When you live in Toronto for a while, you can almost forget what a beautiful city it is. You see the same street art every day, the same unique architecture, and eventually, it all just becomes a part of the background. But ever since we all were forced inside because of the pandemic, we’ve grown a whole new appreciation for our gorgeous home. And if you want to see what it is we’re talking about, these amazing Toronto viewpoints will definitely get you there. You can hit up each one of these for a brand new perspective on how pretty Toronto is.
So without further ado, here are 14 of our favourite viewpoints across the city of Toronto.
CHESTER HILL LOOKOUT
This place has “lookout” right in the name. And if you’ve ever stopped by here, you know why. The Chester Hill Lookout offers incredible views of the skyline and city. We recommend going at night so you can catch the lit up colours of the Bloor – Danforth Viaduct.
Where: Off Broadview, north of the Danforth
KENSINGTON MARKET PARKING GARAGE
Okay, this one might just be Toronto’s best kept secret. Did you know all you’ve gotta do is climb to the top floor of Kensington Market’s parking garage for one of the best views in the city? Now you do! You can see the skyline and some super cool graffiti from this high up perch. So next time you’re in the area, make the trip up there. We promise it’s worth it. Plus, once you’re done you can check out some of the delicious restos and vintage shopping in the area. It’s a win-win, ya’ll.
Where: 20 St Andrew St
LESLIE STREET SPIT
This incredible view is nothing to spit on. Ha ha, see what we did there? Anyway, the Leslie Street Spit has long been known as one of the prettiest areas of the city. You can bike along their waterside trail, sit on the rocks at the beachfront, or just explore the gorgeous area. And of course, the best part is the incredible view of the city. We recommend stopping by this spot at sunset to take it all in.
Where: 1 Leslie St
RIVERDALE PARK
How could we not mention this incredible spot? Everyone knows it’s one of the best places to catch an iconic sunset over the city skyline. Just pack a picnic blanket and cozy up to see all the incredible sights. And while you’re there, stop by Rooster Coffee for a cup of Joe or hot cocoa to warm your soul.
Where: 550 Broadview Ave
TRILLIUM PARK
Gorgeous paths for biking? Greenery for picnicking on? AND it’s all right on the water? Yeah, it doesn’t get much better than this spot. You can enjoy a gorgeous view of the skyline, plus all those added extras, on your next trip down to Trillium Park. We recommend you pack some snacks and make an afternoon of it.
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
HUMBER BAY
You’ll have to head over to Etobicoke for this one. But don’t worry, it’s worth the trip. This beautiful park offers a gorgeous beach and an even more gorgeous view of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic almost-getaway from the city!
Where: Between Ontario Place and Mimico Creek
A FERRY TO THE TORONTO ISLANDS
Is there anything quite like taking in the skyline from a boat? We don’t think so. This is why a ferry trek to the Toronto Islands might just be in your near future. You can take in all the sights of the surrounding Lake Ontario and our gorgeous city as you slowly make your way across to the Island. It really is something all Torontonians have got to experience at least once (or multiple times every summer).
Where: Jack Layton Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W
TORONTO ISLAND
And once you get to the Island the views don’t stop. There are multiple beaches to enjoy the sights of the incredible surrounding lake. Plus, while you’re just walking along you can catch the backdrop of the CN Tower. Seriously, if you weren’t planning on visiting the Toronto Islands this year, it’s not too late to change your plans.
Where: Catch the ferry at 9 Queens Quay W
POLSON PIER
Who doesn’t love a good old pier? This spot is currently the home of Toronto’s very own CityView Drive-In. But it also is one of the best places to take in the sights of the city beyond the stage. So next time you check out a concert or event there, be sure to enjoy the incredible backdrop of it all. This place is extra incredible at night with all the city lights shining bright.
Where: 11 Polson St
BATHURST STREET BRIDGE
This one might just be Toronto’s best low-key spot for beautiful views. Loads of people cross this bridge every day as part of their daily commute bbut do they ever stop to take it all in? The industrial vibe is perfect for enjoying the heart of urban living. Plus, you can see the incredible sights of the city. If this spot is a little out of your way, we promise it’s worth the detour!
Where: 9 Bathurst St
ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO
Do you know what goes best with pretty views? Pretty art. And this spot (obviously) has got loads of that. They’ve just reopened to the public. And if you’re under 25, you can get in for free. So meander about, enjoy the art and architecture, then take in the sights of our glorious city.
Where: 317 Dundas St W
THE ONE EIGHTY
Why not enjoy a cocktail or three while you take in the stellar sights of the city? The One Eighty has finally reopened for service. And we gotta say, they might just be a top choice for restos with incredible views. If you can nab a south-facing table, you can enjoy their delicious eats while overlooking Toronto from fifty-one floors up. Yeah, it doesn’t get much better than that.
Where: Manulife Centre, 51st Floor, 55 Bloor St W
THE PORCH
Okay, if you weren’t thinking of this spot already when you read the title of the piece, do you even live in Toronto?? This popular bar offers stellar views of downtown Toronto and even better cocktails to match. You can get one of their signature bucket slushies and get drunk on the city at this super cool spot.
Where: 250 Adelaide St W
CN TOWER
Alright, if we’re making a list of ‘best viewpoints in Toronto’, there’s no way we could leave off the city’s most famous attraction. One of the staples of the city skyline is the CN Tower itself. And from inside it, you can see incredible sights for miles. You’re about as high up as you can get within city limits. So stop by this spot and take it all in.
Where: 290 Bremner Blvd
So take it all in, peels! That’s our list of some of the best viewpoints you can find in Toronto. With a city this pretty, who wouldn’t be happy to call it home?
