Kandice VincentFinding Picture-Perfect Spots in Old Town, Toronto
Nestled in the beating heart of Canada's largest city lies a timeless gem that has withstood the test of time: Old Town Toronto.
It earned its name as one of Toronto's earliest recognised neighbourhoods, receiving its distinctive title as the city’s oldest town in the 1800s.
This historic district, often referred to as the birthplace of the city, is a fascinating blend of the past and present, where cobblestone streets whisper secrets of centuries gone by and modernity harmoniously coexists with a rich heritage.
Looking for Instagrammable spots in the area? We’ll unveil the most captivating, double-tap-worthy locations in this enchanting district.
Berczy Park
Address: 35 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C6, Canada
Hours: Open 24 hours
Berczy Park is a charming urban green space surrounded by iconic architecture, from ancient buildings to modern skyscrapers. The juxtaposition of the modern cityscape with the park's greenery makes it an ideal spot for your next photoshoot.
One of the standout features of Berczy Park is the whimsical dog fountain at its centre. You’ll find 27 life-sized dog sculptures and one mischievous cat, all of which spout water into the central fountain.
And don't forget the ever-changing beauty of the park's seasonal gardens. With each passing season, a new palette of vibrant flowers and greenery emerges, offering you ever-changing photo opportunities.
Pro tip:
If you’re into capturing candid moments of everyday life, Berczy Park is a great spot for people-watching and street photography.
The Gooderham Building
Address: 49 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C9, Canada
If you’ve got an eye for the artistry of architecture and a passion for capturing the pulse of the city streets, make your way to The Gooderham Building.
Known affectionately to locals as the Flatiron Building, this building is characterised by its triangular shape due to its location at the intersection of Front Street East, Wellington Street East, and Church Street.
But what really makes this building a star in the architectural scene is its captivating blend of styles. Think Romanesque meets Gothic, where bricks tell stories, terra cotta whispers secrets, and ornate cornices flaunt their intricate charm.
Pro tip:
To truly capture the building’s exquisite beauty, visit and take photos at different times of the day. Try visiting the building at sunrise, sunset, or on a rainy day to see how the light and conditions affect your photos.
The Hockey Hall of Fame
Address: 30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5E 1X8, Canada
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Hockey Hall of Fame isn’t just a place to stare at glass cases filled with pucks and jerseys; it’s where the spirit of Canadian ice hockey comes to life.
Inside its hallowed halls, you’ll find more than history; you’ll discover an opportunity to understand a sport that’s deeply ingrained in Canada’s culture.
And when it comes to photos, you’re in for a treat! The Stanley Cup—the Holy Grail of hockey, stands proudly here, practically begging for a selfie. The architecture, too, adds to the charm, making each shot an artful masterpiece.
Pro tip:
Head to the Legends of Hockey Gallery if you wanna grab a selfie with some of the greatest hockey players of all time, including Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Bobby Orr.
St. Lawrence Market
Address: 92-95 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada
Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
St. Lawrence Market is a bustling neighbourhood marketplace with a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century when it began as a simple market square. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved institution and one of the city’s cultural hubs.
The market’s architecture is a blend of historic and contemporary design. The North Market building, with its iconic red-brick façade and arched windows, is particularly picturesque.
This is also the place to be if you want to practise your food photography skills. From freshly baked bread to colourful fruits and vegetables, there’s no shortage of delectable subjects for your lens.
Pro tip:
The market is a great place to capture candid moments. It’s a busy place, and there’s always something happening, so take the chance to snap some shots!
Museum Station
Address: Line 1 Yonge–University
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 5:50 AM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday and Sunday: 5:55 AM – 1:55 AM
The Museum Station is a subway station on the University line of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) system. This station opened to the public in 1963 as a stop on the University subway line.
This station is famously Instagrammable because of its unique design; and the public art installations featured in this station make it a great subject for photos. Go ahead and take photos with artist Gerald Zeldin’s colourful ceramic tile murals.
Pro tip:
Make sure to time your visit outside of rush hour to ensure that the station is not overcrowded and there are no photobombers in your selfies.
Distillery District
Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The Distillery District is a historic neighbourhood known for its charming cobblestone streets, well-preserved 19th-century industrial architecture, and a thriving art and culture scene.
It was once home to the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which was the largest whisky distillery in the world in the late 19th century. The distillery closed in 1990, but the buildings were preserved and converted into a mixed-use development in 2003.
The district is also home to numerous art galleries, studios, and artisan shops. The vibrant art scene adds a creative dimension to the area, making it an ideal place to capture street art and unique storefronts.
Pro tip:
Throughout the year, the district hosts a range of festivals, markets, and cultural events, including the popular Toronto Christmas Market if you’re looking for unique and festive photography opportunities.
David Pecaut Square
Address: 215 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3G2, Canada
Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM
David Pecaut Square is a public square located in front of Metro Hall, the city’s administrative headquarters. With its spacious lawn, serene reflecting pool, and captivating public art installations, it’s a photographer’s paradise.
But that’s not all–the square is surrounded by notable buildings like Metro Hall, Roy Thomson Hall, and the Royal Alexandra Theatre. They not only add a touch of history but also provide a stunning backdrop for your photos.
And when the sun dips below the horizon, David Pecaut Square doesn’t sleep. It comes alive with a burst of colourful lights, especially during cultural events and performances.
Pro tip:
The square is less crowded on weekday mornings, so visit then if you want to focus on taking snaps of the buildings and the surroundings. On the other hand, David Pecaut Square is a bustling spot for street photography on weekends.
The Reservoir Lounge
Address: 52 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C7, Canada
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 7:30 PM – 2:00 AM
The Reservoir Lounge is your ticket to a night of classic jazz, cozy vibes, timeless cocktails, and Instagrammable content. Tucked away in a converted basement, it’s the kind of place that’s fun yet has a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
The walls are decorated with vintage jazz posters and the stage is small and close to the audience, which creates a personal experience for guests, who feel like they are part of the show.
Grab your friends, savour the atmosphere, and snap some classy yet funky photos to remember the night by!
Pro tip:
Make sure to dress smart when you visit the club.
Toronto’s First Post Office
Address: 260 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5A 1N1, Canada
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Toronto’s First Post Office is the OG of postal history in the city. Established way back in 1833, it’s like a time capsule of how mail used to roll in Toronto and across the Great White North.
It’s not just a dusty relic–it’s a vibrant museum and cultural hub now, housed in a gorgeous 19th-century building that’s dripping with charm.
And the Instagram opportunities? Oh, they’re endless as the building itself has a classic and timeless design, and is surrounded by a number of other historic buildings.
Pro tip:
Check out the museum’s unique features, such as its original post office boxes and its red and white letter drop.
Museum Of Illusions Toronto
Address: 132 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5A 1E2, Canada
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Looking for a mind-bending adventure that’ll leave you and your pals scratching your heads and snapping hilarious pics? Then head to the Museum Of Illusions Toronto, which features a variety of optical illusions and interactive exhibits.
Some of our favourite exhibits are the Vortex Tunnel, which creates the illusion of falling; and The Ames Room, a distorted room that makes people appear taller or shorter depending on where they are standing.
There’s also The Anti-Gravity Room, which makes it look like visitors are floating in the air.
Pro tip:
The museum can be busy, especially on weekends. So, be prepared to wait in line for some of the exhibits.
Tatar Art Projects
Address: 147 Liberty St Suite 202, Toronto, ON M6K 3G3, Canada
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Tatar Art Projects is a non-profit art gallery and project space founded by artist and curator Judith Tatar. The gallery has exhibited a wide range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, photography, installation, and video.
The gallery is committed to presenting challenging and innovative work from emerging and mid-career artists. Tatar Art Projects is not afraid to exhibit work that is experimental or thought-provoking, which makes it a perfect spot for art photography.
Pro tip:
To curate the perfect Instagram moment, check the gallery’s website before you visit to see what exhibition is currently on display.
Nathan Phillips Square
Address: Nathan Phillips Square
Hours: Open 24 hours
This is a vibrant public square known for its striking architecture, most notably the Toronto City Hall building, with its iconic twin towers and saucer-shaped council chambers that make for captivating subjects for architectural photography.
But the real star of the square is the “Toronto” sign, a large illuminated installation which serves as an icon that screams, “Yes, you’re in Toronto!“. Snap a selfie with it, especially if it’s your first time in the city–it’s practically a rite of passage.
Pro tip:
Take the chance to pose with the square’s public art installations, such as the Nathan Phillips Square Fountain and the Peace Garden.
