Self-Guided Celebrity Walking Tour of Yorkville: Hollywood North Hotspots

Welcome to Yorkville, Toronto’s glitzy enclave where A-listers have left their mark for decades. This cheeky, star-studded stroll will take you through the haunts of Hollywood North’s elite. Lace up, keep your eyes peeled for celebs, and let’s dive into the glamour!

Stop 1: Coco Espresso Bar (29 Bellair St)

Time: 5-10 minutes

Kick off your tour at Coco Espresso Bar, a chic spot where the walls are practically a Walk of Fame. For over 30 years, stars filming in Toronto (aka Hollywood North) have popped in for a latte or a vibe check. Snap a pic with the celebrity-studded decor, grab a quick coffee, and soak in the starstruck ambiance. Ready to chase some fame? Let’s go!

Directions: Exit Coco and head north up Bellair St (a 2-minute stroll).

Stop 2: Robert Downey Jr.’s Ice Cream Bench (Yorkville Ave & Bellair St)

Time: 5 minutes

As you hit Yorkville Ave, pause at the bench outside Summer’s Ice Cream (101 Yorkville Ave). Picture Robert Downey Jr. chilling here, licking a cone like the Iron Man he is. You’re also standing where Bellini’s Restaurant once reigned as the go-to for Hollywood’s elite. Strike a superhero pose and imagine the paparazzi frenzy.

Directions: walk west on Yorkville Ave (3-4 minutes).

Stop 3: Hazelton Hotel Patio (118 Yorkville Ave)

Time: 5 minutes

Saunter past the Hazelton Hotel, Yorkville’s luxe hideout for the rich and famous. Peek at the patio—you never know which A-lister might be sipping a martini. This is prime celebrity-spotting territory, No celeb? The swanky vibes are worth a gawk anyway.

Directions: Continue west to Avenue Rd (1 minute).

Stop 4: Original Four Seasons Hotel (Avenue Rd & Yorkville Ave)

Time: 5-7 minutes

Pause at the corner of Avenue Rd and Yorkville Ave, where the original Four Seasons Hotel once stood (now a condo). This was theplace for stars to stay, sneaking out the back door for low-key Yorkville strolls. Imagine Mick Jagger or Tom Hanks mingling with fans right here. Soak in the nostalgia and keep an eye out for any modern-day star sightings.

Directions: Continue south on Avenue Rd, then turn left onto Cumberland St (5-6 minutes).

Stop 5: old Bellair Café location (Cumberland St & Bellair St)

Time: 5 minutes

As you reach Bellair St, you’re standing in front of the former Bellair Café (100 Cumberland St), a legendary celebrity hotspot. This was where stars like Bono or Kiefer Sutherland might’ve grabbed a lunch or dinner while dodging the press. The building’s still got that old-school glam—take a moment to channel some ’90s Hollywood vibes.

Directions: Turn right onto Bellair St and head south toward Bloor St (3-4 minutes).

Stop 6: Windsor Arms Hotel (18 St. Thomas St)

Time: 10-15 minutes

Cross Bloor St safely at the lights, then make your way to St. Thomas St to reach the Windsor Arms Hotel. This low-key, high-end gem was a favorite for stars seeking discretion. The second floor has a dazzling showcase of photos featuring celebs who’ve stayed here over the decades. Feeling fancy? Their tea service is divine—perfect for sipping like a star. Snap some pics and bask in the old-Hollywood charm.

Directions: You’re done! Stay for tea, or retrace your steps to explore more of Yorkville.


Tour Tips

• Total Walking Distance: ~1.5 km, perfect for a leisurely 45-60 minute adventure.

• Celeb Spotting: Keep your phone ready—Yorkville’s still a magnet for stars!

• Connect: Got questions or want to share your star sightings? DM @TorontoPopCutureMuseum on Instagram.

• Vibes: Pop in some earbuds with a Hollywood playlist (think La La Land or Top Gun ) for extra flair.

Enjoy your star-studded strut through Yorkville, and who knows—you might just bump into the next big name! 🌟

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