My 5 Favourite Pieces of Sidewalk: A Walk Through Old Town

Alice Wang

When Jane Jacobs wrote about the neighbourhood she lived in, she used the term “sidewalk ballet” — the intricate dance of people moving and existing in an urban harmony. Jane believed that the sidewalk served a function that was beyond the mere movement of people.

As a resident of the St. Lawrence Market/Old Town area, I find my daily commute taking me along some of the busiest and most touristy sidewalks of Toronto. Come join me on a walk through my neighbourhood as I share with you my five favourite “pieces” of sidewalk!

Along the way, we will talk about how the area was born, reborn, and how it has transformed over the years. I will share my favourite selfie spot, my favourite public artwork, and the story behind one of the most photographed buildings in Toronto — the “flatiron building.”

I will also attempt to answer some questions that I’m still trying to figure out myself. Why do some neighbourhoods have more of a neighbourhood-y feel? Is there a difference between “busy” and “lively”? And what does it really mean to “live” somewhere?