Happy birthday, Toronto! Our city is officially 188 years young. Toronto has undergone some breathtaking transformations in its almost two-century existence. Back in the mid-1800s, the 6ix was hardly more than a few dirt roads with horse-drawn streetcars. Despite these unrecognizable old photos of Toronto, you will likely spot a few landmarks that are still standing to this day.

Here are some of the most incredible photos of our city through the ages, supplied by the Toronto Star Archives, the Toronto Public Library Archives, and the Baldwin Collection of Canadiana.

Below is a snapshot of the Queen’s Hotel along Front Street W on the north side, between Bay and York Streets, taken way back in 1886. Today, the area is home to the Fairmont Royal York, Union Station, and many restaurants.

Photo via Baldwin Collection of Canadiana

This image, taken in 1889, is the view looking east from Yonge and King Streets. Believe it or not, horse-drawn rail cars were the only form of public transit in the city at this time.

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Photo via Baldwin Collection of Canadiana

Flashing forward to the 1950s, this is what King St West and Spadina Ave looked like around 68 years ago. While the area is now mostly dominated by high-rise condos, packed bars, and restaurants, you might notice that a few of these buildings are still around today.

Photo via Baldwin Collection of Canadiana

This is what the Entertainment District looked like in 1967. The Gooderham Flatiron Building has been around since 1892 and it’s safe to say that the area around it has changed a lot over the years.

Here’s a glimpse of Toronto fashion back in 1965. This photo series of the Bloor-Danforth line is a retro look at riding the rocket. Commuters haven’t changed much in appearance, but today’s transit-riders are wearing AirPods instead of fur-trimmed coats.


Toronto may be one year older but its spirit is as youthful as can be. Cheers to many happy returns!

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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