This Friday in Toronto
 

We're flying to Toronto on Thurs. for a family event and we're probably going to have just one day to enjoy the city (tho' there's a chance we'll have some time again late Sat. afternoon and/or eve).

I've not been to Toronto since I was a little girl (I'm now over 50), my memory is that I fussed about having to go to the Science Museum, and then they had trouble getting me to leave. My husband also hasn't been since he was a little boy and he remembers nothing.

Suggestions of how to spend our time? Unfortunately it sounds like it might be showering, so indoor suggestions especially welcome.

Also, we're staying at the Holiday Inn Town Centre because that's where all the family are staying, and we're currently not planning to rent a car. However, we're walkers, and also from Philadelphia area and very used to buses, subways and trains.

Thanks in advance for any activity recommendations at this rather last minute!

You are a block from the Yonge St Subway so you could choose a number of options..

Head North... Yorkville is a great upscale village with shops, galleries, and the ROM and Beta shoe museum as well as afew blocks from the Bay/Bloor shopping district... also some great restaurants in the "celebrity district"... sassafrass and One in the Hazelton Hotel come to mind

Head South... Queen St W west is the funky boutique area on the edge of Toronto's Entertainment District... shops, dining,and street vendors and access to China town and Kensington Market ... lots of variety

Head Souther... Hockey Hall of Fame, Rogers Centre, Waterfront, CN Tower, Queens Quay, Island Ferries...

You could also stay around Yonge St and the Eaton Centre if shopping floats the boat...

With a full day, you could combine a few of the above and be well entertained....

Have Fun

If you are at all interested in 20th C. art, I would highly recommend "Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting" at the Art Gallery of Ontario. Of course, if you miss it in Toronto, it is moving on to Atlanta in February, its only US venue.

The ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) mentioned by garyt is a terrific idea for an indoor attraction. Wonderful and varied museum with exhibits covering Natural and Human History from all over the world (spectacular Dinosaur and Geology galleries, ancient art, etc.). http://www.rom.on.ca/en . As mentioned, this is near some upscale shopping districts which also offer fine dining opportunities.

Alternatively, heading to the southern downtown you could visit the St. Lawrence Market and then either head several blocks east to the Distillery District of shops and restaurants in historic buildings, or head several blocks west to enjoy spectacular views from the CN Tower followed by a walk around either the entertainment district with its many restaurants, or the Harbourfront (the latter might have more appeal in nicer weather).

Thanks all! Last night did lots of walking, went to open studios on Queen St and great jazz at the Rex, saw Old and new govt buildings on way back, now headed to St Lawrence Market (I love markets!) and either Distillery or ROM, depending on interests of others.

GL, you are clearly better informed about TO's attractions than many visitors and, indeed, city residents. Glad you had a good time. You are ready to reply to future questions on this board.

This Christmas market is happening in the Distillery district
http://www.torontochristmasmarket.com/