12 picture-perfect CN Tower photo spots

Whichever way you turn in Toronto, it’s hard to escape one of the city’s indelible icons—the 553-meter-high CN Tower. At one time the tallest structure in the world (now a still respectable 9th place), the CN Tower rises over the Toronto skyline and will be a photobombing presence as you make your way around Canada’s largest metropolis.

Here are 12 choice spots in Toronto to get that frame-worthy CN Tower photo.

1. Ferry to and from Toronto Islands

Take the ferry from Jack Layton Terminal to the Toronto Islands and you’ll be treated to a sweeping panoramic view of the Toronto skyline. The ferry rides are only a few minutes long, so have your camera at the ready.

Jack Layton Ferry Terminal on TripAdvisor | Yelp | Foursquare | Official website

2. Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands make for a lovely day trip escape from the city. Rent a bike, hit the beaches, eat a BeaverTail, and don’t forget to look behind you and catch a glimpse of the CN Tower hanging out in the background.

Centre Island (Toronto Islands) on TripAdvisor | Yelp | Foursquare | Official website

3. Harbourfront Centre

Back in downtown Toronto, it’s a delight to stroll along the waterfront on a summer’s day. Harbourfront Centre usually has something cool going on, and once again, hello CN Tower. In the wintertime, I imagine it looks particularly lovely when they set up an ice skating rink here.

4. Steam Whistle Brewing

If all the Toronto sightseeing has you thirsting for a cold one, you’re in luck, as the Steam Whistle Brewing “Roundhouse” sits at the foot of CN Tower. Take the brewery tour, grab a pint of the Pilsner, or just take a picture of these two best buds.

5. Underneath the tower

Of course, standing underneath the monument and looking up always makes for a nice, imposing CN Tower photo. Activate your vertical panorama mode to get the whole thing in your shot.

6. OCAD University

The principal building of Toronto’s OCAD University (Ontario College of Art and Design) might best be described as a tabletop in the sky. It’s pretty rad—definitely stop by to check it out. Then turn around and get a head-on view of CN Tower down the street.

OCAD University on TripAdvisor | Yelp | Foursquare