The Toronto Islands is an easy find in most travel books as a place to visit while in Toronto and there are plenty of reasons why. Most likely due to its bike trails, water sports, amusement park, large campgrounds and beaches, even an airport but wait... there is more!
Originally a peninsula, the Toronto Islands separated from the mainland as recently as 1852 thanks to a powerful storm. Since then the islands have had enough history to match that of a small town, which ironically it was for over a hundred years, in fact three hundred homes still exist to this day.
One of the islands, Algonquin, near the Ward Island ferry stop is by far one of my favourites, albeit with little known spots to enjoy a picnic. This spot only has a few tables, which are not necessary if you decide to sit on the grass and once there, you will be presented with one of the best views of the city. Better yet, wait for sunset and enjoy as the sun glides down into the horizon with Toronto as your foreground.
Not only is it a place most visitors will not find as it is a bit off the beaten path but you might get to chit chat with the locals who are both friendly and quite proud of their quiet vacation spot only 20 minutes away from North America's 5th most populous city.
Just remember, bring your camera and plenty of sandwiches.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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.
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"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!
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Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
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From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
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Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
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A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
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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.
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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!
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Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
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I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
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"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...
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145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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