Toronto, Canada, in the province of Ontario, is one of the most
diverse, fun and safe cities to visit in North America.
It is the biggest city in Canada,
and one of the top financial destinations in the world. But you don't have to spend a pretty penny when you visit Toronto. Here's a look at some of the free and relatively cheap sightseeing attractions, plus one dining option.
CN Tower
This 1,815-foot free-standing structure is one of
Torontos most famous
landmarks. It is also the best location to get a breathtaking view of the
entire city. Avoid weekends if you can, because the lines can get long. But
most weekdays you will be up above T.O. before you know it. Prices are
reasonable at around $27 for adults, $20 for children ages 4-12 and no charge
for children 3 and under. The tower has three dining locations and plenty of
spots to snap the perfect vacation picture.
Saint Lawrence Market
The Saint Lawrence Market Complex is home to a Saturday Farmer's Market that dates back to 1803, as well as the Tuesday-through-Saturday South Market, with more than 50 vendors selling fresh fruit, veggies, meats, cheese, breads and more. This amazing, colorful, outdoor marketplace is located just
south of nearby St James Park and minutes from the Gardiner Expressway. In addition to shopping for fresh foodstuffs, you can stop into a deli, pizzeria or other restaurant for prepared meals. Enjoy the people watching!
Hockey Hall of Fame
Canadians love their hockey, so it comes as no surprise that residents would want a hall of fame for the beloved sport in
the country's most popular city. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or not, the Hockey
Hall of Fame is a fun and affordable attraction to visit when you are in
Toronto. This location is
the home of the Stanley Cup, hockeys richest prize.
You will have plenty to
see and do in this interactive hockey museum, that boasts the largest collection
of hockey memorabilia. Plenty of photo opportunities are available, including one station where you can don hockey equipment and pose in front of a goal. Not only is
this a fun location to check out, but it is also affordable. Prices are $13 for
adults and $9 for children and seniors.
Casa Loma
One of Torontos
biggest attractions is also one of its most beautiful and historic. Casa Loma, a majestic castle-like mansion and former home of prominent businessman Sir Henry Mill Pellatt,
is located on Torontos
Austin Terrace.
A highlight of this must-see location is Casa Lomas five acres of
beautifully landscaped gardens, that include sculptures and fountains. Inside the mansion, visitors can peek into 20 of the 98 rooms, including the wine cellar, billiard room, smoking
room, library and Sir Henrys suite. You will marvel at the décor of
each of the rooms, and really get a sense of how good this Toronto financier truly had it. Admission is
affordable too: $17 for adults 18-59, $11 for seniors 60+/children 14-17, and
$9.25 for children ages 4-13.
Bonjour Brioche
When you are in
Toronto,
you will be surrounded by many great dining options. One particular location is
perfect for breakfast or brunch. Bonjour Brioche is a locals' favorite and is
just a picture perfect small shop on
Queen
Street East. The mouth watering aroma of fresh
breads and coffee fill the air in this quaint locale. Grab a table and get
ready for some local fare. Try the oversized French toast, complete with real
maple syrup and covered in powdered sugar and fresh fruits. Wash it down with
some freshly squeezed orange juice. Then grab a bag of scones, muffins or their
signature brioche for the ride back to the hotel.
