16 Best Free Things to Do in Toronto: Free Fun in the City
You don’t necessarily need money to have fun, which certainly applies to “Tdot” Toronto. If you’re planning on visiting Toronto on a tight budget, with your main expenses focused on the essentials like food and lodging, then you’re in luck! There are a lot of free things to do in Toronto.
Additionally, If you’re on a limited budget, you can still find affordable accommodations. You can find great studio apartments in Toronto, which are as good as 4-star hotels, with lower prices.
Enjoy your trip to Toronto on a budget. With that said, let’s check out the best free places to visit in Toronto.
16 Best Free Things to Do in Toronto
From free admission to some of the best museums and art exhibits to stunning natural and man-made sights, here are fun and exciting things to do in Toronto for free.
1. Attend The Canadian Opera Company’s Free Concert Series
Toronto is renowned for its vibrant music scene. The good news is that you can enjoy free live performances at the Canadian Opera Company from late September to May.
Performances are usually on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, featuring talented artists from around the globe. You’ll experience incredible vocal, piano, jazz, dance, chamber, and world music performances. Since it’s completely free, attending one of the performances here is one of the best free things to do in Toronto.
Attendance Tips
- You should note that tickets are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis;
- Doors open 30 minutes before the performance, with that in mind, you’ll want to be there at least 30 minutes before each performance.
- No photography or recording is allowed during performances.
- There is no age limitation, all ages can attend.
- For more information, visit their site.
Location
You can easily get there by taking the 1 train to Osgoode station and a short walk from the station.
The Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre in Four Season Centre, where the performances are held, is located at 145 Queen St W.
2. Free or PWYC Music Nights in Toronto Bars
You may still consider: what to do in Toronto at night for free. Well, there are plenty of bars that offer free or Pay What You Can (PYWC) music on weeknights. With so many up-and-coming artists moving to Toronto to kick-start their careers, many bars host performances for pretty much free. It is among the best Toronto Nightlife activities.
You never know; you might just have the privilege of enjoying a future Jeff Buckley performing live for free. The following bars are known for offering free and PWYC music, and are up there with some of the best places to visit for free in Toronto:
- The Reservoir Lounge
- The Rex Jazz and Blues Bar
- The Cameron House
- The Horseshoe Tavern
- The Painted Lady Ossington
- C’est What
3. Visit Toronto’s Free Entry Museums
Few places in the world offer free entry to some of their best museums. However, on some days, museums in Toronto offer just that during particular hours.
Below is a list of the top museums in Toronto and the exact time and days during which admission is free:
- Royal Ontario Museum: Third Tuesday night of each month, between 5:30 and 8:30 pm.
- Art Gallery of Ontario: Every Wednesday night between 6:00 and 9:00 pm.
- Aga Khan Museum: Every Wednesday between 4:00 and 8:00 pm.
- Gardiner Museum: Every Wednesday between 4:00 and 9:00 pm.
- Bata Shoe Museum: Pay What You Can Night every Thursday between 5:00 and 8:00 pm.
- Toronto’s always free museums include but are not limited to Fort York National Historic Site, Spadina Museum, the Mackenzie House, and The Museum of Contemporary Art.
4. The Stunning Beauty of Toronto’s Parks
Toronto is a truly dazzling city with its rich scenic nature, historical sites, and masterful architecture in every corner of the city.
You can find several parks and natural attractions that are among the best places to visit in Toronto for free.
Here are some of the breathtaking scenes and parks in Toronto:
Cherry Beach
Located on the shore of Lake Ontario, Cherry Beach is a peaceful and relaxing place for walking and taking a break from the bustling and fast-paced city of Toronto.
Besides walking paths alongside the beach, you can enjoy biking in a calm and quiet route with a wonderful view of the lake and the beach.
Cherry Beach is less crowded than other beaches since it doesn’t have a boardwalk or picnic tables. However, there are washrooms and changing rooms for convenience. You can enjoy the calm, shallow water and watch windsurfers glide along the shore, making it one of the best places to visit in Toronto for free.
High Park
A massive 400-acre park that’s also known as the central park of Toronto, full of untouched pristine nature. From cherry blossoms in spring to ponds brimming with wildlife, High Park boasts a truly serene experience and is of course part of the best free things to do in Toronto.
A full-fledged zoo with a wide variety of animals located in this gorgeous park that is definitely worth a visit, considering its free ticket price.
No matter in which district of the city you have rented a house or booked a hotel, you can easily get to this park using the subway.
Polson Pier
Enjoy a genuinely jaw-dropping view of the city skyline and sunset that is a must for anyone visiting Toronto. From there, you can soak in stunning views of downtown, the CN Tower, Lake Ontario, and the Toronto Islands.
The pier isn’t just about looks, though, as it also offers things to do in Toronto for free like a drive-in movie theatre and relaxing outdoor seating at the Cabana Waterfront Patio, with plenty of food and drinks to enjoy.
5. Toronto Botanical Gardens
One of the best places to explore the natural beauty of Toronto is its botanical gardens. Spanning nearly four acres, Toronto Botanical Gardens feature themed outdoor spaces, including perennial gardens, a kitchen garden, and an extensive collection of roses.
Visitors can also explore the tranquil nature trails, learn from educational programs, and participate in various horticultural events. The entrance to this garden is free. You can also book a guided tour to learn more about each area.
Apart from this complete and large garden, Allan Gardens is another free place to see in Toronto. A 100-year-old park with a greenhouse, botanical garden, and conservatory featuring plants from every corner of the world, as well as ponds and pools filled with fish, turtles, frogs, etc.
6. Distillery Historic District
Walking through this neighborhood of Toronto will feel like walking through the streets of Industrial Revolution-era London with its red-brick buildings and cobblestone pathways.
This area used to be a big whiskey distillery during the Victorian era. While the distillery is no longer active, the beautiful old buildings are still there, now filled with cozy bars, unique shops, art galleries, and great restaurants to explore.
Visiting Distillery Historic District is one of the best free things to do in Toronto, which can take you back in time and let you feel the history coursing through the alleys and check out the many art galleries and theaters.
7. Taste Different Spices at St. Lawrence Market
Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is a historic and bustling food market in the heart of Toronto, renowned for its diverse culinary offerings and vibrant atmosphere.
St.Lawrence Market is one of the best places to visit in Toronto for free, especially if you like to taste different spices. It also has several cheap restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food.
Be sure to check out the weekend farmers’ market and the antique market. They’re full of unique finds!
8. Take a Photo at Toronto Harbour Lighthouse
Known as the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Toronto Harbour Lighthouse is one of the best places to visit in Toronto for free. It is located in Tommy Thompson Park, on the Toronto Islands. the lighthouse is on the shore, offering a wonderful view of the city and Lake Toronto.
Built in 1808, it is the oldest existing lighthouse on the Great Lakes. The old age of this area also has made some rumors about the lighthouse being haunted. That’s another reason why this place is popular among visitors.
9. Enjoy Time at Nathan Phillips Square
If you are looking for a vibrant public gathering space in the heart of downtown Toronto, Nathan Phillips Square will be one of the best free things to do in Toronto.
Throughout the year, the square hosts various events, from cultural festivals to outdoor concerts, and during the winter months, it’s transformed into a festive wonderland with an ice skating rink.
10. Plan a Visit to the Toronto Public Library
Apart from having a large collection of books, the architecture of the building is eye-catching enough to make Toronto Public Library one of the best free places to visit in Toronto.
The library is one of the attractions of the Yorkville area, which has different attractions from museums to shopping streets. You can also find great Italian restaurants around this area.
If you enjoy reading and researching, there are excellent libraries in Toronto for you to explore.
11. Wander & Window Shop in Yorkville
Take a stroll through Yorkville and enjoy one of the best free things to do in Toronto: window shopping! This upscale fashion district is home to high-end boutiques and stunning displays that feel like an art gallery for fashion lovers.
Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun to admire the creativity and style showcased here. Many global designers have flagship stores in this area, making it a must-visit spot for fashion lovers. And don’t forget to take a photo with your favorite window display, it’s all part of the experience!
12. Visit Kensington Market
Explore the vibrant and artistic Kensington Market in Toronto, a must-visit spot just north of Chinatown. This trendy neighborhood is filled with vintage shops, colorful street art, and cozy cafés.
You’ll find Victorian-style buildings lining the streets, many showcasing creative murals and housing international restaurants and bars.
The market is perfect for picking up fresh produce, meat, and fish, making it a favorite among locals, including students and families.
For an extra special experience, visit on the last Sunday of the month when the streets are closed to cars, transforming the area into a lively street market!
13. Check out Evergreen Brick Works
The Evergreen Brick Works is one of the unique and best free places to visit in Toronto, which is turning an old quarry into a lively community space. It’s surrounded by a beautiful park, with the old buildings now hosting eco-friendly programs and cultural activities.
You can explore large artworks and educational displays for free. The hiking trails are stunning, offering a peaceful escape into nature. If you visit on the weekend, don’t miss the Saturday Farmers’ Market or the Sunday Artisan Market for a fun local experience.
Active Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
- Saturday: 8 am to 5 pm
- Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
14. Discover Chester Hill Lookout
Among the great things to do in Toronto for free, Chester Hill Lookout is a hidden gem. It’s in a quiet neighborhood near Broadview Avenue and offers wide, beautiful views of the city. You can see the Don Valley’s greenery, the Prince Edward Viaduct, the CN Tower, and the city’s financial district.
There’s also a circular platform with an astrology wheel designed by a local sidewalk artist called Victor Fraser.
This artwork gives the spot a special and almost magical vibe, attracting curious visitors. The peaceful setting, especially during sunset, makes it a great place for a romantic date in Toronto
15. Explore Toronto Harbourfront Centre
The Toronto Harbourfront Centre is a great place to enjoy free cultural activities in the heart of downtown Toronto by Lake Ontario. You can walk along the boardwalk, relax in the parks, or go ice skating in winter.
There are plenty of free things to do in Harbourfront Center like:
- Seeing art exhibits,
- Joining a lecture,
- Or watching a show.
After exploring, you can check out nearby shops or grab some food. It’s a wonderful spot to experience Toronto’s culture without spending anything!
16. Scarborough Bluffs
The last but not least thing to do in Toronto for free is visiting Scarborough Bluffs. It’s a stunning natural landmark stretching 15 km along Lake Ontario’s shore, from Toronto’s Eastern Beaches to East Point Park.
These majestic white cliffs, shaped over thousands of years by wind and water erosion, are surrounded by 11 urban parks offering plenty to explore.
Things to Do at the Scarborough Bluffs:
- Enjoy Nature Trails: Wander through wetlands, forests, and meadows leading to scenic beaches and breathtaking views.
- Relax in Beautiful Gardens: Visit Rosetta McClain Gardens, which features lovely flowers, a pergola, and a calming water fountain.
- Try Water Activities: Swim in the clear waters at Bluffer’s Beach or learn paddleboarding during summer weekends.
Conclusion
Toronto might seem an expensive destination for some travelers. But the truth is that you can enjoy visiting Toronto without thinking about the budget. There are several great free things to do in Toronto, from entrance to museums to natural attractions and free events and festivals, Toronto does a lot to ensure that anyone visiting the city can enjoy a fully immersive and unforgettable experience.
FAQs
What to Do in Toronto at Night for Free?
Here are some free things to enjoy in Toronto at night:
- The Distillery District: You can wander through its cobblestone streets, and enjoy the lights, street performances, and the district’s historic charm.
- Music and Performances: You can check out free or pay-what-you-can live music in local bars.
- Relaxing Walks: Another option is exploring Toronto’s green spaces or taking a peaceful nighttime stroll along the waterfront. The Harbourfront Centre’s boardwalk offers stunning views of city lights reflecting on the lake.
- Free Museums: You can also visit places like the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) during their First Thursdays event for free exhibits, live music, and art activities.
- Stargazing: The next free thing to do in Toronto is join the Ontario Science Centre’s free telescope nights to explore the wonders of the night sky.
Are Buses in Toronto Free?
No, the buses and tram in Toronto are not free. However, on some specific occasions, transit services might be free in Toronto, such as New Year’s Eve, which often feature free transit services to encourage safe travel for celebrants.
What Are Some Free Historical Sites in Toronto?
Ireland Park and Fort York are two free historical sites, with the latter offering PWYC-guided tours.
