Viator Rating : 5 (287 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 6.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Toronto
Old Toronto Walking Tour: History & Hidden Gems (Tip-Based)
180
Overview
Old Town Toronto Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour offers an exclusive journey through the heart of Toronto, where history and culture come alive. This walking tour is perfect for those who want to see Toronto's famous places and learn about its past. Explore Toronto's historic buildings, busy streets, and hidden spots with a friendly local guide.
The tour takes guests through places like Berczy Park, known for its fun dog fountain, and the Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building), a cool building that looks like a triangle. Guests will also see Old Toronto (St. Lawrence Neighbourhood), the Financial District Skyscrapers, and walk through The PATH, a network of underground tunnels. Other stops include Old City Hall, New City Hall, Mackenzie House, the Entertainment District, David Pecaut Square (Eternal Flame of Hope), and Nathan Phillips Square, where the famous Toronto sign is located. The tour also passes by the Hockey Hall of Fame (Former Bank of Montreal), Roy Thomson Hall, the Princess of Wales Theatre, and TIFF Bell Lightbox. The tour revisits Nathan Phillips Square and the Hockey Hall of Fame, and guests can view Union Station and the CN Tower in the distance.
The tour includes a friendly English-speaking guide who knows a lot about Toronto's history and culture. The guide can also speak Spanish if selected. Guests will get tips on what to do and see in Toronto. Please note that tips for the guide are not included. With passionate guides and carefully planned routes, the Old Town Toronto Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour ensures an insightful and engaging exploration of Toronto's captivating story. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (4 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (6 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Discover Old Town Toronto: See Toronto's famous historical sites on foot with a local guide.
Hear Fascinating Stories: Learn about Toronto's past and culture from a passionate expert.
Explore Key Landmarks: Visit iconic spots like the Flatiron Building and Nathan Phillips Square.
Get Local Tips: Receive recommendations for the best things to do and see in Toronto.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the friendly and knowledgeable guides.
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Many enjoyed learning about the history and hidden gems of Toronto.
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The pace was comfortable and easy to follow.
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The tour provided a great overview of the city's highlights.
Some found the tour crowded.
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A few wished for more time at certain stops.
The Journey
Berczy Park
Begin your Toronto adventure at Berczy Park, a whimsical urban oasis named after William Berczy, a co-founder of York (now Toronto). Admire the park's playful centerpiece: a charming dog fountain featuring a delightful cast of canine characters. Uncover hidden secrets and learn about the park's unique design, making it a perfect introduction to the city's vibrant spirit.
Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building)
Marvel at the iconic Gooderham Building, Toronto's Flatiron Building, a striking example of Victorian architecture. Learn about the Gooderham family and their ambition in erecting what was once the most expensive building in Canada. This red-brick landmark is a photographer's dream and a symbol of Toronto's rich history, gracing the intersection of Front and Wellington Streets.
Old Toronto (St. Lawrence Neighbourhood)
Step back in time as you wander through the historic streets of Old Toronto, particularly the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood. Admire the architectural facades that whisper tales of the city's past. Spot the Old Toronto Post Office, which sometimes doubles as a film set for popular TV shows. Let your guide reveal hidden details and captivating stories behind this district, recognized as a National Historic Site.
Financial District Skyscrapers
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Toronto's Financial District, where towering skyscrapers dominate the skyline. Witness the headquarters of Canada's Big Five banks and observe the city's power players in action. Learn about the unique architectural choices of these modern giants, including the rationale behind their distinctive window tints, and marvel at the sheer scale of ambition on display.
The PATH
Descend beneath the city streets into The PATH, Toronto's underground labyrinth of tunnels. Explore this extensive network, connecting major downtown landmarks and revealing hidden gems along the way. Observe the unique architectural styles of each PATH section, reflecting the individual character of the buildings they connect. Discover shops, restaurants, and services in this climate-controlled pedestrian haven.
Old City Hall
Admire the grandeur of Old City Hall, a masterpiece of Renaissance Revival architecture designed by E.J. Lennox. Discover the hidden details and subtle jabs Lennox incorporated into the building's design, a testament to his creative genius and his cheeky protest against city councilors. Explore its intricate carvings and historical significance, a prime example of Toronto's architectural heritage.
New City Hall
Witness the modern architectural marvel of New City Hall, a symbol of contemporary Toronto. Observe the building's iconic design, consisting of two curved towers embracing a central dome. Visit Nathan Phillips Square at the base of the structure, a dynamic public space hosting events, markets, and the famous Toronto sign.
Mackenzie House
Explore Mackenzie House, one of Toronto's oldest buildings, dating back to 1822. Though not entering the building during the tour, consider returning to delve into its history or participate in a cooking class. Learn about William Lyon Mackenzie, Toronto's first mayor, and discover the stories behind this well-preserved historic landmark. Also, learn about local points of interest, such as maple syrup production or the significance of the Canada Life weather tower.
Entertainment District
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Toronto's Entertainment District, where street art murals adorn building walls and music venues abound. Catch glimpses of the CN Tower looming above, perfect for capturing iconic city shots. Discover the district's diverse nightlife, offering everything from lively dancing and drinks to captivating theater shows. Experience the excitement and cultural richness of this bustling neighborhood.
David Pecaut Square (Eternal Flame of Hope)
Reflect at David Pecaut Square and the Eternal Flame of Hope, dedicated to the disabled. Learn about Terry Fox, a Canadian hero who inspired the nation with his Marathon of Hope. Discover Terry's courageous story and the lasting impact of his cross-Canada run to raise awareness for cancer research. Feel inspired by his determination and unwavering spirit.
Nathan Phillips Square (Toronto Sign)
Capture a quintessential Toronto moment in Nathan Phillips Square, posing in front of the iconic Toronto Sign. Let your friends and family know you are experiencing Canada's largest city. Depending on the day, explore the square's bustling atmosphere, often filled with markets or public demonstrations. Enjoy a 15-minute break to use the public facilities or browse local vendors.
Hockey Hall of Fame (Former Bank of Montreal)
Step into the grand banking hall of the former Bank of Montreal building, now home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Marvel at the architectural details, including the high ceilings, white arches, and historic banking facade. Immerse yourself in the history of hockey and discover why the Hockey Hall of Fame is a top attraction in Canada.
Roy Thomson Hall
Experience the world-class acoustics and intimate atmosphere of Roy Thomson Hall, a renowned concert venue and home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Attend a performance and immerse yourself in the beauty of classical music, or simply admire the hall's architectural elegance from the outside. Known for its perfect sound quality and hosting a wide variety of musical performances.
Princess of Wales Theatre
Step into the opulent Princess of Wales Theatre, a century-old beaux-arts building hosting touring plays and musicals. Experience the magic of live theater in one of Toronto's great venues, a cultural gem showcasing world-class productions. It's a vital part of Toronto's arts and entertainment scene.
TIFF Bell Lightbox
Visit TIFF Bell Lightbox, the headquarters of the world-famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Discover the year-round cinematic offerings, including film screenings, exhibitions, and educational programs. Immerse yourself in the world of cinema and experience the energy of one of the world's leading film festivals.
Nathan Phillips Square (Revisited)
Return to Nathan Phillips Square for another perspective on this dynamic public space. Revisit the iconic Toronto sign for a new photo opportunity. Explore the square's ongoing activities, whether it's a bustling market, a lively protest, or a festive celebration. Use this final stop to purchase a souvenir or take advantage of the public restrooms.
Hockey Hall of Fame
Delve into Canada's passion at the Hockey Hall of Fame, a shrine to the sport. Admire an extensive collection of hockey memorabilia, including famous gear, interactive games, and the coveted Stanley Cup. Learn about the legends and greatest moments in hockey history, and celebrate the Canadian identity deeply intertwined with this beloved sport.
Union Station
Conclude your tour at Union Station, Toronto's bustling transportation hub. Observe the station's Beaux-Arts architecture and its role in shaping the city alongside the adjacent Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Receive expert advice from your guide on navigating Toronto's transit system, including the TTC, Go Train, VIA Rail, and bus services, ensuring a smooth departure.
CN Tower (in the distance)
Spot the iconic CN Tower in the distance, a 553-meter landmark that defines the Toronto skyline. Capture candid photos with the tower playfully "photo-bombing" your shots. While not visiting directly, appreciate its significance as a symbol of the city and a world-renowned attraction, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes an easy route through Old Town Toronto, local tips, and a friendly English or Spanish-speaking guide. Gratuities are not included. The meeting point is in downtown Toronto. This tour shows some of the best places that Toronto has to offer with passionate guides and carefully researched historical information, so book now!
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, because you'll be doing lots of walking! Bring a water bottle, and consider bringing snacks too. And finally, based on reviews, make sure you bring some cash to tip your guide!
Review Summary
People usually say this tour is an excellent introduction to Toronto's history and Old Town charm, with highly knowledgeable and engaging guides who share fascinating stories about the city's architecture and cultural heritage. Travelers frequently praise the reasonable gratuity-based pricing model, the manageable pace, and the value of visiting iconic landmarks like Old City Hall and St. Lawrence Market. The main points of appreciation include the small-group format, flexibility, and insider tips about where to eat. Some travelers note the tour's heavy walking component and suggest wearing comfortable shoes, and a few mention that the experience is best suited for those genuinely interested in history rather than fast-paced sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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