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Free entertainment is to be had year-round in Toronto. From Winterfest to Pride Week to dragon boat races, there’s an event for everyone (see Family Events). Throughout the summer, a multitude of free events are held at Harbourfront (see Queen’s Quay Terminal), and in late June and early July, jazz festivals keep the fans busy downtown and in The Beach (see Beaches International Jazz Festival). There are free celebratory concerts and fireworks on July 1 (Canada Day) and New Year’s Eve. In January, bands perform at Nathan Phillips Square during WinterCity (see Toronto WinterCity Festival).

Whether your taste leans toward roller-blading, walking, playing ball, or simply sunning yourself on the sand, Toronto’s parks and beaches (see Greenspaces) offer many great ways to relax. Several have excellent sports facilities, as well as grills and picnic tables.

While you can eat fairly cheaply at fast-food chains such as the home-grown Tim Hortons, ethnic restaurants are an excellent alternative. The range of cuisines is astonishing, the prices reasonable (see Ethnic Eats).

Clustered in Yorkville (see Yorkville) around Hazelton Lane and Cumberland Street, on West Queen Street West (see West Queen West Art & Design District), and at 25 Morrow Avenue near the Roncesvalles neighborhood are galleries selling works by local and international artists. Entry to some public and corporate galleries (see Museums & Art Galleries) is free. The outdoor public art is also worth checking out (see Top 10 Public Art Sites).

Heritage Toronto gives free walking tours in summer, covering such diverse topics as the city’s railroad history or its water supply. Book ahead or just show up.

The City of Toronto offers packages for short stays by US and Canadian visitors throughout the year to promote hotels, restaurants, and attractions. A package typically includes a one-night hotel stay, three-course meal, show, and breakfast, but there are several options, varying from month to month.

This pass is available online and payable in US dollars or in Canadian funds at the ticket booth of the attractions featured: Casa Loma, CN Tower (see CN Tower & Its Views), AArt Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, and Toronto Zoo. CityPass offers substantial discounts on admission – amounting to 50 percent if you visit all participating sights. It is valid for nine days from your first sight visit.

Single day passes, valid weekdays, are available at all subway stations; group passes for two or more are valid Sundays and public holidays. Both offer real savings. Monthly passes and passes for convention visitors are also available.

Some city attractions, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and Art Gallery of Ontario, offer one free day or evening per week. Bear in mind that although cheaper, the crowds can be greater.

Many hotels offer discounts when booked online. If booking directly or through an agent, ask about discounts. Members of auto clubs and AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) often qualify for discounts.