouraged to tip your tour guide! Walking tours are a great way to learn more about the city and, if on a guided tour, get the best recommendations for hidden gems from a local guide.
Bonus tip for residents: tpl pass
Did you know that if you qualify for a Toronto Public Library card (you need to have proof you reside in Toronto), you can get free passes to the CN tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and more? Check out the full list of participating attractions on the tpl website. Passes are released at the start of each month—they do go quickly but you can look for cancellations opening up throughout the month.
Spot something we missed? Drop a comment below and share your best recommendations for free places, attractions or activities in Toronto with other budget-wise travellers.
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