Things to Do in Toronto

By Lynette Locke

Straddling the shores of Lake Ontario, today’s Toronto is a city that embodies urban chic, new technology and sheer natural beauty. You can call it Muddy York, T.O. or Hollywood North, but fans of science, art, sports and nature say it’s the place to indulge their passions.

One can see how art and science are applied throughout the city. Take, for instance, the breathtaking view from the top of the CN Tower, 1,122 feet above ground level. Built by Canadian National, the country’s largest freight railroad, it’s the world’s tallest tower and is celebrated as of one of the Modern Wonders of the World.

Toronto also strives to be at the forefront of science and research. Canada has the fourth-largest biotech and medical communities in the Americas, and Toronto is at the center of activity. The metro area boasts 332 research institutes in pharmaceutical product development; medical devices and technology; diagnostic labs; health care services and information technology (IT) systems.

Helping make Toronto such fertile ground is its Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI). This government body was created to focus on the country’s commitment to innovation as the engine of growth across all economic sectors, and to attract scientists and scholars to do cutting-edge research work.

When you’re ready to get out of your head and relax, you can trek off to one of Canada’s most visited attractions, the Ontario Science Centre. The exhibit halls lead to attractions such as the Space Hall, where you can experience a simulated formation of the universe, or venture into the Challenge Zone, which houses Canada’s only publicly accessible cloud chamber.

Of course, Toronto’s shopping and cuisine rival those of other major cities of the world. From street fare to five-star plates, from bohemian chic to haute couture, every foodie and fashionista is in his or her element. And as one of world’s most diverse destinations to explore, the city has ethnic neighborhoods where more than 130 languages and dialects are spoken.

Toronto is a jewel, much like New York, Hong Kong or Paris. But it’s easy and understated, a rare and refreshing commodity today.

Lynette Locke is a freelance writer based in Baltimore, Md.

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