How to Explore Toronto as a New Student

Navigating a massive city like Toronto can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve just arrived on your own. A good place to start is exploring your new neighbourhood, the area where you’ll spend most of your time. Toronto has so many unique neighbourhoods with their own local character, culture, and things to try. If you can master your surroundings, you’ll soon be able to master this great city.

Here’s how to get started.

Go for a walk without a set destination

After settling into your new home, take a stroll around your neighbourhood and see what it has to offer. You might discover go-to cafe or a nearby park to unwind in. Don’t be afraid to step into a public space. With no fixed destination, you open yourself up to discovering more.

A few things to keep in mind before you head out:

1. Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving home in case you need directions. You’re still brand new to the city and it’s easy to get turned around.
2. Note down any new spots you discover. The worst thing you can do is find somewhere you love and forget about it.
3. Don’t start your walk too late in the day. You want to explore when everything is open and make the most of your neighbourhood.

Talk to someone (you might make a lifelong friend)

You’ve found some great spots nearby. Nobody said you have to visit them alone. Once you’ve been around your neighbourhood a few times, take the chance and introduce yourself to someone. Ask for a recommendation or just admit you’re new to the city. Not everyone will be receptive, and that’s okay. More often than not, the person will be welcoming, and you might end up with a new friend. If you’re somewhere like a bookstore or the gym, you already have something in common. The possibilities are endless once you put yourself out there.

Learn your nearby transit routes

Toronto is incredibly well connected by transit, and learning your local routes is one of the best things a new student in Toronto can do. One can only walk so far without needing a rest! Take some time to familiarize yourself with nearby TTC, GO, or UP Express connections. Whether it’s the bus, subway, streetcar or train, don’t be afraid to take a trip – just be sure you have your Presto card. Your neighbourhood can feel a lot bigger once you expand beyond your home street.

Find your culture

It’s natural to feel homesick after moving to a new city; it doesn’t matter if you’re an international or domestic student – you’re still away from home and what you’re used to. In an unfamiliar environment, you might feel culturally cut off. Thankfully, Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities on earth. Whatever you’re missing, whether it’s food, music, or community, it’s almost certainly somewhere in this city. Do some digging on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok to find that taste of home and connect with others who share your background.

Attend local events

Summer is a great time to take in everything Toronto has to offer, and there is no shortage of things happening. Check out whatever pop-ups your neighbourhood might have on – outdoor movie nights, street festivals, free samples, thrift markets, or a sports game. Don’t just watch from the sidelines. Get involved.

You’ve got this!

It can feel like a lot at first – whether you’re new to Toronto or simply getting to know it again in a new phase of life – and you may be stepping outside your comfort zone. But if you give some of my suggestions a try, you’ll conquer your neighbourhood, and in time, this city.