Experience the magic of nature’s daily spectacle at 6 of the best spots in Toronto to watch a sunrise and sunset this winter. These locations not only offer breathtaking views, but also a chance to reflect and refresh amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. From serene waterfront views to bustling cityscapes, these spots capture the enchanting beauty of Toronto’s sunrises and sunsets, regardless of the season.

Best Sunrise Spots in Toronto

Sheldon Lookout

Sheldon Lookout, located adjacent to the iconic Humber Bay Arch Bridge, is a popular spot for viewing sunrises. The west side of the Humber River offers stunning views of the lake, bay, and downtown Toronto. The tranquil atmosphere before the city awakes is an added bonus.

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R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant

The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, known for its historic Art Deco design, is another prime location for sunrise viewing. Located near the Scarborough Bluffs, the icy lake makes a striking contrast against the vibrant hues of the sunrise, making it a photographer’s dream.

Phil Marion

Bathurst Street Bridge

The Bathurst Street Bridge offers an urban setting for sunrise viewing. As the sun rises, the city skyscrapers, CN Tower, and passing GO trains get bathed in a golden hue, creating a stunning cityscape.

Jeremy Gilbert

Best Sunset Spots in Toronto

Riverdale Park

Located in the east end of the city, Riverdale Park is a local favorite for watching the sunset. The park provides a panoramic view of the city skyline, reflecting the warm hues of the sunset.

A Great Capture

Polson Pier

Polson Pier offers an unobstructed view of the Toronto skyline and the lake, making it a perfect spot for sunset viewing. The lake reflects the beautiful colors of the sunset, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Marcanadian

Chester Hill Lookout

Chester Hill Lookout, at the end of a residential road near Broadview Ave, offers an almost panoramic view of the Don Valley, Evergreen Brick Works, and the Toronto skyline, making it an ideal spot to end your day.

Suhail Akhtar

Despite the shorter days and earlier sunsets during winter, Toronto continues to offer stunning views that allow us to pause, contemplate the past and look forward to the future.

Ethan Radcliffe

Ethan Radcliffe is a senior reporter and digital editor at The Toronto Insider, specializing in Canadian federal policy, GTA urban development, and national economic trends. With over a decade of experience in North American journalism, Ethan focuses on translating complex legislative and economic developments into clear, accessible reporting for Canadian readers. Ethan’s work emphasizes policy analysis, government accountability, and data-driven reporting, with a strong focus on how federal and provincial decisions impact communities across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. He has covered infrastructure planning, housing policy, fiscal strategy, and regulatory changes affecting Canadian households and businesses. A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Journalism, Ethan brings expertise in investigative reporting, long-form analysis, editorial standards, and digital publishing best practices. His reporting is guided by verifiable sources, public records, and transparent sourcing. In addition to reporting, Ethan has experience in newsroom editing, fact-checking workflows, SEO-informed journalism, and audience analytics, ensuring stories meet both editorial integrity standards and modern digital discoverability requirements. Ethan is committed to objective, fact-driven journalism and adheres to established ethical guidelines, prioritizing accuracy, clarity, and public trust in all reporting.

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