Choose a Neighbourhood:
Allenby
This tight-knit community is home to affluent young Toronto families who have settled into detached, two-storey and bungalow homes. Situated between North Toronto and Forest Hill, this family-friendly area may not get as much buzz as other affluent neighbourhoods in Toronto, but it’s still a much sought-after neighbourhood by families looking for a safe, family-friendly area.
The highly recommended Allenby Public School scores highest on the Province of Ontario’s Fraser School Report and is one of the reasons many families have moved to the Allenby area. Other good schools in the area include the renowned Upper Canada College and St. Clement’s School. Because of the high population of families living in the area, there are numerous traffic calming zones, stop signs and speed bumps to increase safety.
The homes in Allenby are mostly Tudor style but have undergone renovations to meet the standards of contemporary amenities and designs. Renovators have been careful to preserve the original wood details and decorative accents that add character and charm to these homes.
In Allenby, take advantage of transport links, top-notch recreational facilities and shopping. There are gourmet food shops to satisfy any discerning foodie. Enjoy a family walk, jog or bike ride on the Beltline Trail, or get involved in some of the many activities available to families at the recreational facilities.
Bay Street Corridor
The Bay Street Corridor, one of Toronto’s most densely populated neighbourhoods, is located within walking distance of the Financial, Discovery, and Hospital Districts, Toronto City Hall, Ryerson University, the University of Toronto, and downtown Yonge Street.
The Bay Street Corridor has become one of Toronto’s prime condo markets, which has attracted many young professionals. There is a strong international mix here of both residents and investors. Residents enjoy shopping at the designer Yorkville boutiques and in the eclectic variety of stores and services along Yonge Street. There are hundreds of casual and fine dining restaurants and amenities close by. Many of these destinations are connected by Toronto’s underground PATH retail concourse.
Contemporary, new condo developments line Bay Street. Most of them are luxury buildings which feature 24-hour concierge services as well as impeccable recreational amenities. If you venture off Bay Street, along some of the narrow side streets, you’ll see a few residential houses and townhomes and get the feeling you are further away from the downtown core than you actually are.
If you are looking for a high-energy, desirable, Toronto neighbourhood, the Bay Street Corridor will not disappoint.
Bedford Park
Bedford Park is a beautiful neighbourhood in uptown Toronto. It’s known as a family-oriented neighbourhood with quiet streets, mature trees, excellent schools, and parks. Bedford Park is within close proximity to highway 401 and the Lawrence subway station. These features attract young professionals and their families to the neighbourhood.
Bedford Park is bisected by Yonge Street. The northern boundary is Brooke Avenue on the West side of Yonge, and Snowdon Avenue to the east of Yonge. The eastern boundary is Ronan Avenue. Bedford Park Public School is located at Yonge and Lawrence.
The original homes in Bedford Park were constructed between 1890 and 1940. It was considered a middle class neighbourhood, on the northern boundary of Toronto, with mid-sized detached and semi-detached homes. Many of the originals homes still exist and a number have undergone extensive renovations to meet contemporary standards. A handful of the original homes have been torn down completely and replaced with larger, more modern homes.
There are excellent schools in the area, including Bannockburn Montessori School.
Cabbagetown
This well-known enclave, full of restored Victorian homes, has become one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Toronto. It’s buzzing with coffee-lovers and neighbours who frequent the Riverdale Farmers’ Market each Tuesday, from May through October. This trendy area of Toronto is an ideal neighbourhood for those looking for friendly neighbours and a strong sense of community.
The sense of community in Cabbagetown is enhanced by the Cabbagetown Fall Festival that runs for an entire weekend every September and features a mini marathon, historical walking tours and a community-wide yard sale. Cabbage town is an eclectic community, home to renowned artists, musicians, journalists and writers, as well as to those who work in the nearby financial district. There’s no shortage of community festivals and events for a chance to come together and socialize.
Once known as the poorest area of Toronto, thousands of Irish working-class immigrants settled in the area and purportedly grew cabbage on their front lawn to feed their families. Cabbagetown was revitalized in the 1970s and 1980s and the community began to see the collection of brick, Victorian homes carefully restored and preserved.
Less than ten minutes from Toronto’s downtown business and entertainment district, and five minutes from the Don Valley Parkway, Cabbagetown is the perfect neighbourhood for those who appreciate a sense of community and history.
Casa Loma
The neighbourhood of Casa Loma is named after the Gothic Revival style mansion, Casa Loma, referred to as Toronto’s castle. The neighbourhood is bounded on the north by St. Clair Avenue West, to the east by Spadina Road, to the west by Bathurst Street and to the south by the CP rail tracks. The ‘castle’ was built in the early 1900s for over 3.5 million dollars. At the time, it was the largest private home in Canada, but in 1924 it was handed over to the city by the debt-laden owner. In the 1920s the neighbourhood was built on the extensive grounds of the castle. The neighbourhood is still surrounded by ravines and parkland. The charming prominence of the castle led to a huge boom in the area and attracted many wealthy and affluent neighbours.
The homes in Casa Loma are highly coveted by home-buyers looking for a fashionable neighbourhood with character and special features. The large homes that grace this neighbourhood are an impressive mix of Edwardian, Tudor, Georgian and English Cottage. Pristine landscaping and tree-lined streets add to the neighbourhood’s appeal.
The area is family-friendly and includes many recreational and shopping amenities. Wrapped around Sir Winston Churchill Park is Nordheimer Ravine. This quiet oasis features a rustic wood path with many excellent picnic spots and a variety of trees, plants and wildlife, including the largest stand of oak trees in the city. There is also a children’s playground and wading pool in Wells Hill Park. The community centre operates out of Hillcrest School, which includes an indoor pool and a gymnasium.
Davisville
This busy and densely populated neighbourhood is perfect for new families and young couples looking for a place to set down roots. Located directly north of Mount Pleasant Cemetery, it offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. Many of the homeowners have been here since the neighbourhood began to form in the 1920s and 1940s. This prime location neighbourhood is ideal for the young couple looking for their first home in midtown Toronto. With the wide selection of homes available in Davisville, there’s also a wide range of pricing.
The moderate-sized homes are reflective of the time they were built and are mostly English Cottage and Edwardian style. They’ve been built on narrow lots that allow homeowners to grow gardens and add their own personal touch. Mixed in with these homes are a handful of commercial buildings and low/high rise apartment and condo buildings. This mix makes for a vibrant community with an upbeat vibe.
Davisville offers something for children and adults. June Rowlands Park is full of kid-centric features like a splash pad and playground. The park also serves up farm fresh produce at the summer farmer’s market. Maurice Cody Junior Public School, located between Bayview and Mount Pleasant, provides children with a grassy schoolyard and a woodland garden. For the adults, there’s no shortage of bistros, bars and coffee shops, and a wide variety of trendy and boutique shops. When the months begin to get cold, The Hodgson public rink is open for skating.
If you’re looking for neighbourhood historical features, you can catch a film at one of two historic independent movie theatres, The Mount Pleasant Theatre and The Regent Theatre. If you head over to the Starbucks on the northeast corner of Yonge Street and Davisville Avenue, you’ll be entering what was once the original post office, dating back to 1840.
Deer Park
Deer Park neighbourhood is an upscale residential area with a mix of luxury homes and condos. Just a 10-minute drive from the downtown core, Deer Park is located in the bustling area of Yonge and St. Clair and is in close proximity to some of Toronto’s most beautiful parks and ravines.
In the early 1800s, Deer Park was a meadow where deer would come to feed. After the deer were long gone, in 1908, Deer Park was annexed to the city of Toronto and quickly became one of Toronto’s finest residential districts. With a blend of both new and old homes, there are a variety of detached and semi-detached houses of various architectural styles.
Deer Park’s residential streets spill out into the main arteries making it a desirable location for those who work downtown or otherwise need easy access to main thoroughfares. Within the neighbourhood, as well as nearby, there are plenty of green spaces to choose from. Take a walk through Rosehill Reservoir, one of Toronto’s prettiest green spaces. David Balfour Park is the perfect place to take a quiet stroll and enjoy nature. At the northern tip of Deer Park is Oriole Park, which includes Neshama Playground, a wading pool, and two tennis courts.
Entertainment District
The Entertainment District is the most bustling area of the city, particularly in the evenings. Located in downtown Toronto, the Entertainment District is concentrated around King Street West, between University and Spadina.
Choose from among a wide selection of casual and fine dining restaurants then take in a live performance at one of the local theatres. There are concert halls, Canada’s Walk of Fame, and every September, TIFF, the Toronto International Film Festival, draws celebrities and film buffs from around the world to the TIFF Bell Lightbox. In the Entertainment District, Families enjoy the colourful underwater world of Ripley’s Aquarium, and those brave enough can take the high-speed elevator to the top of the CN Tower for a spectacular 360-degree view of the city and harbour. When one of the 4 major-league sports teams are playing at Rogers Centre or Scotiabank Arena (formerly the Air Canada Centre), the excitement of ticket-holding fans is electric.
By 2011, there were fewer nightclubs in the area as many were replaced with hip and stylish condos and lofts. As the high-end residential buildings began to take over the area, the club lifestyle of the entertainment district diminished. However, the energetic character of the area remains and the Entertainment District continues to cater to the young, and the young at heart. With easily accessible transportation on all the main streets, (street cars and the University Young subway line) it’s both a convenient and an exciting place to live.
Financial District
The Financial District is the main financial district in Toronto, and the financial heart of Canada. Those who live in the financial district generally work here too. Here, living is all about convenience.
The Financial District is bounded by Queen Street West to the north, Yonge Street to the east, Front Street to the south and University Avenue West. It is the densest area of Toronto, filled with office towers owned by banks and occupied by corporate headquarters, legal and accounting firms, insurance companies and stockbrokers. It was the ‘Five Big Banks’ that took over the area to create The Financial District: CIBC, RBC, BMO, TD, and Scotiabank.
When it comes to living in The Financial District, it’s mainly private residences in famous hotels, and luxury condo towers. For the most part, The Financial District is populated by business professionals and eager up-and-comers. There are no detached, single-family homes in the area. Many of the residential towers offer convenient services and amenities. The underground PATH retail concourse provides a year-round, indoor walkway lined with cafes, shops and restaurants.
Forest Hill
This former village was amalgamated into Toronto in 1967, and has become one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in the city. Populated by successful business owners, doctors and lawyers, the prestige of the neighbourhood continues to grow steadily. Forest Hill is centred on the intersection of Spadina Road and Lonsdale Road. In addition to the grand homes of the area, the Forest Hill Village on Spadina Road offers boutiques, shops and fine restaurants.
In the early 1900s, homeowners in the area were required to hire architects to build their homes and plant at least one tree in the front yard. The results were brick, neo-traditional mansions and majestic trees that filled the winding roads and sloping hills of Forest Hill. Homes here are mostly detached and boast large lots. There are some semi-detached houses and town homes. A variety of architectural styles, including Tudor and Georgian, and generously proportioned, immaculate lawns and gardens add to the desirability of this neighbourhood.
The Beltline Trail, a 9-kilometre path, passes through Forest Hill to Rosedale, making a great place for a hike or leisurely stroll, away from the city scene. Forest Hill contains a few main roads including Spadina and St. Clair, where residents choose from a wide selection of places to shop and dine. Forest Hill also has some of Canada’s most prestigious schools including Upper Canada College, Bishop Strachan, and Forest Hill Collegiate Institute.
High Park
High Park neighbourhood is named after the 400-acre mixed-use park of the same name, a key feature of this area. The gently rolling hills, winding streets and towering oak trees of this neighbourhood draw a variety of residents to the area.
High Park has a diverse housing mix. Families tend to gravitate to the single-family homes of this neighbourhood. There are also a number of rental opportunities. Homes are impressive Victorian, Edwardian and Tudor-style, built mostly in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The distinctive brick homes feature a variety of architectural details that vary from house to house. Some of these characteristic features include leaded and stained-glass windows, wood trims, French doors, hardwood floors and fireplaces. Some of the houses have been divided into multiple-family dwellings.
High Park itself is beautiful throughout the year. Every spring, Japanese cherry trees burst into pink and white blossoms. In the fall, Red Maples glow in the autumn light. The park has a fishing pond, an outdoor theatre and an eclectic assortment of animals in fenced-in paddocks.
Bloor West Village is located within walking distance of High Park. The Village is known in the city for its European bakeries, specialty foods, cafes and restaurants.
Hoggs Hollow
Hoggs Hollow was named after Scotsman Joseph Hoggs, a successful miller and whiskey distiller in the 1820s. The area completed its development in the 1960s and remained nestled between Lawrence Park and York Mills, where it continues to live up to its reputation as an elite, urban Toronto neighbourhood, with a country feel.
In this unique and historically rich area of Toronto, immaculate lawns meet quiet, tree-lined streets. Gorgeous cul-de-sacs with no through-ways provide a safe place for children to play. Many of the homes were built between the 1920s and 1960s, and a variety of styles accent the private cul-de-sacs, including English Cottage, Colonial, Georgian, Tudor and Modernist. Luxury homes are positioned on properties to maximize privacy. Homes in the neighbourhood are well maintained and new-builds are carefully designed. Here there are numerous parks for children to play in and the soothing sound of the Don River, which meanders through the neighbourhood. Hogg’s Hollow is truly country living in the city.
Foreign investors covet Hoggs Hollow, as its location is appealing and convenient. Just slightly south of the 401, it’s an easy walk to Yonge Street and York Mills Station for commuters. It’s also home to top local schools, including Hillcrest Progressive School.
Lawrence Park
Lawrence Park was one of Toronto’s first planned garden suburbs. In 2011, it was ranked the wealthiest neighbourhood in all of Canada. This exclusive neighbourhood treats its prominent residents to a peaceful and tranquil setting that includes rolling hills, winding roads and a variety of privacy-enhancing trees and shrubbery.
Lawrence Park’s subdivision began in 1907, but the full development of the intended aristocratic neighbourhood wasn’t completed until the 1950s. Today, buyers can choose from a mix of the old and the new, including whimsical English Cottage homes, Tudor Revival, Georgian and Colonial styles. Although many of the homes have undergone renovations or have been demolished and replaced by custom-design homes, there have been efforts made to preserve the charm in the older homes, including such details as leaded glass windows, wood trimming, decorative fireplace mantels, and hardwood floors.
Families will value the private and public schools in the area and the quiet nature of the streets. Cultural institutions like The Granite Club, Toronto French School and Crescent School are part of the neighbourhood. Surrounded by Lawrence Avenue, Bayview Avenue, and Yonge Street, most of the traffic in the neighbourhood is light. Should you decide to do some shopping or dinning, there are high-fashion boutiques at the Lawrence Shopping Centre and many fine dining restaurants in the area.
Leaside
Bursting with antique stores, a wide selection of bistros and restaurants, and plenty of green space, the neighbourhood of Leaside is full of character. Homes here sit on generous lots with private drives and the interiors include wood trim, hardwood floors and fireplaces.
Leaside’s Tudor-style houses were built in the 1930s and 1940s and today there is a healthy mix of two-storey detached homes, bungalows, and semi-detached homes. Some of the original homes have additions, others have been replaced by new, custom-design homes. In the 1990s, a handful of condominiums and townhomes began to show up on the periphery of the neighbourhood.
Leaside is a great neighbourhood for those who prefer to enjoy recreational activities not far from where they live. Indulge in nature while you jog through Serena Gundy Park. Sunnybrook Park has top-notch sports fields, an exercise trail, and horseback riding stables. If you’re a tennis player, or just love the game, you’ll be glad to be close to Trace Manes Park, the home of the Leaside Tennis Club and its 6 courts. Leaside also has many baseball diamonds, an outdoor natural ice rink, and playgrounds, making it a family-friendly neighbourhood and a haven for the active resident.
Leslieville
If you’re a lover of great brunch spots, you’ll find Leslieville a special place. Well-known as the neighbourhood of trendy eateries, galleries and shops, Leslieville, coined as Toronto’s new Queen West, is one of Toronto’s hippest places to live.
Formed as a small village in 1850, many of the residents were gardeners or employees at the brick factory. This area of Toronto is home to a piece of Canadian history: the poetic verse ‘The Maple Leaf Forever’ was composed under a tree in Leslieville where a historic plaque now commemorates this early, unofficial national anthem, at the intersection of Laing Street and Memory Lane. The quiet eastside neighbourhood is full of cafes, vintage furniture shops, fashion and designer stores.
The homes of Leslieville were built in the late 1800s and include Ontario Cottages, Second Empire row houses, and quaint Victorian homes. High-end condo and loft developments have more recently created some urgency for buyers looking for an investment in Leslieville. This area is a playground for urban professionals looking for something different in a neighbourhood and community.
There are numerous options for recreational activities within the neighbourhood. Greenwood Park has 3 baseball diamonds, an artificial ice rink, a pool and a playground. There’s also Ashbridge Park, which has tennis courts, a children’s playground and a wading pool. Leslieville is home to S.H. Armstrong Community Recreation Centre and Gerrard/Ashdale Public Library.
Liberty Village
This neighbourhood is coveted by the young professional interested in a unique area that offers a mix of concrete, glass and brick residential living space. The 43-acre community is an eclectic mix of new condos and old industrial buildings converted into lofts and commercial space. Due to the number of businesses that have made the converted industrial buildings their workspace, professionals in media, high-tech and design make up a majority of the residents in this neighbourhood. Liberty Village is bordered to the north by King Street West, to the south by the Gardiner Expressway, to the east by Strachan Avenue, and Dufferin Street on the west.
The contrast between old and new is what sets this neighbourhood apart. The arrival of the railway, in 1850, led to the development of industrial warehouses and factories, which have since been turned into lofts, hip workspaces, and studio offices. Some of the exterior of the original red brick buildings, part of the Victorian industrial architecture, are still visible, as are the tall chimney smoke stacks atop some of the old factory buildings.
Homes here are urban and are usually new townhomes, condos and lofts in restored industrial buildings. The lofts are particularly well known in Liberty Village, as the soaring, high ceilings, huge windows and exposed brick are a hot commodity for those looking for something different. This bohemian enclave is the perfect fit for those who appreciate character and detail when it comes to their urban home.
Since 2004, Liberty Village has experienced phenomenal growth. The area offers convenience to its residents with a grocery store and a handful of local coffee shops. It has also become a hot spot for those seeking unique furniture, design stores, art galleries and urban fusion restaurants. It’s minutes away from the waterfront trail, and is host to a farmer’s market during the summer.
Lytton Park
Lytton Park will greet you with character homes, large lots, manicured gardens, and streets lined with mature trees. This neighbourhood is centred on Lytton Park (where it gets its name), and is well known for its excellent schools.
The homes of Lytton Park were built on large lots, between 1890 and 1930, with mostly Georgian and Tudor architecture. Many of the homes have undergone extensive renovations which have transformed the architecture of the neighbourhood. Doctors, lawyers, stockbrokers and corporate executives make up a majority of the population here. Residents value the quiet, convenience, and easy access to transportation. Downtown is about 15 minutes away, and on-ramps to the 401 are approximately 5 minutes from Lytton Park.
The many public and private schools in the area are often the deciding factor for those looking to move to Lytton Park. It’s a pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood that offers popular shops within walking distance, and lots of cafes, restaurants, boutiques and independent retailers, all of which contributes to the convenience of living here.
Serene Lytton Park has 3 public tennis courts and the North Toronto Lawn Bowling Club. Herbert Begg Memorial Garden is close by, perfect for enjoying a walk and appreciating the beautiful garden. Otter Creek Park is popular for its skating rink, used for skateboarding in the summer. If you love winter activities, Glenview Public School is well-known for its perfect toboggan hill.
Moore Park
For those who don’t want to feel like they are in the city, the exclusive Moore Park neighbourhood is the perfect place to live. This area of Toronto is surrounded by peaceful green space and the streets are canopied by mature trees. It’s the perfect escape from the busy city. Bordered to the north by Mount Pleasant Cemetery, and to the south by Park Drive Ravine, this neighbourhood feels like it’s far from the city, although it’s actually in one of Toronto’s most convenient locations.
Homes in Moore Park are charming English Cottage, Georgian and Tudor Style, built on mostly large lots. The homes on the more exclusive streets have more generous lots, and dedicated driveways. Although it is an affluent neighbourhood, some of the homes have shared driveways. But the streets are planned well and are not very busy, which allows for accessible street parking when needed. Many of the homes back onto ravines that skirt the neighbourhood. There are a few townhomes throughout the area, and custom homes are growing in numbers as well. Residents appreciate the proximity to nature and the easy commute to the downtown core.
Moore Park is known for its family-friendly neighbourhood and the collection of excellent schools in close proximity. It has beautiful green spaces which make it easy to forget you’re still in the city.
While Moore Park feels somewhat secluded from the city, shopping is a short walk or drive to Yonge Street, St. Clair, Mount Pleasant or Davisville. There are also several options for movie theatres. For more active recreational activities, Moore Park Ravine is an 8-kilometre trail that runs along Mud Creek and is perfect for hiking or biking. Mooreville Park has 5 tennis courts, a baseball diamond and a wading pool to enjoy recreational sports and activities with family and friends.
North York
North York is a vibrant, urban area of Toronto, with a strong, central business district. Located immediately north of the City of Toronto, North York has a population of over 600,000 and is considered one of the most diverse areas of Toronto. North York has plenty to offer its residents including convenient living outside the downtown core.
North York’s central business district is known as North York Centre, and serves as one of Toronto’s major corporate regions. The Concorde Corporate Centre is home to tenants such as Home Depot Canada, Sport Alliance of Ontario, TD Bank and more. This corporate hub makes North York an ideal place to live, particularly for residents who are employed by one of these large corporations.
For those who work downtown, North York is supported by public transit via The Finch station on the Yonge-University line which brings commuters to the downtown core. Highway 401 traverses North York.
There is no shortage of convenient shopping in the area. Two of Toronto’s 5 major shopping malls are in North York: the newly renovated Yorkdale Shopping Centre, and Fairview Mall. Both malls are large and attract shoppers from all over the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Other neighbourhood malls include Centerpoint Mall, Bayview Village, Yorkgate Mall, Shops at Don Mills, Jane Finch Mall and Sheppard Centre. North York is home to the campuses of York University, Seneca College, Osgoode Hall Law School and Tyndale University College and Seminary. The district also has major hospitals such as North York General Hospital, Humber River Regional Hospital and the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
In addition to the convenience of shopping, employment, and efficient access to the city’s core, there are also excellent social and recreational amenities. Close by is the prestigious Granite Club, located at Bayview and Lawrence. Families enjoy visiting Black Creek Pioneer Village, the Ontario Science Centre and the Aga Khan Museum, all nearby.
Riverdale
Riverdale is one of Toronto’s newest up-and-coming neighbourhoods and is noted for its diverse community and emerging independent design, furniture, food retailers and restaurants. It’s a thriving neighbourhood east of the downtown core, surrounded by abundant parkland. This makes it a perfect hideaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without having to go too far. There are many top-ranked schools, great shopping opportunities and convenient access to transit. Riverdale is a great location for families and young professionals.
The neighbourhood began to accelerate with the building of the Prince Edward Viaduct truss bridge in 1918(referred to now as the Bloor Viaduct). This bridge provided an important link to the City of Toronto and was a coming-of-age moment for Riverdale. ??Riverdale homes are mostly Victorian and Edwardian-style, built primarily between 1880 and 1924. Most of the homes have since undergone renovations to suit the design tastes of the young and increasingly affluent families who live in the neighbourhood.
Riverdale has become well-known for its multiculturalism, including several cultural neighbourhoods along its major paths, such as The Danforth (“Greektown”) and East Chinatown. There are numerous schools in the neighbourhood, such as Riverdale Collegiate Institute, Parkway Vocational School, East Alternative School, and Montcrest School, a highly recognized private school. Residents of Riverdale enjoy the many green spaces and parks within their neighbourhood and frequent Riverdale Park East, Withrow Park and Jimmie Simpson Park.
For those who appreciate the arts, Riverdale is well known for its independent art galleries which have contributed to the gentrification of Riverdale along Queen Street East and Broadview Avenue. There are many historical buildings and plenty of cultural heritage in Riverdale as well, which distinguishes its character and sets it apart from other neighbourhoods.
Rosedale
Named as a tribute to the abundant roses that graced the hillsides of the Jarvis estate, Rosedale is one of the oldest and most affluent suburbs in Toronto. This is the neighbourhood to be if you appreciate historic character and a luxury lifestyle, within the city.
Located to the south of the CPR railway tracks with Yonge Street to the west, Aylmer Avenue and Rosedale Valley Road to the south, and Bayview Avenue to the east, Rosedale was built among ancient ravines and preserved parkland. Thick foliage from all the trees muffles the noise of the city on these low-traffic streets. The beautiful single-family detached dwellings are Victorian, Georgian, Tudor, Edwardian homes, built between 1869-1930. Many of these homes are listed with the Toronto Historical Board’s Inventory of Heritage Homes. In fact, the entire area is now a heritage district.
There are many upscale shops, trendy places to meet friends for a drink, casual and fine dining restaurants, and popular coffee shops in Rosedale. Ravines such as Vale of Avoca, Moore Park, Park Drive, and Rosedale Valley, offer beautiful walking trails. Neighbours also frequent Schofield Avenue to play tennis on one of the 8 tennis courts, or to enjoy sports on the sports field, artificial rink and in the wading pool. Mooredale House is a community centre for adults and children, which also funds Rosedale’s annual spring party on the first Saturday of May.
Rosedale is located in a convenient area of Toronto. It is serviced by the Yonge subway line and the neighbourhood is a few minutes from the Don Valley Parkway (DVP).The exclusive all-girls school, Branksome Hall, and Rosedale Public School, are located in Rosedale.
South Hill
North of downtown Toronto, the neighbourhood of South Hillis dominated by a steep escarpment which allows residents here to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city.Casa Loma, a castle-like mansion built in the early 1900s, is a Toronto landmark and popular tourist destination.
In the late 19th century, South Hill became home to some of Toronto’s wealthiest citizens. Atop the hill, a series of majestic manors were home to some of Toronto’s most influential residents. Senator John Macdonald built Oaklands, which today is part of the private De La Salle College. The Eaton family built Ardwold Estate and James Austin built Spadina House, which is now a museum. Many of the manors that were built on the hill have been demolished or converted to other uses. South Hill remains an upscale neighborhood in Toronto, and even features its own independent (and unofficial) republic, Rathnelly. This midtown community of about 250 homes, banded together in the 1960s to protest various proposed city developments including a roadway that would bisect their neighbourhood. Now the neighbourhood is home for many artists, musicians, writers, journalists and academics.
Defined by Avenue Road, South Hill contains some of the largest houses in Toronto. Mixed in with upscale homes are relatively new condominiums as well as some upscale rental apartment buildings. Families here appreciate the close proximity to some of the most highly regarded public, private and Catholic schools. South Hill is also close to George Brown College, and the Tarragon Theatre – Toronto’s leading venue for independent drama. South Hill is walking distance to the Royal Ontario Art Museum, University of Toronto, Yorkville, Bloor Street and the multi-cultural shops and festivals on St. Clair.
Joggers and those who love going for walks will appreciate the well-lit and family-friendly Nordheimer Ravine, which connects to Toronto’s Beltline Trail. Nearby is Winston Churchill Park, favoured for its running track, playground, and 10 tennis courts. The St. Clair Reservoir is popular with dog walkers.
St Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is as old as Toronto itself. The architecturally significant 19th century Georgian style red-and-yellow brick buildings that line Front Street, date back to Toronto’s earliest period. In the early 1900s, St. Lawrence Market had become one of Toronto’s most prominent industrial centres, and remained so until the 1940s. The newer structures situated around The Esplanade were constructed in the 1970s. St. Lawrence Market is a family-friendly neighbourhood, welcoming to people from many different cultural backgrounds.
The focal point of the neighbourhood is the St. Lawrence Market itself. South Saint Lawrence Market once served as Toronto’s first City Hall, while North St. Lawrence Market was Toronto’s first official farmers’ market. Today, the St. Lawrence Market is a landmark food emporium with over 200 vendors selling fresh meats, seafood, fruits and vegetables, as well as arts and crafts, jewellery and clothing.
Consistent throughout the neighbourhood is the red brick which acts as the identifier for St. Lawrence residences. Non-profit housing, market rental buildings and luxury condominiums are scattered throughout the area. There are many restaurants and shops along The Esplanade that appeal to tourists, but are also convenient for locals. It’s only a short walk to Union Station to catch a train for a weekend away.
Although St. Lawrence Market is in the heart of the downtown, residents enjoy fresh air and scenic walks. David Crombie Park is a multi-faceted park that runs through the centre of the neighbourhood along The Esplanade. This park offers pretty gardens for a leisurely stroll. There’s also a waterfall, a handball court and a basketball court. The St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre is also located on The Esplanade and offers recreational activities to residents.
St. Lawrence Market is a great place to live and to appreciate the character and history of Toronto, for the young professional or growing family.
Summerhill
Summerhill is a preferred neighbourhood in Toronto. The winding, tree-lined streets and an abundance of parkland make it a perfect neighbourhood for raising a family. Its luxury appeal has drawn many who are looking to settle into a safe neighbourhood in an ideal location within close proximity to the downtown core. Summerhill is located along Yonge Street, between Bloor and St. Clair streets.
The large character homes of Summerhill are semi-detached and detached Victorian and Edwardian homes, built between 1880 and 1915. Many of these gorgeous homes have undergone extensive interior renovations. There are also a handful of modern townhomes and low-rise luxury condos in the neighbourhood. Driveways in the area are at a premium, and many of the residents park on the streets.
There are many public and private schools to choose from in the area, including Rosedale Junior public School, Branksome Hall, which is a private all-girls school, and The York School. It’s a beautiful area of the city, perfect for aspiring families.
The Annex
The Annex is one of Toronto’s premier neighbourhoods. Located between Dupont and Bloor Street, west to Bathurst and east to Avenue Road, this heterogeneous community is made up of successful business people, prominent artists and University of Toronto students and faculty. The neighbourhood is full of restaurants, bookstores and independently owned shops.
The Annex is a great neighbourhood for those who appreciate architecture and detail. The residential tree-lined streets are filled with Victorian, Queen Anne, Edwardian and Richardsonian Romanesque homes and mansions, built between 1880 and the early 1900s. Between the 1950s and 1960s, mid-rise and high-rise apartment buildings began popping up to meet the needs of the eclectic community. The exterior facades of the homes are decorated with plum and pink Credit River sandstone, red brick, and terracotta clay tiles. The detail is among the finest – and most varied – in the city, with pyramidal roofs, turrets, grand archways and wooden spindled porches.
The Annex is an exciting and colourful neighbourhood. It has an active nightlife along Bloor Street for those who enjoy a night on the town after a long week. Plenty of green spaces make the Annex feel more residential than commercial, including nearby Christie Pits park which includes soccer, baseball and a weekly outdoor movie night in the summer, and tobogganing and outdoor skating in the winter.
The Beach
The Beach, which is also referred to as The Beaches because it consists of three beaches, is a highly desirable Toronto neighbourhood. This neighbourhood, east of downtown, is known for its beautiful waterfront and relaxed lifestyle.
In the 1920s, when Toronto was expanding eastward, The Beach was subdivided for development. Ever since, The Beach has emerged as one of Toronto’s most popular neighbourhoods. Original frame Beach Cottages built in the latter half of the 1800s and early 1900s have since been modernized and are iconic to the area.
Tree-lined streets wind their way down to the lake offering decidedly non-urban scenery and a nice change of pace from the busy city. There are many lovely homes in the neighbourhood, built in the 1920s and 30s, now modernized to meet contemporary tastes and needs. The Beach has the largest variety of architectural house styles of any neighbourhood in Toronto.
There is also a new home development known as The Beach. This development contains a number of heritage-inspired custom-built homes. Semi-detached and detached homes and townhomes sit on the site of the former Greenwood Racetrack, located at the foot of Woodbine Avenue.
Queen Street is the most commercial of The Beach shopping districts. Kingston Road attracts a more local clientele, but both offer colourful shops and dining experiences. In the summer, the waterfront is crowded with locals, Torontonians, and tourists who enjoy the lakeside holiday vibe.
The boardwalk spans the city’s waterfront from The Beach to the Humber River and is skirted by the Martin Goodman Trail and Lake Ontario. Well used in the summer, it also makes for a nice brisk walk in the fall or early winter. Ashbridge’s Bay is a beautiful spot for family picnics, windsurfing and volleyball. The scenic ravine and nature trail on Glen Stewart Park, off Queen Street, is a great place to enjoy the sights and scents of nature. For more recreation, residents enjoy the Donald Summerville Pool at the foot of Woodbine Avenue, overlooking the lake. This facility includes an Olympic-sized pool.
The Bridal Path
Referred to as millionaire’s row, The Bridle Path is an extremely exclusive neighbourhood and home to those who spare no luxuries when it comes to their elaborate estates. Early plans for the neighbourhood called for an elaborate system of equestrian bridle paths which have since been paved over, but the legacy remains in the name of this affluent neighbourhood.
The homes in Bridle Path are the epitome of extravagant. The largest homes are located between Post Road and Park Lane Circle. Many of the homes are situated on 6-acre lots with stone and cast-iron gateways and elaborate security systems. The estates were built mostly in the 1930s, 1950s and 1960s. Because of the various times they were built, there is a mix of eclectic architectural styles from Georgian, Colonial, Greek, Tudor Revival, Italianate, Neo-Gothic, to California bungalow and futuristic modernist. Pools, tennis courts, gazebos and cabanas, greenhouses and waterfalls, grace these properties. Interiors are finished with gold fixtures, marble floors, saunas, personal gyms and home theatres.
Those who reside in Bridle Path do their socializing along Bayview Avenue, which includes the private membership Granite Club, a place for individuals, couples and families to socialize and take part in recreational activities. The private and renowned Crescent School for Boys and the Toronto French School are also part of the Bridle Path neighbourhood. Edwards Garden is home to Toronto’s Botanical Garden, which is one of Canada’s finest public gardens.
The Kingsway
Historic homes, luxury condominiums, vibrant shopping and a park-like setting make The Kingsway one of Toronto’s premier neighbourhoods. Set between two parklands, the winding Humber River to the east, and Mimico Creek, to the west, The Kingsway offers miles of green space for walking, biking and bird watching. Many of the original homes, built in the early 1900s, are stately, detached, two-storey stone builds, in the Arts and Craft style of the day. As well, Tudor, Edwardian and Victorian homes are also set back from the quiet streets by expansive, perfectly manicured front lawns.
Winding streets, lined with old maple and oak trees, give a quiet, private retreat feeling to this affluent west Toronto neighbourhood. Along its southern border, vibrant Bloor Street offers The Kingsway residents a variety of owner-owned shops, restaurants and local amenities, including the independently owned Kingsway (movie) Theatre, built in 1939. Perfect for families, some of the best schools in the city are in this prominent neighbourhood, as well as sports fields, tennis courts, an outdoor pool and skating rink. Condo residents enjoy the walkability of life along Bloor Street, and Dundas Street on the northern border, both served by public transit buses and subway stations. High Park, with its 400-acre mixed recreational and natural use, is adjacent to The Kingsway, at the south west corner along Bloor Street.
Originally conceived and carefully built based on the garden city movement developed in Britain, The Kingsway neighbourhood is its own self-sufficient community, thoughtfully integrating the green spaces along and within its boundaries. It’s also less than a 30-minute commute to downtown Toronto, and 15 minutes from Pearson Airport.
Trinity Bellwoods
This neighbourhood has a strong youthful vibe and appeals to those who are looking to live in a trendy area of the city. The focal point of the neighbourhood is Trinity Bellwoods Park, located right in the centre of the neighbourhood. It’s a popular spot for those looking to relax during the day time and is host to a number of summer festivals. It’s a great area for recreational activities or enjoying a picnic lunch. There are paved paths, a children’s playground, wading pool, sports field, baseball diamond, 4 tennis courts and an artificial skating rink. The neighbourhood itself has its own distinctive, social vibe. Trinity Bellwoods is considered one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the city.
The modest, attractive homes in Trinity Bellwoods were built between 1880 and 1905 and are typical Victorian period architecture. Larger, more elaborate homes line Shaw Street where the beautiful tree-filled boulevard is twice as wide as other streets in the area. There’s also a handful of lofts in this neighbourhood, for those looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle, complete with modern amenities.
Queen Street, which borders Trinity Bellwood Park on the south, is one of the most popular and trendy streets in the city, known for arts and culinary delights. Here you’ll find an abundance of galleries, antique shops, bookstores, vegetarian restaurants, natural food markets, eclectic shops, cafés and restaurants.
North of Trinity Bellwoods Park, Ossington Avenue’s lively nightlife caters to the young and the young at heart.
Waterfront
The Toronto Waterfront Communities is a bustling neighbourhood located south of Queen Street, between Bathurst and York Street. Home to high-rise condominiums and a handful of newer townhomes, this community is close to the artistic Distillery District, the Fashion District, St. Lawrence Market and the West Don Lands.
The Waterfront Communities have seen an increase in condo developments over the last 30 years. What was once a large industrial area that serviced the waterfront industry, is now a thriving hub of glass condos, tourist attractions and office towers.
Step into this eclectic neighbourhood that combines downtown living with a lakeside lifestyle. Come home to luxurious living spaces and unobstructed views of Lake Ontario. Residents here are just steps from the best shops, restaurants, entertainment, and all that the downtown core has to offer, including the CN Tower, Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Island Park, beaches and year-round cultural festivals and events.
This exciting and vibrant location is ideal for young professionals and families looking to downsize. Sit on your balcony overlooking the lake or walk down to the streets of Queens Quay to the Toronto Music Garden. Follow the Martin Goodman Waterfront Trail and find yourself on the sandy grounds of Sugar Beach. A waterfront lifestyle means you can leave the hustle of the city behind. But not too far.
Wychwood
Wychwood is one of Toronto’s most intriguing neighbourhoods. The enclave, which was once a former gated community, sits just north of Davenport Road and west of Bathurst. This private community, with its private driveways and meandering creek, has its own council and is very strict about protecting the privacy of the neighbourhood. Which is why, no doubt, it remains a mysterious neighbourhood to the rest of Toronto.
In the 19th century, the neighbourhood was envisioned as an artists’ colony, which was to be home to an artistic community. Artist Marmaduke Matthews was the man behind the vision, and he named the enclave after his childhood home, Wychwood, in Oxfordshire. He and his friend Alexander Jardine jointly bought the land in 1891 and registered a plan of subdivision in what is now Wychwood.
The homes here compliment the landscape of the neighbourhood and are built in the Arts and Crafts style, and include a few contemporary homes as well. In terms of new-builds, there aren’t many. The council is quite strict on what is built so to preserve the cohesive feel of the neighbourhood.
Wychwood also contains a ravine area known as Taddle Creek Pond –created by damming Taddle Creek. Residents share an outdoor tennis court.
This private community is managed by an executive council and is committed to paying for its streets and amenities. In 1985, Wychwood was the first residential zone in Ontario to be granted heritage status.
Yonge & Eglington
This North Toronto community, jokingly referred to as “Young and Eligible,” is known for its large demographic of young professionals and families with school-aged children. The main cross-roads of this neighbourhood, Yonge and Eglinton, have been an important intersection for over 100 years. This is a neighbourhood full of vibrant, career-focused residents, enjoying this trendy area of the city.
Before it became an ideal location for commuters, the Yonge and Eglinton area was primarily an agricultural community. Today, Yonge and Eglinton is a bustling, affluent neighbourhood, full of boutiques, trendy shopping and a wide selection of restaurants. Houses here were built in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s and there area variety of options to choose from. The original homes consist of Tudor and Craftsman bungalows, and semi-detached Victorian, Georgian and Colonial styles. The varied architecture and tree-lined side streets give this otherwise business-focused neighbourhood, a family-friendly appeal. New condos in the area satisfy the demand for entry-level price points, one of the reasons young professionals and families are attracted to the area.
Yonge and Eglinton offers a lively atmosphere. There are pubs, bars, restaurants, nightclubs and theatres in the area (hence the nickname ‘Young and Eligible’). The mix of stores on Yonge and Eglinton is diverse. The Young and Eglinton Centre offers indoor shopping and the North Toronto Community Centre provides recreational services. The community centre has a gymnasium, squash court, walking track and waterslide. There is also Eglinton Park, which has a sports field, baseball diamond, wading pool, playground and tennis courts. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in this exciting neighbourhood.
Yorkville
Yorkville is known for its upscale shopping and dining, but in the 1960s, the neighbourhood first gained notoriety as a colourful hippie haven. Now this shopping mecca is a dynamic location, with an eclectic mix of luxury condos and apartments, commercial office towers and top-rated hotels, theatres, gourmet restaurants, and boutique shopping. Yorkville lies between Davenport Road to the north, Bloor Street to the south, Yonge Street to the east and Avenue Road to the west.
The Victorian homes in Yorkville, mostly built between 1870 and 1895, are decorated with ornamental brick patterns, gingerbread gables and cast-iron fences. Many of the homes are listed on the Toronto Historical Board’s Inventory of Heritage Properties. There are both new and older condominium projects in the area, as well as the new Four Seasons Hotel and Condominium Residences.
Bloor-Yorkville is acclaimed as Canada’s pre-eminent shopping district and includes the “Mink Mile” of internationally owned luxury brands such as Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès and many more. A wide selection of mid-range and specialty shops, as well as numerous art galleries, make this a destination for tourists, locals, and Torontonians alike. On the edge of Yorkville, the renovated Royal Ontario Museum, the largest museum in Canada, dominates Bloor Street with its crystal-like glass and steel façade.
Yorkville’s tree-lined side streets and charming laneways offer cafés, retail shopping and green spaces, including a courtyard with seating and a metal waterfall sculpture.