Little Italy on College Street Walking Tour

Explore the rich history and cultural contributions of Little Italy on College Street, one of Toronto’s most vibrant and historically significant neighborhoods. Highlighting various key historical sites, businesses, and institutions that have shaped the Italian-Canadian experience from the early 20th century to the current day. This tour integrates historical research, storytelling, and interactive elements to create an immersive understanding of the community’s impact on the city’s social and cultural fabric.

This tour was developed and will be led by Samantha Greco. Samantha is a 2nd generation Italian-Canadian residing in Tkaronto. She graduated from the University of Toronto, Master of Information program in 2021 where she honed her passions of archival preservation, library science, oral histories and how these fit into wider historical narratives. Her grandparents from both sides immigrated from Pachino, Sicily at varying points of the “boom” period of immigration after WWII. She has always grappled with the in-betweenness that comes with transnational identities and has explored these emotions in the form of poetry and essays. She is excited to have this opportunity to learn more of her heritage and share the rich history of Little Italy with you on this walking tour.

Start Point: Toronto Public Library - College/Shaw Branch (766 College St)

Our staff and volunteers will be at the tour's starting location 30 minutes prior to each tour. Please arrive at least 5-10 minutes prior to the start of the tour to allow time for check in. Feel free to call us at (647) 542-3450 if you are having trouble finding the start location.

End Point: CHIN Radio (622 College St)

Length of Tour: Approximately 90 minutes

Distance and Terrain: This tour is approximately 1 kilometre in distance and takes place predominantly on paved city sidewalks and streets.

Ticket Price and Registration: This tour is provided for $8.00/person. The total cost is $10.05 (includes a $2.05 transaction fee). Please note that space is limited on our tours. You may not be able to join a tour group if you have not registered ahead of time.

This tour uses individual audio headsets. All registered participants will be provided with an individual headset that will allow you to hear the tour guide throughout the tour.

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Host or Publisher Heritage Toronto