Toronto: Experience PATH – A 32km/24mile underground walkway

If you’re planning a trip to Toronto and find yourself intrigued by urban adventures that go beyond typical sightseeing, then a guided tour of the PATH might just be a highlight of your visit. This underground network, stretching an impressive 32 kilometers (about 24 miles), connects the city’s core in a way most visitors never see—unless they take this tour. It’s a perfect way to get an insider’s view of downtown Toronto’s hidden corridors, bustling shopping areas, and architectural marvels, all without braving the cold winter air or the summer heat.

What makes this experience especially appealing is its combination of practicality and genuine local flavor. We love how it offers a chance to navigate the city’s underground maze confidently and learn little-known stories about Toronto’s development. Plus, the fact that it covers a route that includes iconic sights like the CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, and the Hockey Hall of Fame adds to its appeal. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that it covers only about 4 km (roughly 2.5 miles) of the PATH, which might leave some eager explorers wanting more. Still, its value as a compact, informative tour suits travelers who want to see more without adding extra steps to their itinerary.

This tour generally targets those curious about urban architecture, shopping aficionados, or anyone who prefers to explore a city from below rather than above ground. It’s also a practical choice for travelers visiting in winter or during inclement weather, providing a comfortable, dry way to see Toronto.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Offers a rarely seen view of Toronto’s underground city, perfect for those wanting an insider’s look.
• Convenient and Central: Starts at Union Station and ends at Toronto City Hall, accessing downtown’s key spots easily.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing interesting stories and insights that bring the PATH to life.
• Affordable Price: At $29 per person, it’s excellent value for a two-hour guided experience with plenty of local flavor.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, or those with mobility impairments—staircases and escalators are part of the route.
• Highly Rated: Boasts a 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 41 reviews, with travelers praising the guides and overall experience.

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What Is the PATH, and Why Should You Care?

Toronto’s PATH is one of North America’s largest underground pedestrian networks, connecting over 1,200 shops, hundreds of restaurants, five subway stations, and six hotels. During business hours on a typical weekday, over 200,000 people traverse this maze, often without a second thought about what lies beneath the city. But as a visitor, exploring this subterranean world can reveal a different side of Toronto—full of history, commerce, and architectural surprises.

The guided tour emphasizes this very aspect, guiding you through about 4 km of the PATH’s corridors, starting at the historic Union Station and ending at Toronto City Hall. It’s a manageable length that allows plenty of opportunity to absorb the sights, learn some stories, and enjoy a break from the elements.

The Itinerary: From Union Station to City Hall

The Starting Point: Union Station’s Great Hall

The tour kicks off inside the historic part of Union Station, a building with a grandeur that hints at Toronto’s importance as a transportation hub. Your guide will meet you here, around the central area near the clock and Via Rail Departure Board, holding a small sign with “PATH” to make spotting them simple.

Exploring the Underground Pathways

From the Great Hall, you’ll descend into the underground corridors, which are like a city within a city. Expect to walk past bustling retail spaces, eateries, and even some of Toronto’s key skyscrapers seen from below. The guide will point out architectural highlights and share stories that connect these structures to Toronto’s growth.

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Highlights Along the Way

• Spectacular Buildings: You’ll get a glimpse of some of Toronto’s most iconic structures, including the CN Tower, which is just a short walk or elevator ride above ground.

• Sports and Entertainment Venues: The Scotiabank Arena and Hockey Hall of Fame are accessible via the PATH or just a short underground walk, making the tour a good prep for visits to these attractions.

• Educational Value: Guides share insights on how the underground network was developed, its significance for Toronto’s urban planning, and tips on how to navigate it independently afterward.

The End: Toronto City Hall

The tour concludes at Toronto’s City Hall, offering a chance to explore this modern architectural landmark or continue on your own through the city’s streets.

What To Expect During the Tour

This is a small group experience, limited to ten participants, which ensures a personalized and relaxed vibe. The tour typically lasts around two hours and usually takes place in the afternoon, fitting well into most itineraries. The route involves four escalators, and some locations may require stairs or elevators—so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or strollers.

The journey is designed to give you a practical understanding of how to move through Toronto’s underground corridors confidently. The guide provides historical photos and stories, adding context and making it more than just a walk through a mall.

The Value of the Tour

At $29 per person, this experience offers excellent value, considering the depth of information and the guided aspect. For many travelers, it’s money well spent—offering insights that make navigating Toronto’s underground easier and more meaningful. The reviews consistently highlight how guides like Dave make the tour engaging, fun, and full of interesting facts—something that enhances the experience far beyond a self-guided walk.

What Past Participants Say

Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the stories they share, with comments like “Dave explained everything about the buildings, the PATH, and some extra info about the city,” and “He was so friendly and full of great stories.” Many note that the tour helps them appreciate the city more, especially early in their stay, as one reviewer said, “I wish I did this tour at the beginning so I could explore the PATH more later on.”

Several mention that the view of the city from below is surprisingly beautiful and that the tour makes navigating the underground network easier afterward. Reviewers also appreciate the affordability, noting that this is a unique way to see a different side of Toronto without breaking the bank.

This tour suits urban explorers who want a deeper connection to Toronto’s infrastructure and history. It’s ideal for those who prefer to stay indoors during bad weather or seek a more relaxed pace. If you’re interested in architecture, shopping, or simply want a practical way to get around downtown without battling traffic, this tour hits the spot.

However, it’s not suitable for families with young children or travelers with mobility issues, given the stairs and escalators involved. It’s also best for visitors looking for a short, informative experience rather than an exhaustive exploration of the entire PATH system.

Exploring Toronto’s underground PATH on this guided tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s hidden arteries, combining history, architecture, and practical navigation tips. For just $29, you gain a knowledgeable guide, insider stories, and a deeper understanding of Toronto’s urban fabric—all while avoiding the weather outside.

It’s especially valuable for first-time visitors eager to orient themselves or seasoned travelers wanting a different perspective on the city’s growth. The tour’s focus on historic buildings, connection points like the CN Tower, and the overall friendly, small-group atmosphere make it a memorable addition to any Toronto itinerary.

Ultimately, this experience serves as a practical, engaging, and surprisingly scenic journey beneath the city streets—perfect for curious minds and those wanting to see Toronto from a unique vantage point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable, relaxed experience that fits easily into most itineraries.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside Union Station’s Great Hall and concludes at Toronto City Hall, both central locations in downtown Toronto.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 10, wheelchair users, or anyone with mobility impairments, as it involves stairs and escalators.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers the guided tour and historical photos. Entry to attractions like the CN Tower or Hockey Hall of Fame is not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and moving through corridors with some stairs and escalators.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it generally runs in the afternoon, but check ahead for seasonal or holiday schedule adjustments.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby