Discover the historical core of Canada's largest city, where centuries-old buildings stand alongside modern structures. This guide will take you through Old Toronto's notable landmarks and architectural highlights, revealing the stories behind its streets and buildings.
Introduction to Old Toronto: A Journey Through History and Architecture
Old Toronto, the historic center of Toronto, showcases the city's evolution from a colonial outpost to a major metropolitan area. This district, which roughly matches the boundaries of pre-1998 Toronto, offers a glimpse into various stages of the city's development.
The area's architecture reflects its long history. You'll find Victorian-era structures next to contemporary buildings, illustrating Toronto's growth over time. Architectural styles range from Georgian and Gothic Revival to Art Deco and Modernist, each representing a different period in the city's past.
Walking through Old Toronto allows you to experience this architectural diversity firsthand. Each street and building has a story to tell, and together, they offer meaningful insights into how the city has changed and grown. The mix of preserved historic structures and new developments creates an interesting landscape that appeals to both locals and tourists.
Must-See Heritage Sites and Architectural Wonders in Old Toronto
Old Toronto houses some of the city's most significant landmarks. Here's a guide to locations that highlight the area's history and architectural variety.
St. Lawrence Market and District
The St. Lawrence Market, established in 1803, is a central part of Old Toronto. This neighborhood features excellent examples of 19th-century commercial architecture.
- St. Lawrence Market Building: This historic market is housed in a red and yellow brick Romanesque Revival building. Inside, you'll find over 120 vendors selling fresh produce, handmade goods, and local specialties.
- St. Lawrence Hall: Built in 1850, this Greek Revival building with its distinctive domed clock tower was once Toronto's main venue for public gatherings. Today, it serves as a reminder of the city's 19th-century architecture.
The Distillery Historic District
The Distillery Historic District offers a well-preserved slice of Victorian-era Toronto. Formerly the site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, this pedestrian-only area now focuses on arts, culture, and dining.
- Victorian Industrial Architecture: The district contains an impressive collection of Victorian-era industrial buildings in North America. The red-brick structures and cobblestone streets now house various shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Art Installations: Throughout the district, you'll find various sculptures and art pieces, adding a modern touch to the historic setting.
Old City Hall
Old City Hall is an impressive example of Romanesque Revival architecture. Designed by E.J. Lennox and completed in 1899, this building served as Toronto's city hall until 1965.
- Clock Tower: The building's most notable feature is its 103.6-meter clock tower, which stands out in the city skyline.
- Architectural Details: Look closely at the building's exterior to spot numerous gargoyles and grotesques, including a caricature of the architect himself.
CN Tower
While not part of Old Toronto's historic core, the CN Tower is a defining feature of Toronto's skyline and represents the city's modern architecture. At 553.3 meters tall, it was the world's tallest free-standing structure for over 30 years.
- Observation Deck: From the tower's observation deck, you can see panoramic views of Old Toronto and beyond.
- EdgeWalk: For those seeking a thrill, the EdgeWalk offers a hands-free walk around the exterior of the tower's main pod, 356 meters above ground.
The Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building)
The Gooderham Building, also known as the Flatiron Building, is one of Toronto's most photographed structures. Built in 1892, this wedge-shaped building predates New York's more famous Flatiron by over a decade.
- Architectural Style: The building showcases the Romanesque Revival style, with a distinctive red brick facade and detailed cornices.
- Rear Mural: On the building's back, you'll find a mural that creates an optical illusion, appearing to extend the Flatiron's architecture.
Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) combines a historic structure with a modern addition, illustrating Toronto's approach to preserving its past while embracing new architectural styles.
- Original Building: The ROM's original 1914 building features Italianate Neo-Romanesque design.
- The Crystal: The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, added in 2007, provides a stark contrast with its angular, crystalline form extending over Bloor Street.
Inside, the ROM houses a large collection of artifacts covering natural history and world cultures, making it worthwhile for those interested in both architecture and cultural heritage.
Unlock Toronto's Top Attractions With CityPASS® Tickets
Old Toronto's mix of historic and modern architecture makes it appealing to history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and casual visitors. Whether you're on a solo trip or visiting as a couple, the area's many heritage sites and notable landmarks give you plenty to explore. From the busy St. Lawrence Market to the towering CN Tower, Old Toronto invites you to experience its history while enjoying a modern city atmosphere.
As you explore Old Toronto, consider using CityPASS® tickets to enhance your experience. Toronto CityPASS® tickets provide access to Toronto's major attractions, including the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Toronto
What is the #1 Attraction in Toronto?
While opinions may vary, the CN Tower is often considered Toronto's top attraction. This iconic structure offers stunning views of the city and is a symbol of Toronto's skyline. Other popular attractions include the Royal Ontario Museum, St. Lawrence Market, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
What is the Oldest Part of Toronto?
The area known as “Old Town” is generally considered the oldest part of Toronto. This includes the St. Lawrence Market neighborhood and parts of what is now the Financial District. The Town of York, which later became Toronto, was founded in this area in 1793.
What is Toronto Best Known For?
Toronto is known for plenty of things. For one, it's one of the most diverse cities in the world. Its CN Tower is one of the world's tallest free-standing structures. Toronto has several professional sports teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs (hockey), Toronto Raptors (basketball), and Toronto Blue Jays (baseball). The city is home to numerous museums, theaters, and festivals like the Toronto International Film Festival, and its food scene offers a wide variety of cuisines reflecting its diverse population. Not to mention, it is conveniently located close to natural attractions like Niagara Falls and the shores of Lake Ontario.
Lodging in Toronto
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