11 Almost Freebies in Toronto

Do you have too much money your pocket? Nor do it. Still looking for excitement? So am I. Here are a few ways to have a little adventure that will not break the bank. You need to to be a little a little creative if you want to treat your and your family to a memorable day and still have money left over to pay the mortgage. Here I will attempt to show you how and where, when you are in Toronto Canada, so jump aboard and leave the credit card at home.

AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario)

Located in the heart of Toronto at 317 Dundas Street at McCaul, the Art Gallery of Ontario has a collection of  more than 90 000 works of art on display and is recognized as one of the premier museums in North America and makes it an art enthusiasts delight. With many visiting and special exhibits there is something for everyone at the AGO. As a long standing practice the AGO waives the general admission cost on Wednesday evening from 5:30 pm. Please get there early as there is often a line to gain access.

The Distillery District.

What is now known as the Distillery district was once as you may have guessed was working distillery. Founded in 1832 the Gooderham and Wort distillery operated on these premises. At the time there we not only the largest purveyor of spirits but they were also the largest tax paying business in Canada. With the decline of the business, the building fell into ill repair and was subsequently closed down. However after a  major renovation and a grand reopening in 2003 the “Distillery area” is a thriving area for both locals tourists and city dwellers alike. The area now boasts more than 40 boutique shops, restaurants and galleries. Step back in time and visit the Distillery area. Located at 55 Mills st.

High Park.

Located just north of Sunny side is High Park. The park consist of approximately 900 hectares of land located in the west side of the city. With many attraction the park has much to offer. These include an off leash dog park, a botanical garden, a Zoo, Kilometers of walking trails, and Grenadier pond. As legend has it the British grenadiers were making a winter patrol along Grenadier Pond when the officer in charge decided to cross the ice. They broke through and all drowned. The pond was named after the Grenadiers. With something to do for people of all ages High park is great way to spend an afternoon. The park is easily accessible from Keele subway station.

 

Kensington Market

No trip to downtown Toronto is complete without a a wander through historic Kensington market. Unlike the St. Lawrence market, Kensington market is an open air street market. Located From College street to Dundas St and just west of Spadina avenue. Initially  a market for immigration families in the 1940”s the market has taken on a character of it own. With it collection of eclectic shops and restaurants Kensington has something for everyone. Have a cup of tea and get a tattoo while browsing the bongs in the head shop. With all its changes it has still retained its original charm, however I doubt you will ever hear some shout from across the street “Hey King!”

St Lawrence Market

St Lawrence Market is located in what is now known as “the Old Town,” but for everyone else it located at 92-95 Front street at Jarvis street.  Since 1803 the market has been at the centre of the culinary scene in Toronto. It has been a place for generations of Torontonians to immerse themselves into the community similarly to what it may have been 217 years ago. Of Course the buildings have grown since then but the heart remains the same. Fresh food abound the STM is a must stop for locals and visitors.The St Lawrence Market is open Tuesdays to Friday from 8am and Saturdays from 5am. Please note saturday morning can be busy.

Ontario Place

Located just south of  Exhibition Place on the shores of Lake Ontario resides Ontario Place. This park consists of three offshore island that opened in 1971. Ontario place was conceived as an entertainment and family park. The jewel(s) in the Ontario place crown was the forum – an outdoor concert venue with revolving stage and the Imax theatre Cinesphere. Sadly only the cinesphere remains on the park lands. The park closed in 2012 and remained vacant to most people until 2017 when they opened William G Davis trail. The  trail allows users to walk/ ride through the grounds. At the time of this being written the Government of Ontario are still disputing what will become of this amazing waterfront property. Until then enjoy the trail and attractions that seem to arise sporadically. Admission for trail use is free.

The Riverdale Farm

Located in the east side of Toronto there is a gem known as the Riverdale farm. This is a working farm in the middle of the city in what is known as Cabbagetown- 201 Winchester st, in from Parliament st. With over 7.5 acres of land available, visitors can get a first hand opportunity to understand what is like to work on a farm. From raising livestock ( cows, chickens and pigs)  to the herb gardens in the summertime.. The Riverdale farm has been a popular attraction for people near and far. The farm is open year round and admission is free. A real rural feeling found in an urban setting.

ROM ( Royal Ontario Museum)

Artifacts and antiquities, from prehistoric creatures to fine china the Royal Ontario Museum has this and so much more. Being one of the primary museums of its kind in Canada it worth a visit. This museum is constantly evolving and so that I don’t miss anything I recommend attending as often as possible to enjoy the new exhibits and installations. Located at Bloor St and university Avenue. The museum currently offers free general admission access every 3rd Monday of the month from 530. A must see at any price.

Sunnyside Park

Located on the shore of Lake Ontario Sunnyside park is a testament to an ever changing city. Officially opening in 1922 Sunnyside consisted of a swimming pool and a separate bathers pavilion. In the years that followed an amusement park was created that included a band stand and roller coaster- “ the Flyer”. Today all that remains is a pavilion with a swimming pool and a delightful restaurant- “the Sunset grill” that over looks the beach and the lake. Ideal for people watching and relaxing. The Sunnyside area has been a source of recreation for years. Easily located at the foot of Parkside drive.

Tommy Thompson Park

As the city has grown so has Tommy Thompson park. Located at the base of the Leslie street at the Leslie spit, Tommy Thompson park is an amazing place that consists of 250 hectares of parkland which includes trails for both walking and cycling and includes an animal preserve- so be careful while riding as you don’t want to hit a turtle or otter. Originally an add on from land fill  the park has grown into a living testament of green space in a large city. As you venture deeper into the park you may come across the lighthouse located at the point – I would like to say it is haunted but I don’t think it is, however this could be a good forum to start a rumour. From here there are some great viewing and picture taking opportunities of the City of Toronto and Centre island. Be warned, on warm days bring water and enjoy the outdoors.

The Waterfront Trail ( Martin B. Goodman Trail)

For those that would like a little more exercise, another activity that you can utilize is the Toronto Waterfront trail. This trail extends from Etobicoke in the west to the Beach area in the east. Although I do not know the exact distance of the trail I would suggest that it is about 50 Km from point to point. These trails are well maintained and are used by both pedestrians and cyclists, so be aware of one another. Bicycle rental are available along these routes and the network is forever expanding. There are many restaurants on this trail so you can stop at anytime to enjoy a refreshing drink. Many of the locations listed above are accessible by bicycle, but please bring a lock for the safety of your bicycle and a helmet for your personal safety.

 

I hope I was able to show that you do not have to a great deal of disposable income to treat you and your family to a great day out. If museums are not something that you feel like doing then try one of the other options. Perhaps a day at the market, or viewing the Cherry Blossoms at High Park will be closer to your liking. Whatever you are seeking there is always an option available, all you need to do is be a little creative.

If you have been to any of the locations please let me know of your experience in the comment box. If you know of other places please comment on those too..

Wherever you destination. … Enjoy.

VTE.