Canada's largest city routinely ranks as one of the most liveable cities in the world. Our BUNAC Work Canada teams put their heads together to come up with five things not to miss in Toronto. Heading over there on our Work Canada program? Don’t forget you have the full support of our teams in Toronto and Vancouver for the whole of your visa. Drop by for job support, accommodation help or to see a friendly face.

 

Distillery District

Nestled east of downtown, this historic district was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988 and comprises more than forty heritage buildings – making it the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America. Regenerated in the early noughties, its industrial hipster rafters and bare brick warehouses are home to one-of-a-kind cafés, restaurants, boutiques and galleries.

Tip: Got for an afternoon mooch and expect to stay all night. As the name would suggest, the Distillery District is home to taprooms, spirit rooms, pubs and microbreweries.

High Park

Toronto’s largest park gets high praise from us. Forget your typical park activities (pigeon watching and jumping out of the way of cyclists), High Park is a hub for the city’s cultural and sporting events. Go for baseball games and Shakespeare plays in the park’s amphitheatre during the summer months, and ice skating in the winter months.

Tip: The park is beautiful year-round, but Fall sees the leaves change into bursts of rust and golden coloured hues. A third of the park is also kept in its wild and natural state – perfect for a crisp walk in the park.

Queen Street West

Often described as Toronto’s answer to NYC’s Soho, Queen Street West is home to independent boutiques, brunch spots, vintage stores and an annual arts trail. Vogue called this street art strewn hipster hangout one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world – and who’s going to argue with the fashion bible? Exactly.

Tip: Try Queen St. Warehouse for cheap meals and cocktails – it’s one for the ‘gram.

Casa Loma

Casa Loma is one of 12 castles in Ontario. Built between 1911-14 in the 18th century gothic revival style, its gothic glamour and movie star looks have made it a popular set location – with movies including X-Men and Descendants filmed here. It was even transformed into Hogwarts for the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Tip: Go on a warm day and spend a few magical hours enjoying the grounds in the sunshine. Keep an eye out for discounted tickets for young people.

Art Gallery of Ontario

The AGO has been open since 1900 and includes more than 90,000 works, making it home to the largest collection of Canadian art. More than just a pretty picture, it’s also home to an extensive library, gallery workshops, cafés, a theatre and high-end restaurant.

Tip: Under 25? Go for free. Don’t forget to take your ID.

 

Why visit Toronto as a tourist, when you could live like a local? With help from our Work Canada program, you can live and work in Canada for up to two years. Start planning your Canada working holiday today with just a deposit.