The CN Tower, the 3rd tallest free-standing tower in the world, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Toronto. Checking out the CN Tower will take up to a few hours so you’re probably wondering when you’re done your visit there what else can you add to your itinerary that’s nearby?
You’re in luck.
We’ve put together a list of things to do near the CN Tower that are all within an easy 2 kms or less walking distance.
Here are the attractions, sights, bars and breweries, shopping destinations and places to eat that we suggest.
Have a particular type of activity in mind? Use these links to jump ahead
8 attractions near the CN Tower
4 places to visit near the CN Tower
3 bars & breweries around the CN Tower
4 shopping destinations close to the CN Tower
5 food places to try near the CN Tower
8 attractions near the CN Tower
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
(2 min., 170 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Next to the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is one of the most popular attractions in Toronto. It’s so popular that there’s a CN Tower & Ripley’s Aquarium discount called the “Sea the Sky” combo ticket that saves you money on admission to both.
But first, what makes Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada so special?
For one thing it’s the largest aquarium in Canada and home to over 16,000 forms of marine life including mesmerizing sharks, jelly fish, sea turtles and hundreds of vibrantly coloured fish. The Aquarium is a great learning experience too with dive shows and talks, interactive exhibits and touch tanks.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
If you want to learn more about the CN Tower & Ripley’s Aquarium discount we’ve written an article that explains how the “Sea the Sky” combo ticket works and how much you’ll save.
NOTE: If you purchased your admission ticket to the CN Tower in advance and didn’t by the Sea to Sky combo ticket, there are a number of other ways to save on your entry to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. We explain them all in our article “Discounts & Coupons for Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in Toronto.”
2. Rogers Centre – Blue Jays Game & Concerts
(2 min., 170 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Steps away from the CN Tower you’ll find the Rogers Centre, the home stadium of the Toronto Blue Jays major league baseball club.
The regular season runs from April to early October, so if you’re planning to visit the CN Tower during any of these months there’s very likely a Jays game on that day too. If there’s not, there could be a concert taking place that night at the stadium instead featuring one of your favourite musical artists.
You may be able to purchase tickets at the Rogers Centre box office but likely your chances of snagging last minute tickets will be better from a reputable reseller like StubHub or SeatGeek.
3. Toronto Railway Museum
(4 min., 250 metre walk from the CN Tower)
The Toronto Railway Museum lets you journey through Canadian railway history. Outside, there’s free access to a variety of locomotives and train cars that are on display. You can climb aboard them and explore and take pictures. There’s a miniature train ride you can go on as well but it costs money to get a ticket.
For an admission fee you can venture inside the Toronto Railway Museum. Here you will see artifacts from train travel days gone by like cutlery and plates from dining cars, hats and uniforms that conductors and porters would have worn, railroad equipment, signage and of course photos. There’s also a diesel-electric locomotive simulator you can drive.
4. The Rec Room arcade
(4 min., 250 metre walk from the CN Tower)
If you’ve been a life-long gamer you’ll want to check out The Rec Room. This thing to do near the CN Tower is home to over 80 old-school arcade games, as well as simulators and virtual reality experiences. Plus, you can get in a game of pool, ping pong, bowling, air hockey or shuffleboard if you want too. Feel like singing? There’s live karaoke.
All this gaming is sure to build up a thirst or appetite. The Rec Room has that covered too with a nice selection of craft beers and cocktails, and a delectable menu of shareables, platters, mains and sweet treats.
5. Scotiabank Arena – Leafs or Raptors Game & Concerts
(11 min., 750 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Scotiabank arena is another major league sports and entertainment venue that is just minutes away from the CN Tower.
During the winter months it primarily plays host to games featuring the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League or the Toronto Raptors of the National Basketball Association.
In addition to sports, throughout the year some of the biggest names in music perform on stage at Scotiabank arena.
To purchase tickets to any of these events visit a reputable reseller such as StubHub and SeatGeek.
6. Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery
(13 min., 850 metre walk from the CN Tower)
The only thing better than an art gallery is a free art gallery. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery costs nothing to get in and when you’re there your senses will be ignited and perspective will be challenged.
Many pieces and exhibitions will spark thoughts and conversation. If you have any questions about what you’re seeing, ask. The staff at this attraction near the CN Tower are anything but pretentious, instead they are personable, friendly and happy to share the story behind the artist and their work.
7. Hockey Hall of Fame
(16 min., 1.1 km walk from the CN Tower)
Whether you’re a kid or an adult, if you have a passion for hockey a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must when it’s this close to the CN Tower. This thing to do is truly a shrine to the game.
My favourite exhibit is by far the goalie mask display but there is so much more to see and do. Two cool interactive exhibits are one where you get to shoot on a goalie and another where you can be a play-be-play broadcaster and call the game.
Of course, there’s tons of NHL and world hockey memorabilia including sticks, pucks and jerseys.
And in the cathedral-like grand hall every NHL trophy is dramatically on display.
8. Pirate Life Toronto
(21 min., 1.4 km walk from the CN Tower)
There are a variety of waterfront cruises you can take while visiting Toronto but only one that involves joining a crew of pirates. Pirate Life Toronto is a full-on pirate-themed experience.
Even though it’s designed for younger kids, older family members will enjoy the energy and fun of this unique thing to do near the CN Tower.
Participants get to pick a pirate name, a fake tattoo, and a pirate costume and then it’s time to head out to sea. While onboard tales are told, sword fights take place, and water cannons are manned and fired all while in pursuit of treasure and taking in the scenic Toronto waterfront.
4 places to visit near the CN Tower
1. Union Station
(10 min., 700 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Even if you’re not an architecture geek you should take the time to walk over from the CN Tower and step into Union Station. It’s Toronto’s version of New York’s Grand Central Station.
Opened in 1927, it’s a designated national historical site.
On a workday over 300,000 people pass through here but it’s the majestic, grandiose look and feel of the station that’s truly impressive. Soaring coffered ceilings, ornate detailing, elegant columns, and the Missouri Zumbro stone all combine to make place to visit near the CN Tower a striking, stunning example of the Beaux-Arts architectural style.
2. St. Lawrence Market
(22 min., 1.5 km walk from the CN Tower)
Not sure what you want for lunch? Why decide? Just head over to the St. Lawrence Market and have a little bit of everything! Well, maybe not everything as there are over 120 vendors here.
Indulge your taste buds sampling artisanal cheeses, farm-fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods and an eclectic variety of international fare. A Toronto tradition since 1803, the St. Lawrence Market is the only place in Toronto where you can buy lox and bagels, freshly shucked oysters, and a butter tart all under the same roof.
And it’s not just food that you will find at this market with old-world charm. There are also unique shops and vendors selling artisanal crafts, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind items that would make unique souvenirs of your trip to Toronto.
3. Fort York National Historic Site
(23 min., 1.6 km walk from the CN Tower)
During the War of 1812 the United States attempted to seize Toronto. A mighty conflict took place on the grounds where the Fort York National Historic Site stands. The resistance was strong. The locals triumphed.
Visit this free thing that’s not far from the CN Tower and you can get a sense of the battle through an immersive multimedia presentation.
Take the complimentary tour and be captivated while learning what life was like for military personnel at the Fort. Explore the restored barracks and buildings.
Stroll through the museum on site and you’ll see battle-used uniforms, guns, ammunition and maps.
A few hours at the Fort will definitely leave you feeling like you’ve gone back in time.
4. Chinatown
(26 min., 1.8 km walk from the CN Tower)
Another way to transport yourself to another world by visiting Toronto’s Chinatown.
Walk up one side of bustling Spadina Avenue and then down the other. You’ll see shops and open-air markets selling everything from traditional Chinese goods and herbal remedies to exotic produce and authentic Asian cuisine, and it’s all less than a 2 km walk from the CN Tower.
3 bars & breweries around the CN Tower
1. Steam Whistle Brewery
(4 min., 250 metres walk from the CN Tower)
There are a variety of bars and beverage destinations within proximity of the CN Tower. One that’s a stone’s throw away is Steam Whistle Brewing. It’s a brewery and restaurant housed in a historic railway roundhouse that was built in 1929.
At Steam Whistle they offer tastings in their tap room and a tour of their facility. Afterwards you can kick back on the patio or, if you prefer chilling in the shade, inside there’s the Steam Whistle Kitchen restaurant where you can enjoy a beer, seltzer or wine and a scrumptious made-from-scratch meal.
2. Bar Hop (15 min, 1.1 km)
(15 min., 1.1 km walk from the CN Tower)
Welcome to craft beer heaven. The variety of local and international brews at Bar Hop is incredible.
Want to try a pint of something you probably won’t find anywhere else—this is the place. Their tap list is one of the best in Toronto too—they even have non-alcoholic beer on tap! And if there’s a non-beer drinker in your party, no worries. They also serve up handcrafted cocktails, wine, whiskey, bourbon, tequila, scotch and more.
Hungry? They brew up food as well. Their menu is just as original as the selection of beers they offer. How original? Where else can you get bone marrow crostini, wonton nachos, and gnocchi poutine?
3. Belfast Love Public House
(18 min., 1.2 km walk from the CN Tower)
Looking for a place near the CN Tower that’s a hip take on a traditional Irish pub? The Belfast Love Public House is it.
It’s a great spot to hang and enjoy the atmosphere, a beer or cocktail or two, and food that’s comfort on a plate. Here you’ll find one of the largest varieties of craft beers in the city and interesting menu items such as gluten-free mushroom pizza and prawn tacos.
4 shopping destinations close to the CN Tower
1. Black Market Vintage
(15 min., 1.1 km walk from the CN Tower)
Dive into Toronto’s thriving vintage scene at Black Market Vintage, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, and home decor from days gone by past.
This shopping destination near the CN Tower features racks filled with unique finds and treasures to add to your wardrobe. Don’t forget to check the “staff picks” rack too. There’s a huge selection of graphic t-shirts for bands, movies and sayings. If you’re looking for a quirky jacket you’ll find it here. There’s a nice selection of jewellery, accessories and sunglasses as well. The bottom line, you could be here a while!
2. Spacing Store for cool souvenirs
(15 min., 1.1 km walk from the CN Tower)
Want a souvenir of your visit to Toronto but want something classy? Make the quick trek from the CN Tower to the Spacing Store.
Here you’ll find an eclectic, curated mix of city-centric merch. Items include postcards, magnets, tin badges, art prints, posters, maps, books, apparel, throw pillows, puzzles, toys, pencil cases, socks, t-shirts and a variety of Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) themed items.
3. Sonic Boom: a music lover’s paradise
(22 min., 1.6 km walk from the CN Tower)
Every city has an awesome vintage vinyl store, in Toronto it’s Sonic Boom. Browse the aisles of this thing to do near the CN Tower and peruse the records, CDs, cassette tapes and music memorabilia including books, posters, pins and t-shirts.
The entire shop is well organized and for every genre of music (even Broadway musicals!) there’s a decent selection to choose from. Be sure and check out the 45-record vending machine too.
The selection, atmosphere, neon signs and décor make Sonic Boom more than a store, it’s a throwback music museum experience!
4. Eaton Centre: retail therapy on steroids
(24 min., 1.7 km walk from the CN Tower)
If a mega mall crawl is part of your Toronto itinerary you don’t have far to go. The Eaton Centre is an attraction close to the CN Tower and one of Canada’s largest shopping malls. It’s also one of the busiest malls in North America.
I hope you have on a pair of comfortable walking shoes because the Eaton Centre has over 200 stores for you to check out.
Here you’ll find popular worldwide retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Apple and Nordstrom plus internationally renowned Canadian retailing favourites like Roots, Hudson’s Bay, Canada Goose and lululemon.
5 food places to try near the CN Tower
1. 360 Restaurant in the CN Tower
(0 min., 0 metre walk from the CN Tower)
What’s the closest place for dinner near the CN Tower? Why, that would be the CN Tower which is home to the 360 Restaurant.
Situated 1,151 feet above the ground, the restaurant rotates a full 360 degrees every 72 minutes with it expansive windows providing a spectacular panoramic view of the city while you dine.
But it’s not just the view that will have you raving about the 360 Restaurant.
The menu is equally impressive. It’s a celebration of Canadian cuisine with menu items inspired by each region of Canada.
2. Danish Pastry House
(10 min., 650 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Breakfast, lunch or dinner—anytime is a good time to pop into The Danish Pastry House. Every item is made following old world, authentic Danish recipes.
Enjoy a flaky smørhorn, the Dane’s answer to a croissant—there’s even a bacon and cheese version. Feel like a sandwich? They serve up a nice selection on your choice of hearty Danish bread. Plus, there’s a multitude of mouthwatering, flavourful pastries, cookies, cakes and specialty items to choose from too.
A few of my recommends would be the Viking slice, roulade, strawberry cheesecake or the chocolate mousse. And did we mention they serve coffee and tea as well? Their peppermint mocha makes a wonderful compliment to whatever you order to eat.
3. Pie Bar
(14 min., 900 metre walk from the CN Tower)
Another eatery not far from the CN Tower that offers great food and a great view is Pie Bar.
Sit out on the patio and you can savour a wonderful view of Lake Ontario with every bite of your authentic, Italian wood-fired pizza. The menu also includes a variety of pasta dishes, salads, starters and Italian desserts such as gelato and tiramisu.
4. The Sultan’s Tent & Café Moroc
(19 min., 1.3 km walk from the CN Tower)
Transport yourself to Morocco at this exotic restaurant, where you will sit in lantern-lit tents, dine on traditional Moroccan cuisine and witness live belly dancing performances.
Menu suggestions at The Sultan’s Tent & Café Moroc include the maftoul, chicken bastilla or tarifa coconut shrimp for appetizers, and the rack of lamb or beef stew for your main. There’s also a fixed price menu if you prefer.
And don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join in on the belly dancing at this thing to do near the CN Tower!
5. The Chase
(22 min., 1.5 km walk from the CN Tower)
In the mood for seafood? Make strides from the CN Tower to The Chase, a seafood-centric restaurant.
This is the place if you want to enjoy succulent seafood such as scallops, octopus, crab, oysters, shrimp or cod. Can’t decide? Order one of their massive seafood platters and share.
There are also menu items for those in your group who are not passionate about seafood they way you are.
The atmosphere at The Chase is cozy and warm and the view of downtown Toronto from their rooftop location is lovely as well. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert– the sticky toffee pudding is especially delightful.
Enjoy your visit to the CN Tower and all these things to do that are within a 2 km walk of the tower.
Photo Credit: TripAdvisor
