Toronto, Canada city Highlights and Guide to LGBTQ+ Resources

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, stands tall as a vibrant metropolis known for its multicultural spirit, iconic skyline, and diverse attractions. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, an adventure seeker, or someone who simply enjoys urban culture, Toronto’s highlights promise something unforgettable. Here’s a look at some must-see destinations and hidden gems that make Toronto shine.

CN Tower: Toronto's Iconic Skyline Symbol

No list of Toronto highlights is complete without mentioning the CN Tower. Soaring at 553 meters (1,815 feet), this marvel of engineering was once the world’s tallest freestanding structure. Today, it’s a must-visit, offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Thrill-seekers can test their limits on the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the outer ledge of the tower—perfect for an adrenaline rush with a view.

Distillery District: A Step Back in Time

For those with a love of history, architecture, and unique shopping, the Distillery District is a gem. This pedestrian-only area is filled with Victorian-era industrial architecture, trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Known for its cobblestone streets and historic charm, the Distillery District is also a hotspot for art installations, particularly during the Toronto Light Festival in winter.

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Where History and Culture Converge

With a world-class collection spanning natural history, world cultures, and art, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of Canada’s largest museums. Its stunning mix of classic and contemporary architecture alone is worth seeing, but step inside, and you’ll find ancient artifacts, dinosaur skeletons, and interactive exhibits. From Egyptian mummies to Indigenous Canadian artifacts, the ROM offers a cultural journey across centuries and continents.

Toronto Islands: An Escape into Nature

A short ferry ride from downtown, the Toronto Islands provide an oasis of calm. Here, you can rent a bike or kayak, relax on sandy beaches, and take in views of Toronto’s skyline. The islands are also home to Centreville Amusement Park, a family-friendly spot with rides, paddle boats, and a petting zoo. For those who love the outdoors, the Toronto Islands are an ideal retreat from the bustling city.

Kensington Market: A Melting Pot of Culture

Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s most unique neighborhoods, offering a vibrant mix of food, fashion, and multicultural flair. With roots as a Jewish and European immigrant neighborhood, Kensington is now a hub of Latin American, Caribbean, and Southeast Asian influence. Here, you’ll find vintage shops, street art, and an array of eateries serving everything from tacos to empanadas. This lively area embodies the diversity and creative spirit Toronto is known for.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Artistic Wonder on Display

Home to over 95,000 works of art, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest galleries in North America. From Canadian landscapes by the Group of Seven to thought-provoking contemporary pieces, the AGO covers a wide array of styles and eras. Its architectural design, featuring a sweeping glass facade by architect Frank Gehry, is an artwork in itself. The AGO also hosts exhibitions from international artists, drawing art lovers from around the world.

St. Lawrence Market: A Food Lover’s Paradise

For a true taste of Toronto, a visit to St. Lawrence Market is essential. Voted as one of the best food markets globally, this historic market has been serving the community since 1803. With over 100 vendors, it’s the perfect spot to sample Toronto’s culinary scene, from fresh seafood to baked goods. The peameal bacon sandwich, often dubbed a “Toronto classic,” is a must-try!

High Park: Toronto’s Urban Green Space

For nature lovers, High Park is a 400-acre sanctuary offering hiking trails, gardens, and even a small zoo. Visit in the spring for cherry blossom season, when the park’s trees bloom in pink splendor. High Park is also home to beautiful ponds, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a great escape from city life.

Nathan Phillips Square and Toronto City Hall

Nathan Phillips Square, with its iconic “Toronto” sign, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a popular gathering spot. During the summer, it hosts events, markets, and concerts, while in the winter, it transforms into an outdoor ice rink. Overlooking the square is the Toronto City Hall, with its unique curved design, making it a favorite spot for photographers.

Yonge-Dundas Square: Toronto’s Times Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is where Toronto’s energy reaches a peak. Lined with bright screens, stores, and eateries, this area is a buzzing urban plaza that’s always alive. Nearby, the Eaton Centre shopping mall provides a great spot for retail therapy. Whether you’re attending a live performance or people-watching, Yonge-Dundas Square is the heart of Toronto’s entertainment district.

Toronto is celebrated for its inclusivity and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, offering a range of resources and safe spaces for support, socializing, and advocacy.

Here are some notable LGBTQ+ resources in Toronto:

The 519 Community Centre

• Located in the heart of Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village, The 519 is a hub for LGBTQ+ programs and services, offering counseling, legal aid, health services, youth programs, and social support groups.
• They host workshops and events, including those for newcomers and refugees, and have a variety of online resources as well.
• Website: The 519

Toronto PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)

• PFLAG offers support for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, focusing on education, advocacy, and inclusivity.
• They provide monthly support meetings and resources for parents, friends, and loved ones navigating LGBTQ+ identities.
• Website: Toronto PFLAG

Sherbourne Health Centre

• This health centre is dedicated to inclusive healthcare, providing specialized LGBTQ+ health services, including hormone therapy, mental health support, and services for trans and gender-diverse individuals.
• Sherbourne also runs the Supporting Our Youth (SOY) program, offering mentorship and community-building programs for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Website: Sherbourne Health

Pride Toronto

• Pride Toronto is famous for organizing the annual Pride Parade and month-long celebrations in June. Beyond Pride Month, they offer year-round programming, advocacy, and community resources.
• They also maintain a directory of LGBTQ+ resources, events, and support groups in Toronto.
• Website: Pride Toronto

Black CAP (Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention)

• Black CAP supports Black, African, and Caribbean LGBTQ+ communities in Toronto, focusing on HIV/AIDS prevention, health resources, and social support.
• They offer counseling, health resources, and programs tailored to the unique challenges faced by Black LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Website: Black CAP

Friends of Ruby

• Friends of Ruby offers a dedicated space and support system for LGBTQ+ youth, including counseling, housing support, and mental health services.
• They also run a transitional home, Friends of Ruby Home, providing short-term housing and support for LGBTQ+ youth in need.
• Website: Friends of Ruby

Rainbow Railroad

• Rainbow Railroad is a global organization headquartered in Toronto that helps LGBTQ+ individuals escaping persecution in their home countries.
• They provide direct assistance with safe relocation, support, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers.
• Website: Rainbow Railroad

Egale Canada

• Egale Canada advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, conducting research and policy work on issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Canada.
• Their resources include education materials, legal support, and mental health services, with a focus on advocacy and creating inclusive policies.
• Website: Egale Canada

Maggie’s Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

• Maggie’s provides resources for sex workers, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+. They offer peer support, harm reduction supplies, legal aid, and mental health resources.
• Maggie’s also conducts outreach and advocates for the rights and safety of sex workers in Toronto.
• Website: Maggie’s Toronto

ACT (AIDS Committee of Toronto)

• ACT is a longstanding organization offering services for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, with many programs designed specifically for LGBTQ+ people.
• Services include counseling, sexual health education, support groups, and resources for LGBTQ+ people living with or affected by HIV.
• Website: ACT Toronto

LGBTQ+ Friendly Spaces and Events

• Church-Wellesley Village: Known as the “Gay Village,” this neighborhood is the center of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ scene, with LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants, and cafes.
• Glad Day Bookshop: The world’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore, offering books, events, and community space.
• Toronto Queer Film Festival: An annual film festival showcasing queer stories and perspectives through cinema.

Toronto’s LGBTQ+ resources are diverse and accessible, supporting community members through health services, advocacy, social events, and safe spaces across the city. Whether you’re looking for support or a way to get involved, there’s something here for everyone.

Toronto’s surroundings offer rich experiences as well. The world-renowned Niagara Falls is a short drive away, as are the wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Prince Edward County, a bit further, is known for its scenic wineries and charming countryside.