Little Canada is such a fun hotspot in Toronto! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s one of the best things to do for the whole family. It’s air-conditioned, indoors and steps away from the Eaton Centre, so I dare you to find an excuse to skip it.
What a peaceful and playful way to discover the beauty of Canada. You’ll start your cross-country journey at Niagara Falls. It’s cute to see all the miniature hotels and trains at first, but keep in mind this is just the beginning! The cars lined up at the border gave me flashbacks to my shopping trips to the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls and Walden Galleria in Buffalo, NY.
Then you’ll arrive in downtown Toronto, which is magnificent. A red panda greets you in Chinatown like the one seen in Disney’s Turning Red (2022) movie set in Toronto. And the cast of The Handmaid’s Tale is filming the TV series outside Toronto City Hall.
Don’t worry if the hottest events are sold out! You can peek into Scotiabank Arena and cheer for Toronto’s sports teams at Maple Leaf Square. Then watch the dome open and close at Rogers Centre while listening to Take Me Out to the Ball Game! Classic.
Little Canada effectively captures Toronto’s traffic and transportation options. Hail a Beck Taxi like rideshare doesn’t exist. Ride a double-decker for a sightseeing tour. Go on a subway with all of the charm and none of the chaos.
The Porter bus outside Union Station with a wraparound advertising Montreal is my favourite. I love Montreal and it isn’t built into Little Canada yet. I ran into the founder Jean-Louis Brenninkmeijer who said it takes 18 months to create each city. (Although I didn’t know who he was at the time!)
If you love Timbits, stop by the original Tim Hortons coffee and donut shop outside Toronto enroute to Ottawa. Save room for Beavertails in Byward Market upon arrival! Canada Day is officially July 1, but the celebrations are nonstop in the nation’s capital with fireworks on a timer.
“Immersive” and “vibes” have become cliché terms in travel, but this is where Little Canada thrives. Between the lights, sounds, colours and architecture, you truly feel the shift travelling between busy big cities and calm small towns.
I was born in Halifax, NS before I moved to Toronto, so I spent the most time exploring Little East Coast. It’s stunning! For perspective on Halifax versus Toronto, notice how the head offices of CIBC and TD banks are shorter in Halifax. If you’re a Sullivan’s Crossing fan, this is a must-see. I also confirmed that Charlottetown looks appealing for a weekend trip.
Your trip concludes at Little West Coast in Vancouver, BC and Victoria, BC. The JUNOs sign for Canada’s music awards deserves honourable mention because you can listen to Canadian talent anywhere!
There’s so much to see at Little Canada. It’s wholesome, educational and delightful. I can’t wait to go back and check out the expansion.
Location: 10 Dundas St. East (Sankofa Square, Downtown Toronto)
Tickets: Book online in advance to save and check their site for discounts!
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