ere’s what you might not know about Toronto’s most famous attractions and neighborhoods. Ever seen a Martian meteorite up close or strolled through a set straight out of a blockbuster film?
In Toronto, you can! Many of the city’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods have intriguing tales waiting to be uncovered.
1. The CN Tower braves every storm
Soaring at 1,815 feet, the CN Tower is Toronto’s most recognizable feature, offering unmatched panoramic views of the city.
Here’s something fascinating: as the tallest structure in Toronto, it’s a frequent target for lightning, getting hit about 75 times a year. Search Instagram for CN Tower lightning strikes, and you’ll find breathtaking images of this natural spectacle.
2. Ripley’s Aquarium is home to 12 sharks
Among the 16,000 sea creatures at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, there are 12 majestic sharks. Wondering what’s on their menu? They only eat three times a week, thanks to their slow metabolism.
The building itself has special protective measures to prevent electrical interference from disturbing the sharks. Happy sharks make for happy visitors!
3. The Royal Ontario Museum showcases Martian meteorites
Is there life on Mars? That’s still a mystery, but the ROM houses a collection of meteorites, including three originating from Mars.
Meteorites—essentially space debris—are more common than you might think, with over 100 having landed on Earth so far.
4. The Art Gallery of Ontario boasts a famous sculpture
Before Yayoi Kusama’s Let’s Survive Forever captivated Toronto, one of the AGO’s most renowned pieces was Henry Moore’s Large Two Forms. This massive sculpture remains one of the city’s most photographed works.
Located at the AGO’s rear in Grange Park, it’s the largest Moore sculpture housed in the gallery.
5. The Toronto Islands host the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes
For history buffs, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, built in 1809, is a must-see. And for ghost hunters? It’s a hotspot for spooky tales.
Legend has it that the lighthouse’s first keeper, John Paul Radelmüller, mysteriously disappeared and now haunts the area.
6. The Distillery District is brimming with ghost stories
This pedestrian-only neighborhood, once home to the Gooderham & Worts distillery, is steeped in history—and spooky encounters.
Haunted tours are a popular attraction, including Segway tours and eerie walks. It’s the perfect alternative for your next Halloween adventure.
7. St. Lawrence Market was Toronto’s first market
Dating back nearly 200 years, St. Lawrence Market originated to meet the needs of York’s (now Toronto’s) growing population.
Today, it’s a bustling hub for food enthusiasts, offering everything from local delicacies to artisanal treats.
8. The Hockey Hall of Fame has a virtual rink
Want to sharpen your hockey skills? Head to the Hockey Hall of Fame and test your slapshot against virtual hockey legends like Carey Price and Frederik Anderson.
Use a real puck and stick in their immersive model rink to test your skills against the digital goalies.
9. Casa Loma doubles as a movie set
North America’s only castle, Casa Loma, is renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and stunning gardens—but did you know it’s also a Hollywood favorite?
It’s been featured in films like X-Men, Chicago, and Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World. Walk its halls, and you may recognize it as Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters!
10. The Toronto Zoo started with one deer
Hard to believe, but Canada’s largest zoo, now home to over 5,000 animals, began in the 1890s with just one deer.
Daniel Lamb’s humble gift sparked the creation of Riverdale Zoo in Cabbagetown, which eventually grew into the Toronto Zoo.
Today, visitors can explore its expansive 2.87 km² grounds, featuring habitats like the African Savannah and the Gorilla Rainforest.
Toronto Travel Guide | What to See and Do in "The Six"
Video by See You Leda
