How long does it take to walk through the University of Toronto campus?

A thorough exploration of the historic core usually takes 90 to 120 minutes. The distance is approximately 2 kilometers, allowing for stops at landmarks like University College and the Fisher Library.

Is the University of Toronto campus open to the public?

Yes, the outdoor grounds, including Hart House Circle and Philosopher's Walk, are public spaces open 24/7. Many buildings are also accessible to the public during standard academic business hours.

Where can I see the 'Harry Potter' style architecture in Toronto?

Knox College and University College are the best spots to see the Collegiate Gothic style that many compare to 'Harry Potter' or Oxford. The stone cloisters and stained glass windows are very reminiscent of that aesthetic.

Can I visit the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library for free?

Yes, the library is generally open to the public for viewing during its operating hours. Visitors can admire the stunning interior architecture and view rotating exhibits of rare manuscripts without a fee.

Are there ghosts at the University of Toronto?

University College is famous for the legend of Reznikoff, a stonemason whose ghost reportedly haunts the building. Look for the axe mark in one of the doors, said to be a remnant of his fatal duel in 1890.

Is this walking route wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the primary paths and sidewalks on this route are paved and wheelchair accessible. While some historic buildings have heavy doors or minor thresholds, the main campus experience is inclusive for those with mobility aids.

What is Philosopher's Walk?

Philosopher's Walk is a scenic pedestrian path that follows the historic, now-buried Taddle Creek. It runs north-south between Bloor Street and Hoskin Avenue, flanked by the Royal Ontario Museum and Trinity College.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 40 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into a world where historic stone cloisters meet cutting-edge intellectual pursuit on this self-guided walk through the University of Toronto’s St. George campus. This neighborhood stroll invites you to explore the architectural crown jewel of Canada, a place where Gothic Revival spires and Brutalist masterpieces stand side-by-side. As you navigate the winding paths of the university district, you will discover why this area is often used as a cinematic stand-in for elite Ivy League institutions. The route highlights the deep connection between the city’s development and its academic heart, offering a peaceful escape from the surrounding glass-and-steel skyscrapers. Starting at the historic Hart House Circle, this walking route takes you through the most iconic corners of the campus. You will encounter the somber elegance of Soldiers' Tower, a memorial to the fallen that serves as a landmark for the entire city. The journey continues to University College, a Romanesque Revival wonder that survived a devastating fire and is home to one of Toronto’s most famous ghost stories. For those with a love for the written word, the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library provides a stunning visual contrast with its massive Brutalist structure, housing some of the world's most precious literary treasures. This self-guided adventure is more than just a tour of buildings; it is an exploration of the ideas and people that shaped the nation. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect Gothic archway or a history buff interested in the university’s 19th-century origins, this neighborhood stroll offers something for everyone. You can move at your own pace, perhaps stopping to listen to the carillon bells or taking a moment of reflection in the hidden courtyards of Knox College. This is one of the most rewarding ways to experience a walking tour Toronto has to offer, focusing on the intersection of education, heritage, and urban design. End your journey on the serene Philosopher’s Walk, a historic path that follows a long-forgotten creek, leaving you perfectly positioned to explore the nearby museums or the vibrant Bloor Street corridor.

Highlights

The Gothic Revival grandeur of Hart House and Soldiers' Tower
The Romanesque Revival architecture and legends of University College
The tranquil, cinematic cloisters of Knox College
Canada's largest rare book collection at Thomas Fisher Library
The peaceful, winding path of Philosopher's Walk

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Hart House Circle

Begin your exploration at Hart House Circle, the cultural and social heart of the university. Commissioned by the Massey family and completed in 1919, Hart House was designed as a place where students could engage in athletics, arts, and debate away from their formal studies. The architecture is a stunning example of Collegiate Gothic style, intended to evoke the ancient universities of Europe. Look up at the intricate stonework and the leaded glass windows. For decades, this building has hosted world leaders and famous thinkers. It remains a vibrant hub today, symbolizing the university's commitment to well-rounded education and community life.

2

Soldiers' Tower

Standing 143 feet tall, Soldiers' Tower is one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1924 to commemorate university members lost in World War I, and later updated for World War II, it serves as a solemn memorial. If you look closely at the arches at the base, you can see the names of the fallen carved into the stone. The tower houses a carillon of 51 bells, which ring out across the campus on special occasions and during recitals. The architectural detail here is meant to inspire reflection, blending the academic setting with a deep sense of national service and remembrance.

3

University College

University College is the founding college of the university, dating back to 1853. This Romanesque Revival building is famous for its asymmetrical design—look for the different styles of windows and carvings. A massive fire in 1890 nearly destroyed the entire structure, but it was painstakingly rebuilt. Legend has it that two stonemasons, Reznikoff and Ivan the Terrible, fought over a woman during construction; today, some say Reznikoff’s ghost still haunts the halls. Take a moment to admire the heavy oak doors and the intricate gargoyles that keep watch over the courtyard, embodying the 'Academic Grandeur' of this historic institution.

4

Knox College

Step into the quiet cloisters of Knox College, a theological school that looks like it was plucked straight from the English countryside. Completed in 1915, its Perpendicular Gothic style features a beautiful interior courtyard and vaulted ceilings. Because of its timeless 'Ivy League' aesthetic, Knox College is a favorite filming location for major Hollywood movies and TV shows. It offers a sense of seclusion and peace that is rare in the middle of a bustling metropolis. The architecture here is designed to foster contemplation and study, with every arch and stone contributing to an atmosphere of scholarly tradition.

5

Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library

Contrast the Gothic spires of the previous stops with the bold Brutalist lines of the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library. Opened in 1973, the building’s exterior is said to resemble a peacock or an owl, symbols of wisdom. Inside, it houses the largest collection of rare books and manuscripts in Canada, including original works by Shakespeare and Darwin. The interior is a multi-level canyon of books, a dream for any bibliophile. This stop represents the modern era of the university, showing how the institution has evolved to preserve human knowledge in a striking, contemporary architectural form.

6

Philosopher's Walk

Conclude your walk on Philosopher’s Walk, a scenic footpath that runs between the Royal Ontario Museum and the university buildings. This path actually follows the ravine of Taddle Creek, a waterway that was buried underground in the 19th century. As you walk, you'll pass the Faculty of Music and Trinity College. It is a favorite spot for students to stroll between classes and for locals seeking a moment of nature. The walk perfectly bridges the gap between the academic world and the city's cultural institutions, providing a tranquil end to your journey through Toronto's center of learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the University of Toronto St. George campus is widely considered the best for architecture. It features a unique mix of 19th-century Gothic Revival, Romanesque styles, and mid-century Brutalism all within a few blocks.