An Alternative Guide to Toronto and Its Best-Kept Secrets

For a break from the bustle of the city, the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library is a unique must-see. Visitors can request to view and handle some of the world’s rarest books, such as Shakespeare’s First Folio (1623) and Margaret Atwood’s original works. Located on the University of Toronto campus, this collection is open to the public, with over 800,000 books to peruse. Grab a cup of joe and set out in search of the rarest of books, including the ‘Wicked Bible’ with a misprint encouraging readers, “Thou shalt commit adultery”.

This museum honours Islamic art, Iranian art and Muslim culture, but the building itself often draws in visitors for its unique architecture. The core collection of the museum was curated by Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan, who began collecting art during his Harvard University days. Today, the donated pieces make up the majority of the works at Aga Khan – which is the first North American museum dedicated exclusively to Islamic arts.

While the city isn’t known for its beaches, surfers gather during the coldest winter days to surf the icy waters at Woodbine Beach. Though you can often find Torontonians hitting the waves year-round, winter storms tend to bring in the biggest waves from December to February. Don’t know how to surf? Local company Surf the Greats will get you started with a 2.5-hour class covering the basics and getting you up on your first wave.

This restaurant may be in Toronto’s busy entertainment district, but with strict reservations, it keeps the crowd small for intimate gatherings. The best part? Follow the champagne tour to discover the secret speakeasy, À Toi, in the back of the restaurant, and get your dancing shoes ready. The restaurant offers the largest collection of champagne in the city, with endless options ranging from cheap sparkling wine to a $4,888 bottle of vintage Louis Roederer ‘Cristal’ Brut – in case you’re feeling fancy.

A Toronto institution with a local crowd, Lee’s Palace hosts rock bands from some of the biggest names in music to hometown heroes every weekend. Tucked away in the Annex, it would be easy to miss if not for its colourful exterior. Once the event ends, concert-goers can head upstairs to find a club venue playing the best alternative hits, mostly from the early 2000s. Drinks are cheap, and if you have a student ID handy, entrance is free.

This vintage store has become a beloved institution; everything is for purchase for $10. Stock up on jean jackets, vintage Levis and cheap sunnies for a cheap wardrobe refresh. Those who collect vintage records will love the vinyl shop also located in the back of the store. While it may take some digging, there are plenty of quality finds to be taken home for next to nothing.

The Madison Avenue Pub is popular for an after-work pint and can easily accommodate big groups for a fun night on the town. After all, the pub’s slogan is “Serving friends in Toronto since 1982!” Find easy-to-chat-with Torontonians inside the three connected Victorian mansions. With a different vibe on each level, visitors can choose from live entertainment (a piano-playing maestro), darts, pool and even a bit of dancing.

This Victorian-era greenhouse stands out in downtown Toronto with its domed roof; inside you’ll find a botanical oasis. Changing with each season, the conservatory houses rare plant species from around the world and makes for some great photos. Outside the greenhouse, find two large dog parks and take a walk along the ground of one of the oldest parks in the city.

Find one of Toronto’s strangest curiosities in the quiet neighbourhood of Leslieville, where owner Shirley Sumaiser has decked out her house in hundreds of toys. Known as the resident ‘dollhouse,’ the site gives passers-by the chance to spot Hello Kitties, the Toy Story gang, Mickey Mouse and many more notable characters. With a collection growing for over 20 years, visitors should be sure to stop by time and time again, as there are often seasonal additions for each holiday.