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AURORA: THE "THESE FEET ARE MADE FOR WALKING TOUR" |
Aurora is a scenic, historical and friendly town awash in small-town
charm. What better way to experience its unique character than on foot,
where all the intimate details can be appreciated.
The Town of Aurora has recognized the appeal of walking tours and
provides details of three suggested walking tours on their website.
Details can be found at: www.town.aurora.on.ca/live/walktour.html
Begin a walking tour of Aurora along its historic core….
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Tour One: |
This is the shortest of the three walks, because of the proximity of
the buildings to one another. It also offers the best opportunities for
shopping and dining, as Yonge Street is lined with many quaint
businesses. Highlights of this historic tour include:
* The 1878
Methodist/United Church. Graceful spires once topped the towers, but
were destroyed in a storm. Be sure to read the historic plaque relating
the church’s founding.
*Fleury Implements Works. The largest industry in town in the 19th
century, the building is an outstanding example of an 1800s small-town
factory.
*1915 Post Office. Designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, its majestic tower houses the town clock.
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Tour Two: |
Though a bit apart from the town core, this tour still encompasses numerous important buildings, such as:
*The 1884 Trinity Anglican Church, perhaps the most attractive church in Aurora.
*Aurora Public School. Now home to the Aurora Museum, this impressive
Victorian school was once attended by former Prime Minister Lester B.
Pearson.
*The quaint Grand Trunk Railway Station, which is restored to its turn of the century appearance.
*Drill Shed. This is the home of ‘A’ Squadron, Queen’s York Rangers,
which has the distinction of being Canada’s oldest regiment. The
building is also the oldest drill shed still in use in Canada.
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Tour Three: |
This tour takes in numerous gorgeous private homes that belonged to Aurora’s most prominent citizens. You’ll see:
*The Methodist Parsonage. Built in 1879, this was the boyhood home of
Lester B. Pearson, whose father was a minister.
*Horton Place. Built by Dr. Robinson and named after his hometown in
England, this is perhaps the most attractive home in Aurora.
*And Hillary House. Now a museum restored to its 19th century
appearance, it originally served as home, practice, and surgery for
successive doctors between 1862 and 1936.
….and if you’ve still got energy left, enjoy a stroll in the woods…
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Sheppard's Bush |
While definitely best known for its amazing maple syrup program in the
spring (sticky fun at its best), Sheppard’s Bush nevertheless makes for
a pleasant walk anytime of year. Trails are well-groomed, looped, and
even the longest runs only a few kilometres in length, so the park is
ideal for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. In the summer the
woods come alive with birds and wildlife, while in autumn the foliage
is stunning.
Location: Industry Street
Season: Year Round
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Rates: Free
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