Toronto is a city that never sleeps, a place that mirrors the ambitions of its residents. Yet, tucked within this dynamic urban landscape are tranquil spaces and hidden gems, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
Whenever life feels overwhelming, I find solace in these spots. Whether standing atop the city’s tallest buildings or gazing out over the calm shores of Lake Ontario, these views have a way of grounding me and reigniting my ambitions.
Below, I’ve rounded up my favorite spots where you’ll find the best views in Toronto.
1. CN Tower
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Website: https://www.cntower.ca/en-ca/home.html
Location: 290 Bremner Blvd
Operating hours: Daily, 10 AM–9:30 PM
Phone: +14168686937
Timed General Admission: $45 Adult, $32 Seniors, $32 Kids 6-13, $16 Kids 6-5
The CN Tower offers a panoramic, bird’s-eye view of Toronto from a staggering height of 553 meters. You’ll see the sprawling urban skyline, Lake Ontario’s waters, and on clear days, even Niagara Falls.
If you’re brave enough, sign up for EdgeWalk, an adrenaline-pumping experience that rewards you with unparalleled views and unforgettable photo opportunities. You’ll walk around the tower’s edge with nothing but open air between you and the city below.
You can opt for a more relaxing way to soak in the scenery. Just book a table at the 360 Restaurant, sip some wine, and indulge in gourmet meals while enjoying the view.
Admission is required to enter the CN Tower, except for 360 guests.
Pro Tip:
Book tickets in advance and arrive early in the day to avoid huge crowds.
2. Polson Pier
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Location: Toronto, ON M5A 1A4
Operating hours: 24 Hours
Admission: Free
Polson Pier might be every photographer’s favorite spot in Toronto. It offers unobstructed views of the gorgeous skyline, including the CN Tower, perfectly reflected in the waters of Lake Ontario.
At certain hours of the day, it’s a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. But it can be quite packed as well since locals love to come here and see the sunset.
I think the scenery at night is equally beautiful so stick around to catch the skyscrapers light up the skyline. It’s also less crowded, perfect for those who want to avoid the huge crowds.
Pro Tip:
If you want to see the sunset, arrive early to secure an ideal spot with unobstructed views. You can sit along the boardwalk or on the grass.
3. Riverdale Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/343/index.html
Location: 550 Broadview Ave
Operating hours: 24 Hours
Phone: +14163922489
Admission: Free
At Riverdale Park, you’ll have captivating views of Toronto’s cityscape and an old woodland. The best spot is on the hill in the eastern part of the park because it offers panoramic views of the skyline, framed by lush greenery and the open sky.
Sunset hour is always magical as you’ll see streaks of orange peaking behind the skyscrapers. However, locals like to come here at various times of the day for a picnic.
It’s free to visit, and even when it’s bustling with activity, you’ll have no trouble finding a peaceful spot to relax.
Pro Tip:
Bring a picnic blanket so you can sit comfortably on the patchy grass.
4. Sir Isaac Brock Bridge
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Location: 9 Bathurst St
Operating hours: 24 Hours
Admission: Free
Located along Bathurst Street, Sir Isaac Brock Bridge offers a striking vantage point of Toronto’s Downtown core. It’s a must-visit for those seeking cinematic views of the cityscape.
The CN Tower stands tall amidst the high-rises, and if you look down from the bridge, you’ll see the crisscrossing railway tracks, adding a dynamic layer to the cityscape. I suggest visiting after dark to catch the stunning skyline illuminated against the night sky.
It’s a busy area, but there’s enough space for you to cross the bridge safely. Although you can always stop to admire the view and snap photos of the cityscape, you can’t linger too long as it’s a pedestrian walkway.
Pro Tip:
If you’re moving toward Fort York Boulevard, stay on the left side of the bridge to have unobstructed views of the CN Tower and the cityscape.
5. Chester Hill Lookout
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Location: Chester Hill Rd
Operating hours: 24 Hours
Admission: Free
Tucked away in a quiet residential area, Chester Hill Lookout offers picturesque views of the Downtown core, the Bloor Viaduct, and the Evergreen Brick Works. You can stop by any time, but the night scene is extra special and worth experiencing.
You’ll see the twinkling lights and skyscrapers, including the CN tower, peeking in the distance. In the summer, the foliage looks very lush and green, but winters are also nice once a bed of snow blankets the entire city.
Since there aren’t any seats around, most people come here just to take a few photos and soak in the views.
Pro Tip:
The lookout is about a 10-minute walk from Broadview Station, making it very accessible using the subway.
6. Toronto Island Ferry
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Location: 11 Queens Quay W
Operating hours (Winter): Daily 6:30 AM -11:30 PM
Phone: +14163928193
Ticket: $8.70 Adult (Roundtrip)
One of the best ways to see Toronto is from the water. When you hop on the Toronto Island Ferry, whether you’re bound for Center Island, Hanlan’s Point, or Ward’s Island, you’re treated to ever-changing views of the skyline.
The ferry schedule varies per season, but you can catch it every 30 minutes from the harbor. Typically, the first trip from the harbor leaves early in the morning, around 6:30 during Winter hours, and the last trip leaves late at night.
You should schedule a trip around sunset so you can snap panoramic views of Toronto as the sun disappears on the horizon. Then, on your way back to the harbor, you can witness breathtaking views of the city as the night deepens and the vibrant city lights up.
Pro Tip:
Buy your tickets online in advance for extra convenience. If you do, you get to enter the terminal through a separate line during peak travel hours.
7. AP Yorkville
Media credit: the51stfloor
Website: https://apyorkville.com/
Location: 55 Bloor St W 51st Floor
Operating hours:
- Sunday-Wednesday, 5 PM–11 PM
- Thursday-Saturday, 5 PM–12 AM
Phone: +14169670000
AP Yorkville offers a breathtaking dining experience on the 51st floor. On their North and South patios, you can indulge in a luxurious multiple-course meal under the stars with the beautiful Toronto skyline in the backdrop.
It’s one of the most romantic patios in Toronto. They like to switch up the menu every season to bring fresh experiences, extraordinary flavor, and a truly memorable dining experience.
But what I like the most about this spot is that it’s open 7 days a week, so there’s always an opportunity to treat yourself. Although it’s a splurge, the combination of breathtaking views, impeccable service, and culinary artistry makes it worth every penny.
Pro Tip:
They accept reservations, but they welcome walk-ins as well. I recommend booking a table in advance because it’s quite a popular spot.
8. Humber Bay Park West
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1074/index.html
Location: 2225 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke
Operating hours: 24 Hours
Phone: +14163922489
Admission: Free
Humber Bay, a hidden gem tucked away in Toronto’s west end, offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city with the most captivating views. From here, you can admire the Toronto skyline across the calm waters of Lake Ontario.
The park is divided into two sections: East and West. While both offer scenic trails and an escape into nature, the West side is where you’ll discover the most breathtaking skyline views, along with peaceful spots to relax or picnic.
On clear mornings, the rising sun casts a golden glow over the cityscape, creating a stunning reflection on the lake. It’s a dreamlike scene for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Pro Tip:
Pack binoculars for bird watching.
9. Trillium Park
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Website: https://ontarioplace.com/en/whats-on/trillium-park/
Location: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
Operating hours: Daily, 6 AM–11 PM
Phone: +14163149900
Admission: Free
Trillium Park is a sprawling 7.5-acre green space located along Lake Ontario. As you walk along its rocky shoreline, you’ll see the Toronto skyline in the distance with the CN Tower standing tall amidst the high-rises.
What makes Trillium Park special is its thoughtful design, inspired by Ontario’s landscapes. It features native plants, lush green spaces, and public art installations that celebrate the province’s natural heritage.
My favorite time to visit is during sunset. The lake reflects the warm, golden colors, making it a stunning backdrop for photos.
Pro Tip:
Pack a picnic and set up near the water for an unforgettable dining experience with a view.