Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is known for its towering skyscrapers, diverse neighbourhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. However, beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lies a hidden world of strange and intriguing places that showcase the city’s quirky side. From haunted houses to mysterious museums, Toronto offers a range of unusual attractions that are sure to pique the interest of those looking for something out of the ordinary. Here’s a guide to exploring some of the weird and fascinating places in Toronto.
The Toronto Necropolis
One of Toronto’s oldest cemeteries, the Toronto Necropolis is both eerie and beautiful. Established in 1850, this historic burial ground is home to over 50,000 graves, including those of notable Canadian figures. The cemetery’s winding paths, Victorian Gothic architecture, and towering trees create a peaceful yet haunting atmosphere. For history buffs and those interested in the macabre, a visit to the Toronto Necropolis offers a glimpse into the city’s past, complete with stories of notable residents and eerie legends.
The Bata Shoe Museum
A museum dedicated entirely to shoes might sound odd, but the Bata Shoe Museum is one of Toronto’s most unique cultural institutions. This quirky museum houses over 13,000 shoes and related artifacts, spanning 4,500 years of history. The exhibits range from ancient Egyptian sandals to modern designer footwear, showcasing the evolution of shoe design and its cultural significance. The museum also features peculiar and rare items, such as shoes worn by celebrities and the infamous clogs of Dutch farmers. It’s a fascinating exploration of fashion, history, and the bizarre world of footwear.
Casa Loma’s Secret Passages
Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival-style castle in the heart of Toronto, is well-known for its opulent rooms and stunning gardens. However, what many visitors may not know is that the castle is also home to several secret passages and hidden rooms. These mysterious features were designed by Sir Henry Pellatt, the original owner, who had a flair for the dramatic. Visitors can explore a tunnel that leads to the stables, a hidden wine cellar, and other concealed areas that add an element of intrigue to the castle’s already grandiose atmosphere.
The Half House on St. Patrick Street
Tucked away on St. Patrick Street, you’ll find one of Toronto’s most bizarre architectural oddities: the Half House. This narrow, half-sized home appears as if it’s been sliced down the middle, leaving only one side intact. The story behind this strange building dates back to the 1950s when a row of Victorian houses was slated for demolition. However, one homeowner refused to sell, resulting in the partial demolition of the neighbouring homes and the creation of this peculiar structure. The Half House stands as a testament to Toronto’s evolving cityscape and is a must-see for fans of unusual architecture. Its not too far away from the ‘complete’ Toronto suites, such as the luxurious ones that are popular among tourists like Pan Pacific Toronto.
The Monkey’s Paw and the Biblio-Mat
Book lovers and collectors of the strange will find a treasure trove at The Monkey’s Paw, a small independent bookstore that specializes in unusual and rare books. The shop’s eclectic collection includes everything from vintage cookbooks to obscure scientific manuals, and each item seems to have a story of its own. The store is also home to the Biblio-Mat, a vintage vending machine that dispenses randomly selected books for just a few dollars. The thrill of not knowing what literary oddity you’ll receive makes the Biblio-Mat a quirky and fun experience for visitors.
