THE HOST CITY
Toronto
Canada’s largest city sits on the north shore of Lake Ontario. It is welcoming, walkable and easy to reach, with plenty to see between sessions.
About the city
Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Nearly half of its residents were born outside Canada, and you can hear more than 180 languages on its streets. That mix shows up in the food, the neighbourhoods and the festivals.
Downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot. The subway, streetcars and buses of the TTC connect the rest of the city. In winter, the PATH, a network of underground walkways, links many downtown buildings, shops and food courts so you can stay warm between stops.
Need a meeting while you are in town?
Local meetings are listed on the SAA Toronto website, and meetings worldwide on the SAA website. You are welcome to join one before or after the convention.
Getting here
By air
Most visitors fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). The UP Express train runs from Pearson to Union Station downtown in about 28 minutes, every 15 minutes. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ), on the waterfront, is even closer for some regional flights.
By train or bus
VIA Rail, GO Transit and Amtrak (from New York) arrive at Union Station. Intercity buses arrive at the Union Station Bus Terminal next door. From Union, take Line 1 of the subway north.
Things to do
A few favourites for a free afternoon. Most are a short walk or subway ride from downtown.
St. Lawrence Market
A historic food market with bakeries, cheese shops and the famous peameal bacon sandwich. Closed Mondays.
Old Town and the Distillery
Walk past the Flatiron Building to the Distillery District, a car-free village of Victorian brick buildings with cafés, galleries and shops.
Toronto Islands
A short ferry ride from the foot of Bay Street brings you to quiet parks, beaches and the best view of the skyline.
Kensington Market
A bohemian neighbourhood of vintage shops, cafés and food from around the world, right next to Chinatown on Spadina Avenue.
In the downtown core
- Allan Gardens Conservatory. Free greenhouses full of tropical plants, a warm and quiet escape in any season.
- Sankofa Square and the Eaton Centre. The city’s busiest corner, with a large indoor shopping centre.
- Massey Hall. A restored historic concert hall on Shuter Street.
Museums and views
- Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Canadian and international art in a building by Frank Gehry.
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Dinosaurs, world cultures and natural history.
- CN Tower. The view from the top, and Ripley’s Aquarium next door.
Time outdoors
- Harbourfront. A waterfront walk with public art and lake views.
- High Park. One of the city’s largest parks, with trails and gardens, reached by Line 2.
- Nathan Phillips Square. City Hall and, in winter, a free outdoor skating rink.