Toronto Island

Toronto Island is a group of small islands located just off the downtown Toronto waterfront, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The island features beaches, parks, walking and biking trails, and beautiful views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. It is home to a variety of plants and wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration.

Getting to Toronto Island by ferry is part of the experience. The ferry ride provides scenic views of the harbor, city skyline, and surrounding water, allowing visitors to see Toronto from a different perspective. The short trip across the lake adds to the sense of adventure and makes the visit to the island both relaxing and memorable.

Toronto Island History

The Toronto Islands were formed by a natural deposition of sand and sediment from the Scarborough Bluffs over thousands of year. In 1858, a strong storm created a channel known as the Eastern Gap, which permanently separated it from the mainland. From the mid-to-late 1800s, the islands became a summer retreat. Ferries started to transport guests as early as 1833, and leisure amenities like cottages, hotels, and amusement venues followed.

FUN FACTS

The three main islands are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point
The Toronto Islands are only accessible by ferry or water tax
Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run at Hanlan's Point in 1914

MUST-DO'S

Rent bikes to go around exploring the Islands
Go swimming at the beach
Visit Centreville Amusement Park and its rides

TORONTO ISLANDS ITINERARY

12:30PM: Walk to St. George Station

12:40PM: Take the Line 1 Southbound train

1:00PM: Get off at Union Station Front Street exit, turn right until Bay Street, and walk south down Bay Street about 800 metres to the Ferry Terminal

1:15PM: Scan the ferry ticket and get on the 1:20PM ferry

1:40PM: Arrive at Centre Island

1:40-4:10PM: Free time at the island where students can play sports, walk around, go to the beach, etc.

4:10PM: Meet your group and start walking to the dock

4:20PM: Board the 4:20PM ferry

4:40PM: Arrive back in the city and start walking to Union Station

5:00PM: Dismiss students at Union Station

Directions:

Walk to St. George Station
Take the Line 1 Southbound train
Get off at Union Station Front Street exit, turn right until Bay Street, and walk south down Bay Street about 800 metres to the Ferry Terminal
Get in line to the Ferry Terminal and scan the ticket
Get on the 1:20PM ferry
Arrive at Centre Island

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