The Toronto Islands might solely be a number of kilometers from downtown, however for these in search of a straightforward day journey, they will really feel a world away. From ferry particulars to points of interest and the whole lot in between, right here’s all you’ll want to know to make your subsequent go to distinctive.
The ferry terminal
The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is situated at 9 Queens Quay W. on the foot of Bay Road and presents year-round entry to Hanlan’s Level, Ward’s Island and Centre Island.
Since parking could be nightmarish and costly, it’s greatest to take public transit. Merely head to Union Station, hop on the 509 or 510 streetcars, then comply with the gang by Harbour Sq. Park to the bustling terminal.
As a result of the terminal is usually busy, give your self loads of time. Throughout peak summer season months, practically 75,000 passengers trip the ferry daily.
Whenever you arrive, take note of which line you’re becoming a member of — one is for ticket holders, whereas the opposite is for ticket purchases.
Ferry tickets
You should buy your tickets on the terminal utilizing money, credit score or debit, but it surely usually saves time to buy upfront by going on-line.
All tickets are round-trip and are inclusive of all island-bound ferries:
Adults: $9.11
Seniors (65+): $5.86
Youth (beneath 19 with ID): $5.86
Junior (beneath 14): $4.29
Infants (beneath 2): free
Although you’ll want to offer proof of buy when boarding the island-bound ferry, no ticket is required upon return.
Summer season schedule (together with weekends and holidays)
Centre Island Ferry
First island-bound ferry: 8 a.m.
Final city-bound ferry: 11:20 p.m.
Frequency: Each half hour to 40 minutes (on common)
As a result of this route is, by far, the busiest, scheduling might improve to each quarter-hour, relying on crowds.
Hanlan’s Level Ferry
First island-bound ferry: 6:45 a.m.
Final city-bound ferry: 11 p.m.
Frequency: Each half hour to 45 minutes (on common).
Ward’s Island Ferry
First island-bound ferry: 6:30 a.m.
Final city-bound ferry: 11:45 p.m.
Frequency: Each half an hour to an hour (on common).
Click on right here to see a full schedule and seasonal differences.
A couple of issues to know
The two km ferry trip, which takes quarter-hour, is an satisfying expertise providing stunning views and crisp lake air — so if you happen to simply get chilly, deliver an additional layer.
Every boat is wheelchair and stroller accessible and offers onboard washrooms. What’s extra, canine are welcome — as long as they’re leashed.
Though the Ward’s Island and Centre Island Ferries supply indoor seating, it’s essential to notice that the Hanlan’s Level Ferry is a single-level open-air barge with no seating, making it widespread for bikers at no additional price.
For those who plan on biking however choose to go away your bike at house, there’s a Bike Share Toronto station near the ferry terminal in Harbour Sq. Park, plus a motorcycle rental service on the island.
The Toronto Islands
Wards Island
Greatest recognized for its turn-of-the-century village consisting of 262 properties, Ward’s Island is pleasant. Meander the slender sidewalks (circa the Nineteen Thirties), and luxuriate in vibrant gardens and eccentric cottages at each flip — and for these dreaming of dwelling there, you’ll want loads of luck and endurance to get on the Purchaser’s Record lottery, which opens each two years in October.
As a result of Ward’s Island is especially residential, picnic websites are sparse, however there are a number of small meals venues, such because the Island Café, Riviera Kitchen and the brand new Castaways Rum Shack, which opened in Might.
For a quiet beach-going expertise, go to Ward’s Island Seashore, hidden on the south shore behind the soccer subject. Afterward, stroll the 1.5 km boardwalk. It presents seemingly infinite views of Lake Ontario.
Centre Island
Admire neatly saved parterre gardens, discover the topiary maze or benefit from the Franklin Kids’s Backyard. After that, cross the bridge for household enjoyable at Centreville Amusement Park and Far Sufficient Farm.
That includes greater than 30 rides, together with the enduring log flume and swan trip, you’ll additionally wish to try the vintage Dentzel Menagerie Carousel — the one one in Canada.
Open each day all through July and August, go to weekdays between 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. or weekends between 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Entry to the amusement park and farm is free, however the rides require tickets. Buy singular tickets at considered one of three onsite kiosks, or purchase extra intensive trip passes on-line upfront.
On the southern shore, admire panoramic lake views from the pier or get pleasure from swimming at Manitou Seashore. Pack a picnic, lease a quadricycle or head to the boathouse for canoe leases and extra.
For eating places, drop by Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co, the Carousel Cafe or a number of outside meal choices, together with Centreville’s meals stands.
Hanlan’s Level
Hanlan’s Level is a great spot for picnics, BBQ get-togethers and bonfires (with a allow).
What’s extra, there are many locations to get energetic, together with tennis and volleyball courts and a baseball diamond (as a aspect word, the long-gone Hanlan’s Level Baseball Stadium as soon as noticed the legendary Babe Ruth hit his first skilled house run in 1914).
Talking of way back — head over to the infamous Gibraltar Level Lighthouse for a spooky expertise. In-built 1808, it’s considered one of Toronto’s oldest, most haunted buildings, with legends reporting that its first lightkeeper, John Paul Radelmüller, was mysteriously murdered in 1815.
Getting out of the shadows and into the solar, why not go away your swimsuit at house and luxuriate in a cheeky day at Hanlan’s Level Clothes Optionally available Seashore? It’s considered one of solely two official nude seashores in Canada.