2025 Tours Program Highlights

In 2025, our Tours program shared stories often overlooked in traditional tellings of our city.

Last year, we welcomed 2,128 participants on 63 public tours. With 47% of tours selling out over the season, these experiences resonated strongly with the public, reflecting growing interest in programming that connects heritage to the lived experiences of Toronto’s diverse communities. 50% of our tours focused on equity-deserving communities and underrepresented histories, broadening public understanding of Toronto’s past while making space for new voices and perspectives. From explorations of Indigenous public art installations to stories of movement and migration within the Canary District, our tours reflected a more inclusive vision of Toronto and the many communities that shape it.

At the heart of the program was the work of our Emerging Historians, who developed and led 64% of tours. Through their research, storytelling, and community knowledge, they brought fresh energy and insight to the program while helping audiences connect more meaningfully with the city’s heritage. With the support of our donors, sponsors, and community partners, we have continued to create paid opportunities for emerging professionals while expanding the reach and impact of heritage programming across Toronto.

Alongside our paid tours, we also organized seven community events, expanding our commitment to provide Torontonians with free and accessible programming. From the vibrant streets of Little India to the Cabbagetown Farmers’ Market, we connected with 1,125 visitors at our community tent and event activations, meeting people where they live, work, and gather.

For Doors Open, we welcomed 1,270 community members to guided architectural tours of the Toronto-Dominion Centre’s historic 54th floor, a rare opportunity to experience the elegance and legacy of one of Toronto’s modernist landmarks. Together, these initiatives complemented our in-person tours and reinforced our belief that heritage should be approachable, relevant, and available to all.