A day out in Toronto: Downtown icons and the waterfront

Looking for a scenic day out in the city?

CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium

Start your day at Union Station and make your way south toward the waterfront. From here, you're close to some of Toronto's biggest downtown attractions.

Head to the CN Tower for sweeping views of the city, Lake Ontario, and the Toronto Islands. Standing 553 metres or 1815 feet tall, the CN Tower offers panoramic views from its observation level – on a clear day, visitors can see as far as Niagara Falls.

If you'd rather head down to sea level, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada will take you into an underwater world in the heart of downtown with more than 20,000 aquatic animals from over 450 species, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, and colourful fish from around the world.

Getting there: Take Line 1 to Union Station, then head south or hop on the 509 Harbourfront or 510 Spadina streetcar.

Toronto Railway Museum and Roundhouse Park

Photo: iStock.com / Marvin Samuel Tolentino Pineda

While you’re in the area, visit Roundhouse Park, a railway-themed green space surrounding the John Street Roundhouse National Historic Site. Here, you’ll find more than a great close-up view of the CN Tower – this park is also home to the Toronto Railway Museum, along with vintage locomotives, rail cars, and a miniature railway. With interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities, you'll learn all about the city's fascinating railway heritage dating back to the 19th century.

Harbourfront Centre and the waterfront

Photo: iStock.com / Pgiam

Finally, head south to the Harbourfront Centre and the waterfront. After a busy day, it’s a great place to relax, take in the lake views, and enjoy seasonal programming, public art, festivals, parks, and waterfront trails. 

Queen's Quay is the area's main waterfront street and a destination in itself. Along the way, you'll find a pedestrian promenade, access to the Martin Goodman Trail, and views of Lake Ontario.

From here, you can also head east to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at Queens Quay West and Bay Street and catch a ferry to the Toronto Islands. City ferries run year-round from the terminal, with seasonal routes to Centre Island, Hanlan's Point, and Ward's Island.

If there's time: Ride the 510 Spadina north

Want to keep exploring? Hop on the 510 Spadina streetcar and head north from the waterfront. This route connects you to more of downtown Toronto, including King Street West, Chinatown, and Kensington Market.

Get off at King Street West for restaurants, nightlife, theatres, and the TIFF Lightbox, or stay on the streetcar to Dundas Street West and check out Chinatown and Kensington Market, two of Toronto's most vibrant neighbourhoods.