Best time to visit Toronto

CN Tower in Toronto

Canada's tallest structure and Toronto's favourite landmark offers unbeatable panoramic views of the city

Best time: all year round

CN Tower
CN Tower
CN Tower
CN Tower

It's not a challenge to find CN Tower in Toronto—take a look up from any point in the city, and there it is. The tower opened in 1976 and used to be the world's tallest one till 2007. Today it remains the highest construction in Canada. Its total height is 553.3 m (1,815.4 ft).

The LookOut Level for open-air viewing is located at 346 m (1,136 ft.). Slightly lower, at 342 m (1,122 ft.) you'll find the Glass Floor which discloses breathtaking views of the city beneath. The highest observation platform is SkyPod at 447 m (1,465 ft). The entry will cost you an extra fee, but it's worth the expense. The best way to complete your CN Tower experience is having a lunch or a dinner in the 360 Restaurant.

Even though the tower is open all year besides Christmas, and there's officially no best season to visit CN Tower, we still recommend to avoid going there in the foggy or snowy days when the visibility is rather poor. The snow season in Toronto starts in November and continues to April. Thus the best weather conditions are May through October. But this time is also the most popular with tourists. Besides, during this time thrill-seekers may take advantage of the seasonal EdgeWalk experience. Walk hands-free by the edge of the Tower’s main pod that sits 356 m (1168ft) or 116 storeys above the ground.

However, if you don't like to battle the crowds, you might want to choose the low winter season for your visit. Just check the weather forecast while planning the visit.

The opening hours are 8:30 am to 11 pm (check the schedule for possible changes before going). As to the best time of a day, many claim it's sunset. If you'd love to avoid crowds, come before 11 am or after 6 pm. To avoid waiting in queues, you might go up the CN Tower as a part of a tour package, or buy a CityPass ticket that provides access to the majority of Toronto's landmarks.

Practical info

Could you tell me about the viewing platforms of CN Tower along with their heights?

The CN Tower has LookOut Level at 346 meters (1,136 ft.), the Glass Floor at 342 meters (1,122 ft.), and SkyPod at 447 meters (1,465 ft.), all of which provide visitors with stunning views. Soaring to 553.3 meters, the CN Tower is an exceptional construction with three observation platforms that offer magnificent views of Toronto's landscape. Show more

What is the best time of the year to visit CN Tower in Toronto?

The months between May-October are the best time of the year to visit CN Tower in Toronto as the weather is favorable and the views are magnified for thrill-seekers. Despite the higher tourist traffic, visitors can still experience the best view of the city. For those who prefer a time with fewer crowds, it is preferable to visit the observation deck during the low-winter season and avoid days with increased tourism. Nevertheless, they need to check the weather forecast before going any time of the year. Show more

What tips do you have to avoid crowds when visiting CN Tower in Toronto?

CN Tower is a famous attraction globally and can get over-crowded at times, especially during peak months. To avoid crowds, visitors should schedule their tour between the hours of 9 am to 11 am and after 6 pm. Additionally, visiting during the low-winter season will significantly reduce congestion. People can also purchase CityPass tickets, an added advantage for tourists, that allows them to save time, skip lines, and access multiple iconic locations in Toronto. Show more

What other landmarks are accessible with a CityPass ticket other than CN Tower?

CityPass tickets give visitors extended access to popular landmarks in the city, including Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, Toronto Zoo, Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, and Ontario Science Center. CityPass tickets can help visitors save significant amounts of money while exploring Toronto's most iconic landmarks. By purchasing the package, tourists have the added advantage of skipping lines, gaining additional benefits and shortening wait times. Show more

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