Toronto Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

In the 19th century, what nickname was given to Toronto due to the presence of a large number of meat-packing facilities?

Hogtown
The Big Smoke
The Six
The Queen City

Correct Answer: Hogtown

Correct Answer Explanation: The nickname “Hogtown” was attributed to Toronto due to the large number of meat-packing facilities in the city during the 19th century.

What historic event in 1858 resulted in the creation of the Toronto Islands?

A major earthquake
A severe storm
A volcanic eruption
A landslide

Correct Answer: A severe storm

Correct Answer Explanation: A severe storm in 1858 severed the connection between the Toronto Islands and the mainland, creating a channel to the harbour and forming the Islands as they are known today.

Which of these notable Toronto landmarks was not built in the 20th century?

Casa Loma
The CN Tower
The Distillery District
The Rogers Centre

Correct Answer: Casa Loma

Correct Answer Explanation: Casa Loma, a grand castle built in 1911, predates the other landmarks on the list, which were all built in the 20th century.

The Toronto Islands are not accessible to the public by car. Why is this?

There is no bridge connecting the islands to the mainland
The islands have a no-car policy
The islands were formed by a volcanic eruption
The islands are used for research

Correct Answer: The islands have a no-car policy

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Islands have a no-car policy to maintain a tranquil and environmentally conscious environment for visitors.

What event in 1998 significantly increased the size of the City of Toronto?

A major annexation
The Toronto Purchase
An amalgamation
A devastating fire

Correct Answer: An amalgamation

Correct Answer Explanation: In 1998, the City of Toronto underwent a major amalgamation that merged the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto with its six lower-tier constituent municipalities, effectively doubling the size of the city.

Known for its dramatic cliffs and views of Lake Ontario, which former municipality is now part of Toronto?

Etobicoke
Scarborough
North York
York

Correct Answer: Scarborough

Correct Answer Explanation: Scarborough, with its iconic Scarborough Bluffs, is a former municipality that was amalgamated into the City of Toronto in 1998.

What is the name of the largest urban park in North America, a significant portion of which is located within Toronto’s eastern border?

Rouge National Urban Park
High Park
Downsview Park
Centennial Park

Correct Answer: Rouge National Urban Park

Correct Answer Explanation: Rouge National Urban Park, the largest urban park in North America, encompasses several municipalities, including Toronto, and is centred around the Rouge River.

In the late 19th century, a wave of Irish immigrants arrived in Toronto fleeing a devastating natural disaster. What was this event?

The Great Fire of 1904
The Great Toronto Fire of 1849
The Great Irish Famine
Hurricane Hazel

Correct Answer: The Great Irish Famine

Correct Answer Explanation: The Great Irish Famine, which struck Ireland from 1845 to 1849, resulted in a significant wave of Irish immigrants seeking refuge in Toronto and other parts of Canada.

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is known for its distinctive architectural addition designed by a world-renowned architect. Who is this architect?

Frank Gehry
Daniel Libeskind
Will Alsop
David Chipperfield

Correct Answer: Daniel Libeskind

Correct Answer Explanation: Daniel Libeskind, a prominent architect known for his unique and often angular designs, is responsible for the striking addition to the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto.

Which of the following is NOT a major professional sports team currently based in Toronto?

Toronto Wolfpack
Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto Raptors
Toronto Argonauts
Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto Maple Leafs

Correct Answer: Toronto Wolfpack

Correct Answer Explanation: While the Toronto Wolfpack was a professional rugby league team based in Toronto, the team withdrew from the Super League in 2020 with its future uncertain.

Which of the following is NOT a public university located within the city limits of Toronto?

Ryerson University
York University
University of Toronto
University of Guelph

Correct Answer: University of Guelph

Correct Answer Explanation: The University of Guelph is a public university located in Guelph, Ontario. While it operates a satellite campus in Etobicoke with Humber College, its primary campus is not located within the city limits of Toronto.

Which of the following is NOT a primary public transit provider in the Greater Toronto Area?

GO Transit
York Region Transit
Brampton Transit
Toronto Maple Leafs

Correct Answer: Toronto Maple Leafs

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Maple Leafs are a professional hockey team, not a public transit provider.

The Toronto Transit Commission operates an extensive network of streetcars. What distinguishes Toronto’s streetcar system from other North American cities?

The system is the oldest in North America
The system is the largest and busiest in North America
The system is the only one with a dedicated right-of-way
The system is entirely electric

Correct Answer: The system is the largest and busiest in North America

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto’s streetcar system is the largest and busiest in North America, offering a distinctive and vital mode of public transportation within the city.

Toronto is known for its diverse cultural scene, featuring a variety of festivals and events. Which festival is held in late June and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community?

Caribana
Taste of the Danforth
Pride Week
The Canadian Open

Correct Answer: Pride Week

Correct Answer Explanation: Pride Week, held in late June, is one of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals in the world and a major event in Toronto’s vibrant cultural calendar.

In what year was Toronto officially incorporated as a city?

1793
1834
1867
1998

Correct Answer: 1834

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto was officially incorporated as a city on March 6, 1834, adopting the Indigenous name.

What is the name of the city’s main square, located in front of Toronto City Hall?

Yonge-Dundas Square
Queen’s Park
Nathan Phillips Square
Harbourfront Square

Correct Answer: Nathan Phillips Square

Correct Answer Explanation: Nathan Phillips Square, with its iconic reflecting pool and Toronto Sign, is the city’s main square and a popular gathering place.

Which of the following is NOT a major commercial area in Toronto that is popular with tourists?

The Path
Kensington Market
St. Lawrence Market
Casa Loma

Correct Answer: Casa Loma

Correct Answer Explanation: While Casa Loma is a popular tourist attraction, it is not a major commercial area like The Path, Kensington Market, and St. Lawrence Market.

The 1936 North American heat wave resulted in the highest temperature ever recorded in Toronto. What was the temperature?

35 °C (95 °F)
40.6 °C (105 °F)
38.9 °C (102 °F)
42.6 °C (108.7 °F)

Correct Answer: 40.6 °C (105 °F)

Correct Answer Explanation: The highest temperature ever recorded in Toronto was 40.6 °C (105 °F) on July 8, 9, and 10, 1936, during the 1936 North American heat wave.

What is the name of the largest public library system in Canada, with its headquarters in Toronto?

Toronto Public Library
Ontario Library System
The Library of Parliament
National Library of Canada

Correct Answer: Toronto Public Library

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Public Library is the largest public library system in Canada, operating over 100 branches and boasting a vast collection of over 12 million items.

What notable international sporting event did Toronto host in 2015?

The FIFA World Cup
The Summer Olympics
The Pan American Games
The Commonwealth Games

Correct Answer: The Pan American Games

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto hosted the Pan American Games in July 2015 and the Parapan American Games in August 2015, making it the largest multi-sport event ever to be held in Canada.

The City of Toronto’s government operates on a mayor-council system. Who is the current mayor of Toronto?

John Tory
Rob Ford
Mel Lastman
David Miller

Correct Answer: John Tory

Correct Answer Explanation: John Tory is the current mayor of Toronto, having been elected in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 and 2022.

In the 1960s, Toronto was nicknamed “Hollywood North” due to its growing role as a centre for what industry?

Film and Television Production
Music Production
Financial Services
Technology and Biotech

Correct Answer: Film and Television Production

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto’s film and television industry grew significantly in the 1960s, earning the city the nickname “Hollywood North” due to its large-scale production activities.

Toronto is a prominent centre for various cultural institutions. Which of these is NOT a major museum or gallery located in the city?

Art Gallery of Ontario
The Bata Shoe Museum
Canadian War Museum
Royal Ontario Museum

Correct Answer: Canadian War Museum

Correct Answer Explanation: The Canadian War Museum is located in Ottawa, Ontario, not Toronto.

What is the name of the main street in the city’s Financial District, often referred to as Toronto’s equivalent of Wall Street?

Yonge Street
Queen Street
King Street
Bay Street

Correct Answer: Bay Street

Correct Answer Explanation: Bay Street, in Toronto’s Financial District, is a major financial hub and often referred to as the city’s equivalent of Wall Street.

Which of these is NOT a major professional sports team currently based in Toronto?

Toronto Argonauts
Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto Raptors
Toronto Wolfpack

Correct Answer: Toronto Wolfpack

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Wolfpack was a professional rugby league team based in Toronto, but it withdrew from the Super League in 2020 with its future uncertain.

Which of these is a major, publicly operated hospital located in Toronto?

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic
Johns Hopkins Hospital

Correct Answer: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Correct Answer Explanation: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is a major, publicly operated hospital located in Toronto, known for its advanced medical care and research.

In what year was the first recorded college football game held in Toronto, at the University of Toronto?

1851
1861
1871
1881

Correct Answer: 1861

Correct Answer Explanation: The first recorded college football game took place at the University of Toronto in November 1861, marking a significant milestone in the history of Canadian football.

Toronto is home to a world-renowned music venue that has hosted iconic musicians throughout history. What is the name of this venue?

Massey Hall
The Danforth Music Hall
The Horseshoe Tavern
Budweiser Stage

Correct Answer: Massey Hall

Correct Answer Explanation: Massey Hall, a historic concert hall built in 1894, has hosted some of the most famous musicians in the world, solidifying its reputation as a legendary music venue.

What is the name of the event that takes place annually in Toronto and is one of the largest outdoor film festivals in the world?

Toronto International Film Festival
TIFF Lightbox
Take 21
Canadian Film Centre

Correct Answer: Toronto International Film Festival

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), held annually in September, is a renowned film festival that showcases a diverse range of films from around the world.

Toronto is a major hub for the Canadian technology industry. Which of these is NOT a prominent technology company based in Toronto?

Shopify
Google
Microsoft
Facebook

Correct Answer: Facebook

Correct Answer Explanation: While Google and Microsoft have significant offices in Toronto, Facebook does not have a major presence in the city.

What is the name of the subway line that is currently under construction, expected to be completed in 2024, and will run along Eglinton Avenue in Toronto?

Line 1 Yonge–University
Line 2 Bloor–Danforth
Line 4 Sheppard
Line 5 Eglinton

Correct Answer: Line 5 Eglinton

Correct Answer Explanation: Line 5 Eglinton, a major light-rail transit project, is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2024, running along Eglinton Avenue in Toronto.

The city of Toronto has a unique grid system for its streets. What is the approximate angle of this grid, relative to true north?

18.5°
22.5°
30°
45°

Correct Answer: 18.5°

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto’s street grid is approximately 18.5° to the west of true north, a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other city grids.

Toronto’s history is intertwined with the Indigenous peoples who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. What was the name of the First Nation that the British Crown made a land purchase from in 1787 to secure the land for the establishment of York?

Ojibwe
Huron
Iroquois
Mississaugas

Correct Answer: Mississaugas

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Purchase in 1787 involved the British Crown securing land from the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation for the establishment of York, which later became Toronto.

In 2003, Toronto was at the centre of a major outbreak of a respiratory illness that had a significant impact on the city. What was this illness?

SARS
COVID-19
Ebola
Zika Virus

Correct Answer: SARS

Correct Answer Explanation: In 2003, Toronto experienced a major outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), a contagious respiratory illness that had a significant impact on the city’s economy and public health.

The CN Tower holds a unique distinction as the tallest free-standing structure on land outside of Asia. When was this iconic tower completed?

1957
1967
1976
1986

Correct Answer: 1976

Correct Answer Explanation: The CN Tower, a prominent landmark in Toronto, was completed in 1976, marking a significant achievement in engineering and architecture.

Which of these former municipalities is NOT now a part of the City of Toronto after the 1998 amalgamation?

Etobicoke
Scarborough
North York
Oakville

Correct Answer: Oakville

Correct Answer Explanation: Oakville, located west of Toronto, remains a separate municipality, while Etobicoke, Scarborough, and North York were amalgamated into Toronto in 1998.

What is the name of the major east–west freeway that runs along the northern edge of downtown Toronto?

Highway 401
Queen Elizabeth Way
Gardiner Expressway
Don Valley Parkway

Correct Answer: Gardiner Expressway

Correct Answer Explanation: The Gardiner Expressway is a major freeway that runs along the northern edge of downtown Toronto, serving as a crucial transportation link for the city.

Toronto is a renowned centre for performing arts and music. What is the name of the city’s world-renowned opera company?

Canadian Opera Company
Metropolitan Opera
Royal Opera House
La Scala

Correct Answer: Canadian Opera Company

Correct Answer Explanation: The Canadian Opera Company, based in Toronto, is a prestigious opera company that has gained international acclaim for its performances and productions.

Toronto is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a number of popular ethnic neighbourhoods. What is the name of the neighbourhood in Toronto that is known for its Greek restaurants and shops?

Little Italy
Greektown
Chinatown
Little Portugal

Correct Answer: Greektown

Correct Answer Explanation: Greektown, located on the Danforth, is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its authentic Greek restaurants, shops, and cultural events.

Toronto is home to a world-famous sporting event that takes place annually and draws a large international audience. What is the name of this event?

The Canadian Open
The Queen’s Plate
The Grand Prix of Toronto
The Toronto Waterfront Marathon

Correct Answer: The Canadian Open

Correct Answer Explanation: The Canadian Open, held annually in Toronto, is a prestigious tennis tournament that attracts some of the world’s best players.

Which of these prominent Toronto streets is known as the heart of the city’s Fashion District?

Queen Street West
King Street West
Yonge Street
Bay Street

Correct Answer: Queen Street West

Correct Answer Explanation: Queen Street West, in Toronto’s Fashion District, is a vibrant street known for its trendy boutiques, independent designers, and artistic atmosphere.

What is the name of the city’s main public transit system, which operates the subway, buses, and streetcars?

GO Transit
Metrolinx
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)
York Region Transit

Correct Answer: Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is the city’s main public transit system, providing a comprehensive network of subway, bus, and streetcar services to Toronto residents and visitors.

Toronto’s economy is diverse and robust, with a significant presence in the financial sector. What is the name of the city’s stock exchange?

New York Stock Exchange
NASDAQ
Toronto Stock Exchange
London Stock Exchange

Correct Answer: Toronto Stock Exchange

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Stock Exchange, located in Toronto, is Canada’s primary stock exchange and one of the largest in the world, playing a vital role in the country’s financial system.

What is the name of the prominent park in Toronto that is known for its large, open green space, gardens, and a zoo?

High Park
Centennial Park
Downsview Park
Rouge National Urban Park

Correct Answer: High Park

Correct Answer Explanation: High Park, a beloved green space in Toronto, is known for its large open areas, gardens, zoo, and recreational opportunities.

Toronto’s iconic skyline is dominated by a cluster of tall buildings in its downtown core. Which of these is NOT a major skyscraper in Toronto’s Financial District?

First Canadian Place
Toronto-Dominion Centre
Scotia Plaza
Rogers Centre

Correct Answer: Rogers Centre

Correct Answer Explanation: Rogers Centre, while a prominent structure in Toronto’s downtown, is a stadium, not a skyscraper located in the city’s Financial District.

What is the name of the annual fair that is held at Exhibition Place in Toronto, drawing a large number of visitors each year?

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
The Taste of the Danforth

Correct Answer: The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

Correct Answer Explanation: The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), held annually at Exhibition Place, is a large-scale fair that attracts millions of visitors each year with its diverse entertainment, exhibits, and attractions.

Toronto’s diverse population reflects its history as a destination for immigrants. What is the approximate percentage of residents who were born outside of Canada?

Correct Answer: 45%

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto has a significant immigrant population, with approximately 45% of residents having been born outside of Canada, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural diversity.

Which of these is NOT a significant public square in Toronto?

Nathan Phillips Square
Yonge–Dundas Square
Mel Lastman Square
Queen’s Park

Correct Answer: Queen’s Park

Correct Answer Explanation: Queen’s Park is the location of the Ontario Legislative Building, not a public square like Nathan Phillips Square, Yonge–Dundas Square, and Mel Lastman Square.

The City of Toronto was part of a larger regional government known as Metropolitan Toronto. What year did this regional government begin?

1834
1954
1967
1998

Correct Answer: 1954

Correct Answer Explanation: The City of Toronto and 12 surrounding municipalities were federated into a regional government called Metropolitan Toronto in 1954, aimed at coordinating services and land use in the growing region.

In what year did the city experience a major blackout that affected millions of people in Toronto and surrounding areas?

1998
2003
2013
2018

Correct Answer: 2003

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto and a vast area of Southern Ontario experienced a massive blackout in August 2003, affecting millions of people and disrupting power, transportation, and daily life.

What is the name of the historic manor house in Toronto that is now a museum, showcasing the lives of wealthy families in the 19th century?

Casa Loma
Spadina House
The Grange
Fort York

Correct Answer: Spadina House

Correct Answer Explanation: Spadina House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century manor in Toronto, is now a museum that provides a glimpse into the lives of wealthy families in the city’s past.

Toronto has a rich history of hockey, with a prominent team that is considered one of the Original Six in the NHL. What is the name of this team?

Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto Marlies
Toronto Rock
Toronto Six

Correct Answer: Toronto Maple Leafs

Correct Answer Explanation: The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the NHL’s Original Six teams, with a long and storied history in Toronto, known for their passionate fanbase and dedicated following.

What is the name of the organization that was created in 2000, located in the city’s Discovery District, and aims to foster innovation and commercialization of research in Toronto?

The Royal Ontario Museum
The Art Gallery of Ontario
The MaRS Discovery District
The Canadian Film Centre

Correct Answer: The MaRS Discovery District

Correct Answer Explanation: The MaRS Discovery District, located in Toronto’s Discovery District, is a leading organization dedicated to promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and research commercialization.

What is the name of the prominent river that flows through Toronto, creating a dramatic ravine system and ultimately draining into Lake Ontario?

Humber River
Don River
Rouge River
Niagara River

Correct Answer: Don River

Correct Answer Explanation: The Don River, a significant waterway in Toronto, carves a deep ravine system through the city and drains into Lake Ontario, shaping the city’s landscape and providing recreational opportunities.

Toronto is a city with a rich history and a vibrant present. What is the approximate population of Toronto as of 2021?

1,500,000
2,000,000
2,500,000
3,000,000

Correct Answer: 2,794,356

Correct Answer Explanation: Toronto, Canada’s largest city, had a population of 2,794,356 in 2021, making it a major metropolitan centre with a diverse and growing population.

What is the name of the airport located on the Toronto Islands, providing limited commercial and passenger service to nearby destinations?

Toronto Pearson International Airport
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Buttonville Municipal Airport
Downsview Airport

Correct Answer: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

Correct Answer Explanation: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, located on the Toronto Islands, offers convenient air service for travellers within Canada and the United States, while maintaining a unique setting in a city park.

Toronto’s history is marked by several major fires. What year did the Great Toronto Fire occur, devastating a large section of downtown Toronto?

1849
1904
1954
1998

Correct Answer: 1904

Correct Answer Explanation: The Great Toronto Fire of 1904 was a major event that destroyed a significant portion of downtown Toronto, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s development.

What is the name of the prominent pedestrian-oriented arts, culture, and entertainment neighbourhood in Toronto, featuring preserved Victorian industrial architecture?

The Distillery District
Kensington Market
The Beaches
Liberty Village

Correct Answer: The Distillery District

Correct Answer Explanation: The Distillery District, in Toronto, is a revitalized historic area known for its preserved Victorian industrial architecture, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Toronto is a city with a vibrant street art scene. Which of these is NOT a well-known Toronto artist who has contributed to the city’s street art landscape?

A.J. Frena
D*Face
Banksy
RISK

Correct Answer: Banksy

Correct Answer Explanation: While Banksy is a renowned street artist, he is known for his work in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, not specifically in Toronto.

Toronto is known for its vibrant culture and diverse neighbourhoods. What is the name of the neighbourhood that is famous for its independent shops, markets, and a mix of ethnic cuisines?

Greektown
The Annex
Kensington Market
Little Italy

Correct Answer: Kensington Market

Correct Answer Explanation: Kensington Market, in Toronto, is a unique and eclectic neighbourhood known for its independent shops, diverse markets, and a mix of ethnic cuisines, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

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