Experience Toronto Like a Local

While monuments are great, the true charm of Toronto lies in its activities and cultural experiences. Here is our checklist of things to do that add genuine value to your travel plans.

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1. Wander Kensington Market

*Photo: Arild Vågen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Kensington Market is a sensory explosion. Located downtown, this historic neighborhood is filled with bohemian clothing stores, cheese shops, Latin American empanadas, and independent cafes.

• Vibe: Alternative, diverse, and artistic.
• Tips: Cars are restricted on "Pedestrian Sundays" (held monthly from May to October). Visit in the afternoon when all cafes and shops are open.
• Transit: 510 Spadina Streetcar to Nassau St.

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2. Bike Across the Toronto Islands


*Photo: Whpq / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Instead of just taking photos of the skyline, rent a bicycle at Jack Layton Ferry Terminal or use *Bike Share Toronto

• to ride along the interconnected pathways of Centre Island, Ward's Island, and Hanlan's Point.
• Cost: Bike Share costs $1 CAD unlock + $0.20 CAD/min.
• Route: Ride from the tranquil residential cottage streets on Ward's Island to the sandy beaches of Hanlan's Point.
• Highlight: Watch the sunset from the boardwalk on the south side of Centre Island.

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3. Eat Fresh at St. Lawrence Market

 *Photo via Wikimedia Commons (CC0 1.0 — public domain, no attribution required)

Operating since 1803, St. Lawrence Market was named the world's best food market by National Geographic. The South Market contains over 120 vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

• Must-Eat: The *Peameal Bacon Sandwich

• at Carousel Bakery (approx. $8.50 CAD).

• Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9 AM – 7 PM, Saturday 7 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays).

• Transit: Walk 10 minutes east from Union Station.

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4. Search for Graffiti Alley

*Photo: Dillan Payne / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Graffiti Alley is a three-block-long outdoor gallery of murals and street art located just south of Queen Street West.

• Cost: Free.
• Location: Runs parallel between Richmond St W and Queen St W, from Spadina Ave to McDougall Lane.
• Best For: Street photography and urban art appreciation.