The bustling downtown streets of Toronto spill into areas defined by their architecture and ethnic groups. Streetcars pass by skyscrapers that illuminate the skyline, then swoosh past bricked towers of glass, retrofitted factory warehouses, luxe hotels and shopping emporiums.
Toronto is often described as the engine that drives the nation's economy. Famous for its diversity, the country's largest city could arguably be the world's most globalized city with more than half the population hailing roots from outside the country. Meanwhile, from across the country, dreamers and schemers arrive to this metropolis along Lake Ontario's north shore seeking their fortunes.
Toronto vibrates as a cosmopolitan financial, commercial and cultural center, blending urban chic with its multicultural heritage (some 200 ethnic groups speak more than 200 languages and dialects). It has a busy stock exchange, a vibrant theater scene, leading cultural institutions, the finest shopping choices plus a large film and TV industry. Toronto sports fans love their Blue Jays, Raptors and Maple Leafs.
Toronto has soaring contemporary architecture alongside a smattering of classic Victorian and Edwardian gems, museums, performing-arts companies, fine restaurants and relaxed cafes, trendy shopping complexes and a people-friendly waterfront. Hundreds of parks keep it green (for most of the year).
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