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Victoria Memorial Square, Greater Toronto Area Travel Guide

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Discover Toronto's first cemetery turned park, a serene escape with historical significance in the heart of the Fashion District.

Victoria Memorial Square is a park in Toronto that also serves as the city's first European cemetery, established in 1793. It offers a peaceful retreat amidst the urban landscape, with walkways, benches and a monument commemorating those who served in the War of 1812.

A brief summary to Victoria Memorial Square

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Victoria Memorial Square.

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and to avoid crowds.
  • Take time to read the historical plaques to gain insights into the park's significance.
  • Note that the park is a designated heritage site and burial ground; please be respectful.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Fashion District or King West area, walking to Victoria Memorial Square is straightforward. From the CN Tower, walk south on Simcoe Street, turn left on Bremner Blvd, then right on John Street. Walk north on John Street until you reach Niagara Street, then turn left. The park will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    From Union Station, take subway Line 1 (Yonge-University) northbound to St. Andrew Station. Exit and walk west on King Street to John Street, turn right, and walk north to Niagara Street. Turn left on Niagara Street to reach the park. Alternatively, take the 504 King streetcar westbound and get off at the Niagara Street stop. Walk south on Niagara Street. A single fare is approximately $3.35.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Toronto. A short trip from downtown to Victoria Memorial Square will typically cost between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and distance.

Discover more about Victoria Memorial Square

Victoria Memorial Square, located at 10 Niagara St, is a unique blend of park and historical site in Toronto. Established in 1793, it was the first cemetery used by European settlers in the area. Originally known as St. John's Square, it was created by Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe shortly after the founding of York. His infant daughter, Katherine, was the first to be buried here.Serving as the military cemetery for Toronto until 1863, it holds the remains of an estimated 400 soldiers, their families, and some civilians. Over time, neglect and vandalism led to the loss of many gravestones, with only 17 surviving today. In the late 19th century, it was transformed into a public park. In 1907, a monument sculpted by Walter Seymour Allward commemorating those who served and died in the War of 1812 was unveiled.The park has undergone revitalization efforts to preserve its history, including new footpaths, lighting, and interpretive panels. Today, Victoria Memorial Square provides a tranquil green space for relaxation and reflection, while also serving as a reminder of Toronto's early history. Visitors are asked to remember and respect that the park is a historic site and burial ground.

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