The Best Things to Do in Toronto this Summer

Why jet off across the border when Ontario’s dazzling gem, Toronto, is right here calling your name? This summer, skip the passport stamps and explore all the energy, excitement, and charm that your own backyard has to offer. A day trip to Toronto means vibrant events, world-class attractions, iconic landmarks, and delicious multicultural cuisine!

Take GO Transit to Toronto

And getting to Toronto? That’s a breeze with GO Transit! Whether you arrive by GO train or bus, you’ll swap traffic jams and parking nightmares for a stress-free ride packed with free music, eBooks, videos, and more on the GO Wi-Fi Plus entertainment portal.

And the best part? It’s easy on your wallet. Grab a $10 One-Day Weekend Pass for your fun-filled Saturday or Sunday (or statutory holiday) or Weekday Group Passes starting at just $30 for a midweek adventure with your crew. Bring the kids along — with kids 12 and under riding free, exploring Toronto with the fam is as easy as ever. From the Toronto Zoo to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and beyond, your next Toronto escape is closer, cooler, and way more exciting than the alternatives south of the border. Pack your bags, because Toronto’s waiting!

Explore the Best Toronto Attractions

There are so many fun things to do in Toronto that its totally fine if you want to come back another time to try more things. Here’s a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Toronto in the summer, so pick the ones you like and add them to your own ultimate day trip itinerary!

When you arrive in Toronto you will be at Union Station which is in the downtown core and gives you easy access to all the attractions that you want to get to! For those listed sights that are too far for a walk, you can easily connect to the TTC.

Sports in Toronto

If you’re a baseball fan, you’re probably already planning a trip to Toronto to catch one of the Toronto Blue Jays home games. Come for the game or make it part of a day trip! Rogers Centre is right next to the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, so you can easily visit one of those attractions before a weekend afternoon game or visit both before a weekday evening game. After 9 innings of cheering “GO Jays GO!”, you just have a quick walk back to Union Station instead of the post-game traffic. Cheering on Toronto FC at BMO Field (right next to Exhibition GO Station) is also a perfect summer activity for any sports fan or anyone looking for a lively day or night in Toronto! With the buzz of the crowd, the energy of the game, and the stunning views of the city skyline, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Plus, thanks to PRESTO Perks, you can enjoy savings of up to 20% on tickets for home matches during the 2025 season. Simply use the code PRESTOTFC at checkout and grab this deal before it expires on October 18, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to support Toronto FC and soak up the fun!

CN Tower

When you think of the Toronto skyline, the iconic CN Tower is always the first thing that comes to mind. If you’ve never ridden one of the high-speed glass-fronted elevators up to the Observation Level and braved the Glass Floor, this attraction is a must-do. It’s exciting for kids and an especially perfect choice if you’re visiting with out-of-area friends or family and you want to give them the quintessential Toronto tourist experience.

An easy walk from Union Station, you can start your day with this attraction to get a bird’s eye view of the city before you continue to explore it or end your trip here to enjoy the skyline at sunset. The CN Tower is open daily from 10:00 am - 9:00 pm. From now until June 19, save 15% off General Admission Timed Tickets, so pick your date soon!

Toronto Island Park

The Toronto Islands offer endless fun for a full-day trip, especially in the summer. On Centre Island, build sandcastles, wander through William Meany Maze, and explore Franklin Children’s Garden. Take a picnic break near Saturn Playground before hitting the splash pad, and enjoy rides and animal encounters at Centreville Amusement Park.

The Toronto Islands are a quick ferry ride from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal (just a 7 minute walk from Union Station) which operates daily. For spectacular views of Toronto’s waterfront and iconic skyline, hop on. Don’t forget your PRESTO card for 15% off adult tickets! This offer is valid from May 17 to October 13.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Your day trip to Toronto can include an underwater adventure when you visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada! Discover sharks, rays, sea turtles, and so many more aquatic creatures. Hands-on experiences and an interactive play area make Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada educational entertainment that’s fun for the whole family.

Take advantage of PRESTO Perks to save 15% off General Admission at this attraction. Show your PRESTO card in-person to redeem the discount!

City Sightseeing Toronto

If you’re the type to want to see ALL the things, the City Sightseeing Toronto “hop on, hop off” tour bus is perfect for you! Your ticket for this double decker bus is good for 24 hours, and it stops at 15 top Toronto attractions — including Casa Loma, the Distillery District, the CN Tower and more. You can hop on and off as many times as you like, and you’ll get some great photos while riding in the open-air upper level!

To experience the city by night, from May 17 – October 13, City Sightseeing Tours is expanding their PRESTO Perk offer to include 15% off admission for the high–energy Glowing Night Bus Tours. Show your PRESTO card in-person at the City Sightseeing booth at Sankofa Square, and you’ll save 15% on your regular adult 24-hour ticket! 

Attend Summer Events in Toronto

The atmosphere in Toronto is extra lively during the event-filled summer months! Schedule your day trip accordingly so you can join in on the fun.

Summer Concerts and Music Festivals in Toronto

Toronto comes alive with music in the summer, offering an incredible lineup of concerts and festivals that are a must for any music lover! From stunning lakeside shows at Budweiser Stage to electrifying performances at the new Rogers Stadium, and the iconic beats of VELD Music Festival (Aug 1 – 3, 2025), there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the pulsating vibes of Electric Island, with 4 weekend dates throughout the summer, located at Fort York and the Bentway, its just a short walk from Union Station. Or experience the soulful sounds of the Toronto Jazz Festival happening June 20 – 29, 2025 at various locations across the city The best part? GO Transit makes getting to these events simple and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying the music and creating unforgettable summer memories.

Toronto Pride

Every June, Toronto comes alive with energy and colour to celebrate Pride Month. Pride Toronto organizes a month-long series of events attracting over 3 million attendees. This including rallies, live performances, and vibrant discussions, all leading up to the Festival Weekend, June 26-29. The highlight is the iconic Pride Parade, a celebration of love, diversity, and equality. With street fairs, art installations, and family-friendly activities spread across the city, it’s a welcoming and inspiring time that showcases Toronto’s commitment to inclusivity and the LGBTQ2S+ community.

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto

The Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto is an unmissable summer event, bringing the thrill of high-speed racing to the heart of the city. Held on the iconic street circuit at Exhibition Place, it’s a weekend filled with adrenaline, family-friendly activities, and incredible energy. Getting to the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto has never been easier, as GO Transit gets you right up to Exhibition GO station. Visiting Toronto this summer for the Honda Indy means not only experiencing world-class motorsports but also exploring everything the city has to offer, from vibrant neighbourhoods to stunning waterfront views. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this electrifying event!

Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

Experience the CNE this summer, steps away from Exhibition GO Station, and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Known as The Ex, this iconic Toronto end of summer staple offers something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill seeker, a foodie or just looking for a fun day out with family or friends. There are so many amazing things you get with admission - you can go on rides, try new and familiar foods, play some carnival games, check out the farm and don't forget to watch the Air Show!

Foodie Experiences in Toronto

Don’t worry — it’s going to be a busy day on your trip to Toronto, but there are lots of opportunities for great eating along the way. With so many options, it’s easy to find places where you can fill your belly without emptying your wallet! 

Patios in Toronto

When summer hits Toronto, nothing beats soaking up the sun on a patio! Bask in waterfront views at Amsterdam Brewhouse, enjoy the rooftop atmosphere at The Porch, or relax at Bellwoods Brewery’s cozy outdoor space in Queen West. For a complete summer experience, grab the Toronto Brew Pass, which offers tastings at some of the city’s top craft breweries. It’s the perfect way to sip, sample, and soak up the vibes of Toronto’s incredible patio scene, all while enjoying stress-free travel around the city.

Dine Around in Union Station

Did you know that there are a ton of dining options inside Union Station? And, you can savour some savings when you show your PRESTO card at certain locations!

Pop into CoCo Bubble Tea when you first arrive in Toronto to grab a delicious bubble tea. Your PRESTO card gets you 10% off here! Then, before you catch your GO bus or train at the end of the day, save off your dinner with PRESTO Perks at MightyBird, Jersey Mike’s, or Taco Bell. You’ll be full and happy on your ride home!

St. Lawrence Market

It’s a Toronto attraction and an eating experience in one! St. Lawrence Market is worth a visit just to walk around and explore the various booths and vendors. But it’s also a great place to grab some lunch after your morning at the Hockey Hall of Fame, or during your stop here on the City Sightseeing Toronto Tour!

Check out Destination Toronto’s sandwich tour of St. Lawrence Market to plan your snacking strategy. The peameal bacon on a bun from Carousel Bakery is renowned for a reason!

Shop Local in Toronto

There’s no shortage of fantastic shopping in Toronto, and it’s an exciting city to support local brands while exploring!

The Distillery District is the perfect spot to discover unique local treasures. Check out Blackbird Vintage Finds for one-of-a-kind decor, indulge in handmade treats from Soma Chocolate Maker, and celebrate Canadian craftsmanship by shopping at Craft Ontario. From artisanal gifts to bespoke artworks, this district brims with charm and creativity.

Kensington Market offers a vibrant and eclectic shopping experience. Wander through the many vintage stores for sustainable vintage pieces, or savour fresh, local produce at the market’s many stalls. Don’t forget to stop by the 6 x 8 Market to shop one-of-a-kind gifts from 80+ local vendors. Plus, from May to October, Kensington Market’s pedestrian-only Sundays make for a relaxing afternoon to explore while supporting small, independent businesses.

GO Beyond Toronto

Already checked off your Toronto bucket list? It’s time to GO Beyond Toronto! Escape the city’s hustle and experience two iconic attractions just beyond its borders. Thrill-seekers can head to Canada’s Wonderland for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, family-friendly entertainment and events, and splash-worthy water fun. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Toronto Zoo to meet animals from around the globe and explore immersive habitats. Getting there is a breeze with GO Transit’s dedicated summer bus service, offering convenient and stress-free travel to both hot spots. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as your next adventure awaits just outside the city!

Unlock the Best of Summer in Toronto

There’s so much to discover in Toronto! How many day trips does it take to see it all? That’s up to you — luckily, it’s easy to get there with GO Transit.