Toronto is the largest city in Canada and a prime destination for tourists from all over the world. It has an international and cosmopolitan population and is an epicenter of gay and lesbian culture. Toronto’s attractions include a wealth of fashionable shops, sophisticated restaurants, theatres, parks and museums. Here are a few suggestions for things to do on your gay vacation to Toronto.
Explore the Village
The Church Wellesley Village is Toronto’s major LGBT neighborhood. It’s the ideal place to go for socialising and people-watching. The village is known worldwide for its shops, bars, restaurants and public events run by and for the local gay community. The Buddies in Bad Times Theater on Alexander Street is dedicated to the promotion of Queer Culture.
Explore the World of ‘Queer as Folk’
The popular television series set in Pittsburgh was largely filmed in Toronto. ‘Queer as Folk’ fans will recognise many familiar scenes as they walk around the Church Wellesley Village. The tattoo parlor where Justin got his nipple piercing, the gym where the characters worked out, and the comic book store where Michael added to his Captain Astro collection are all to be found on Yonge Street. Church Street is home to Brian’s loft
Show Some Gay Pride
The last week of June is Pride Week in Toronto with a full schedule of exciting events. The street festival runs over three days with eight stages of entertainment to choose from. The street fair features shopping, community booths and food stalls. Join the cheering crowd at the world famous Pride Parade, the Dyke march and the Trans March.
Show off your Tan
The clothing-optional Hanlan’s Point Beach is a ten minute Ferry ride from Queen’s Quay. A popular spot for people-watching, the beach is always a hive of activity on warm, sunny days. Naturists from far and wide congregate here to swim, sunbathe or play volleyball.
Immerse Yourself in a Broadway Musical
Toronto has one of the biggest theater scenes in North America. In addition to seven Broadway theatres featuring the best musicals on tour, there are a range of concert halls and other venues hosting live performances. Discounted tickets can be purchased at Yonge-Dundas Square.
Make it Legal
The first fully legal gay wedding ceremony in North America was performed in Toronto. Same-sex wedding licences have been issued in Ontario since 2003. There are no residency or citizenship requirements. The Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto, which caters to a LGBT congregation, is a popular venue for gay weddings.
