Kensington Market and Chinatown cultural tour

Come and enjoy the wonderous sights and splendors of the culturally diverse Kensington Market and Chinatown. Though located in the heart of the downtown, this area is a world apart from the nearby concrete high-rises and is one of the most dynamic and vibrant parts of the city.

Kensington Market has a layered and multicultural history, and as an added bonus are my own personal stories, as my family lived in the area from the 1920s. I'll tell you about my great grandfather's peddling business and how my parents met through a local chicken seller turned matchmaker! I was also a regular visit to the market growing up -  especially the vintage clothing shops  - and have seen first hand the many changes over the years.

After exploring the cultural and culinary richness of the market, we'll make our way through bustling Chinatown, through Baldwin village and past the iconic 'table-top' building near the Art Gallery of Ontario, ending in the recently revamped Grange Park, near enough for you to further explore the eclectic shops and restaurants of the area.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Bellevue Square park and the majestic Kiever shul 
• Kensington Market 
• Bagels, pies and the best place for coffee in the market
• Chinatown
• Cecil Community Centre
• Baldwin Village and the pastry shop mystery
• Jean Lumb Lane and the Great Wall of China
• Art Gallery of Ontario and Couch Monster sculpture
• OCAD's famous 'table-top' building
• Grange Park and the city's oldest brick building

This is an off the beaten track, original and heartfelt tour full with lots of interesting and quirky sights. If you love history, culture and oddball family stories, this is the tour for you.

Please arrive on time, though we will spend a few minutes in the park. Small groups are always guaranteed on this tour and booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
 
The tour takes roughly 2.5 hours. Washrooms are available during the tour, plus a couple of indoor stops to grab some food or a coffee, though it's best to bring some water with you. We'll end up about a 20-minute walk from where we started.

This is a free tour in the sense that you're free to give whatever payment you feel is right for how much you've enjoyed the tour. I'm also happy to answer any questions and help with directions and advice.

 I ask that all walkers confirm their attendance beforehand to ensure the tour will run, and if your plans change, to please let me know in advance.

 Looking forward to meeting you all and sharing this wonderful area. See you there!