10 must-see photo spots in Toronto

If you're a photography buff, Toronto has many little gems for you. 

Choosing just 10 was no easy task, but here are my top 10 must-see Toronto photo spots. 

#1. Scarborough Bluffs

You may need a car rental in Canada to get to this one!

Located in the eastern part of the city, this white limestone cliff stretches for over 15 kilometers along Lake Ontario, reaching heights of 90 meters in some places.

This makes it a popular spot for hiking, picnics and beach activities, as well as for panoramic views of Lake Ontario. The cliffs are also home to a wide variety of animal and plant life, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

It's a dream location for photography buffs! 

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#2. Distillery District

Toronto's Distillery District is a historic neighbourhood just east of the downtown area.

It was once the site of Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which was at one time the world's largest whisky distillery.

Today, the district is a cultural and artistic meeting place, with numerous restaurants, galleries and boutiques. The Distillery District is also known for its well-conserved Victorian-style buildings, which have been carefully restored. Whether for the architecture or the artwork, you'll be taking your camera out often!

#3. Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley is a colourful back street in Queen Street West, a neighbourhood known for its graffiti and street art.

It's between Queen Street West and Richmond Street and stretches from Portland Street in the west to Spadina Avenue in the east. 

Here, visitors can discover the latest trends in street art and take photos with unique backgrounds. You'll find everything from more conventional graffiti to large-scale murals and commemorative frescoes. 

It's a must for art urban art lovers and photographers alike

#4. AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario is a museum that houses one of the largest collections of Canadian art.

While you'll find plenty of inspiration in its exhibits, the structure itself is also worth a picture or two!

The building was designed by well-known architect Frank Gehry and is considered a work of art in its own right. It's known for its stainless steel exterior and bright, airy interior, with spiral staircases and curving walls.

If you're into architecture, you're in for a treat!

#5. Casa Loma

A castle in the middle of the city? Why not!

If you visit Toronto, Casa Loma has to be on your list. There are plenty of interesting places to take photos.

Whether it's the castle's magnificent architecture, the well-kept gardens or the panoramic view of the city from the top of the hill, you'll get some great shots. The interior of the castle is also well worth a visit. You'll find elegant furnishings and impressive works of art adorning the walls.

The castle is transformed into immersive experiences for Halloween and the festive season. 

If you're in Toronto at these times, be sure to check it out. You'll get your money's worth.

#6. Toronto Islands

It's virtually impossible to pick just one spot on the Toronto Islands to get the perfect shot.

Here you can photograph the Toronto skyline as seen in the most famous images of the city, as well as white sandy beaches and spectacular sunsets.

The islands also offer plenty of opportunities to photograph wildlife, including birds and butterflies.

#7. Gooderham Building

Considered a Toronto landmark, the Gooderham Building, also known as the Flatiron Building, is a historic building constructed in 1892, recognized as one of the most complete examples of Victoria-era industrial architecture in North America. It's famous for its unusual horseshoe shape and its distinctive red brickwork.

You'll find it wedged between Front Street and Wellington Street at Church Street. 

#8. Allan Gardens

The Allan Gardens are actually a public park in Toronto's downtown core.

The gardens were created in 1858 and are now a popular spot for photographers due to their wide variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can take photos of the Victorian greenhouse, fountains, ponds, and century-old trees.

The gardens are also known for their collection of tropical plants, including palm trees, orchids and cacti.

#9. Aga Khan Museum

Toronto's Aga Khan Museum is dedicated to Islamic art and objects and houses many rare objects.

While the museum's contents are splendid, be sure to take some pictures of the spectacular architecture of the building, designed by Fumihiko Maki. Elements such as geometric patterns and interplays of light and shadow create a unique visual experience.

#10. Kensington Market

Kensington Market is a vibrant multicultural neighbourhood.

It's home to many shops, restaurants and cafés, as well as street art and colourful buildings. Here, you'll find murals, neon signs, market stalls and vintage boutiques, each as Instagrammable as the next.

Every summer, the Garden Car, a car transformed into a mini garden and decorated with colourful graffiti, returns to the Market. It's one of the city's most iconic and beloved cultural landmarks!

Venture into the neighbourhood's residential streets as well, where you'll find some picture-worthy Victorian homes. 

And that's it! Now you know what shots to take home from your visit to the Queen City while on your eastern Canada tour. 

Do you have any other must-see photo spots to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!