Doors Open Toronto banners drape in front of over 175 buildings throughout the city welcoming visitors for free. Architectural and social significance are themes surrounding the event.
Canada?s only private political club opens its doors for just one day and let?s visitors have glimpse into the history of the club. Designed by architect John G. Howard, the Albany Club was founded by Sir John A. Macdonald in 1882.
The Distillery district, known for its present artistic attractions, explains the history in its name by displaying three of its buildings - one of which houses three enormous copper tanks previously used to store alcohol coming from the Stone Distillery.
Building 42 in the Distillery, Rack House D, is a storehouse designed by well-known architect David Roberts Sr. He also designed one of the most photographed buildings in Toronto, the Gooderham Flatiron. The wedge-shaped Victorian building is located at the corner of Wellington and Church Streets in the St-Lawrence neighbourhood.
Just one block north is the St-Lawrence Hall that holds an important social significance for Toronto and Canada. In the 1850?s the Anti-Slavery Society of Canada held meetings at the hall and featured important speakers.
Just down the street is Toronto?s first Christian church, St-James Cathedral. It features a Gothic design with a beautiful bell tower and was the tallest building in the city when Toronto was still called York.
Doors Open Toronto proudly celebrates ten years of showcasing Toronto?s historical, cultural and social significance. The architectural beauty of the buildings itself is worth the experience.