Toronto Civic Center 2-hour self-guided walking tour and scavenger hunt

• Starting point: outside front of the Sheraton Center, 123 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2M9
• Distance: 2.76 km / 1.71 mi
• Duration: 2 hours
• Methode: on foot
• Required: Fully charged smartphone with internet access (data plan) – Wifi will not be enough.
• Suggested:
  • Water bottle
  • Local map

Ancient History

Toronto is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, one of the 5 Great Lakes of North America.

This region has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. It comprises deep ravines, urban forests, rivers, and a large plateau that slopes towards the lake.

In 1793, the British Crown bought this area from the Mississaugas, the tribe that inhabited it, and established the town of York. York became the capital of Upper Canada afterward. The United States attacked York during the War of 1812.

In 1834, the village was renamed to City of Toronto. It became the capital of the province of Ontario when the Canadian Confederation was signed in 1867.

Recent History

Toronto is by far the most populous city in the country with more than 2.7 million inhabitants in its 5 municipalities, and almost 6 million in its metropolitan area. The metro area is usually called the GTA, or Greater Toronto Area. More than 50% of its population is a “visible” minority, that is, they are not white. Immigration has played an important role in the evolution and growth of this metropolis since very early on.

There are more than 160 languages spoken in the city, although English is the main language. These people come from over 200 distinct ethnic groups. Although there is an important “Chinatown” in Toronto, there are also several other ethnic areas such as Greektown, Little Portugal, Little Italy and Corso Italia.

Downtown Toronto

Toronto civic center where you will find City Hall, the municipal court, and large squares. It is also the heart of the financial and business community.

This district was originally Chinatown (1870-1961). The Chinese population moved out in 1950 to the neighborhood now known as “Old Chinatown” which is to the west. This neighborhood was completely rased in 1955, despite protests, to make way for the new (actual) City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square, as well as other municipal buildings.

The old City Hall was already here since 1899.