Photo Credit: BlogTO
“What? Really? I Didn’t Know About This!”
Athena Bucci, The Mike Copy Editor
Toronto is both a diverse and historical city, with many things to see and do. The biggest attractions, such as the CN Tower, the ROM, and Casa Loma are always filled with many tourists and are often expensive. I have lived in Toronto my whole life and feel that people are missing out on many great places. So, whether you’re a domestic or international student, these are the five places in the city you need to visit.
Scarborough Bluffs
Finding a place within the city limits that includes more aspects of nature can be difficult. Although there are several parks you can visit, the one I recommend for nature-lovers and your inner geologist is the Scarborough Bluffs. The Bluffs is an escarpment along the eastern coast of Toronto, located in Scarborough, looking out onto Lake Ontario. There is a total of nine parks within the Bluffs, and during the summer you can even visit the beach at Bluffer’s Park!
Queen Street West
For those of you who have visited City Hall or the Eaton Centre, have you ever thought of exploring down Queen Street West? Being one of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods, Queen Street West has a variety of places to visit, even if you’re just passing by. It is also known as Toronto’s Art and Design District, as there are many vintage stores, craft and supply places, and those who love to venture at night can visit the many patios and bars filled with local live music. Some personal favourites I’d recommend are: Cafe Crepe, Cool N2 Ice Cream, and the Black Market.
BMO Field/Coca-Cola Coliseum
Calling all sports fans! You have not experienced Toronto until you have been to a live event at the BMO Field or the Coca-Cola Coliseum. Located at the Exhibition Place, the BMO Field is home to the TFC, Toronto’s soccer team and MLS Finalists, whose games are so fun that you have to visit at least once in your life. Right next door, the Coca-Cola Coliseum (previously Ricoh Coliseum) also hosts live sports events, such as hockey for the Marlies, the WWE, and the Horse Capades.
Toronto Island Park
The Toronto Island Park is an absolute must see. There is a total of six islands in the park, filled with beaches, trails, and campsites for you to take part in. Centre Island is the only one with an amusement park that I used to go to every summer when I was a kid and is open during the spring-summer season. The islands can only be accessed by ferry, which is located at the Waterfront, and is priced at less than 10 dollars a ticket.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
The Old Spaghetti Factory is one of Toronto’s historic and unique restaurants. The building it’s located in was built in 1898 as a Blacksmith Shop, then converted into a 600-seat restaurant in 1971. Other than the great food and affordable prices, what’s so great about this restaurant? Well, it’s actually the decor! The restaurant has a unique collection of antiques everywhere, such as stained-glass windows from Europe, gas lamps, a carousel, and even a streetcar that you can actually sit in and enjoy your meal!
