Explore Toronto for Free: It’s All in the Cards (And No, Not Your Credit Card)
Toronto is a vibrant city filled with world-class museums, stunning parks, and endless cultural experiences – but exploring it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
After living in Toronto for nearly six years, I’ve discovered that some of the best adventures happen when you take advantage of the city’s free and budget-friendly resources. And guess what? You probably already have the keys to unlocking these experiences in your wallet.
No, I’m not talking about your credit card.
All you need are two simple cards:
Your Toronto Public Library (TPL) card – Your passport to free museum visits, workshops, and digital perks.
Your PRESTO card – More than just transit access—it’s your ticket to discounts at top attractions.
And if you’re a newcomer to Canada, there’s a bonus third option: the Canoo app, which offers free admission to major attractions nationwide.
Let me show you how I’ve used these to explore Toronto for free (or close to it) – and how you can too!
1. Toronto Public Library Card – Your Ultimate Cultural Passport
As someone who loves a good book, I can count the number of books I’ve actually bought on my fingers. Why? Because the Toronto Public Library (TPL) has everything I need—for free.
Not only does borrowing save me money, but it also saves space (no overflowing bookshelves!). And the best part? TPL offers so much more than just books.
What You Can Do With a TPL Card:
Free Books (Obviously!) – Physical, eBooks & Audiobooks
Huge selection of bestsellers, classics, and niche reads
Borrow eBooks & audiobooks via Libby/OverDrive (no late fees!)
Request books from any branch – delivered to your local library
Museum + Arts Pass (MAP) – Free Entry to Top Attractions
The MAP program lets you borrow free passes to some of Toronto’s most popular museums and cultural sites. Simply reserve a pass online and pick it up at your local branch.
Participating venues include:
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – Normally $26, free with MAP
- Toronto Zoo – Save $29+ per adult
- Aga Khan Museum – Free admission (usually $20)
- Ontario Science Centre – Free entry (regularly $25)
- Gardiner Museum – Free ceramics and art exhibits
- And more! (Check TPL’s MAP page for updates)
Pro Tip: Passes are in high demand, so book early (especially on weekends). Each pass covers 2 adults + up to 5 children, making it perfect for families!
🔹 Free Programs & Events
TPL hosts hundreds of free events every month, including:
- Workshops (resume help, coding, painting)
- Author talks & book clubs
- Film screenings & concerts
- Kids’ activities & storytimes
Check your local branch’s calendar or browse events on TPL’s website.
🔹 Digital Perks – Free Movies, Courses & eBooks
Your library card gives you free access to:
- Kanopy – Stream thousands of movies & documentaries
- LinkedIn Learning – Free courses on tech, business, and creative skills
- OverDrive/Libby – Borrow eBooks & audiobooks
- PressReader – Read global newspapers & magazines
How to Get a TPL Card:
- Sign up online at tpl.ca or visit any branch
- Bring ID + proof of address (e.g., a utility bill)
- Free for all Toronto residents!
2. PRESTO Card – More Than Just Transit (Discounts on Attractions!)
Most people use their PRESTO card just for riding the TTC or GO Transit—but PRESTO Perks unlocks exclusive discounts at Toronto’s best attractions.
What You Can Access With PRESTO Perks:
🔹 Discounted Admission to Major Attractions
- CN Tower – 15% off general admission
- Ripley’s Aquarium – Save on tickets
- Toronto Zoo – Discounted entry
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – Reduced prices
- Ontario Science Centre – Special offers
- Hockey Hall of Fame – Cheaper tickets
How to Access PRESTO Perks:
- Visit PRESTO’s Perks page
- Show your PRESTO card at checkout (some discounts require online booking)
🔹 Transit Savings
- Free TTC transfers within 2 hours
- $10 GO Transit weekend day pass (unlimited travel)
- Discounted fares for youth, students, and seniors
🔹 Bonus Deals (Seasonal & Dining Discounts)
PRESTO occasionally partners with restaurants, events, and festivals for extra savings—always check their site for new promos!
Bonus: Canoo App – Free Attractions for Newcomers
If you’re a new permanent resident or Canadian citizen (within 5 years), the Canoo app is a must-have. It offers free admission to 1,400+ attractions across Canada, including many in Toronto.
What You Can Do With Canoo:
It gives you free entry to:
- CN Tower
- Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
- National Parks & Historic Sites
- Cultural performances & events
How to Sign Up:
- Download the Canoo app
- Verify your PR/citizenship status (within first 5 years in Canada)
- Show your digital pass at participating venues
Visit canoo.ca for details.
A Free (or Nearly Free) Day in my Life in Toronto
Here’s how I’ve planned budget-friendly days using just these cards:
🌞 Morning:
- Free museum visit (ROM or Science Centre with MAP pass)
- PRESTO discount at Ripley’s Aquarium if no MAP pass is available
☕ Afternoon:
- Free workshop at TPL (art class, resume help, or movie screening)
- Picnic in High Park (free & beautiful!)
🌙 Evening:
- Sunset at Harbourfront (free views!)
- Free cultural event from Canoo or TPL
Total cost? Almost nothing!
Toronto’s Best Experiences Can Be (Almost) Free
You don’t need deep pockets to enjoy Toronto. With just a library card, PRESTO card, and (if eligible) Canoo, you can:
✔️ Visit top museums for free
✔️ Get transit discounts
✔️ Attend free workshops & events
✔️ Stream movies & take online courses
So next time you’re looking for something to do, check your wallet first – your next adventure might already be waiting for you.
Have you used any of these cards to explore Toronto? Share your favorite free spots in the comments!
More Ways to Explore Toronto for Free
- Are you a newcomer to Canada? You could be eligible for free access to museums and national parks with the Canoo app.
- Want a full list of no-cost adventures? Check out my big list of Free Things to Do in Toronto.
