Toronto, Canada’s largest city and the capital of Ontario, is a thriving destination known for its iconic attractions and lively energy.
But did you know there are countless free things to do in Toronto, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers?
Sitting on the edge of Lake Ontario, Toronto offers a gorgeous waterfront, beautiful parks, and exciting outdoor activities alongside world-famous landmarks like the CN Tower.
As someone born and raised in Toronto, I’ve spent years uncovering the best free and affordable experiences this city offers. From hidden gems to popular favorites, I’m sharing my insider tips to help you save some money during your visit.
Cheap & Free Things to Do in Toronto
Here’s a quick overview of my top 10 favorite free things to do in Toronto, all of which I have personally tried and tested as a local.
- Take the Ferry to the Toronto Islands
- Visit the Distillery Historic District
- Enjoy Woodbine Beach and Park
- Ride the Toronto Street Car
- Admire the Skyline from Trillium Park
- Buy Food at St. Lawrence Market
- Walk Through Evergreen Brick Works
- Visit The Toronto Sign
- Explore High Park
- Drive to Niagara Falls
Keep reading for more information on each activity.
1. Ferry to the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are one of my favorite places to visit in Toronto, and getting there only costs a ferry ride. The ferry is located right on the waterfront in downtown Toronto, and the ride across to the islands takes about 15 minutes.
The Toronto Islands comprise fifteen Islands, including Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point. All the islands are vehicle-free.
With so many things to do on the Toronto Islands in the summer, I love spending the entire day there. You can relax on the beach, ride your bike, or try paddleboarding or kayaking. I enjoy walking along the trails, picnicking with my family, or enjoying a bite at one of the Island cafes.
Even outside of summer, the islands are worth visiting. They’re peaceful in the fall and winter and offer beautiful, seasonal views of Toronto’s skyline.
The Islands are a unique place to visit in Toronto without spending much.
2. Distillery Historic District
The Distillery Historic District includes a unique mix of history, art, shopping, and dining in a pedestrian-only neighborhood. With more than 40 one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops, you won’t find big chain stores here—only local and artisan goods.
The dining options are equally special, featuring coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, and breweries that fit perfectly with the district’s ambiance. Don’t expect to see a Tim Hortons or McDonald’s. Instead, you’ll find cozy spots like Balzac’s Coffee or the Arena Coffee Bar.
I also love to walk through the Distillery to take in the galleries and art installations. The Winter Village is one of Toronto’s most popular holiday events in December.
The Distillery District is a great spot to wander, admire art, shop, and enjoy a meal. It is located within an impressive, historic Victorian-era industrial site.
3. Enjoy Woodbine Beach Park
With so many things to do at Woodbine Beach Park, I spend much of my free time here. Located in the Beaches neighborhood, I believe it is the best beach in Toronto.
This beach is located in The Beaches Toronto neighborhood and has about 2 miles of sandy waterfront along Lake Ontario.
In the summer, you can swim in the lake, play beach volleyball, or enjoy an ice cream in the park. Queen Street is nearby, with many excellent restaurants and patios perfect for a drink after a day at the beach. The Beaches Toronto neighborhood is safe, friendly, and welcoming.
But Woodbine Beach isn’t just for summer. Many “Beachers” walk along the 3.5-kilometer boardwalk daily. The lake views are stunning year-round, and visitors are often surprised that such a large, beautiful beach exists in the heart of Toronto.
Best of all, getting to the beach by streetcar is easy.
4. Ride the Toronto Streetcar
Riding Toronto’s streetcars is one of the best ways to explore the city.
For just $3.35 CAD, you can hop on and transfer as much as you like within two hours. It’s a fantastic deal and lets you see many different neighborhoods without spending much.
I’ve taken streetcars through Chinatown, along the Harbourfront, and to Kensington Market. You can also visit interesting spots like the University of Toronto and the Financial District. The routes feel endless, so there’s always something new to discover.
Sometimes, I plan a route. Other times, I just hop on and see where the streetcar takes me. It’s a unique way to experience Toronto’s character and diversity—and all for just a few dollars.
5. Skyline Views from Trillium Park
Trillium Park is a fantastic spot to explore along Toronto’s waterfront.
This small, 7.5-acre park offers one of the prettiest views of Toronto’s skyline—no ferry ride needed! It’s a great option if you’re short on time or want a quick, scenic escape.
One unique feature of this park? You can reserve a fire pit with views of the CN Tower for free! It’s perfect for hosting a bonfire while enjoying the city skyline in the background.
Just make sure to book ahead—it’s a popular activity. For me, it’s one of the best free ways to experience Toronto’s waterfront.
6. Food at St. Lawrence Market
If you’re a foodie or love an authentic atmosphere, add the St. Lawrence Market to your list of free Toronto gems.
Located in the downtown core, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. I go here often to pick up fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
The food options are fantastic. Some of my top picks include Stack’d Deli Kitchen, Carousel Bakery (famous for its peameal bacon sandwich), and Buster’s Sea Cove for fresh seafood. There are lots of picnic tables outside around the market to sit and enjoy your food—and the atmosphere!
Walking distance from Union Station, St. Lawrence Market is worth visiting whenever you are in Toronto.
7. Evergreen Brick Works
Evergreen Brick Works is a beautiful green space in Toronto, transformed from an old brick factory into a unique urban escape. The Brick Works features walking trails, free guided tours, and incredible views of the Toronto skyline.
The ponds are home to wildlife like beavers, turtles, and birds, making it a fun spot to explore, especially with kids. Seasonal activities include skating in the winter and admiring Toronto’s vibrant fall colors in autumn. There are also weekend markets featuring local vendors and artisans.
I often come to the Brick Works with friends for a short hike followed by refreshments in the café. The kids love to see the animals and run through the trails.
Open year-round, Evergreen Brick Works combines natural beauty, activities, and events, making it a fantastic place to visit – and it’s all for free. It’s a quiet gem worth discovering in the heart of the city.
8. Visit The Toronto Sign
The iconic Toronto sign in Nathan Phillips Square is a popular spot in Toronto and completely free to visit. Open 24 hours a day, it’s a great place to grab a photo with the massive letters that have become a symbol of the city.
In winter, Nathan Phillips Square transforms into a popular skating rink. Skating here is free, and rentals are available if you don’t have your own skates. The rink, with the sign and city hall as a backdrop, creates a classic Toronto experience.
After visiting the sign, you’re just a short walk from Queen Street West, known for its trendy shops and cafes. If you’re a fan of street art, Graffiti Alley is also nearby and worth checking out at no cost.
The Toronto sign is not just a photo opportunity; it’s the perfect starting point to explore downtown Toronto.
9. Explore High Park
High Park is Toronto’s largest public park in the west end and is easily accessible by subway or streetcar. The park features extensive walking trails, a small zoo, an off-leash dog park, tennis courts, and a skating rink in winter.
Several playgrounds, an outdoor swimming pool, and a splash pad make it an ideal destination for families.
The park’s wide-ranging vegetation and wildlife make it an interesting place to visit, and beautiful lakefront views add to the experience. I love coming to High Park in the spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. However, the park is worth exploring any time of year, with its mix of natural beauty, playgrounds, and outdoor activities.
If High Park isn’t for you, Toronto has over 1,500 parks to explore. My other park suggestions include Trinity Bellwoods for incredible views of the CN Tower and Riverdale Farm, a working farm that kids will love!
10. Drive to Niagara Falls
A list of free things to do in Toronto is not complete without including a visit to Niagara Falls. Although not technically in Toronto, Niagara Falls is worth including in your travel plans as it is very close to the city.
Our family frequently visits the Falls, and they never lose their magic. Standing at the edge of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls is awe-inspiring and a must-see for anyone visiting Ontario. Less than two hours from Toronto, Niagara Falls can be experienced completely free of charge.
For just $1, you can walk across the Rainbow Bridge into New York and explore Niagara State Park, where you can see Niagara Falls from a completely different perspective.
If time allows, I suggest including a stop at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake. This historic town is known for its picturesque streets and excellent wineries, which are also free to walk through. Combining the Falls with a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake is a highlight of any visit to Toronto.
Affordable & Free Activities in Toronto
This list of cheap and free things to do in Toronto is just the start. Toronto also has free museums, cute neighborhoods to explore, beautiful gardens, and many seasonal events. You’ll also find free swimming pools, skating rinks, and bike trails.
If you’re researching the best places to visit, you’ll find Toronto a safe, friendly, and welcoming city in Canada.
Add Toronto to your travel bucket list and start planning your visit using this list of affordable things to do in the city.
Julie Millan is a Toronto-based travel blogger and photographer. She shares her insights on exploring Toronto, discovering Ontario’s hidden gems, and her global travel experiences. Her travel writing combines personal experiences with practical advice to help readers plan memorable trips both locally and abroad. Visit her blog Toronto2Anywhere for your trip planning needs!
