Jewish Heritage Walking Tour of Kensington Market Toronto

Toronto , Canada

Jewish Heritage Walking Tour of Kensington Market Toronto

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About this experience

Gain insights into Jewish culture, heritage, and contributions to Toronto from a Private Guide. Embark on a captivating journey through the old Jewish neighborhood, explore the Jewish Canadian history and see synagogues and other historic sites.

Available in English Language.

HIGHLIGHTS:
- Explore Toronto’s oldest Jewish neighborhood with a 5-Star History Expert Guide
- See Kensington Market, the Anshei Minsk Synagogue, and more
- Immerse yourself in Jewish history through master storytelling
- Learn about the lives of Al Waxman, Lou Jacobi, Emma Goldman, and others
- Enjoy personalized tour tailored to your needs and interests

Discover’s Toronto’s hidden Jewish heritage in the Kensington Market area, home to the Anshei Minsk Synagogue, former Jewish residential houses, schools and institutions. As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Toronto is home to Jews of all denominations.

Available options

Jewish Heritage Walking Tour of Kensington Market Toronto

What's included

Sightseeing around the Kensington Market area

Insider tips on the best things to do in Toronto

Private Walking Tour of Toronto’s Oldest Jewish Neighborhood

Interesting stories and facts about Canada's Jewish history and culture

5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide next to Sculpture: Couch Monster (in front of Art Gallery of Ontario), 317 Dundas St West at, McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1G1, Canada

Stop 2

Jewish-themed tour of Toronto and explore the historic streets, featuring old synagogues and landmarks that reflect the city's early Jewish community. Begin your tour at the renowned Art Gallery of Ontario, located near neighborhoods that were historically home to many Jewish families, offering insights into how art and culture have influenced Toronto's diverse communities.

Walk down Beverley Street and D'Arcy Street, where Jewish immigrants once settled in the early 20th century, forming a close-knit community that thrived in these neighborhoods. While today there are few visible remnants of their presence, these streets were once home to families who contributed significantly to the foundation of Jewish culture in Toronto. Baldwin Street, once bustling with Jewish-owned businesses, stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of this early community, whose legacy lives on in the broader history of the city.

Our Expert Guide will help you uncover Toronto’s hidden Jewish heritage. A key highlight of the tour will be the Anshei Minsk Synagogue on Saint Andrew Street, one of the last remaining active synagogues in the downtown area. You will see the synagogue from the outside as the guide narrates its fascinating history and significance. We will also explore Kensington Market, once the heart of Toronto’s Jewish life, where traces of its Jewish past can still be seen in the architecture and a few remaining businesses. Learn about the Jewish institutions and schools that once thrived in this vibrant area. The tour concludes at a church that previously served as the Henry Street Synagogue, a poignant reminder of the diverse religious communities that have shared this part of Toronto over the years.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Entry to synagogues

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Check your email the day before the tour for important information from Rosotravel, your tour operator.

This walking tour covers approximately 25-30 minutes on foot, including some uneven surfaces or steps. The guide will adjust the pace to suit your group. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather - rain or shine!

Entry tickets, food and drinks are not included in this tour but your guide will gladly recommend attractions and eateries to enhance your visit.

For a quality experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly. We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.

For special requests, contact Rosotravel’s customer support in advance. We are happy to make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities whenever possible.

Meeting point

Meet your guide next to Sculpture: Couch Monster (in front of Art Gallery of Ontario), 317 Dundas St West at, McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1G1, Canada

Important notes

Know before you go:

• Check your email the day before the tour for important information from Rosotravel, your tour operator.
• This walking tour covers approximately 25-30 minutes on foot, including some uneven surfaces or steps. The guide will adjust the pace to suit your group. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather - rain or shine!
• Entry tickets, food and drinks are not included in this tour but your guide will gladly recommend attractions and eateries to enhance your visit.
• For a quality experience, we limit your group size to 1-25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get personal attention, ask questions and hear commentary clearly. We will arrange additional guides for larger groups, so the price will be higher.
• For special requests, contact Rosotravel’s customer support in advance. We are happy to make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities whenever possible.

About Toronto

Toronto is Canada's largest city and a vibrant multicultural hub known for its towering skyscrapers, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural scene. It's a city where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly, offering a dynamic urban experience with a welcoming atmosphere.

Top Attractions

CN Tower

The CN Tower is an iconic landmark of Toronto and one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. It offers panoramic views of the city and a thrilling EdgeWalk experience.

Architecture 1-2 hours $38 CAD for general admission

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The ROM is Canada's largest museum of natural history and world cultures. It features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours $23 CAD for adults

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and stunning views of the skyline, it's a perfect spot for picnics, cycling, and relaxation.

Nature Half-day to full day $8.25 CAD round trip ferry ticket

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Ripley's Aquarium is a fascinating underwater world featuring a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins. It's an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

Attraction 1-2 hours $42.99 CAD for adults

Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic and charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place for shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, varies for shops and restaurants

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Main Dish Contains dairy and gluten

Butter Tarts

A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, syrup, and sometimes raisins or pecans.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A Toronto specialty featuring peameal bacon (back bacon rolled in cornmeal) served on a bun.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork

Nanaimo Bars

A no-bake dessert square with a crumb base, a light custard-flavored butter icing in the middle, and a chocolate layer on top.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Canoeing Spas Yoga Meditation Museums Art Galleries

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This is the best time to visit Toronto for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals, outdoor dining, and events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Toronto is generally considered a safe city, but like any major urban center, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Toronto Pearson International Airport • 22.5 km from city center
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport • 3 km from city center

By train

Toronto Union Station

By bus

Toronto Coach Terminal, Union Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The TTC subway system is efficient and widely used. It consists of four lines that connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Toronto Kensington Market Chinatown The Annex Leslieville

Day trips

Niagara Falls

130 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara Falls is one of the world's most famous natural wonders, offering breathtaking views, boat tours, and a variety of attractions.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

135 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town known for its historic sites, wineries, and beautiful architecture.

Blue Mountain

150 km from Toronto • Full day or overnight

Blue Mountain is a popular year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and a charming village with shops and restaurants.

Festivals

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) • September Pride Toronto • June Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) • August

Pro tips

Visit the Toronto Islands for a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle
Explore the Distillery District for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene
Try local craft beers at one of the city's many breweries
Visit during the Toronto Christmas Market for a magical and festive experience
Take a stroll along the waterfront for stunning views of the city skyline