Toronto is one of Canada's most exciting cities. There are a lot of things to do in the capital of Ontario.

What's the best part? Toronto is an expensive city but there is a lot to see and do. There are many things to do in Toronto for free.

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1. Photograph Graffiti Alley

Toronto has a debate about what is graffiti and what is street art. Rush Lane is an art space that is meant to be an art space and has become a Toronto favorite due to the colorful murals. The alley is filled with art from some of the city's most notable street artists. There is always something new to look at, even if some pieces have remained over time.

It is recommended that you visit during the daytime so you can get some great shots of the artwork and keep your camera dry. It's a good idea to start early.

People walk by food stalls at an indoor market
St Lawrence Market is one of the best places to go in Toronto on a rainy day © iStockphoto / Getty Images

2. People watch in the historic St Lawrence Market

St Lawrence Market is one of Toronto's most well-known institutions. It has been open for over two centuries and is still an important part of the city. A weekly antique market and farmers market are always a huge hit at the market. Tourists and locals alike come here to shop. The atmosphere of St Lawrence Market can be enjoyed without spending money. People watch and experience a little bit of Toronto's history in what is considered to be one of the world's great markets.

On a rainy day, the St Lawrence market is a great place to go indoors. You can visit the farmers' market on Saturday or the antique market on Sunday.

Arches are reflected in a pool below as we look across the water in Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto; Free things to do in Toronto
Toronto's Nathan Phillips Sq hosts events throughout the year © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet

3. Catch the action at Nathan Phillips Square

The Toronto Sign, the big block letters that every visitor loves to take photos with, is located in NathanPhillips Sq., which is the heart of Toronto. A number of special events can be found at the plaza. There are a lot of things going on in this part of the city, so be sure to check it out when you are in the area.

It is best to see the Toronto sign at night.

A person walks their dog through High Park in Toronto as the leaves on the trees turn orange; Free things to do in Toronto
Get close to nature for free in Toronto's High Park  © Jessica Lam / Lonely Planet

4. Visit the animals at High Park

High Park is a great place for visitors to go for free outdoor activities. It is a great place to escape the city in search of nature. The High Park Zoo is free to visit from 9am to 5pm on weekdays. There are a lot of animals at the zoo.

If you want to see cherry blossoms in the spring, be sure to stop by High Park.

People in downtown Toronto rest under pink umbrellas on a beach beside a lake as a large cargo ship passes by
Toronto's beach season runs from June to September © iStockphoto / Getty Images

5. Soak up the sunshine at Toronto’s beaches

Many of the city's waterfront parks have sand and pebble beaches where visitors and locals can sunbathe, swim, or even play beach volleyball. The official beach season lasts from June to September, but beaches can be visited all year long.

Taking the ferry to one of Toronto's islands will allow you to see the city from a different perspective.

6. Browse through Toronto’s free museums and historical sites

General admission to 10 history museums and sites in Toronto is free for visitors. The top picks are Colborne Lodge, Fort York National Historic site, Gibson House Museum, Market Gallery, Montgomery's Inn, and Todmorden Mills. The focus on these sites is part of a city-wide drive to make cultural history available to everyone.

There are times in Toronto when admission is free. One of the best free things to do in Toronto at night is the Royal Ontario Museum, which is free on the third Tuesday of every month.

People walk through a neighbourhood in Toronto
The Distillery District has been redeveloped into a vibrant neighborhood filled with entertainment © iStockphoto / Getty Images

7. Window shop in the Distillery District

The Distillery District of Toronto is a national historic site. One of the top arts, culture and entertainment destinations in all of Canada is what was once a whisky distillery that was founded in the late 18th century.

There aren't any chain businesses in this area. There are many unique shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and theaters in the area. It is a lot of fun to browse through the different galleries and businesses in the old Victorian buildings.

Toronto's Winter Village is a Christmas market that is held in the Distillery District. There are a few times and dates where admission is free, however, outside of those times, tickets are required.

The article was published in August of 2019.