The Exhibition Grounds: History and Architecture (NEW FOR 2026)

**The Toronto History Walks Explorer Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**
for more information or for signing up!**

** Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

The beloved CNE started out as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition in 1879 and has been an icon ever since.

But the history of the CNE dates back to the mid 1800s when the Provincial Agricultural Association set up the first exhibition in 1846 here in Toronto. The "Fair" was an Upper Canada fair and moved from one place to another for the first 30 years until the permanent exhibition was established in Toronto.

Seen as a mini world's fair the Industrial Exhibition changed the name in 1912 to the Canadian National Exhibition, as was known as the "People's University."

The buildings were considered the most beautiful exhibition buildings on the continent. In 1906 the Crystal Palace burned to the ground and the current horticultural building built on the site.

The architecture tells its own story of Toronto and what Torontonians thought about their city. Pride in Toronto, and all that it achieved was on display for all to see during the CNE days in late August.

Learn about the history and the ups and downs of the "showplace of the nation."

This walk is for all walkers and all skill levels. Please dress for the weather and bring water.

Please meet on the south side of Springhurst and Dufferin Street, just north of the TTC loop.

This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person.

** Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**