Brothels of Old Toronto Walking Tour
71 Reviews
Wheelchair accessible
Culture & history
Guided tours
Neighborhood tours
Tours
Nightlife & bars
Educational activities
Uncover the secret world of Old Toronto's brothels in the 1800s. A history professor guides you to hidden sites + reveals the scandals, secrets, and spy rings that shook Toronto.
Highlights
- Uncover scandalous true stories not included in 'official' histories
- Discover why sex workers and madams were considered essential workers
- Reveal the clients and the scandals that made Old Toronto infamous
- Understand secret brothel codes, architecture, and the history of fashion
Description
18+ Winner of the Trip Advisor badge of excellence.
Uncover the wild, secret world of Old Toronto's brothels in the 1800s. A history professor takes you to hidden sites in the old city and reveals the scandals, secrets, and spy rings that shook Toronto— and the sex workers and madams who helped build our city.
Based on a decade of archival research that uncovered the locations of 100 brothels in 1800s Toronto, you'll learn the secret original codes and rules for running a brothel in 1800s Toronto. Learn about the women who worked here, who their clients were, and the wild stories of what they did with their money.
Explore lost streets, forgotten photographs, hands-on artefacts and rare stories to find a secret world that our town founders hoped would stay hidden forever.
Tours are 90 minutes to 2 hours and begin and end in St. James Park 120 King Street East.
Includes
Guide
Walking tour
Important Information
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please be advised that this tour discusses sexuality and historical realities that included disease, assault, and violence
The tour is not recommended for children due to mature themes
Photography is permitted, but audio and video recordings are not allowed
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund