Must-See Things in Toronto if You Only Have One Weekend

Looking for things to do in Toronto if you only have one weekend? There are many ways to spend a weekend in Toronto, and there is sure to be something to keep everyone in your family entertained. While the list of weekend attractions in Toronto is quite large, here are some of the best.

The Toronto Zoo

If you only have one weekend to spend in Toronto, spend one of those days at the Toronto Zoo. Located on Meadowvale Road in Toronto, the Toronto Zoo houses a vast array of animals, including Siberian tigers, snow leopards, African lions, grey-necked crowned cranes, and olive baboons. There are over 5,000 animals to see in the Toronto Zoo, making it a local favourite.

The park is open on weekends and holidays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, and general admission is around $20. However, there are discounts for groups, seniors, and children who are three to 12 years old. Members and children under two can get in the park free. Highlights of the zoo include daily shows, special events, and educational programs.

Centreville Amusement Park

If you have children or are simply looking to satisfy your inner child, be sure to visit Centreville Amusement Park over the weekend. Located on Centre Island Blvd., the park opens its doors in May. Weekend hours are typically 10:30 am to 6:00 or 8:00 pm depending on the weekend.

An all-day ride pass for a family of four is around $100, and there are various discounts available as well. Highlights of the park include the Log Flume Ride, Monster Coaster, Haunted Barrel Works, and the Antique Carousel. While in the park, grab a bite to eat at Chester Chewy’s Sub Shop, Uncle Al’s Smokehouse Grill, or Mr. Fipp’s Popcorn Wagon.

The Royal Ontario Museum

If you love culture and history, you will definitely want to spend a day of your weekend at the Royal Ontario Museum. Located on Queens Park Road in Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum opens its doors in late April, and its weekend hours are 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (10:00 am to 8:30 on Fridays).

General admission is $16; however, the museum does offer discounts to seniors, students, children who are four to 14 years old, and groups. Members, children under four, and disabled persons can get in the museum free. Highlights of the Royal Ontario Museum include the Forbidden City, the Paul Kane exhibition, ROM Artifacts, the Saturday Morning Club, and various hands-on galleries.

Centre Island Beach

Are you looking to spend your weekend soaking up the sun or swimming? If so, gather together your family and/or friends and come on down to Centre Island Beach. You can get to the beach either by taking a ferry from Queens Quay West or by taking a water taxi from York Street.

Centre Island Beach has been open since 1888, and is still a popular retreat from the heat. The beach is open all week during the summer and offers such amenities as clean showers and changing rooms, bike and boat rentals, a snack bar, concession stands, and several walking trails.

Allan Gardens Conservatory

If you love nature, Allan Gardens Conservatory is the perfect place to visit on a weekend. Allan Gardens was founded in 1858 and is open year-round for people who want to relax among nature. Located on Horticultural Avenue, the gardens feature six greenhouses that house a large variety of colourful plants.

In addition to more than 16,000 square feet of lovely plants, other highlights of the garden include guided tours, camping, walking trails, a playground for the kids, a waterfall, and various special events. Admission is free, and the park is dog-friendly. Be sure to bring a picnic for lunch with a view.

These are the top five must-see things in Toronto if you only have one weekend. Other attractions you may want to consider visiting during your weekend vacation include Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Spin Toronto, Canada’s Sugar Beach, Maple Leaf Gardens, the Flatiron Building and Chinatown, among many others.

 Which attraction are you looking forward to the most in Toronto?