"This world is but a canvas to our imagination." - Henry David Thoreau
One of the many things I love about Toronto is that if you look closely you can find art anywhere. The 5 star rating is for the total experience you can have if you expand your vision of what art is all about. Go early to beat the heat and the crowds, find a parking space in the neighborhood ($2.25 an hour 3 hour max), wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera.
Graffiti alley is located south of Queen Street before Richmond St and between Portland Street and Spadina Ave. It takes 20 minutes if you're rushing through but you should take your time and look at the murals like a painting - appreciate the vibrant colors, examine the little details close up then step back and take in the full impact of the mural. It takes skill to imagine a picture and then transpose it onto a brick wall by just using a can of spray paint. Try it at home and see how difficult it is to make a line, create shading, add expression.
After we strolled through the alley and took pictures of our favorite artwork, hubby and I took a break from the heat and had lunch at Burger Priest (Bahn Mi Boys is also close by). We then expanded our search for artwork within the immediate vicinity and found it on the sidewalk (literally), storefronts, and the sides of the buildings.
The neighborhood has a number of sidewalk cafes, Victorian style homes and gardens, Gothic style cathedrals, and geometric high rises truly a feast for the eyes. A few safety tips - don't go alone because it is still an alley, keep an eye on your purse and valuables and watch out for panhandlers.
Note: Here's a link to the back story of the "HUG tree" http://justinpluslauren.com/toronto-street-art-graffiti-alley/ Pretty interesting read.