Toronto is like a rich cultural mosaic blending unique experiences. That’s why it is among the most distinct multicultural cities in the world. When you are in Toronto, you are bound to cross paths with gigantic skyscrapers, historic buildings, museums, and urban parks.
But what is there to see in a city that prides itself on multiculturalism? If you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, consider these eight special venues of interest that showcase the city’s multicultural heritage.
The Harbourfront Centre
Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre comes alive in the summer. Unlike any other place in the city, it hosts a variety of cultural events. It has everything from summer camps to arts and crafts, along with international food festivals. The centre also has a live theatre where artists perform. During summer, the Harbourfront Centre buzzes with action with a variety of water activities that include Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak, water taxi services, and city cruises.
The Toronto Music Garden
Each summer, the Toronto Music Garden hosts free concerts in its amphitheater. Beautifully landscaped, the garden has a large open space that blends art, music, and nature. Among the most unique aspects of the garden’s designs are the curves and bends, which resemble the inspiration for the flowing nature of music. Being a unique public space, the garden also pays tribute to Terry Fox, a Canadian athlete with an amputated leg who ran a marathon in support of cancer research.
The Distillery District
The pedestrian–only street nestled amidst quaint 19th-century buildings draws crowds each summer, thanks to its cobblestone roads, indie restaurants, bars, and boutiques. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Distillery District is its large whiskey distillery. Art lovers also come here to enjoy galleries and theatre performances and to simply lounge around in the open bars and pubs.
Nathan Philips Square
Located in the heart of the city, Nathan Philips Square is known for the iconic Toronto sign that draws crowds during the holidays. The square’s reflecting pool transforms into an ice-skating rink in the winter. Every year, the square hosts a variety of events, such as the Cavalcade of Lights, Remembrance Day Celebrations, concerts, and New Year’s Eve.
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
With over 18 million objects on display across 40 galleries, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) allows visitors to explore anything and everything. From unique century-old paintings to mummies, Chinese totem poles, and musical instruments, this museum provides a unique cultural experience like no other. As the country’s biggest museum, the ROM houses yearly curated exhibits ranging from First Nations to art, history, and archaeology.
Spadina House
This mansion-turned-museum showcases the Austin family’s contributions to Toronto’s financial and cultural life. The museum allows visitors to explore the house’s interior, which features period furnishings, décor, and six acres of restored lush green gardens.
Casa Loma
Believe it or not, Toronto has its own Gothic Revival mansion. Formerly owned by Sir Henry Pellatt, the famous heritage site boasts elegant rooms with ornate décor, perennial gardens, and hidden passages. Currently owned by the City of Toronto, Casa Loma is considered one of the city’s top tourist attractions and periodically hosts several winter and summer events like Chapman’s Ice Cream Festival and the Soul in the City Summer Music Festival.
Bata Shoe Museum
Located at the southwest corner of St George Street and Bloor Street West, the Bata shoe museum is more than a quirky venue to learn about shoes. The museum allows visitors to learn about the history of shoes through artifacts and displays dating back 4,500 years. It includes more than 13,000 objects on display across four galleries.
Toronto has no shortage of things to see and do. By exploring some of these must-see attractions, you can enrich your cultural journey through meaningful moments and deepen your understanding of Toronto’s historical legacy!
David Messiha | Staff Writer
