While downtown Toronto is known as the urban city, the opposite can be found just a short ferry ride away. The Toronto Islands is a home to beaches, marinas, and an amusement park, which all offer a great car-free escape from the busyness and lack of green that is Toronto. The most well-known in the cluster of small islands is the crescent-shaped Centre Island. Though I have been to the Centreville amusement park many times as a child, it was my first time visiting the Toronto Islands in a very long time.
The ferries leave often from the Jack Layton Terminal. Simply buy a ticket online (to bypass lines) or buy your ticket there to hop on a ferry. The ride is about 15 minutes and costs $7.25 per adult. I happened to go on the day of the Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival. This event happens annually at Centre Island bringing together over 5,000 athletes from different parts of the world. The widely sponsored events also draws crowds as friends and family visit to support and enjoy the weather.
The Toronto Islands is a great date and family getaway. While I did not due to the sheer amount of people, many rented bikes or brought their own so they could venture the 230 acres of land. Canoes and kayaks were also an option to get a closer view of the skyline and the CN Tower.
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Jack Layton Ferry Terminal
9 Queen’s Quay W
416.397.2628
Schedule varies by season
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Stone & Fern is a travel and lifestyle blog started by friends who have a passion for exploring cities, capturing moments, and trying new food. To see more of North America, click here.