48 Hour Weekend in Toronto Itinerary

Day One

Morning

Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at Victoria Café. Savor delicious options like the Buttermilk Pancakes, Brioche French Toast, Smoked Salmon Croissant Toast, Classic Eggs Benedict, and Yogurt Parfait. Enjoy a generous cup of coffee or mimosa while you indulge in these delicious offerings. Alternatively, Café Landwer offers a fantastic breakfast experience with a local touch.

After breakfast, step outside onto King Street and immerse yourself in the rich history of Old Town Toronto. This area, which was the heart of the city after being founded as the Town of York in 1797, features charming spots like Berczy Park and St. James Park. Walk east to discover St. James Cathedral, a stunning Gothic Revival landmark with Canada's tallest church steeple and a stained Tiffany glass window. Don’t miss the free lunchtime musical performances by local artists in Berczy Park every Wednesday from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm during July and August.

Continue your exploration east to King and Jarvis, where you'll find St. Lawrence Hall. Opened in 1851, this historic venue became the cultural hub of the city and was later restored to commemorate Canada's 100th birthday, reopening as the National Ballet of Canada. Just a short distance away is the Gooderham & Worts Distillery at 55 Mill Street, originally built in 1832 by George Gooderham, the original owner of the King Edward Hotel. Now a protected historical site, the Distillery is part of the vibrant Distillery Historic District, blending history with modern commercial and residential charm.

Afternoon 

Enjoy a delightful lunch in the Distillery District with options like El Catrin Distillery for vibrant Mexican cuisine, Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie for a modern French bistro experience, Mill Street Brewpub for casual pub fare, or Scooped by Demeter’s for a sweet treat with their delicious ice cream. Another option is heading to the St. Lawrence Market, where you can explore over 120 specialty merchants and savor a variety of freshly made foods from numerous vendors.

Return to the Omni King Edward Hotel to savor our Traditional Afternoon Tea on Saturdays and Sundays. This time-honored Toronto tradition offers a refined and relaxing conclusion to your day, featuring a selection of elegant teas, delicate finger sandwiches, and exquisite pastries. It's the perfect way to unwind and indulge after your adventures in the city.

Evening 

Toronto is a vibrant sports town, and catching a game is a must—cheer on the Raptors, Leaf’s, Marlies, or Blue Jays at their respective arenas. For a different evening experience, immerse yourself in the arts with a performance at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra or a play or musical at one of the Mirvish Theatres.

Day Two

Morning

After a busy first day in Toronto, start your morning with a customized in-room breakfast for ultimate relaxation. Alternatively, head out to Kensington Market, a historic and eclectic neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and cultural diversity. Originally a Jewish immigrant community in the early 20th century, Kensington Market has evolved into a vibrant hub of independent shops, unique eateries, and colorful street art.

Afternoon

For some shopping, visit Yorkville, Toronto's upscale neighborhood that was once a quaint village and has transformed into a premier shopping destination. Stroll along Bloor Street to explore luxury designer stores like Tiffany, Chanel, Gucci, and Hermès. For a different shopping experience, the Eaton Centre, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel, offers a wide range of retail options in a striking modern space.

For a different experience, explore Toronto’s rich cultural scene by visiting its renowned museums. The Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s largest museum of art, world culture, and natural history, offers fascinating exhibits and artifacts. The Art Gallery of Ontario showcases a vast collection of art from around the world. For a taste of Canadian sports history, the Hockey Hall of Fame is must-see. And don’t miss the Bata Shoe Museum, which houses an impressive collection of footwear through the ages. Our Clef D’ors Concierges are ready to guide you through these cultural treasures and provide the latest exhibit information.

Evening

Spend your evening exploring The Well in downtown Toronto, a vibrant space that combines retail, commercial, and residential areas. Enjoy shopping and dining at some of the city's amazing restaurants. For stunning skyline views, head to Aera or, if you’re visiting in the summer, check out Open Aera, their newly opened rooftop patio. If you're in the mood for French cuisine, La Plume is a great choice; they also have a hidden speakeasy called Bonne Nuit.

Seasonal Events

Monthly Whisky Tasting | Last Wednesday of every month | 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Join the sophisticated whisky tasting at the Consort Bar in the Omni King Edward Hotel and enjoy premium whiskies paired with curated selections in a historic setting.

Toronto Chocolate Festival | October 1 - November 5
The city celebrates all things chocolate with various delicious events and treats across Toronto and Southern Ontario.

Cavalcade of Lights | October 5
Nathan Phillips Square kicks off the holiday season with live performances and the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. Enjoy nightly ice skating and festive light displays throughout the season.

Nuit Blanche | October 5
Experience Toronto's overnight arts festival, where the city transforms into an expansive gallery featuring modern art installations and live performances.

Thanksgiving Day Feast | October 13 | 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Omni King Edward Hotel with a festive feast in the Sovereign Ballroom. Prices are $120 for adults and $60 for children 4-12; children 3 and under eat free.

Art Toronto | October 24 - 27
Explore Art Toronto downtown, showcasing over 100 galleries from around the world. This event is a must-visit for art lovers and industry professionals.

If you have more time...

Take the opportunity to explore the Niagara Region both Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Start with Niagara Falls, just 90 minutes away, to witness its breathtaking natural beauty. Stroll along the promenade for a close-up view or, for a more adventurous experience, embark on the Hornblower cruise, ride the gondola, or zip line along the Niagara Falls Parkway for stunning aerial perspectives.

Afterward, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town renowned for its historic architecture, boutique shops, and scenic waterfront. It’s the perfect spot to explore local wineries, enjoy a relaxing evening, or simply soak in the town's delightful atmosphere.

Alternatively, make your way to Montreal and immerse yourself in its dynamic culture and unique charm while staying at the Omni Mont-Royal. Situated six hours northeast of Toronto, this historic city offers a wealth of activities and experiences. Explore its vibrant arts scene, including museums and galleries, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Old Montreal's cobblestone streets, or take in panoramic views from Mont Royal Park. The city is renowned for its year-round festivals, exceptional dining, stunning scenery, and, of course, its famous poutine.