Toronto: World-Class City
For those of you haven’t visited or spent a lot of time in Toronto, it is the largest city in Canada and certainly one of the most vibrant cities in North America! The University of Toronto spans numerous blocks of prime city real estate in downtown Toronto. Since U of T is in the heart of the city, you have a front-row seat to the city’s exciting multicultural spirit, its great neighbourhoods, and cosmopolitan flare. Don’t let the size scare you! Toronto is ranked as the safest large metropolitan area in North America by Places Rated Almanac.
U of T: In the Heart of it All
One of the best things about being located in downtown Toronto is that you can walk for 10 minutes in any direction and end up in one of the city’s hottest spots. Some of the major attractions just minutes from the St. George Campus of U of T include: CN Tower (one of the world’s tallest free-standing structures), the Roger’s Centre (formerly SkyDome), the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Ontario Place, the Air Canada Centre, Harbourfront, and trendy neighbourhoods such as Yorkville and Kensington Market.
Diversity
What makes someone a Torontonian? Half of the city’s residents were born outside of Canada, which speaks volumes about what a diverse city Toronto is. With such a variety of ethnic groups and communities, unique pockets of the city grow with the flavours and spice only found when traveling to foreign countries. Restaurants, shops, religious sites, and community centers offer a virtual ticket to another exotic land. You can visit exciting neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Greektown, Little Italy, and Little India and be immersed in the culture and cuisine from far off lands.
Arts & Entertainment
As a world-class city, the arts and culture community is one of Toronto’s greatest features. Toronto is home to the second most active theatre scene in North America, and is home to numerous shows, symphonies, ballets, operas, movie theatres, and music concerts of every type. The city also hosts the Toronto International Film Festival, the second most important film festival in the world. U of T is also very close to Toronto’s Entertainment District, which features clubs, lounges, bars, restaurants, theatres, coffee shops, and much more!
Shopping
What about shopping?! No matter what your taste and budget, you’re bound to find exactly what you want and need. For trendy and unique items, try Queen Street West. For a large-scale mall experience, The Eaton Centre is a one-stop shop. For up-scale fashion, Yorkville is the place to go. If vintage is more your style, you’ll love Kensington Market!
Sports & Leisure
Whether you like catching a game on a Sunday afternoon or taking a leisurely bike ride around the city, Toronto’s a great place for sports and leisure. Sports fans can check out: NHL hockey, Major League Baseball, NBA basketball, CFL football, as well as professional lacrosse and soccer teams (the Toronto FC is Toronto’s soccer team). For those who prefer biking, jogging and rollerblading, check out High Park, the Toronto Islands, the Lakeshore area and the many cycling and jogging routes all over the city. Beyond Toronto’s borders are more fantastic locations to visit: Niagara Falls, the wine region and outdoor adventures – all within one to two hours away.
So there you have it… Toronto is a fantastic place for everyone—regardless of what your interests. Be sure to check out our newest podcast to hear what our students have to say about Toronto life!
