Art and culture activities in Toronto

Explore urban art with an acclaimed street artist

Learn the secrets behind Toronto's famous signs

Signs are landmarks that are often just as memorable as the businesses they advertise. Join a local architect for a 3.4-kilometer (2-mile) walking tour of some of Toronto’s most famous signs, from flashy neon signs to unique street signs. We’ll discuss how local laws and Special Sign Districts influence the look and feel of the city you see around you. • We’ll start by visiting two recently restored neon signs that adorn historic music venues and learn about the famous acts who performed there. • Next, we'll explore Chinatown and discuss the distinctive style of signs that have come to define this neighbourhood. • We'll continue along Dundas Street where you'll spot some smaller signs off the beaten path and hear about the colourful stories behind them. • Then, we’ll wander down to Nathan Phillips Square, where you'll have the opportunity to take a photo with the iconic TORONTO sign and learn how it came to be. You’ll see a different side of Toronto on this walk and develop a new appreciation for the urban environment. I hope it will inspire you to keep looking up at the signs around you as you explore this dynamic city!

Unlock the art scene guided by a gallery insider

Gain early access to the Art Gallery of Ontario and hear behind-the-scenes insights. Meet at the gallery Gather in the Gehry-designed gallery and preview the day. Gain early access See landmark works in an intimate setting before the crowds. Stroll and reflect Discuss Toronto’s creative pulse on the walk to Bau-Xi. Visit Bau-Xi Gallery Admire standout Canadian works in a contemporary space. End at 401 Richmond Take in experimental art in a factory-turned-gallery hub.

Crochet and knitting workshop at a Bloor West art studio

Join me, a fashion designer, for a hands-on crochet and knitting workshop at my studio, HotPot Variety, to make your own sustainable piece of clothing—no previous experience necessary! • Hear about the history of crochet, yarn, and the bohemian culture that underpins Toronto’s history from the 1960s and ’70s to the present-day urban art of yarnbombing. • I'll walk you through the techniques for crocheting a seasonally inspired accessory, whether it’s a vibrant T-shirt design for summer or a hoodie balaclava for winter. • Get crocheting! Select from an abundance of materials and yarn colors and patterns to create your one-of-a-kind design. I’ll guide you through the creative process and provide feedback along the way. You’ll leave with your unique handcrafted piece, the pattern for your item to continue crocheting at home, and my recommendations for further exploration of the neighborhood.

Discover Toronto like a Local - A Guided Walking Tour

Join me to explore Toronto's history and present-day on a walking tour around the city's downtown, Financial District, and Old Town. This experience is focused on Toronto's architecture, history, and culture. Our walking tour will start at Nathan Philips Square in front of City Hall and its popular Toronto Sign. Among the highlights are the Old City Hall, PATH (Underground City), Hockey Hall of Fame, Flat Iron Building, and some hidden gems along the way. We'll tell you stories, and anecdotes of buildings, people, and their significance to the city's history, from past to present. We will finish our group tour in Old Town, at the St. Lawrence Market, considered one of the world's great food markets (EXCEPT on Mondays when the Market is CLOSED, so consider that before booking). NOTE: This tour does not end where it begins.

Create your own custom silver ring

Using real sterling silver, tiny saws, hammers, and fire, you'll create your very own ring. I'll teach you how to measure, cut, solder, bend, file, and polish your custom creation. You can also texturize or letter stamp it to make it truly one of a kind. You'll leave wearing your new ring with a sense of great accomplishment and the perfect souvenir. Other things to note: This experience runs between 2.5-3.5 hours long depending on your design choices and work ethic. Average class time is 3 hours. Safety is important in the studio! Please wear closed-toed shoes and avoid wearing long or flowing clothing. Bring eyeglasses if you need them.

Capture the City Toronto Photowalk Adventure

Downtown Toronto Photography Walk – Capture the Heart of the City Explore Toronto’s most iconic landmarks through a personalized photoshoot experience! Stroll through the vibrant streets of Downtown as we visit stunning backdrops like: ✨ Osgoode Hall – Timeless architecture & grand facades ✨ Nathan Phillips Square – The iconic Toronto sign & modern urban vibes ✨ Financial District – Sleek skyscrapers & dramatic cityscapes ✨ Union Station – Historic charm meets contemporary energy ✨ St. Lawrence Market – Quaint streets & vintage Toronto charm Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or influencers looking to elevate their social media with professional, eye-catching shots. What’s Included: ✔️ A guided walking tour of photogenic hotspots ✔️ High-quality edited images delivered the same day ✔️ Tailored poses & styling tips for natural, stunning shots

BEST OF TORONTO: A GUIDED WALKING TOUR!

We will meet at Dundas Square for a brief intro to your experience after which we will head to the PATH to check out the world-famous Eaton Center, passing by Toronto's Financial District and Shopping District. We will enjoy our journey all the way to the marvellous Old City Hall, New City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square, Financial District, TD Square, CN Tower, and whatever catches your eye on the way. Finally, we will finish off your experience with a particular highlight: Toronto’s Entertainment District.

Sip & Play

Steelpan music class. You will learn to play a song on the Steelpan. You will learn basic playing techniques and will have the opportunity to select which song you would like to learn to play in a fun, relaxed setting. Bring you own beverages.

Learn laser cutting at Maker Bean Cafe

Come play with lasers over coffee or tea! Laser cutting is a creative and fun way to bring your designs to life on a variety of materials, from wood to acrylic to leather, and there's no better place to do it than a cafe. As part of The Maker Bean Cafe's laser cutting experience, you'll be given a laptop and all the design software you'll need, and we'll walk you through a full design and laser cutting experience. We'll teach you how laser cutters work, show you different cuts you can achieve on maple wood and then let you design your own pin or coaster! You'll also receive a cafe drink with your experience: coffee or tea, hot or iced, from local coffee roaster Propeller Coffee Co. and local tea maker Pluck Teas. Let your creativity fly: choose your favourite designs, arrange them any way you'd like, and then operate the laser cutter yourself to create your item! It be a souvenir of your time here, a special gift for someone or a personal keepsake for yourself. Looking forward to getting creative with you at The Maker Bean Cafe! Other things to note No previous design or laser cutting experience necessary! We can accommodate both beginner and advanced designers.

Secret Food Tours Toronto

Our journey starts at the St. Lawrence Market, Toronto’s historic marketplace dating back over 200 years. First up, we’ll visit a local fish market where you’ll sample wild-caught sockeye salmon cured in Canadian maple syrup. Then we'll visit a pub known for making one of the best versions of the "peameal bacon sandwich", also known as Canadian bacon. Next, you'll indulge in a popular no-bake dessert whose origin is shrouded in mystery. After leaving the market, you'll unearth an Indian-inspired dish that has taken Toronto by surprise and is now a staple of the city's street food scene. And for a great end, you'll devour the mouth-watering goodness of a classic Canadian pastry, the famous Butter Tart. As with all our tours, there is also our delicious Secret Dish.