
Downtown Markham Public Art Trail
Discover a vibrant urban canvas with outdoor sculptures and the free Varley Art Gallery, set against charming Unionville.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy a relaxed pace

Downtown Markham Public Art Trail
Best Time
Enjoy a relaxed pace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a vibrant urban canvas with outdoor sculptures and the free Varley Art Gallery, set against charming Unionville.
"A true cultural gem in the heart of Markham — highly recommend visiting!"

🚶♀️ Walk the Trail
Explore the public art trail on foot for the best experience. Wear comfy shoes!
🖼️ Visit the Varley
Don't miss the Varley Art Gallery for indoor exhibits. Admission is free!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Varley Art Gallery
Main Street Unionville
A cultural gem showcasing local and national artists with thoughtful, engaging exhibits. Free admission!

Outdoor Sculptures
Throughout Downtown Markham
Explore a dynamic collection of public art installations that transform the urban environment into an open-air gallery.

Unionville Main Street
Unionville
Stroll this charming street, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the historic atmosphere surrounding the art trail. Perfect for a leisurely day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Walk
Check for Events & Exhibitions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting Markham for the first time - suggestions of what to see?
🚶♀️ Walk the Trail
Explore the public art trail on foot for the best experience. Wear comfy shoes!
🖼️ Visit the Varley
Don't miss the Varley Art Gallery for indoor exhibits. Admission is free!
Where to take my visiting relatives on rainy day?
☕️ Enjoy Unionville
Combine your art walk with a stroll and coffee on Main Street Unionville.
📸 Capture the Art
Many installations are highly photogenic. Bring your camera or phone!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Trail
Explore the public art trail on foot for the best experience. Wear comfy shoes!
🖼️ Visit the Varley
Don't miss the Varley Art Gallery for indoor exhibits. Admission is free!
☕️ Enjoy Unionville
Combine your art walk with a stroll and coffee on Main Street Unionville.
📸 Capture the Art
Many installations are highly photogenic. Bring your camera or phone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Downtown Markham Public Art Trail and the Varley Art Gallery to be delightful cultural experiences. The free admission to the gallery and the diverse outdoor art are highly praised, offering a pleasant way to explore the area. Some note the gallery's size is modest, but its charm and curated exhibits make it a worthwhile visit, especially when combined with a stroll through picturesque Unionville.
"This afternoon, quite by chance, I wandered into the Varley Art Gallery of Markham and was delighted to come across this exhibition. To my surprise and joy, I discovered the work of Kejie Lin. The artist’s style is highly meticulous, adept at using complex layers of flowers and leaves combined with vibrant colors, creating a majestic composition that blends the delicacy of traditional gongbi painting with a modern sensibility."
Lance Lan
"It’s a lovely place to have in the neighborhood: calm, clean, and welcoming. The venue is a bit small and the collection somewhat limited, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re nearby. Nice spot for a quiet afternoon."
Chloe
"The Varley Art Gallery in Unionville is such a beautiful and inspiring place to visit! The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, showcasing both local and national artists, and there’s always something new and engaging to see. You can really feel the creativity and history that make this gallery so special.
The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with friendly staff who are passionate about art and happy to share insights. Its location right on Main Street Unionville makes it even better — you can enjoy a lovely stroll, grab a coffee nearby, and make a whole day of it.
A true cultural gem in the heart of Markham — highly recommend visiting the Varley Art Gallery for anyone who appreciates art, history, and a peaceful, inspiring space."
Victoria Znajewski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is spread throughout Downtown Markham, with key points in Unionville. If coming from Toronto, you can take the GO Train to Markham GO Station. From there, Ubers or local buses can take you to specific areas like Main Street Unionville.
Yes, there is ample parking available in various lots throughout Downtown Markham and specifically near Main Street Unionville, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! York Region Transit buses serve Downtown Markham and Unionville. Combining the GO Train with local buses or Ubers offers flexibility for exploring the trail without a car.
While the trail is primarily designed for walking, some sections may be suitable for cycling. However, be mindful of pedestrian traffic and art installations.
The best way is to start at a central point like Main Street Unionville and explore outwards. Consider using a map of the public art installations available online or at local visitor centers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Downtown Markham Public Art Trail is an outdoor public space, and viewing the art is free for everyone.
The Varley Art Gallery offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
The outdoor public art installations are accessible 24/7. The Varley Art Gallery has specific operating hours, which you can check on their official website.
Yes, visiting during special events can add to the experience, but the art trail itself is always open. Check the Varley Art Gallery's schedule for any related events.
There isn't one mandatory route, allowing for flexibility. However, many visitors enjoy starting at Main Street Unionville and exploring the surrounding areas.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of public art, including sculptures, murals, and installations, created by various artists, reflecting different themes and styles.
Many outdoor areas are accessible, but specific installations might have varying accessibility. The Varley Art Gallery is generally accessible. It's best to check specific locations if you have concerns.
While official guided tours for the outdoor trail might be limited, the Varley Art Gallery often offers guided tours for its exhibitions. Check their schedule.
Look for interesting angles and lighting. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the sculptures. Consider the surrounding urban environment as part of your composition.
Some public art pieces are designed to be interactive or encourage engagement. Keep an eye out for installations that invite participation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Main Street Unionville offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and eateries, perfect for a meal or a coffee break during your art exploration.
Yes, Unionville's Main Street has several family-friendly restaurants and casual dining spots that cater to all ages.
Absolutely! You'll find bakeries, cafes, and casual eateries offering quick bites and snacks along Main Street Unionville.
Many restaurants in the area are accommodating to various dietary needs. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly on the art trail, you might find nearby parks or public spaces where a picnic could be enjoyed.
📸 📸 Photography
Any of the public art installations offer great photo opportunities. The Varley Art Gallery's architecture and exhibits are also popular subjects.
Photography is generally allowed in the Varley Art Gallery for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing sculptures. Golden hour can create dramatic effects.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near public spaces. It's advisable to check local bylaws and regulations before flying a drone.
Many of the larger sculptures and murals are highly photogenic. The unique designs and colors of the installations make them stand out.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by exploring Main Street Unionville, where you can find casual dining options and ice cream shops. The open spaces around the art installations also provide room for kids to move around. Remember to bring snacks and water, and plan for breaks to keep everyone happy.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Art Enthusiasts
Unionville's Main Street provides a charming setting for a leisurely stroll, coffee breaks, or a quiet meal. This area is perfect for those who enjoy immersing themselves in art and culture without a strict itinerary. The opportunity to discover both outdoor and indoor art in a single outing makes it a rewarding destination.
📸 Photography Buffs
The Varley Art Gallery also presents excellent photographic opportunities, both inside its exhibition spaces (where permitted) and its architectural features. Combining shots of the outdoor art with the gallery's interior and the charming streetscapes of Unionville will result in a varied and compelling portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Varley Art Gallery
The gallery is more than just a place to view art; it's a vibrant community hub. It actively engages visitors through educational programs, studio courses, and workshops, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. This focus on community involvement and artistic development makes the Varley a dynamic and inspiring destination.
Its location on Main Street Unionville is a significant advantage, allowing visitors to easily combine a gallery visit with a stroll through the charming historic street, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a meal. This integration of art, culture, and local charm creates a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.
The Public Art Trail Experience
Walking the trail offers a unique way to explore Markham, encouraging visitors to discover hidden artistic gems while enjoying the city's atmosphere. The art pieces range from abstract forms to more representational works, often sparking conversation and contemplation. Many installations are designed to be photogenic, making the trail a popular spot for capturing memorable images.
To make the most of your art trail experience, comfortable footwear is recommended, as the trail can cover a significant area. Consider checking for any temporary installations or events that might be happening concurrently, as these can add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
Unionville's Charm and Art
Visitors often describe Main Street Unionville as a lovely place for a stroll, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a meal before or after exploring the art. The street itself has a welcoming and calm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the local ambiance.
Combining a visit to the Varley Art Gallery with a walk down Main Street Unionville provides a comprehensive cultural outing. The synergy between the gallery's indoor exhibits and the outdoor public art, all set against the backdrop of this historic street, creates a truly memorable experience for art lovers and casual visitors alike.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit