9 of the Best Views in Toronto and Where To Find Them

The CN Tower offers multiple ways to see the city, depending on your appetite for risk and how much you’re willing to spend. For people who crave adrenaline, there’s the EdgeWalk, where you can walk outside the building hands-free and secured by a harness. If you prefer an indoor experience, head to one of the CN Tower observation decks to take in the skyline. The tower also has a revolving restaurant in case you want to splash out for dinner with a view after you've taken it in from the observation decks.

Did you know?: The CN Tower's lower observation deck has a glass bottom.

Okay, maybe you’re seeking a Toronto viewpoint, but you don’t want to be hundreds of feet off the ground. That’s where the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) comes in. Your admission ticket not only grants you access to thousands of works by artists from Canada and around the world, but also a beautiful building renovated by the Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry. The AGO’s structural highlight is a curved wall of floor-to-ceiling glass and wood that lets you gaze upon buzzing downtown Toronto. It makes for great photos and even better people-watching.

It might be an unconventional pick for a scenic viewpoint, but the Toronto Public Library is another gem worth visiting for the architecture alone. Its curves and striking orange carpet demand photos, but you can also head to the upper levels of the library for views of bustling Yonge Street. There are wide windows and seating, and you can peer up at neighboring buildings from the skylights. Just don’t expect sweeping city views—this is a more local, and lower-key, option.

Insider tip: Entry to the Toronto Public Library is free.

Inspired by Gothic castles and easily accessible in Toronto’s midtown, Casa Loma is a popular tourist attraction for a reason. The historic mansion’s name is Spanish for “hill house,” and its location is part of its appeal: After climbing the winding staircases of Casa Loma’s towers, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the city skyline. You can book a guided tour to maximize your time at Casa Loma and uncover its secrets, including several hidden passageways and tunnels.

Another free viewpoint to add to your Toronto travel guide is Riverdale Park East, one of many scenic parks in Toronto. It’s fairly easily accessible by public transit, including street cars and the subway. Here, you can get some fresh air while taking in the downtown Toronto skyline. Bring a blanket to lie on, pack a picnic, and enjoy some peace away from the city’s more hectic center. It’s the ideal place to relax and see Toronto at sunset.

The Toronto Islands are a great option for a scenic day trip out of the city. On a clear day, the ferry ride over to the Islands is a photographer’s dream, and regardless of the weather, you'll be charmed by the Islands' quaint cottages, beaches, and lighthouse.

It’s a short ride from downtown Toronto, and you can time your return to sunset for an especially memorable journey. There are no cars allowed on the Islands, so you can cycle around with ease on a rental, or go on a bike tour to see some of the best viewpoints on land.

Polson Pier is the ideal spot for another free Toronto skyline experience, situated with views of both the lakefront and downtown Toronto. It's also not too far-flung: Take a streetcar and you’ll end up within 10 minutes’ walking distance from the viewing point. As a bonus, the streetcar ride itself is striking, since it faces Toronto Harbour. To upgrade your experience, book a Toronto Harbour cruise.

Insider tip: Head to the nearby Distillery District afterward and walk along the charming cobblestones streets.

The CN Tower’s restaurant isn’t the only spot in Toronto where you can combine your meal with a view of the skyline. For a more moody atmosphere, head to the Writers Room Bar at the Park Hyatt Toronto, where you can dine on a well-curated menu of classics, such as oysters, burgers, beef tartare, and more. Otherwise, Paupers Pub offers a more casual neighborhood vibe in a charming 3-story building that used to be a bank.

There are several rooftop bars in Toronto to choose from for an evening out: A classic option for stellar views. Evangeline bar at the Ace Hotel Toronto has sleek interiors, delicious cocktails, and features a rotating selection of works by local artists. The bar’s events and parties are worth checking out if you’re in town, and the rooftop is open year-round. The Rooftop at The Broadview Hotel is another great indoor bar with expansive views and a large rooftop terrace.