Meet Me In Monarch Park

The Danforth

Many people think that all city green spaces are much the same: lots of green, a few trees, and perhaps an asphalt path or two.

It’s really not the size or location that makes a Toronto park a standout amenity, as they’re all retreats of green in a cement world; they offer an opportunity for rest (shaded park benches instead of plastic bus shelters), relaxation (stretched out on a soft picnic blanket instead of leaning against the nearest brick wall), and of course, exercise (kick the soccer ball around a field instead of a parking lot).

But the truth is, not all city parks are made equal. In fact, there are quite a few that are particularly outstanding; not necessarily for their landscape, but for what they offer the surrounding neighbourhood and represent within their respective communities. Keeping this in mind, we’d like to tell you about one of our newest favourites: Monarch Park. Located south of the Danforth, abutting the rail corridor north of Gerrard, and part of Danforth Village, this amenity plays an integral part in the day-to-day of this east end enclave. It all comes down to Accessibility, Facilities, and Community Service.

 

 

Accessibility

Lucky for nearby residents, Monarch Park is tucked right into the heart of the neighbourhood. Blocks and blocks of tree-lined one-way residential streets and cul-de-sacs surround it, meaning that thousands have access and it’s rather private. Standing in the middle of the park, you can’t see any of the city’s major arteries. Many trails weave throughout the park, including a dedicated bike path. So, while the surrounding residential blocks keep out speeders, automotive congestion, and crowds, Monarch Park invites healthier, more economical methods of transportation.

It’s also easily accessed by students of Monarch Park Collegiate which is its eastern neighbour, while St. Patrick Catholic Secondary is to the west.

 

 

Facilities

Here’s where Monarch ranks many notches above the rest: facilities.

Very few green spaces downtown can boast a public swimming pool with a two-storey water slide! In the summer months, when afternoons can become sweltering, a public pool is the perfect place to cool down – and it’s free!

 

 

Oh, and there’s a wading pool too! And just behind it? An Ice rink!!

 

 

It’s not all seasonal attractions; Monarch Park has ‘the classics too’: great playground equipment and a sandbox!

 

 

And because Torontonians are known for being a mixed bunch, we like to make sure that nobody is excluded from the fun – even your pets! Check out the off-leash dog area!

 

 

Interestingly, because of the proximity of their scholastic neighbours, Monarch Park is figuratively expanded by the facilities of the schools as well!

 

 

Between the pool, pitch, and playground, just think how many relaxing hours parents can enjoy beneath a shady tree or on a park bench while their kids have blast playing games, making friends, and, most importantly, tuckering themselves out!

 

 

Community Service

Here’s what we love most about Monarch Park: its role in the neighbourhood. As we said before, it sits at the centre of a grid of tree-lined residential streets, both the literal and figurative heart of the community. This is where volunteer groups gather, where neighbours meet over a cup of coffee and a dog walk, and where clubs and classes can utilize the wide-open space!

After all, “a lively, safe community is created through many small networks of friendships. The park allows people from all walks of life to spontaneously cross paths and strike up a conversation.” -F.M.P.

 

 

These are some of the groups that you’ll find enjoying the park on a regular basis:

 


(Image courtesy of DECA. Photo Credit Brad Bradford)

Friends Of Monarch Park

This community association supports a wide variety of park activities and helps contribute to the maintenance and improvement of the park’s facilities. They also believe it’s important to ensure that the park will be a vibrant, healthy public green space for decades to come.

 

DECA (Danforth East Community Association’s west border is Monarch Park Avenue)

Their western border is Monarch Park Avenue, so there is a collaboration between Monarch Park, East Lynn Park, and the local BIAs.

 

LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests)

 

Swim Classes

Classes for every skill level, including parent and tot, leadership, and lifeguarding classes are offered through the city.

 

Toronto Sport and Social Club

 

How well you live has just as much to do with the community around you, as the physical walls that bookmark your daily life. This is precisely why the true value of Danforth Village lies beyond the cost of bricks and mortar; the neighbourhood boasts an abundance of top-notch amenities in close proximity that not only improve the quality of day-to-day living for residents but also help solidify a unique sense of community and a family-friendly vibe that permeates the air here. Arguably one of the best amenities in this ‘hood is lush Monarch Park, which offers an abundance of activities and serves as a hub for neighbour congregation and celebration!

 


 

Wouldn’t it be fantastic to have such excellent programming, events and serene green space close to home?

 

 

This enchanting detached Edwardian residence, nestled on a lush and leafy green tree-lined street home to a dynamic synergy of urban residents, and situated on a 25′ x 120′ lot! It offers two levels of finished living space, including an outstanding and smartly executed main floor kitchen renovation and family room addition! We adore how much of the original charm and character has been preserved by the current owners.

 

 

In a city where so many houses have been gutted into the ubiquitous open concept space plan, we believe it’s only a matter of time when vintage properties like this – thoughtfully modernized, yet with their formal rooms preserved – become increasingly in demand and coveted! NOW SOLD!

Contact James@urbaneer.com for more info!

 

 

Check out this contemporary, meticulously renovated, 3bed dwell with up to FOUR car parking –> A Live/Work Brownstone On The Danforth!  Zoned as both Residential and Commercial, this 2-level residence could be reverted to a main floor business and upper Owner’s Suite! NOW SOLD!

Also, take a peek at these two other fab family homes we sold nearby! We call them A Sundrenched Townhome Near Danforth & Coxwell and Classic Character On Keystone Avenue Near Danforth And Woodbine, A Live/Work Brownstone On The Danforth!

 


 

Want to learn more about the Danforth East Neighbourhood? Be sure to check out our post, Danforth East Toronto – A Village in A City! And of course our other Neighbourhood Pages, for amenities, census data and flavour videos!

 

-The Urbaneer Team

 

Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000

– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –

 

*Did you know we were recently listed as one of The Top 25 Toronto Real Estate Agents To Follow On Twitter! and The Top 50 Blogs On Toronto? Consider signing up in the box below to receive our FREE monthly e-newsletter on housing, culture and design including our love for unique urban homes and other Toronto real estate!

*Love Canadian Housing? Check out Steve’s University Student Mentorship site called Houseporn.ca which focuses on architecture, landscape, design, products and real estate in Canada!

 

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