The City of Toronto has an ancient history. In 1648, a French explorer named Etienne Brûlé was sent into what would become Canada by Samuel de Champlain to see if it was worth colonizing for the English crowns sending out settlements in Newfoundland at that time. He found many rivers and portages leading up from the St. Lawrence river valley towards Lake Huron, possibly reaching lakes Superior or Michigan as well! The natives already living there called this area “Toronto,” meaning “meeting place.”
When the British won their war against France in 1763, they set up a trading post called York on this very spot. More than 40 years later, when an American army ran roughshod over Canada during its occupation from 1812-1814, devastating fires destroyed much of what existed before finally bringing about the growth that would last into modern-day Toronto! More than just a diverse mix of cultures, Toronto is the perfect example of how globalization can work best when it embraces differences and allows people from all over the world to come together as one city with many unique neighborhoods.
Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Toronto
Despite being a vibrant and expensive city to live in, Toronto has no shortage of things to do on a budget. Here are some of the best ideas:
Distillery District: The Distillery Historic District is the most extensive and best-preserved collection of Victorian industrial architecture in downtown Toronto. It’s also home to unique shops, bars that you won’t find anywhere else on this site or any other of the great lakes, and even restaurants that serve up some of the most delicious food in town and that too at a reasonable price!
For decades, St. Lawrence Market: The Market has been a popular tourist destination. It houses three historic buildings and 120 vendors who offer their wares in foodstuffs or collectibles such as furniture. The public space outside provides great spots to people-watch while enjoying an inexpensive meal from one of our many local restaurants!
Harbourfront Centre: The Toronto Harbourfront Centre is a non-profit organization that offers free cultural activities. Located along Lake Ontario in downtown Toronto, visitors can stroll 10 acres of land and enjoy parks or skate during winter months on their way there! The center houses lecture halls where you may hear fascinating stories from an artist’s perspective while also buying art supplies if you are interested – it does have something for everyone at this fantastic location!
Yorkville: Yorkville is a posh pocket of downtown Toronto that houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. The area features quaint Victorian architecture with an upscale feel; many celebrities frequent this part of town because you can spot them strolling along Yorkville’s sidewalk during the annual Canadian film festival (September).
Yonge-Dundas Square: Yonge-Dundas Square is a public space in downtown Toronto where you’ll find free events such as movies, concerts, and promotions. It’s much akin to Times Square back home–you know? The place that always has something going on!
Ripley’s Aquarium: A relatively new attraction to Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium has quickly become a popular spot to visit. It’s located in the heart of downtown and is home to more than 16,000 aquatic animals! Admission is a bit pricey, but there are ways to get discounts if you’re willing to do some research.
The 360 Restaurant: It is one of Canada’s finest dining destinations, located atop the iconic CN Tower in Toronto. Featuring spectacular views for miles around and an innovative Canadian-sourced seasonal menu with wines from Ontario to internationally renowned regions such as Tuscany or Bordeaux – it doesn’t get much better than this!
Casa Loma: Toronto’s castle; Casa Loma offers an exciting perspective on the city. It’s a great place to visit if you have kids because they will enjoy running around in the gardens and checking out all of the different rooms! Admission is relatively cheap compared to other tourist destinations in Toronto, and it’s open all year round.
3SK Cafe: It is the perfect place to get your daily dose of healthy food. With options for vegans, keto diets, and gluten-free eaters alike – you’re bound to find something that appeals! Get it on one of their signature muffins or enjoy some soup in between lunchtimes at school with their new samosa pizza (it’s always vegetarian)!
9 Bars Cafe: It is a family-owned business specializing in South American and Italian cuisine. It’s just east of Yonge Street on St. Clair Avenue, making it easy for me to stop by when I’m feeling Systemized!
A & W: At A&W, they’re on a journey to source simple ingredients. For them, great burgers come first; so naturally, this means that they are also serving beef raised without using hormones or steroids, as well as a chicken that has been antibiotic-free since day one! They pride themselves in having high standards for their food, and you can taste the care put into everything they serve.
Toronto, Canada, is a beautiful city with diverse cultures and history. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, there are many sights to see! Grab your friends or family members and check out these excellent sites around town! Â Whatever it is that brings you to Toronto’s shores, make sure not to miss any of these incredible attractions before leaving. Happy exploring! If you’re looking for some budget-friendly things to do that won’t break your wallet, this list should help get you started on an unforgettable experience.