Campus and Cosmos Walking Tour

As we journey around the University of Toronto campus, discover how astronomy has grown in parallel with the university, the city, and the country. Although we now think of astronomy in terms of scientific exploration and discovery, it is also embedded in every culture. This walk encourages participants to explore the diversity of astronomy: how its practical applications have deep cultural and historical roots, not to mention a place in our educational systems and provided an enjoyable hobby for thousands of Canadians. 

This tour will be led by Heritage Toronto volunteer John Percy, Professor Emeritus, Astronomy & Astrophysics, University of Toronto, where he has worked for six decades. He is internationally known for mentoring undergraduate research students, and for encouraging and facilitating research in astronomy by skilled amateur astronomers.

Start Point: 315 Bloor Street West (Southwest corner of Bloor Street and Devonshire Place); outside the Munk School for Global Affairs and Public Policy

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.

End Point: 50 St. George Street, the current home of the University of Toronto’s Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Length of Tour: Approximately 90 minutes

Distance and Terrain: This tour is approximately 2 kilometres in distance and takes place predominantly on paved city sidewalks and streets. There are some unpaved portions of the route that take place in city parks.

Registration is required for all tours. Please note: you will 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.