Toronto’s art scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself — from world-class galleries to alleyway murals and secret creative spaces tucked between cafes. If you have just one day to immerse yourself in the city’s visual culture, this itinerary will guide you through a perfect art-filled day in downtown Toronto.
Morning: The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Begin your artistic adventure at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), one of North America’s most distinguished art museums. Located in the heart of the Grange Park neighborhood, the AGO houses more than 95,000 works spanning centuries — from European masterpieces and contemporary installations to one of the most significant collections of Indigenous and Canadian art. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, who was born in Toronto, the building itself is a work of art, with sweeping glass and wood elements that create a warm, light-filled atmosphere.
Start your morning wandering through highlights such as the Group of Seven collection, the Henry Moore Sculpture Centre, and rotating contemporary exhibits that showcase local and international artists. Take a coffee break at AGO Bistro, where you can sip an espresso while overlooking Dundas Street’s modern architecture. Before leaving, pop into the museum shop — it’s one of the best places in Toronto to find art-inspired gifts, design books, and unique souvenirs.
Afternoon: Discovering Toronto’s Street Murals
After the structured beauty of the AGO, dive into the city’s outdoor canvas — its street art. Toronto is internationally recognized for its murals and graffiti alleys, where artists transform bare walls into vibrant storytelling spaces. Start at Graffiti Alley, located between Queen Street West and Richmond Street, stretching for almost a kilometer. Here, you’ll find ever-changing works by well-known artists like Uber5000 and Elicser, with colorful portraits, social commentary, and surreal designs layered over time.
From there, wander west toward Queen Street West and Kensington Market, two neighborhoods brimming with artistic energy. Kensington’s narrow streets are lined with murals, pop-up galleries, and eclectic shops where art seeps into every corner — from garage doors painted with abstract faces to cafés that double as exhibit spaces. Don’t rush: this is where you’ll feel Toronto’s creative pulse most vividly. Stop for lunch at Seven Lives Tacos or grab coffee from FIKA Café, both surrounded by local art.
Evening: Hidden Galleries and Creative Corners
As the sun begins to set, transition from public art to Toronto’s hidden galleries — smaller, independent spaces that give emerging artists a platform to shine. Walk or take a short streetcar ride to The Drake Hotel on Queen Street West, which isn’t just a boutique hotel but a hub for contemporary art. Its Drake Art program features rotating installations in the lobby and public areas, often spotlighting local artists. Nearby, Clint Roenisch Gallery and Propeller Art Gallery in the West Queen West Art + Design District offer curated exhibitions ranging from conceptual works to immersive installations.
If you prefer something more intimate, explore The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery on the Harbourfront — an industrial-style space that showcases cutting-edge exhibitions from Canadian and international creators. End your art-filled day with dinner at Labora, Kōst, or Aloette, where design and cuisine come together beautifully.
Optional Nightcap: Art After Dark
If you’re visiting during fall, time your trip with Nuit Blanche, Toronto’s all-night contemporary art festival, when the entire city transforms into an open-air gallery. Otherwise, catch an evening talk or film screening at the AGO, or simply stroll along Queen Street West again — the murals look striking under the glow of streetlights.
