Discover Toronto’s Historic Front Street: A Must-Walk Today!

UPDATE: Toronto’s vibrant Front Street is now spotlighted as a premier walking destination, offering residents and visitors an immersive experience into the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. This route, part of the popular ROMWalks initiative, is gaining traction as more people seek engaging outdoor activities amidst urban renewal.

Front Street, known as one of the original streets of the Town of York, stretches for 1 kilometer through downtown Toronto, making it an ideal stroll for both tourists and locals. The latest ROMWalks tour showcases this historic pathway, featuring landmarks that tell the story of Toronto’s evolution.

Starting at Jarvis and Front Streets, visitors will find themselves at the new and bustling St. Lawrence North Market. Opened in May 2023, this $128 million facility highlights local vendors selling artisanal goods, fresh produce, and more within a stunning modern design by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners.

As you continue west, you will encounter Berczy Park, renowned for its whimsical fountain adorned with 27 dog sculptures and one lonely cat, a captivating result of a revitalization project led by landscape architects Claude Cormier + Associés.

Next, don’t miss the iconic Gooderham Building, also known as the Flatiron Building, located at the corner of Church and Front. While currently closed for renovations, this historic red-brick structure remains a highlight on many Toronto postcards.

A short walk further leads you to the Hockey Hall of Fame, a classic building originally constructed for the Bank of Montreal in the 1880s. After years of restoration, it now honors the legends of Canada’s beloved sport.

As your stroll continues, you will arrive at Brookfield Place, featuring the stunning Allen Lambert Galleria, a six-storey glass and steel atrium designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. This architectural wonder provides a breathtaking transition into your final stop.

Complete your walk at Union Station, home to one of Canada’s largest great halls. Built in 1927, the station underwent a major revitalization completed in July 2021, allowing it to blend historical significance with modern functionality. Today, Union Station serves over 300,000 travelers daily, making it a bustling hub for people-watching.

The ROMWalks program, initiated in the 1980s, continues to thrive, with volunteer guides offering dozens of walks. Many of these are free; just look for the ROM umbrella at the starting point.

This exploration of Front Street is part of Toronto’s ongoing effort to encourage residents to appreciate their city through the Walking Toronto initiative. As more people turn to walking for exercise and leisure, this initiative uncovers hidden stories and local gems, enhancing community ties in the bustling metropolis.

WHAT’S NEXT: As interest grows, residents are encouraged to join scheduled walks and discover the rich tapestry of Toronto’s streets. With many walks available, it’s a perfect opportunity to engage with the city’s history and meet fellow urban explorers.

Don’t miss out on this chance to experience Toronto like never before—get out and walk Front Street today!