Big cities usually come with an equally big price tag. But that does not always have to be true. You can find cheap and free things to do in just about every major city in the world. So from time to time I will be featuring a major city that will not put you into debt while visiting it with some tips from a budget traveler.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada is one of the most diverse, fun and safe cities to visit in North America. It is the biggest city in Canada, and one of the top financial destinations in the world. It also happens to be one of my favorite long weekend cities to visit every few years (flights from New York take roughly 90 minutes or so).
But you don’t have to spend a pretty penny or “one-cent piece” when you visit Toronto. Here’s a look at some of the free and relatively cheap sightseeing attractions, plus one dining option that I always visit when trekking around “T.O.”
CN Tower
This 1,815-foot free-standing structure is one of Toronto’s most famous landmarks. It is also the best location to get a breathtaking view of the entire city. Avoid weekends if you can, because the lines can get long. But most weekdays you will be up above Toronto before you know it. Purchase tickets online starting at $21.99 for adults, $19.99 for seniors, $14.99 for children, and no charge for kiddies 3 and under. The tower has three dining locations and plenty of spots to snap the perfect vacation picture.
Saint Lawrence Market
The Saint Lawrence Market Complex is home to a Saturday Farmer’s Market that dates back to 1803, as well as the Tuesday-through-Saturday South Market, with more than 50 vendors selling fresh fruit, veggies, meats, cheese, breads and more. This amazing, colorful, outdoor marketplace is located just south of nearby St James Park and minutes from the Gardiner Expressway. In addition to shopping for fresh foodstuffs, you can stop into a deli, pizzeria or other restaurant for prepared meals. Enjoy the people watching!
Hockey Hall of Fame
Canadians love their hockey, so it comes as no surprise that residents would want a hall of fame for the beloved sport in the country’s most popular city. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or not, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a fun and affordable attraction to visit when you are in Toronto. This location is the home of the Stanley Cup, hockey’s richest prize.
You will have plenty to see and do in this interactive hockey museum, that boasts the largest collection of hockey memorabilia. Plenty of photo opportunities are available, including one station where you can don hockey equipment and pose in front of a goal. Not only is this a fun location to check out, but it is also affordable. Prices are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for children and no charge for kiddies 3 and under.
Casa Loma
One of Toronto’s biggest attractions is also one of its most beautiful and historic. Casa Loma, a majestic castle-like mansion and former home of prominent businessman Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, is located on Toronto’s Austin Terrace.
A highlight of this must-see location is Casa Loma’s five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, that include sculptures and fountains. Inside the mansion, visitors can peek into 20 of the 98 rooms, including the wine cellar, billiard room, smoking room, library and Sir Henry’s suite. You will marvel at the décor of each of the rooms, and really get a sense of how good this Toronto financier truly had it. Admission is affordable too: $18 for adults 18-59, $12.50 for seniors 60+/youth 14-17, $10.50 for children ages 4-13, and no charge for kiddies 3 and under.
Bonjour Brioche
