Spring is the season of fresh starts, and there's no better place to shake off the winter blues than Toronto. April in this buzzing Canadian city is when locals and visitors alike step back outdoors, exploring an area packed with character, culture, and color. If you're planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Toronto in April, you're in for a treat — mild weather, blooming cherry blossom trees, and all kinds of exciting attractions make it a top time to visit.
Special Events and Festivals
Toronto in April knows how to keep things lively. With the snow officially out of the picture, the city ramps up its event calendar with film, art, and cultural celebrations.
One of the big standouts is Hot Docs, North America's largest documentary film festival. It kicks off in late April and draws filmmakers and film lovers from around the globe. Expect eye-opening storytelling, compelling themes, and plenty of Q&A sessions to keep things interactive.
Then there's the Toronto Animation Arts Festival International (TAAFI). Whether you're a die-hard fan of animated classics or just curious about what's new in the animation world, this quirky festival packs in screenings, workshops, and panels with creators. You might even bump into the next Pixar genius.
For a dose of vintage charm, the Toronto Silent Film Festival delivers early cinema vibes with films accompanied by live music. It's a love letter to the golden age of film that film buffs shouldn't miss.
And sports fans — don't forget: the Toronto Blue Jays are back in action at Rogers Centre. Catching a game under the stadium's retractable roof is one of the most classic things to do in Toronto in April.
Museums and Cultural Experiences
Toronto's cultural scene is thriving, and April is an ideal time to dive in. If the weather gets a little drizzly (which it sometimes does), indoor attractions come to the rescue.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is full of natural wonders and cultural artifacts. One minute, you're walking beside dinosaur skeletons. Next, you're admiring priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt. It's also an architectural masterpiece in itself, blending old stone with sharp modern lines in a way that's pure Toronto.
Art lovers can spend hours wandering through the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). From Indigenous masterpieces to works by the Group of Seven, a collective known for shaping Canadian landscape art, the AGO is one of the most inspiring indoor escapes in the city.
You'll also want to check out the Bata Shoe Museum, a hidden gem that tells the story of humanity through — that's right — footwear! It's quirky, surprising, and actually pretty stylish.
If you're a hockey fan (or traveling with one), the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must. Relive legendary plays, see the Stanley Cup up close, and learn how Canada's favorite sport became a national obsession.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
ROM deserves its own spotlight. This is Canada's largest museum and an essential stop for anyone even remotely curious about the world. It's not just about ancient civilizations or prehistoric bones (though there's plenty of that). It's about discovery, connection, and seeing the big picture.
With Toronto CityPASS® tickets, visiting the ROM is hassle-free. And April is a great time to visit, as school groups haven't taken over yet, and seasonal exhibits often debut around this time.
Casa Loma
If you've ever wanted to explore a real-life castle without hopping across the Atlantic, Casa Loma delivers. This early 20th-century mansion, built by Sir Henry Pellatt, is filled with grand staircases, hidden tunnels, and panoramic views from its towers.
It's also surrounded by gardens that begin waking up in April, adding a splash of color to the stone walls and turrets. Casa Loma is one of those places that surprises you, as it's part history lesson, part fairy tale.
And with Victorian buildings dotting the neighborhood, you get a sense of how opulent old Toronto was.
Springtime Markets and Outdoor Adventures
April is when Torontonians reclaim the outdoors, and visitors are more than welcome to join in. You'll find no shortage of outdoor activities, especially in the city's eclectic neighborhoods and green spaces.
St. Lawrence Market
Food lovers, rejoice! The St. Lawrence Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering gourmet snacks, fresh produce, and Canadian specialties like peameal bacon sandwiches. It's a feast for your senses and a fantastic way to spend a chilly spring morning indoors but with the feel of the busy outdoors.
Kensington Market
Looking for something a bit funkier? Head to Kensington Market. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is bursting with street art, vintage finds, and small cafes perfect for people-watching. The market is always busy, but spring brings out more musicians, patio-goers, and local energy.
High Park Cherry Blossoms
You can't talk about things to do in Toronto in April without mentioning High Park. Around mid-to-late April, cherry blossom trees bloom in shades of pink and white, transforming the park into one of the city's most Instagrammable locations.
Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and join the crowds strolling through nature's short-lived spectacle. If you're lucky, you might even catch a few petals drifting through the air.
Maximizing Your Visit With Toronto CityPASS® Tickets
With so much to see and do, Toronto CityPASS® tickets are your ultimate springtime sidekick. It gives you prepaid admission to five of the city's top attractions, including the CN Tower, where you can stand on the legendary glass floor and take in views of Lake Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, and more.
Ready to turn this April into an adventure? Browse more things to do in Toronto, and start planning a trip that blends city excitement with spring freshness.
Whether it's your first time in town or your fifth, April is one of the best times to explore everything this energetic city has to offer. And with Toronto CityPASS® tickets in hand, you'll have easy access to top attractions, making your spring getaway smoother and more memorable.
Lodging in Toronto
Need lodging for your trip to Toronto? Use this map to find the right lodging for you: