Toronto Arts Scene Gets Big Boost

Downtown is packed with galleries aplenty. Check out this listing. For reviews of what's on at each gallery, the go-to source is NOW, Toronto's alternative paper.

Although you might feel museum-ed out after your AGO visit, it's worth squeezing in a visit to the far less daunting, although more quirky, Bata Shoe Museum. Yes, it's a museum dedicated to footwear, but you don't have to be a Sex & The City fan to enjoy it. Here, the exhibits provide a unique view on culture, beauty and status by examining the shoes worn by people in different cultures throughout history. Look for Napoleon's red leather boots. You'll understand a lot more about the man (and his notion of masculinity).

With your curiosity piqued, get yourself some arts education at Type Books (883 Queen St. West; 416-366-8973). In addition to a thoughtful selection of books about the arts, there's also a small art gallery in the basement.

Tips:

• Dine: Frank, the AGO's new restaurant designed by Frank Gehry (and named after guess who?), is generating a lot of foodie buzz. When Hollywood celebs are in town to shoot movies, though, they tend to frequent Chiado, a world-class Portuguese restaurant and among the city's finest establishments. For pre-art sustenance, try Le Petit Dejeuner, where the omelets are tasty enough to make both the wait for a table and the distracted-to-snotty staff worthwhile. The lines are often shorter, and the service more pleasant, at Toba, a few blocks down the street.
• Fly: Porter Airlines offers service from Newark and Chicago-Midway to the airport located right in Toronto's downtown. In Toronto, the lounge offers free lattes and WiFi, and aboard, complimentary wine and snacks.
• Stay: Le Meridien King Edward is conveniently located near Toronto's arts attractions. Look online for weekend specials, running through the end of March. Book one night, get the second night at half price.