The most breathtaking views of Toronto delight passers-by, professional photographers and amateur Instagrammers with new ways to appreciate the city. Whether at dawn or dusk, or even during a super storm, these locations give us all a chance to marvel at the metropolis we call home.
Do you have a breathtaking view that we missed? Send a photo of your best view in Toronto, and we will add it to the growing list. Email photo to: [email protected]. Don’t forget the photo credit!
1. Riverdale Park
Grab a hot beverage from Rooster Coffee House and enjoy it as you walk north up Broadview. It’s what Daniel Radcliffe and Zoe Kazan did in the rom-com The F Word and it’s the perfect way to admire the city as its skyscrapers loom just beyond the park.
2. Toronto Islands
The ferry ride across Lake Ontario provides stellar views of the downtown core, as do the Toronto Islands. Whether you’re cycling or walking around, a trip to the Islands gives you the chance to gaze at the city from an entirely new perspective. (At this time the ferries to Centre and Hanlan’s are closed due to flooding, however the businesses on Ward’s Island are open for business.)
3. BMO Field
When cheering on Toronto FC from the top of the BMO Field stands you’re not only ensconced in a sea of red-and-white-clad fans, you’re also looking at one of the best views of the city. It’s worth it even if you’re not into football.
4. Humber Bay
This picturesque spot in the city’s west-end is a favourite of cyclers, joggers and photographers. You can view the skyline from the area’s iconic arch bridge, or venture into Humber Bay Park before dawn to watch the sun rise over the city.
5. Chester Hill Lookout
Chester Hill Lookout might be one of the best makeout spots in the city, due in part because it offers stunning views of downtown, the Don Valley and the Bloor Viaduct. You won’t find a perspective in which the city looks more lush than this one.
6. Bathurst St. Bridge
This thoroughfare that runs above the Front Street railway tracks offers a unique, sidelong view of the downtown core. When walking or jogging along the bridge, it’s always tempting to take a photo of the CN Tower and Rogers Centre, which appear as if they’re right beside you. If you tire of the skyscrapers, turn your head to admire Fort York.
7. Polson Pier
A visit to the Port Lands, and Cabana Pool Bar, is never complete without snapping a shot of Toronto’s skyline. However, if the thought of spending $20 (or more) to lie by a pool gives you the chills, you can experience similarly spectacular views from all over Polson Pier, including the parking lot across from Sound Academy.
8. The One Eighty
Located on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre, this pricey patio in Yorkville offers 180 degree views of the city. Head here if you’re itching to sip luxurious cocktails and munch on cornish hen or beef carpaccio way up in the sky.
9. CN Tower
What list of Toronto viewpoints would be complete without the CN Tower? A trip up will cost you (it’s $35), but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the GTA and beyond. You can always combine your visit with a meal at 360, the revolving restaurant. Or try the Edgewalk if you’re feeling daring.
10. Porter Plane
Other than the lounge and unlimited in-flight drinks, the best part of flying Porter is the view you’re privy to upon take-off and landing. As you soar above Toronto, you get to see the city from an entirely new vantage point. There’s nothing quite as grounding as that.
Photos by Spyhopphoto, Empty Quarter, Howard Yang, Jennifer Robblee, Neil Ta, twurdemann, Jason Allies and sandifjm.
