The largest indie record store in Canada, Sonic Boom has rows upon rows of new and used vinyl, CDs and even cassettes. Longtime staffers are deeply knowledgeable, offering direction and advice. Quirky T-shirts, irreverent souvenirs and coffee-table books (most with a musical bent) are sold at the front.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Graffiti Alley

0.22 MILES

Possibly the most popular place to check out street art in Toronto (and there are many), this back alley has a magnificent collection of colorful murals…

2. 401 Richmond

0.22 MILES

Inside an early-20th-century lithographer's warehouse, restored in 1994, this 18,500-sq-meter New York–style artists collective hums with the creative…

3. Art Gallery of Ontario

0.35 MILES

The AGO houses collections both excellent and extensive (bring your stamina). Renovations of the facade, designed by the revered Frank Gehry and completed…

4. Textile Museum of Canada

0.57 MILES

Tucked into a condo tower, this small museum has exhibits drawing on its permanent collection of more than 13,000 items from Latin America, Africa, Europe…

5. City Hall

0.68 MILES

Much-maligned City Hall was Toronto's bold leap into architectural modernity. Its twin clamshell towers, central 'flying saucer,' ramps and mosaics were…

6. Rogers Centre

0.76 MILES

Technically awe-inspiring, the Rogers Centre opened in 1989 with the world's first fully retractable dome roof and seating for up to 53,500 people. Tours…

7. CN Tower

0.76 MILES

Dominating Toronto's skyline, the CN Tower is a marvel. At a height of 553 metres, the communications spire stands over the city like a beacon. Queues can…

8. Old City Hall

0.77 MILES

Across Bay St from the current City Hall is the 1899 definitive work of Toronto architect EJ Lennox. Now housing courtrooms, the hall has an off-center…