The Nature of Transit: The Story of the Spadina Expressway

​The Spadina Expressway was a proposed highway that would have cut through the center of Toronto, including major ravine lands. It became a fault line in local politics, the subject of a 30-year battle over the very idea of Toronto.

​This tour, situated almost entirely in the ravines that would have contained the Expressway, will tell its full story: its proposal, its protest, its failure, and its psychic impact on Toronto. As we walk the ghost of a downtown highway so close to construction, we will ask ourselves the question: who are cities for?

​Note: This tour was previously called "How To Split A City".

​Location: The tour begins on the grass in front of the Toronto Archives, on the north-east corner of Spadina & Macpherson, a short walk from Dupont Station. It concludes at Eglinton West Station.

​Price: This tour operates on a pay-what-you-can basis. There is a $2 fee to book your spot on the tour. At the end of the tour, you can pay whatever you feel the tour was worth (cash or card both accepted). Most guests choose to pay between $25 - $40 per person.

Accessibility: This tour involves two trips up and down stairs and long walks in ravines, which can be muddy or bumpy. There are alternative step-free routes.

​Disclaimer: By booking this tour you acknowledge that you accept personal responsibility for your safety. You understand and confirm that you are participating in this tour voluntarily, and understand the associated risks. You must be sure to obey all rules of the road, including waiting at red lights, walking on sidewalks, and crossing at designated crosswalks. For your own safety, you must stick to the designated walking paths. You release Hidden Rivers Tours and Matthew Jordan from any liability.