Discover our locals' 144 hidden gems in Toronto
Let's uncover Toronto’s hidden gems with Spotted by Locals! From cozy cafes and local boutiques to unique art spots and lively bars, our Spotters share the city's authentic charm. Experience Toronto through the eyes of true locals.
City guides by those who know Toronto best!
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Things to do in Toronto
The Green Jar – A sweet sustainable shop
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Allan Gardens Conservatory – Ready for some green?
"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
By
Mauricio
Alas
Arcadia Earth – An inspiring, immersive experience
Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Arts Market – Great selection of artisanal gifts
From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
A Different Booklist – A bookstore for better
A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
The Latest Scoop – Treasure trove for trend seekers
Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Karma Co-op – A co-op for the conscious consumer
Somewhat tucked away in the Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, this sweet shop welcomes you with a selection of locally made baked goods you can take to-go.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Ecotique – Great for eco-friendly goods and gifts
I’ve bought a bunch here, from seed bombs to sustainable swaps like planet-friendly nail polish, and a pair of mittens made from old sweaters!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Pretty Clean Shop – A sustainable & stunning shop
There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Coal Miner's Daughter – Canadian clothing and more
Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Brodawka & Friends – Sweet store for grabbing gifts
I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Broadview Espresso – Comfy coffee corner
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
By
Jeffrey
Wood
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What to do in Toronto?
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.