Toronto Is Having a Women’s Sports Moment—Here’s How to Plan a Trip Around It

Why It Matters

The new franchises turn Toronto into a year‑round hub for women’s sports tourism, driving economic activity and elevating the city’s global sports profile.

Key Takeaways

• Toronto gained WNBA's first non‑U.S. franchise, the Tempo, in 2024.
• City now hosts pro women’s hockey, soccer, and basketball teams.
• Games boost tourism, filling hotels, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
• Dedicated venues and events create year‑round sports‑centric travel itineraries.

Pulse Analysis

Toronto’s emergence as a women’s‑sports capital reflects a broader shift toward gender‑balanced athletics. The Tempo’s debut as the WNBA’s first franchise outside the United States not only expands the league’s market but also validates Canada’s appetite for high‑level women’s basketball. Coupled with the PWHL’s Sceptres and the NSL’s AFC Toronto, the city now offers a unique sports portfolio that rivals any U.S. market, attracting fans, sponsors, and media attention.

Travelers are capitalizing on this momentum by planning itineraries around game days. Luxury options like Nobu Hotel and Hotel X provide proximity to the Coca‑Cola Coliseum, while boutique stays such as 1 Hotel offer a quieter base. Dining hotspots—from upscale Thai at Kiin to casual pizza at Gusto 101—cater to pre‑ and post‑game crowds, turning each match into a culinary outing. The convergence of sport, hospitality, and local cuisine creates a compelling package for domestic and international visitors.

Beyond immediate revenue, the sustained presence of professional women’s teams fuels community engagement and inspires the next generation of athletes. Initiatives like Her Game’s watch parties and the Aga Khan Museum’s "Game On!" exhibit deepen cultural connections, while the National Bank Open adds a marquee tennis event to the summer calendar. Together, these elements position Toronto as a year‑round destination where women’s sports drive tourism, economic growth, and a lasting legacy of inclusivity.