Toronto: TV & Movie Tour with University of Toronto Visit

Imagine walking through the streets of Toronto, knowing that you’ve already seen many of its corners in blockbuster movies and hit TV series. That’s exactly what this guided TV & Movie Tour offers—a chance to see Toronto’s most famous filming locations up close, all while learning about the city’s cinematic history. As a travel writer, I find that tours like this give travelers a unique perspective; they turn the city into a living movie set.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the carefully curated stops that highlight Toronto’s role as a star in the film industry. From the majestic Casa Loma to the bustling intersection of Bay St and Adelaide St W, each site tells a story both on and off the screen. Second, the balance between guided storytelling and free time allows visitors to soak in the atmosphere and snap some memorable photos.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour runs 6.5 hours—not a small chunk of your day—so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a full schedule. Also, since it’s a bus tour with multiple stops, travelers should be prepared for some walking and outdoor time. This experience is ideal for movie buffs, first-time visitors wanting a cinematic twist, or anyone interested in discovering Toronto’s modern landmarks with a pop culture lens.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations: Visit key sites featured in movies like “X-Men,” “Suicide Squad,” and “The Incredible Hulk.”
• Balanced itinerary: Mix of guided commentary and free exploration, giving you time to soak in each spot.
• Historical and cinematic insights: Learn about Toronto’s cinematic history and how specific locations have been used in film.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes pickup from a central location and a comfortable bus, making the day smooth.
• Value for film fans: Offers a comprehensive look at Toronto’s role as a film city in just over six hours.
• Ideal for flexible travelers: With optional pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it offers flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Toronto TV & Movie Tour

Starting Point: The Pickup at 10 Edward St

The tour kicks off at 09:00 from 10 Edward St, a central location that’s easy to access since it’s near many downtown hotels and attractions. The small group size, combined with a live English-speaking guide, promises a personal experience. Travelers have praised the ease of pickup and the friendly, informative guides—an important aspect when dealing with a packed itinerary.

The University of Toronto: A Film Location and Landmark

Your first stop is the University of Toronto, a sprawling campus with architecture that’s familiar to film fans. It’s notably used in movies like “The Hulk,” “Resident Evil,” and “The Shape of Water.” Spending about 60 minutes here, you’ll get off the bus, walk around, and appreciate not only the beautiful historic buildings but also their cinematic significance.

Expect the guide to share behind-the-scenes snippets—like how certain scenes were shot here or which university landmarks appeared onscreen. The university’s combination of old stone buildings and modern structures makes for a photogenic start that appeals to both film buff and architecture lovers alike.

Casa Loma: A Castle From the Silver Screen

Next, the tour takes you outside Casa Loma, a fairytale castle that’s become one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks. The exterior shot seen in “X-Men” is enough to make any Marvel fan excited, and the architecture offers a great photo opportunity. The visit lasts about 10 minutes, giving you enough time to admire its turrets and imagine the cinematic scenes set here.

While you won’t go inside—so no tour of the 98 rooms—this outside view is enough to transport you into Toronto’s film history. The castle’s grandeur makes it a favorite for photographers and those wanting a fairy-tale backdrop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Toronto City Hall and the Downtown Vibe

Moving into the city, you’ll stop outside Toronto City Hall. Known for its distinctive modern architecture, this site appears in “Resident Evil: Apocalypse” and “The Believers.” Spending about 20 minutes here allows for a quick walk-around and photo session. It’s interesting to consider how this contemporary structure stands out amid Toronto’s skyline, and the guide usually shares some fun film facts.

The Intersection of Bay and Adelaide: Urban Action

The busy corner of Bay St and Adelaide St W is next, where the vibrant cityscape has featured in “Suicide Squad” and “It Chapter Two.” Here, for about 10 minutes, you get a feel for the city’s bustling modern life, and can picture the high-energy scenes that might have been shot here. It’s a great way to experience Toronto’s urban character.

Roy Thomson Hall and the Entertainment Scene

Next, the tour stops outside Roy Thomson Hall, another Toronto icon used in “X-Men” and “The Expanse”. The 10-minute outside visit reveals its striking architecture and sense of Toronto’s cultural scene. This stop is more about appreciating the building’s design but also about understanding Toronto’s role as a backdrop for blockbuster films and TV.

Union Station: The Heart of the City

The biggest highlight is Union Station, Toronto’s main railway hub, which also appeared prominently in “Suicide Squad.” Spending about 25 minutes inside the station means you can explore its historic halls, grand arches, and extensive underground PATH tunnels. It’s a lively spot, and the guide often shares stories about its history and cinematic use, making it more than just a transit point.

The Artistic Charm of the Distillery District

The Distillery Historic District rounds out the tour with its cobbled streets, boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. Used as a filming location for “X-Men,” it offers a different vibe—artsy, historic, and full of character. With 30 minutes here, you can explore independently, take photos, and soak in the creative atmosphere.

Ending at Sankofa Square and Cherry Street Bascule Bridge

Finally, you’ll visit Sankofa Square, featured in “Suicide Squad,” and the Cherry Street Bascule Bridge, seen in “The Incredible Hulk.” The last stops offer quick yet memorable photo moments, each about 10 minutes long, bringing your cinematic exploration full circle.

What Travelers Say

From reviews, we learn that the experience is praised for its informative guides and well-chosen filming locations. One reviewer appreciated the “balance of guided commentary and free time,” which allowed for some spontaneous photo ops and personal exploration. Others mention the comfortable bus and the central pickup point as logistical highlights.

Some note that the length of the tour can be tiring, especially in warm weather, but overall, most feel it’s a worthwhile way to see Toronto through a cinematic lens. The stops at iconic landmarks like Casa Loma and Union Station are consistently highlighted as memorable.

The Practicalities

The tour is designed for convenience, with pickup included and a pay-later option, providing flexibility in planning. It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring sunglasses, a hat, and cash for small purchases or tips. Since pets, smoking, and alcohol are prohibited, it maintains a family-friendly environment.

The duration of 6.5 hours is substantial but well-spent if you’re interested in the intersection of film and cityscape. The guide’s expertise in storytelling helps turn the locations into scenes from a movie, making the tour both educational and fun.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is great for film fans and pop culture enthusiasts eager to connect Toronto’s landmarks with their on-screen appearances. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown of the city’s modern architecture and historic sites while indulging their movie curiosity. Those who enjoy walking outdoors, wearing comfortable shoes, and are ready for a full-day adventure will find this tour especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to see Toronto from a fresh angle—through the lens of Hollywood and TV—this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and photo opportunities. It’s a practical, well-organized way to cover the city’s major filming locations in a single morning or afternoon, all while learning about Toronto’s appearance on the big and small screens.

The value lies in the variety of locations, the insights from a knowledgeable guide, and the flexibility of booking terms. For movie buffs, culture seekers, and city explorers alike, this tour can deepen your appreciation of Toronto’s cinematic role while giving you a memorable day in this vibrant Canadian city.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at certain stops.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers multiple filming locations, some with exterior views, and inside visits at Union Station. Pickup is included, and it’s guided in English.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour?
Yes, but booking in advance is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Is there much walking involved?
Most stops are outside or quick visits, so moderate walking is involved, especially at outdoor locations like Casa Loma and the Distillery District.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, comfortable clothes, and cash. No pets, smoking, or alcohol are allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the duration and outdoor time.

What if a location is closed?
The tour operator reserves the right to adjust the itinerary if a scenic spot is closed and will provide an alternative.

This TV & Movie Tour offers a well-rounded look at Toronto’s cinematic side, perfect for those who want to see the city’s landmarks through a film lover’s lens while enjoying a comfortable and flexible experience.

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