Whether you’re a tourist discovering Canada’s largest metropolis for the first time or a local searching for something different to do on the weekend, be sure to check out these fabulous tours that won’t put a dent in your wallet.
TAP into TO – Toronto’s Friendly Welcome
Like the well-known New York City greeters, dedicated volunteers give free tours to visitors. These intimate outings provide an insider’s view of the city and its neighbourhoods, and are offered year-round to individuals, families and groups of up to six people traveling together. Book your tour at least one week prior to arrival. www.toronto.ca/tapto/ 416-33TAP-TO (416-338-2786)
U of T Walking Tour – Free Historic Tours of St. George Campus.
Learn about the rich history and distinctive architecture of one of Canada’s oldest campuses, including the lurid story about the axe mark on the University College building’s wooden door. These free student-led tours are offered from mid-June until the end of August. Tours take place from 2:30-3:30 and reservations are not required for groups of less than 8. 416-978-5000
Tour Guys – Free Tours of Downtown Toronto
Run by Toronto enthusiast Jason Kucherawy, this tour company offers free 90-minute fun walking tours of downtown Toronto. Highlights include Old City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square and the Eaton Centre. It’s an ideal introduction to the city for visitors, but even long-time residents will learn a few facts. During the summer, tours take place daily at 10, 1 and 4. Register online at least 3 hour prior to your tour.
The company also offers specialized tours (prices range from $25-37) through Intrepid Travel’s Urban Adventures, including Beer Makes History Better Tour, Kensington Market and Chinatown and Toronto Highs and Lows. www.tourguys.ca
Toronto’s Streetcars – A Cross-City Trolley Ride
Toronto’s streetcars are as much a symbol of the city as the CN Tower, and their red and white downtown presence is unique among North American cities.
The 90-minute 501 route starting from Neville Park in the east end and ending at Long Branch on the Mississauga border was named by National Geographic as one of the top ten trolley rides in the world. You’ll get to see a wide cross-section of the city, including The Beaches, Old City Hall, Nathan Philips Square, Osgoode Hall , the trendy neighbourhood Queen West, and the even trendier West Queen West. Even in more down-trodden areas like Parkdale, you’ll appreciate the diverse architecture and many faces of Toronto.
A shorter, but equally interesting cross-city route is the 506 streetcar. It begins at Main subway station and passes through some of Toronto’s diverse ethnic communities, including Little India and East Chinatown, before finishing at High Park.
These ‘tours’ cost the price of a transit ride ($3), but don’t expect a heritage ride run for tourists. 43,500 commuters use the streetcar everyday. Expect delays and avoid rush hour.
Toronto’s Music Garden – You’ll come Bach
This remarkably landscaped park near the Harbourfront Centre was designed by renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma. Each section reflects a dance movement in a Bach composition. Guided tours run by volunteers are offered every Wednesday at 11 and Thursday at 5:30 during the summer. Audio tours ($6) are available everyday and visitors can listen to commentary from the designer and excerpts the music that inspired the landscape. Free concerts are also offered and take place most Thursdays at 7pm and Sundays at 4pm.
Find these free tours along with 65 more free things to do, 200 other attractions and 1400 photos in the Toronto Essential Guide iphone app.- http://sutromedia.com/apps/Toronto_Essential_Guide
Featuring google maps, offline content, free updates and insider information that goes beyond the generic blurbs or unfiltered lists of free apps, it’s the only guide you’ll need on your visit to Toronto.