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Making The Best of a 24-Hour Layover in Toronto

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Fully experiencing the metropolis of Toronto in one day is a monumental task. As the largest city in Canada as well as the fourth largest city in all of North America, it’s no surprise that Ontario’s capital is packed with world-class attractions, dining opportunities, and luxury hotels. With just 24 hours to explore, visitors will barely scratch the surface of this thriving community before making their way back to Pearson.

Top Attractions

With such a limited amount of time, visitors should aim for the city’s most impressive features, one of which being the Royal Ontario Museum. This institution holds the distinction of being the largest and most-visited museum in the country, first opened in 1914 and amassing over six million items since then. Guests are treated to one of the only three complete Barosaurus skeletons in the world, looming over them at a staggering 88.5 feet (27 meters). This exhibit is just one of many prehistoric beasts on display in the museum, with other highlights including the fearsome saber-toothed cat, the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex, and Quetzalcoatlus, one of largest flying animals to ever exist.

The museum also boasts a massive collection of preserved modern-day mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and insects, but there is more to be seen than just natural history. The art and culture collection features close to one million items, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Exhibits include the relics of bygone civilizations such as the Roman, Egyptian, and Nubian empires, art and artifacts of Canada’s indigenous communities, and a huge amount of East Asian crafts, including the largest Japanese art collection in Canada.

Those arriving on a warm day should check out Toronto’s Harbourfront neighborhood, located just south of Union Station. Several small parks dot the shores of Lake Ontario, providing the perfect atmosphere to lay in the grass and enjoy the sunshine as boats and planes speed by. Ambitious travelers might enjoy an excursion to the Toronto Islands, located just a short fifteen minute ferry ride away. The islands are known for providing one of the most stunning views of Toronto’s skyline. Visitors are welcome to rent a bike and explore the nearby beaches and restaurants, while families may enjoy the kid-friendly Centreville Amusement Park.

When listing some of Toronto’s most iconic attractions, it’s essential to mention CN Tower. Standing at over 1,800 feet (550 meters) and holding the record for world’s tallest free-standing structure until 2007, the tower is one of the most prominent facets of the city’s skyline. Courageous visitors can plant themselves down on the tower’s glass floor, peering down at the ground from a dizzying elevation of 112 stories, and true thrill seekers can take part in the EdgeWalk, strapping in along the side of the building for the world’s highest outdoor walk.

Where to Eat and Drink

Toronto’s large immigrant population has fostered a diverse range of restaurants across the city, ensuring that no visitor will go hungry during their time here. Those who enjoy Southeast Asian cuisine might be interested in Pai, a colorful spot specializing in Northern Thai cuisine, such as the popular noodle dish khao soi. Those in search of a meal by the waterfront can stop in at Amsterdam BrewHouse, a restaurant and brewery offering a wide range of craft beer alongside BBQ, pizza, burgers, and more. Visitors should also consider the eclectic neighborhood of Kensington, where casual Chilean spot Jumbo Empanadas and the Jamaican Rasta Pasta are just a few of the area’s abundant dining options. 

While drinking heavily before an early flight may not be the best idea, the thriving nightlife of Toronto is hard to ignore. An early adopter of the craft beer craze, C’est What is home to over forty different brews, while MARBL offers an extensive wine list alongside classic cocktails. Those looking to imbibe in an elegant setting should head to Clockwork in the Fairmont Royal York, where they can sip champagne under the glow of the hotel’s Gatsbyesque clock tower.

Where to Stay

Toronto offers a wealth of accommodations, from small cozy hostels to vast luxury properties. While some travelers will attempt to pack as many activities as possible into their layover, others may prefer to skip the hassle and spend their time in the comfort of their hotel. For the latter, the Chelsea Hotel is an ideal option. Located in Downtown Yonge, this hotel is the largest in the country, equipped with 1,590 rooms and suites across 26 floors.

Young patrons can enjoy the property’s indoor family pool and 130 foot (40 meter) waterslide, as well as the Kid Centre, where they can spend their time making arts and crafts, playing video games, or befriending one of the hotel’s resident rabbits. Adult guests, on the other hand, are welcome to swim laps in the indoor pool, enjoy the sauna and hot tub, and sunbathe on the outdoor deck, where a spectacular view of the Toronto skyline can be found.

The previously-mentioned Fairmont Royal York underwent a major renovation for its 90th birthday, gaining a new restaurant, a new bar, and a stunning new lobby. With 898 rooms to choose from, along with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room, this property is the perfect choice for those who are seeking an opulent stay.

For those on a budget, the Strathcona House is in the ideal location for exploring Toronto’s downtown, just a short walk from the Old City Hall. Visitors who are simply looking to avoid sleeping on the airport floor may want to consider College Backpackers, an inexpensive hostel located in Kensington Market. No matter how each visitor spends their layover, whether they explore the streets of Toronto for hours, fully immerse themselves in the nightlife, or just lounge at their hotel all day, one thing is certain - the captivating charm of Toronto will have everyone planning a return trip to get the full experience.

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