City: Downtown
Top Things to do in Downtown
Things to do in Toronto, Canada: The Best Architectural Buildings
We've heard Toronto described as "New York City run by the Swiss," and it's true—you can find world-class theater, shopping and restaurants here, but the sidewalks are clean and the people are friendly. The best place to start is literally at the top—the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere.
Restaurants in Toronto
1. CN Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25,013 reviews
At a height of 553.33 m (1,815 ft., 5 in), the CN Tower is Canada’s National Tower, an engineering Wonder, award-winning dining & entertainment destination, and Toronto’s “must-see” for over 4 decades. Rocket to the top in a thrilling 58 second ride aboard glass fronted elevators. Spectacular views overlooking up to 160km (100 miles) from 3 observation levels including, the LookOut Level with floor-to-ceiling panoramic Window Walls, the world famous Glass Floor including Outdoor SkyTerrace and SkyPod, the highest of them all. Experience the thrilling EdgeWalk, the World’s Highest Outdoor Walk on a Building. Enjoy award-winning Canadian cuisine and breathtaking revolving views at 360 Restaurant, the perfect place for entertaining or celebrating. Plus, visual displays and exhibits on the history of the CN Tower, KidZone play area and unique Canadian artisan and souvenir shopping in the Gift Shop. Don’t miss the architectural illumination of the Tower each night from dusk to dawn.
Reviewed By Rocker08
We were fortunate to get a table right by the window.. the revolving restaurant has great views of the city as you are slowly moving... the coolest is to watch the flights taking off and landing into Billy Bishop airport.
2. Ontario Legislative Building
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 189 reviews
Opened in 1893, this Richardson Romanesque styled building is the seat of Ontario's Legislative Assembly. Frequent free tours offered throughout the year (closed weekends winter - open 7 days per week summer). View web site for visitation information and program details. The building is currently closed to the public due to COVID-19; however, a variety of virtual programs and a virtual tour are available free of charge at our web site.
Reviewed By Warmie_79 - London, United Kingdom
We visited the Ontario Legislative Building to have a look at the outside architecture and grounds, which were lovely. An additional surprise was the free guided half hour tour of the main chamber and corridors of the building. Our guide was really informative and explained the history of the regional government as well as how it works today. We found it really interesting and it was really nice to go inside and have a look around.
3. Osgoode Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
At Osgoode Hall Restaurant, we emphasize the connection between the natural food from our land, the farmers that nourish and harvest it, and-ultimately-the people who enjoy it. Unpretentious, welcoming and accessible, our "farm-to-table" cuisine lets you experience spectacular seasonal ingredients, sourced locally from within 100km whenever possible. Our ultimate goal? To create a memorable and unique dining experience-for you and for each one of our guests.
Reviewed By W1702PJmarkg - Catonsville, United States
Osgoode Hall is a classic 2 1/2 story late Palladian style structure built in 1829-32 and named for the 1st chief justice of Upper Canada. It is currently the home of the Law Society of Ontario. This Canadian national historic site was enlarged in 1844,1855,1880 and 1891 and it's great library houses the largest private collection of legal material in Canada. This 6 acre site is located in the heart of Toronto and is surrounded by a cast iron fence built in 1867. It was closed the day we visited and we would like to come back to see the inside of this regal property.
4. Beardmore Building
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
This ornate building originally housed the offices of a tannery and leather goods company.
5. Toronto City Hall
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 650 reviews
Designed by a famous Finnish architect, this modern building is home to the Toronto City Council.
Reviewed By mzsunnyblonde - Halifax, Canada
Built in the 1960s this unusual looking building has featured in quite a few tv shows and movies. It is a very functional building housing the City Council.
6. Maple Leaf Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 140 reviews
Between October and April, the Maple Leafs play hockey in this arena, but be forewarned that obtaining game tickets is both difficult and expensive.
7. Queen's Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 255 reviews
Ontario's provincial parliament buildings, fine examples of high Victorian architecture.
Reviewed By Bretton1809 - Toronto, Canada
It's a good spot for a 'brown bag' lunch on one of the park benches. Lots of old trees and feel safe.
8. Old City Hall
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 435 reviews
Castle-like building, built in 1899 in the Romanesque Revival style, features a clock tower, "Friends of Old City Hall" exhibit and a War Memorial.
Reviewed By 716sachink - Plainview, United States
The Old City Hall which is now a courthouse is architecturally beautiful and a must visit for any traveler in Toronto. Could not visit inside as it was closed for Canada Day. Certainly worth a photo stop.
