An Alternative Guide to Toronto and Its Best-Kept Secrets
From a tucked-away speakeasy to Shakespeare’s First Folio to a wacky, real-life dollhouse, here are nine alternative spots that are the best-kept secrets in the city of Toronto.
Toronto, Ontario’s capital city, is buzzing with just shy of 3 million residents and a booming tourism industry. In 2017, the city had a record-breaking year, welcoming 43 million visitors – which is no surprise considering the countless tourist attractions, local events and concerts as well as the growing, superb restaurant scene. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t still secret gems to be discovered far from the crowds and loved by Torontonians. Here are nine of Toronto’s best-kept secrets and where to find them.
1. Read first-edition books at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library
Library
2. Step back in time at the Aga Khan Museum
Museum, Park
3. Catch a wave at Woodbine Beach
Natural Feature
While the city isn’t known for its beaches, surfers gather during the coldest winter days to surf the icy waters at Woodbine Beach. Though you can often find Torontonians hitting the waves year-round, winter storms tend to bring in the biggest waves from December to February. Don’t know how to surf? Local company Surf the Greats will get you started with a 2.5-hour class covering the basics and getting you up on your first wave.
4. Warm up with a cocktail at Coffee Oysters Champagne
Bar, Cocktails, Coffee, Seafood
This restaurant may be in Toronto’s busy entertainment district, but with strict reservations, it keeps the crowd small for intimate gatherings. The best part? Follow the champagne tour to discover the secret speakeasy, À Toi, in the back of the restaurant, and get your dancing shoes ready. The restaurant offers the largest collection of champagne in the city, with endless options ranging from cheap sparkling wine to a $4,888 bottle of vintage Louis Roederer ‘Cristal’ Brut – in case you’re feeling fancy.
5. Listen to local legends at Lee’s Palace
Music Venue, Building, Shop
6. Score vintage finds at Black Market Clothing
Store
7. Skip Steam Whistle and grab a pint at The Maddie
Bar, Pub, Beer
8. Smell the roses at Allan Gardens
Park
9. Feel the weight of a thousand eyes at Leslieville’s Crazy Doll House
Museum
Find one of Toronto’s strangest curiosities in the quiet neighbourhood of Leslieville, where owner Shirley Sumaiser has decked out her house in hundreds of toys. Known as the resident ‘dollhouse,’ the site gives passers-by the chance to spot Hello Kitties, the Toy Story gang, Mickey Mouse and many more notable characters. With a collection growing for over 20 years, visitors should be sure to stop by time and time again, as there are often seasonal additions for each holiday.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.