Route

USe Local HistoryPicking Places to Talk About

Think about having six to twelve points of interest, depending on the distance being covered.

Aim for a variety of sites that speak to a range of interests and approaches.

Go with your gut, it's your tour, but consider these sorts of questions:

  1. What are some important meeting spaces in your neighbourhood (important for food, thinking, recreation, laughing with friends, local politics - think broadly)?
  2. What spaces are you most proud of in your neighbourhood?
  3. What are some important green-spaces?
  4. What are some interesting short-cuts you take?
  5. Where do kids like to play? Adults? Retired folks?
  6. Where are some spaces that feel more private, like a small urban oasis?
  7. Do any buildings have unusual marks or features?
  8. Are there any old buildings that have been reconfigured into different uses?
  9. Where do you feel most comfortable?
  10. Are there any important historical spaces in your neighbourhood?
  11. Where do you not feel safe?
  12. What is a space that you really dislike?
  13. Are there any places that mix retail, business and residential? (mixed use)
  14. How do the buildings interact with pedestrians at the street level?
  15. Are there spaces you would like to see change?
  16. Is there an important question or idea that should be talked about by everyone?

Determine a route that takes you past the sites you have chosen. Keep the distance manageable for a broad range of ages and fitness levels.

You do not have to start and end at the same place, but the starting point should be an area where a small gathering will not be in the way, and preferably, where seating is available. End the tour near public transit if possible, and ideally, where people can sit down and talk more. Bars, coffee shops and patios are perfect for this.

Your own tour notes should be well organized and easy to read. Maps are always good, and any kind of historical photographs or printed material that goes along with your points of interests.

Once your tour notes and route are complete, it is a good idea to stage a dry run with a friend or co-guide. Scope out the good places to stop, think about shade and sun, overhanging roofs are great to to stand under.

And remember all the walks go rain or shine!