Toronto Highlights Walking Tour with a Local

3–4 hours Free cancellation Private tour

Former home of the iconic CITY TV — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

As a lifelong Torontonian, former entertainment reporter and television writer I have an insider's knowledge of the city's cultural heroes and stories. Plus a few crazy insights of my own. I'm adept and adaptable to ensure your walk through the city is fun and informative setting you up for a fantastic visit to North America's fourth largest city.

I'm also happy to provide tips on other activities to round out your visit.

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At a glance

Duration: 3–4 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–4
Guide: English
Operated by: Jenn

What is included

Included

Included: Lots of stories and insider knowledge.

Not included

Not included: Tea and coffee: Coffee and/or Tea
Not included: Admission fees: In the event we visit the Art Gallery of Ontario, I can provide admission for one person but additional guests will need to purchase admission tickets.

Itinerary

Canada’s Walk of Fame

10 min Admission not included

Meeting outside Roy Thomson Hall I will provide an introduction and stories about Canadian cultural heroes and their link to Toronto and the world.
Royal Alexandra Theatre

10 min Admission not included

Stories of famous Canadians and the comedy legacy that has influenced the world as well as the history of Toronto Theatre and how it became known as Broadway north.
TIFF Bell Lightbox

10 min

More stories about Canadian cultural legacy and the film business as well as an opportunity for a restroom break if required.
401 Richmond

15 min

Ducking down some laneways we will visit this exemplary home to independent galleries and arts groups plus visit Spacing, an independent boutique with unique souvenirs of Toronto.
Graffiti Alley

20 min

As we move into the fashion district, we will discuss Toronto's fashion history and the Jewish and Chinese communities that populated the area. We will pop into the incredible Water Works Food Hall for a snack before a visit down Rush Lane, AKA, graffiti alley.
Fashion District

10 min

Walking North on Spadina Avenue we will learn about buildings in the area and the history of the neighbourhood that was almost demolished in the 1970s.
Kensington Market

15 min

A quick visit to Kensington Market to satisfy any penchant for vintage clothing or grab an amazing cardamom latte at a local cafe.
St. Lawrence Market

20 min

Touring the neighbourhood includes Toronto's Banksy, the beloved Dog Fountain and the historic Gooderham building AKA Toronto's Flatiron Building which predates New York's! And if you fancy a snack we can pop into Toronto's vibrant food market.
The Path

20 min

An underground city linking 74 buildings will lead us to a historic bank vault and spectacular atrium with a Victorian edifice inside.
Distillery Historic District

20 min

Our tour concludes at the Distillery, North America's largest collection of industrial Victorian-era architectures. Now a Canadian heritage site it's home to an array of boutiques, galleries and restaurants as well as a beloved Christmas Market.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

I will meet you by the box office doors. I'll be carrying a blue backpack and am always available by text on WhatsApp.

End point

I often recommend this Toronto restaurant to visitors as it's located in an historic courthouse and the food is very reliable. It serves pizza and pastas and the flourless chocolate cake is spectacular. Reservations are recommended.
Depending on timing, we may complete the tour at the historic market hall where you can grab a snack or meal.
Depending on time and your interest we can end at various locations including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Kensington Market, St. Lawrence Market, Distillery District or a recommended restaurant.

Pickup points

Union Hotel
Le Meridien Toronto Pinnacle Hotel
Ace Hotel Toronto
Hotel Riu Plaza Toronto
TOOR Hotel - JDV by Hyatt
Toronto Lofts
Signatures on Bloor
Town Inn Suites
Nobu Hotel Toronto
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre By Ihg
The QUBE Hotel Toronto
University of Toronto - New College Residence - Wilson Hall Residence

and 81 more pickup points

If your hotel is located in the downtown core, it may be convenient to meet you there to start our adventure - I will be in the lobby by the concierge desk with a blue backpack and if early will text or call up to your room. Otherwise a great jumping off point is by the box office at Roy Thomson Hall - again I will be carrying a blue backpack.