Toronto: The Trip That Turned a Bucket List Dream Into Reality 🇨🇦✨

Ever since I can remember, Toronto has always lived rent-free on my bucket list. For obvious reasons — yes, I am an unapologetic OVO girl, so the 6ix already had my heart. But beyond the music and the hype, Toronto was also my port of entry into Canada two years ago. I remember seeing the city lights from afar, knowing I was so close… yet never actually experiencing it.
I made a mental promise then: I’ll be back — properly.
Fast forward to last year, and that promise finally came true.
What started as a casual conversation between colleagues and newly formed friendships quickly turned into one of the best short trips I’ve ever taken. Ruth and I were chatting one day — you know the usual “I love travelling, I want to do more this year” talk — when she asked, “Where do you want to go?”
I said Toronto.
She said, “Bet. Let’s go.”
Flights were searched, hotels were bookmarked, savings started, itineraries reshuffled (multiple times), Google Maps was worked overtime… and just like that — we were there.
Writing has always been therapeutic for me because it allows me to relive these moments. So I thought, why not share my favorite highlights from this trip? Hopefully, this helps the next person planning to experience Toronto and its magic.
Niagara Falls 🌊
This wasn’t originally at the very top of my list (seeing Drake live definitely held that spot 😭), but Niagara Falls was always a must — and it did not disappoint.
We visited in May, thinking we were walking into late spring, early summer vibes. Plot twist: Toronto weather had other plans. After a rainy ride and very poor wardrobe planning, we finally arrived — and the moment I saw the falls, I was completely blown away.
It was one of those experiences that quiets your soul. One of those moments that reminds you God is real, because who else could orchestrate that kind of beauty? I remember calling my family and friends immediately because I genuinely felt like everyone needed to witness it.
Unfortunately, the weather meant we couldn’t go on the boat ride — parts were still ice-blocked on the Canadian side — but even from land, seeing the falls and the U.S. side was absolutely magnificent.
If you ever get the chance to visit Niagara Falls: do it. No hesitation.






Niagara on the Lake
This was an entirely different experience altogether — and honestly, one of the most charming surprises of the trip. You can visit Niagara-on-the-Lake as part of a Niagara Falls tour or on its own, but either way, it’s absolutely worth it.
This picturesque little town felt straight out of a storybook. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and award-winning wineries, Niagara-on-the-Lake is also home to one of Canada’s oldest golf courses and has served as a filming location for movies like The Dead Zone and The Perfect Pairing.
What made it even more special was the rich history still beautifully preserved from the War of 1812, blended seamlessly with its cultural charm. I loved the whimsical feel of the town — from the year-round Christmas shop to the many eye-catching heritage buildings and historic corners.
It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, take photos of everything, and just soak it all in.
Pure magic.









Little vegas
For someone who hasn’t experienced Vegas yet, this was close enough — and now I fully understand why it’s called “Little Vegas.”
Bright, vibrant, and bursting with energy, this entertainment hub is packed with colourful buildings, music, themed attractions, casinos, and restaurants at every turn. Even during our short stop, you could feel the buzz in the air. Everything felt lively, playful, and larger than life.
We only had a quick visit as part of our tour, but from what I saw (and what I’ve heard), the nightlife here is next level. It definitely left me wanting more, and I already know I’ll be back someday to experience it properly.
Consider this a preview — Little Vegas, I’ll see you again 😉






Casa Loma 🏰
Imagine where history meets fairytale — that’s Casa Loma.
This stunning historic revival castle dates back to 1914, right around the World War era, and was once home to Sir Henry Pellatt. With over 90 rooms, secret passageways, underground tunnels connecting the stables, and breathtaking gardens, it felt like stepping straight into another time.
One detail that stole my heart: Sir Pellatt installed an elevator inside the castle — rare at the time — for his wife as her health declined. Romance, but make it historical.
Fun fact: Casa Loma has been featured in films like X-Men and Chicago.
Yes, I got my steps in.
Yes, I’d 100% recommend visiting


















CN Tower 🌆
Let’s talk about fear.
Me 🤝 heights
Absolutely not friends.
But every now and then, I force myself to face my fears — and the CN Tower was one of them. Standing on one of the tallest structures in the world (530 metres high, mind you!) had my anxiety running marathons.
What if it sways? What if it collapses? What if I fall?
Very logical thoughts… obviously.
But once I conquered the fear, the reward was unreal. The view from the top was breathtaking — Toronto from a bird’s-eye perspective, glowing and endless.
If you’re in Toronto, add this to your list — fear or not.



Royal Ontario Museum 🏛️
If you know me, you know my love for museums and history runs deep. I actually majored in History in high school, but honestly, my dad deserves most of the credit — his storytelling planted the seed early
So naturally, one of the first places I visit in any new city is its main museum — and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) exceeded expectations
It’s vast, thoughtfully curated, and beautifully organized by eras and regions. Walking through it felt like travelling through time across different parts of the world, seeing how the same historical periods were experienced differently by different cultures
The natural history section was breathtaking, especially the dinosaur and Earth galleries — easily my favorite. I’d recommend the ROM to anyone visiting Toronto. It’s immersive, educational, and deeply inspiring.














Museum of Illusions 🌀
Now for something lighter and playful.
The Museum of Illusions was a fun, mind-bending experience we did on our arrival day. Less history, more imagination — and I loved it.
From the upside-down room to the endless bridge illusion and the infamous “head on a plate,” it was interactive, creative, and just plain fun. If you’re in Toronto and want something different, this is worth checking out.








A Blue Jays Game ⚾
I’m not the biggest sports fan, but I love experiencing live sports at least once wherever I go — there’s just something about the atmosphere.
While in Toronto, we were lucky enough to catch a Blue Jays game, and honestly? Incredible experience. The Blue Jays aren’t just a team — they’re the heart of Canada.
The energy, the pride, the cheering, the community spirit — it was electric. I’d gladly attend another game any chance I get.






Ripley’s Aquarium 🐠
Another bucket list moment: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
Home to over 20,000 sea creatures, this place is an underwater wonderland. We booked tickets through CityPASS, which saved us time (no long lines!) and money — highly recommend.
Walking through the underwater tunnel, learning new facts, and seeing species I didn’t even know existed made this a 10/10 experience.









Boat Cruise 🚤
As the saying goes: We make plans, and nature does whatever it wants.
We envisioned a sunny boat cruise… Toronto said cloudy and chilly. Still, the cruise ended up being one of the most relaxing parts of the trip.
We got to see the city from the water, learn about its history, landmarks, and culture — all while floating along Lake Ontario. Definitely worth adding to your itinerary (and yes, CityPASS covers this too).


Toronto Nightlife 💃🏾✨
I tried to save this for last… but let’s be real — nightlife is always high on my list.
Coming from Moncton, my expectations were already high, and Toronto did not disappoint. Afro-beat clubs, packed dance floors, unreal energy — it was everything.
My personal favorites:
- Mild Afro Lounge
- The Pearl (Cinco de Mayo hosted by Lagos in Toronto)
The lines were long, the vibes were unmatched, and the music? Elite.








Food, Food & More Food 🍽️
The foodie in me was thriving.
I was especially excited to try Afro cuisine (even though the wait times tested my patience 😭). I also loved trying fast-food spots we don’t have in Moncton — hello, Jollibee.
Top food highlights:
- Captain’s Boil — unforgettable seafood boil
- Hello Nori — some of the best sushi I’ve had
Toronto understood the assignment when it came to food.












Final Thoughts: Why Toronto Stole My Heart ❤️
Toronto had me smitten from day one — the skyline, the underground PATH system, the diversity, the energy, the dreams buzzing through the city. It felt alive, hopeful, and endlessly inspiring.
That’s one of the many reasons I travel.
Toronto Travel Do’s & Don’ts ✔️❌
DO:
- Get a CityPASS — saves money and time
- Book activities & restaurants in advance
- Use Booking.com for hotels (and always read reviews)
- Carry your ID
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Plan extra time for Niagara Falls
DON’T:
- Book flights or activities last minute (prices skyrocket)
- Underestimate how much walking you’ll do
- Assume Canadian weather will behave 😅
And finally, shoutout to my girl Ruth — we made Toronto happen, and it will always be special because of that.
See you in the next post ✨✈️






















































































































































