University of Toronto

The Basics

With a history dating back to 1827, the University of Toronto—replete with sculptures, stone buildings, and lush green spaces—is a central feature of the bustling city. Most travelers happen upon the university while hanging out downtown, while some stop by on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or a small-group walking tour. If you’re in the mood for something spooky, a ghost-themed tour of the campus is a fun option.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Architecture fans appreciate the campus’s historic buildings, including Annesley Hall and Woodsworth College.

• Get your bearings with a stop at the visitors center on King’s College Circle.

• Stretch out on the big lawn of Front Campus, and take in the views of the CN Tower.

How to Get There

The most convenient way to get to the University of Toronto’s downtown (St. George) campus is by subway. Take the 1 line to the Museum stop, then walk along the west side of Queen’s Park, which borders the university. Alternatively, many hop-on hop-off bus tours stop at the Royal Ontario Museum, adjacent to campus.

When to Get There

Most travelers prefer to visit when the weather is pleasant, in late spring, summer, and early fall; Toronto winters are typically cold and quite snowy. The campus is busiest when students return to class in fall, and you’ll find fewer crowds in summer.

Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum

Just north of the University of Toronto’s St. George campus sits the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), one of Ontario’s premier art and culture institutions. Explore the ROM’s collection of more than 13 million objects showcased on four floors of gallery space. To save time at the entrance, prebook your ticket. Or, go on the third Monday of the month, when the museum offers free admission and late hours.

What is the University of Toronto known for?

The University of Toronto is well known academically for the Toronto School, which focuses on literary criticism and communication theory. It’s a top research-intensive university, too. The University of Toronto is one of Canada’s top-ranked universities and is a desirable location for both Canadian and international students.

How many students go to the University of Toronto?

While it varies yearly, there were close to 100,000 students in 2023. This total includes undergraduate and graduate students and student numbers at the three campuses. These are St. George in downtown Toronto, Mississauga to the west, and Scarborough to the east.

When can I visit the University of Toronto?

Visitors are welcome year-round, and campus tours are also available. Tours will tell you much more than you would learn if you wandered around alone. You can learn the history of the buildings, who went to the university, and what they’ve accomplished, and enjoy the greenery on campus.

When was the University of Toronto founded?

In 1827, King’s College was founded in Toronto and eventually evolved into the current University of Toronto. The Church of England initially controlled it, hence its first name. When it became secular in 1850, it became the name it is today. There are now three campuses.

Is it hard to get into the University of Toronto?

Yes, getting accepted to the University of Toronto is difficult—it’s one of the hardest to get into in Canada. It’s quite high in Canadian and International rankings, making it a top choice for many students. If students have and uphold high academic standards, only then will they be considered.

Can I tour the University of Toronto?

Yes, you can tour the University of Toronto. The downtown campus is a top attraction and draws many visitors to Toronto. Walk through the Philosopher’s Walk, take photos of the stately buildings, and walk under the paths with elms and ash trees in the heart of Canada’s largest metropolis.