What is the best time to visit Toronto? The answer is anytime. This Canadian city offers many exciting things to do throughout the year, including sightseeing, adventurous expeditions, hiking, camping, and indulging in celebratory festivals. Even during the off-season, visitors will find many indoor activities and shopping opportunities to fill their time. And let’s not forget Toronto’s impressive culinary scene. You can go on food tours and sample every dish this city offers. That being said, visitors might want to come or avoid certain months based on their travel preferences. Hence, we present this blog highlighting the famous and least popular months to visit Toronto.
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April-May: Best Time To Visit Toronto
When you discuss ideal weather, the answer is undoubtedly Spring. This beautiful season is characterized by blooming flowers, warm temperatures, and increasing daylight hours. Likewise, Toronto welcomes spring from April to May. During these months, the temperature varies from 33°F to 66°F, offering a comfortable setting for sightseeing. You can also watch beautiful cherry blossoms. Other must-do activities include biking, leisurely market strolls, and following the city’s picturesque trails. See some of the things to do in Toronto in Spring down below:
Be Awestruck At High Park’s Cherry Blossoms
- Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Social Media: Official Website
Sakura Hanami is a famous activity in Japan. Not many know, but Toronto is also a paradise for Sakura seekers. The city’s High Park is the best place to view cherry blossoms. It all began on April 1, 1959, when the Japanese ambassador, Toru-Hagiwara, gifted 2,000 Japanese Somei-Yoshino Sakura to Toronto citizens. Many trees were planted along High Park Trail, and they still exist. The park’s blossoms reach peak bloom between late April and early May. Imagine walking on the trail encased by cherry trees from both sides. You can even have a picnic while viewing cherry blossoms.
Get Unobstructed Views From CN Tower
- Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
- Prices: Adults (14 to 64): $45, Senior (65+): $32, EdgeWalk: Starting at $199
Did you know Canada has one of the tallest structures in the world? We are talking about the CN Tower, a gigantic skyscraper that was the world’s tallest freestanding structure from 1976 to 2009. It is still the third-tallest tower and the tenth-tallest structure on land. The 553-meter-tall building is open to visit year-round. Thanks to clear skies in spring, you can look far and wide. You can amp up your experience by trying the Edgewalk. You will walk hands-free to the tower’s ledge with only a harness securing you.
Leisurely Stroll Through St. Lawrence Market
- Address: 92- 95 Front St East, Toronto, Ontario, M5E 1C3; Google Map
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM; Saturday: 7 AM – 5 PM; Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- How To Get There: By subway, Yonge-University-Spadina line, King Street Station
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Fill up your stomach while strolling through the St. Lawrence Market. It began as a public market near King Street and New Street in the early 19th century. Today, it has transformed into a huge complex with three main buildings. The South Market has 120+ specialty vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, fish, baked goods, and dairy products. Likewise, the North Market is primarily known for its Saturday Farmer’s Market. You can try Canadian delicacies and buy local products at that time. Finally, St. Lawrence Hall houses retail businesses on the ground floor and City offices on the second floor.
Downtown Toronto Bike Tour
- Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Price: $75.38~
- Free Cancellation
Ratings ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What could be better than cycling around on a lovely day? This 3.5-hour Downtown Toronto Bike Tour takes you on a memorable expedition with a local guide. You will stop at famous attractions, including CN Tower, City Hall, Chinatown, and the Entertainment District. Throughout the journey, you will hear stories about the city’s history, architecture, and culture. You will also stray from the usual routes and explore scenic areas off the beaten path. This tour is suitable for all riders. It accommodates up to 12 people and includes a bicycle, helmet, water, and granola bars.
June-August: Festival Celebrations And Summer Activities
Following the spring, Toronto welcomes the impressive Summer. Canada is the coldest nation in the world; hence, you can imagine how much locals enjoy summertime. It is also a peak tourist season, so expect heavy crowds and fewer deals. Although brief, this season ushers in many festivals, celebrations, and outdoor activities. Some of the must-do things in Toronto in Summer are as follows:
Visit The Toronto Islands
- Address: St Lawrence-East Bayfront-The Islands, ON, Canada; Google Map
- Things To Do: Sightseeing, Beach Day, Water Activities
- Social Media: Official Website
Make the most of your Toronto trip with a quick trip to the Toronto Islands. You can board a canoe/yacht from Queen’s Quay Terminal. The ferry ride to the islands only takes 13 minutes from downtown Toronto. You can also elevate your travel by booking a luxury yacht cruise. On the islands, visitors will find many things to do. They can head to beaches and enjoy sunbathing. They can also partake in several water activities, including swimming, kayaking, boating, and surfing. Likewise, visitors can walk, run, or bike around the island. There is also a 200-year-old Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Hanlan’s Point.
Find Water Activities In Lake Ontario
- Address: Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Google Map
- Things To Do: Boat Tours, Swimming
There is hardly anyone who hasn’t heard of Great Lake Ontario. It is one of the five Great Lakes of North America in Canada and the United States. It provides water for over 9 million Canadians. Likewise, 25% of Canada’s population resides within the watershed. Hundreds of visitors come to admire Lake Ontario’s beauty. Several also indulge in recreational activities within the lake, such as fishing, kayaking, paddling, and swimming. Additionally, it is home to diverse plant and animal species, making it an ideal place for birdwatching.
Work On Your Tan At Sugar Beach
- Address: Downtown Toronto, ON, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Things To Do: Sunbathing, Playing in the sand, reading
Summer is about going to beaches, playing with sand, swimming, and sunbathing. You can work on your tan at Sugar Beach. It features many loungers and umbrellas, where visitors can relax and bask under the sun. This beach is open 24 hours a day and welcomes visitors of all ages. While this urban beach is a perfect escapade, it doesn’t allow swimming. Instead, you can check out public events and performances in the nearby plaza.
Celebrate Festivals With Locals
Toronto celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year. However, June-August is the city’s festive season. Beginning with Pride Week, visitors will be surrounded by local and international celebrations. Don’t be hesitant to join locals in celebrating these marvelous festivals.
- North by Northeast Festival (June 13 – 17): Canada’s most important annual music festival.
- Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival (June 17-18): A globally recognized festival featuring dragon boat racing and cultural events.
- Pride Toronto (June 25): An annual event supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Toronto Jazz Festival (June 23-July 2): Annual jazz fest inviting the best musicians worldwide.
- Toronto Fringe Festival (July 5-16): An annual theater festival showcasing shows of various genres.
- Summerlicious (July 7-23): An annual food festival featuring hundreds of local restaurants.
- Caribana (August 3-7): North America’s largest Caribbean festival.
Note: Some dates might differ from those mentioned above.
September-November: Affordable Time To Visit Toronto
We have discussed peak tourist seasons, so let’s move to off-seasons. Toronto welcomes Fall between September and November. While this season covers the city in a beautiful atmosphere, it also has unpredictable weather. The temperature can rise as high as 60 degrees Celsius in September. During November, the nights are incredibly chilly. However, this is the perfect time to score affordable hotel deals. The prices of attractions would have also dropped considerably. Check out things to do in Toronto in the fall:
Plan A Day Tour To Niagara Falls
- Address: Ontario, Canada; Google Map
- Things To Do: Sightseeing, Zipline, Voyage to the falls
Many people are often confused about Niagara Falls‘ location. The truth is that the Falls is located on the international border between Canada and the United States. Hence, you can see it from both sides. The Canadian side features the biggest Horseshoe Falls (out of three falls: Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil) and offers the best panoramic views. While Niagara Falls is not in Toronto, it is only one hour and thirty minutes away. Hence, you can plan a day trip to the falls. You can choose from simple sightseeing to jet boat tours, luxury cruises, and helicopter tours.
Catch MLB Games At Rogers Center
- Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J1, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Are you a sports fan? If so, you know how much fun it is to watch your favorite games live from the stadium. Rogers Center hosts football, basketball, and baseball matches throughout the year. It is the home to the legendary Toronto Blue Jays, a Canadian MLB team that won two World Series titles (1992 and 1993) and two AL pennants. The professional baseball team is in its 48th season as of 2024. Likewise, Rogers Center is home to the Toronto Raptors (NBA team) and the Toronto Argonauts (CFL team). It also hosts annual wrestling shows, concerts, tours, and festivals.
Sample Food While Wandering Through Kensington Market
- Address: Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Social Media: Official Website
Visiting Toronto during the off-season doesn’t have to be boring. You can immerse yourself in this city’s culture, history, architecture, and culinary scene. Speaking of the latter, Kensington Market is a paradise for foodies. It features many food stalls, local eateries, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you want to shop for groceries or enjoy upscale dining, this market caters to all your needs. You can go on food tours and sample classic Canadian dishes, such as beef patty sandwiches, poutine, peameal bacon sandwiches, crispy fried chicken, and butter tarts. You can also buy souvenirs and gifts from vintage stores to take back home.
Explore The Distillery District
Visit Toronto’s number-one entertainment district this fall. The Distillery District is a pedestrian-only historic district in the heart of Downtown Toronto. Since opening in 2003, it has become Canada’s premier arts, culture, and entertainment destination. It features many restored Victorian Industrial buildings that were once distilleries. They have been transformed into shopping, catering, and art spaces. There are numerous things to do on this historic street. You can shop at any 40+ boutiques and buy souvenirs from one-of-a-kind stores. In addition, you can explore this district’s hip indie restaurants, cafes, galleries, studios, and bars.
December-March: Off-Season To Visit Toronto
Finally, December ushers in the Winter season. Canada lives up to its name of The Great White North, averaging snowfall of 141″ annually. Toronto receives an average of 122 centimeters of snow each year. Snow is everywhere, from streets to houses and sidewalks. This makes winter an off-season, where you will find cheaper hotel deals. While you can’t enjoy outdoor activities, you will find many indoor activities. Check out our recommended things to do in Toronto in Winter:
Learn About Ice Hockey Legends At The Hockey Hall of Fame
- Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Canadians’ love for ice hockey is never to be underestimated. In addition to being the favorite sport of most citizens, ice hockey is an integral part of Canadian culture and national identity. You can learn more about it at the Hockey Hall of Fame. This museum is dedicated to the history of ice hockey and persons involved in the sport. It also annually inducts individuals whose contribution to ice hockey has been impressive. These include ice hockey players, coaches, team owners, general managers, commentators, and on-ice officials. You can see NHL trophies, memorabilia, NHL records, and equipment worn by players at the museum.
Watch Exhibits Of The Art Gallery Of Ontario
- Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Winter is the best time to visit indoor attractions like the Art Gallery of Ontario. Located on Dundas Street West in the Garange Park neighborhood of Downtown Toronto, this museum features 90,000+ works of art. Its permanent AGO Collection has 120,000+ works, ranging from excellent works by Canadian and Indigenous artists to European masterpieces. You can watch permanent and special exhibitions and attend various ongoing events. The museum hosts a monthly late-night art event on the first Thursday of every month when you can check out works by various artists, participate in free art-making workshops, and enjoy live music performances.
Tour The Casa Loma
- Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Make your winter trip more chilly by listening to haunted tales behind the Casa Loma. This century-old Gothic revival castle-style mansion is an architectural masterpiece. It has its fair share of spooky stories, including that of a woman in white. The White Lady is said to be a maid who worked in the castle in the early 1900s. Locals believe she was one of those who died of influenza back then.
Step Back In Time At The Royal Ontario Museum
- Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Make your Toronto trip more fruitful with a quick trip to the Royal Ontario Museum. It is Canada’s largest museum, with 40 galleries and exhibition spaces featuring a world-class collection of 18 million artworks, natural history specimens, and cultural objects. Whether you want to see dinosaur fossils or learn about the civilization and culture of Asia, Africa, and America, ROM has it all. Its encyclopedic collections and world-leading research also help visitors know more about our world. You can donate and even partner with the museum.
The best time to visit Toronto is primarily based on the city’s weather. For instance, Spring (April-May) is the ideal time for sightseeing. The temperature is pleasant enough for outdoor activities. Likewise, Fall (September-November) is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. At that time, hotel rates start dropping, and the city’s temperature cools. If you prefer outdoor activities, you might want to avoid the off-season (December-March). The temperature drops below the freezing point, with snow covering almost all of Toronto. However, it’s a perfect time for engaging in snowball fights, exploring museums, and enjoying the winter season.
