Toronto is a vibrant and diverse city that offers many attractions and experiences for visitors. But if you want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and explore some of the hidden gems that make Toronto unique, here are 10 under-the-radar experiences that you can enjoy in the city.
Attend a mystery dinner with Mystery Eats
This supper club hosts themed dinners at different venues around the city, and you won’t know the location or the menu until 24 hours before the event. You’ll get to taste delicious food, meet new people and discover new places in Toronto.
Explore the graffiti alleyways of Toronto
The city has a vibrant street art scene, and you can find colourful murals and graffiti in many alleyways and laneways. One of the most famous ones is Rush Lane, also known as Graffiti Alley, which runs parallel to Queen Street West between Spadina Avenue and Portland Street. You can admire the artworks, take photos or even join a guided tour.
Visit the Bata Shoe Museum
This quirky museum showcases the history and culture of footwear from around the world. You can see over 13,000 shoes, ranging from ancient Egyptian sandals to modern sneakers, as well as celebrity shoes from icons like Marilyn Monroe, Elton John and Justin Bieber. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.
Experience virtual reality at VRPlayin
If you’re looking for a fun and immersive activity, head to VRPlayin, Toronto’s largest virtual reality arcade. You can choose from over 50 games and experiences, such as shooting zombies, flying spaceships, exploring underwater worlds or creating art. You can play solo or with friends, and enjoy a drink or a snack at the lounge area.
Enjoy a rooftop patio with a view
Toronto has many rooftop restaurants and patios that offer stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario. You can sip on cocktails, dine on delicious food and soak up the sun or the stars at these outdoor venues. Some of the best ones include Lavelle, The Porch, The Rooftop at Broadview Hotel and Skyflower.
Learn about Toronto’s history at Mackenzie House
This historic house was once the home of William Lyon Mackenzie, Toronto’s first mayor and leader of the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion. You can tour the restored rooms, see original furniture and artifacts, and learn about the life and times of Mackenzie and his family. You can also print a souvenir on a 19th-century press or listen to a piano recital in the parlour.
Shop for vintage treasures at Black Market Vintage Clothing
This underground store is a paradise for vintage lovers, where you can find clothing, accessories, jewelry, records, posters and more from different decades and styles. Everything is priced at $10 or less, so you can score some amazing bargains while supporting local charities and environmental causes.
Watch a movie under the stars at Christie Pits Film Festival
Every summer, this outdoor film festival screens a curated selection of movies at Christie Pits Park, a large green space in the west end of Toronto. You can bring your own blanket, chair and snacks, or buy some from the vendors on site, and enjoy a cinematic night with your friends or family. The festival is free to attend, but donations are welcome.
Indulge in chocolate at Soma Chocolatemaker
This artisan chocolate company makes some of the best chocolate in Toronto, using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods. You can visit their two locations in the Distillery District and King West, where you can see how they make chocolate from bean to bar, sample their products or buy some to take home. You can also try their gelato, pastries, drinks and other treats made with chocolate.
Experience live music at The Dakota Tavern
This cozy bar in Little Portugal is one of Toronto’s best venues for live music, especially if you like country, folk, blues and rock genres. You can catch local and international acts every night of the week, or join their popular Bluegrass Brunch on weekends, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast and live music for $20.
Hotels in Toronto, Ontario
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