Unionville in Markham is the real-life Stars Hollow — Gilmore Girls fans can walk the actual sets
The Gilmore Girls pilot was filmed in this historic hamlet 30 minutes north of Toronto. The gazebo, the church, and the main street cafes are still there.
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If you've ever wished you could step into Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls, Unionville in Markham — just 30 minutes north of Toronto — makes that possible. The 2000 American comedy-drama's pilot episode was filmed here, using the historic hamlet as its fictional small town. (The rest of the series was filmed at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California.)
Unionville's Main Street is lined with picturesque heritage buildings, boutiques, cafes, and award-winning restaurants that genuinely feel like you've walked onto a TV set. Parking is free and plentiful around town, and you can reach it by car, GO Transit, or York Region Public Transit.
For fans, the self-guided tour starts at the "Stars Hollow sign" — actually the Unionville Planning Mill sign at the end of Main Street by NextDoor Restaurant. The town gazebo, decorated seasonally just like in the show, makes for a perfect photo. Luke's Diner from the series is now home to Gratie Medical Spa, but the building is worth a look. Taylor's Olde Fashioned Soda Shoppe was inspired by the Old Firehall Confectionery at 170 Main Street, though it closed in 2025; the historic building itself is still worth seeing. You'll also spot Tucci, a boutique visible in the pilot, and Unionville's iconic red-brick church, recognizable from the show's opening credits.
Before or after your tour, grab coffee at Espresso 21 Cafe, which serves up coffee, pastries, and gelato in a cozy setting. Main Street has plenty of restaurant options — from upscale Italian to casual bites — so you won't leave hungry. Whether you're a devoted fan or just looking for a charming nearby escape with real small-town character, Unionville delivers the charm that made Stars Hollow legendary.
At a glance
Where is Unionville and how far is it from Toronto?
Unionville is in Markham, located 30 minutes north of Toronto.
Which Gilmore Girls episode was filmed in Unionville?
The pilot episode of Gilmore Girls was filmed in Unionville in 2000, using the historic hamlet as the fictional town of Stars Hollow.
What happened to the building that inspired Taylor's Olde Fashioned Soda Shoppe?
The Old Firehall Confectionery at 170 Main Street, which inspired Taylor's Olde Fashioned Soda Shoppe, closed in 2025, though the historic building is still standing.
