Toronto by bus, then waiting for the train

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A busy day before boarding the train to Jasper. Checked bags out by 7:00 a.m., carry on bags to the bus at 8:00, all bags dropped off at the VIA Station by 8:30. At least that was the plan but today was WE day where motivational speakers, famous singers, even Prince Harry dropped by the Plaza by the train station to encourage and motivate hundreds of teens to be themselves. So it took a while for our bags to be collected by VIA porters. Then we were off for a two-hour tour of Toronto - neighborhoods, parks, architecture, history, even the original Canadian whiskey brewery where the buildings have been converted into condos and an entertainment center.

Lunch was at the Royal Canadian Museum, followed by a guided tour with our guide highlighting one major piece in each section. After the tour we explored in depth several areas including a special exhibit of Anshinwwan beadwork and art, plus the world culture exhibits. The museum has four huge totem poles and is in a beautiful building which merged a new crystal section with older ones. Our guide Patty had received word that our train was several hours late so Road Scholar arranged for us to check back into the hotel, take a bus to dinner and back to the hotel. We left for Union Station at 11:15, got our tickets with room assignments and meal sittings, sat around, boarded the train around 1:15, train left around 2:15 am. I watched out of my window for an hour, then fell asleep.

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Photos

Restored brewery district
This area by the river was the original site of York, later called Toronto.

Blocks of locks
Couples hang locks on a wire sculpture, when full they were pressed into a block.

Totem pole - three floors tall
Fit with just six inches space at top.

Waiting room at VIA Rail Station
That's AM...