Wed. September 24, 2025
By Jerry Nunn
Travelers looking for an easy getaway from Chicago should look no further than Toronto, the largest city in Canada. It's a short flight from the Windy City to the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario and Porter Airlines operates daily to make the journey as smooth as possible.
After landing, hit the ground running and step over to the Bata Shoe Museum at 327 Bloor Street West for a history lesson in footwear spanning over 4500 years. Explore the museum's permanent exhibition, All About Shoes, to learn about how feet were bound in China and see displays of slippers from around the world.
Many destinations use CityPass and Toronto's pass covers a great deal of territory and saves over 30 percent off entrance fees. The company's partners include CN Tower with a bird's-eye view of the city and the massive Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, among others.
Use the pass to visit the Royal Ontario Museum and step back in time. The ROM is the largest museum in Canada and contains 18 artworks. To keep up with the rotating collections, visit rom.on.ca.
Check out a streetcar tour to see the various neighborhoods or visit the nearby Toronto Islands by ferry. Shop until you drop up and down Yonge Street to find unique gifts and special items from artists.
All of these excursions can work up an appetite and Toronto serves up international cuisine to satisfy weary travelers. The Waterworks Food Hall in King West prepares authentic dishes daily, ranging from Taco Lupita's Mexican food to Turkish delight at Liu Loqum Atelier.
For a new outdoor hot spot, stroll over to the picturesque waterfront of Queens Harbour. This Mediterranean-infused Asian restaurant combines flavors to create unique dishes in Canada's largest retractable rooftop patio.
For nightlife, try Woody's on Church for the drag scene or if you are lucky, stumble upon a street festival depending on the season. There's year-round live music and an active theater community.
Toronto has cultivated a diverse population living in a vibrant city full of entertainment and culture. With over 200 distinct communities, there's something for everyone in a place that celebrates its multiculturalism.
For more ideas, click over to destinationtoronto.com.
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