While retreating indoors is a natural activity as the Autumn temperatures dip, there are many destinations in Toronto that are well worth braving the elements for, like Toronto’s Distillery District with it’s vintage industrial vibe. This historic locale provides a charming pedestrian village, lined with cobblestone streets and a great selection of galleries, eateries and unique shopping experiences. In fact, The Distillery District was chosen by the UK Guardian as one of the “coolest shopping districts” because of the area’s pedestrian-friendly streets and lack of chain retailors: 10 Cool Shopping Distrcits Around The World!
The Distillery District itself has deep historic roots, established in 1832. It was the site for the Gooderham and Worts Distillery Complex, which was Canada’s largest distillery in the 19th century. The company was reputedly innovative, advancing production by leveraging new trends in technology in the late 1800s. The complex, erected from stone and brick consists of shops, cafes, offices and creative amenities like Soulpepper Theatre Company is designated as a historical site, and is an “outstanding example of Victorian industrial design”.
In its current iteration, the Distillery Historic District opened in 2003, intended to provide an exciting pedestrian experience that would be thought-provoking and engaging on a multi-sensory level. It is well-known today as a significant arts, culture and entertainment destination
If you want to learn more about the district’s rich history, there are guided walking and Segway tours!
If you are planning a visit, there are lots of great spots to choose from.
One of our faves is the Thompson Landry Gallery Open since March 2006, TL Galleries are set in 6000 square feet of jaw-dropping spaces and showcases “both the very best of the new generation of contemporary artists, as well as the great masters of Quebec.” Specializing purely in Quebec artists and sculptors, Thompson Landry Gallery is architecturally captivating and the ideal setting for Art.
If you happen to be visiting on a Sunday, check out the Farmers Market that runs every Sunday from May through October, rain or shine. The market features unique, local, and artisanal products and procure vendors that can engage shoppers, educating them about their wares. One of the criteria for vendors to participate is that their products must be produced within 100 miles of the market, really giving credibility and context to the idea of supporting local.
Buskers are positioned strategically along the cobblestone streets, enhancing the entertainment aspect of this super cool spot.
Are you on the hunt for something specific for your home, or do you just fancy some window shopping and treasure hunting? You’ve got a number of alluring stores to browse, each one providing an unique shopping experience. Some of our faves are Blackbird Vintage Finds, food artisan Maisonette and Sniffany & Co. is a must for trendy pet owners.
If you are a fan of craft beer, pop by the Mill St. Brewery. Nothing says Homespun Canadian comfort like a good ole brew pub, especially one located in an original Distillery. You can savour an incredible cup of coffee at Arvo Coffee. For a social and shareable meal with friends, hit Madrina Tapas.
What is perhaps the coolest part about the Distillery District is that it really is a destination, within a destination. How amazing would life be if you could wander over and participate in this contemporary & cool community whenever the mood strikes? If you lived at 33 Mill Street, you are right around the corner! How about 5 minutes away on Front Street in the St Lawrence market? Check out both of our listings below!
First, our fresh-to-market 1bed+den soft loft right in the heart of the Distillery! Crisp, contemporary, and cool, these dreamy digs are ideal for urban dwellers who love the vibrancy and excitment of living downtown, but in a private perch above all the bustle!
A Sun-Kissed Soft Loft With Cobblestone Mews View In The Distillery District – NOW SOLD!
Looking for rental accommodations? Here’s a great St. Lawrence Market offering for the savvy urbanite who loves the hard loft look: A Vintage Loft Steps To St. Lawrence Market
How would you love to rent a crunchy n’ cool space in a Heritage Building with 1058 square feet of living space spread over two levels?! This 2-bedroom vintage loft is ‘industrial chic’ at its best! LEASED!
Contact James Ormston at james@urbaneer.com for more information or to book a private viewing!
Did you enjoy this? Here are some of Urbaneer’s other neighbourhood history posts we recommend:
A Brief History On The Intensification Of The Danforth In Toronto
From Brownfield To Playing Field: A Brief History Of Toronto’s Davenport Village
A Brief History Of Toronto’s Little India Neighbourhood
A Short History Of Toronto’s Fashion District And Art Deco Architecture
Excavating The History Of Toronto’s Avenue Road
Garden City: The History And Revitalization Of Toronto’s Regent Park Neighbourhood
A Mini History On St. James Town
Gentrification, Densification, And The History Of Toronto Real Estate
Discover Your Toronto Neighbourhood History!
If you love history and housing as much as we do, you may also enjoy these posts:
On The History – And Popularity – Of The Open Concept Space Plan
The History Of The Ontario Gothic Revival Cottage
Edwardian Residential Architecture In Toronto
Bay & Gable Victorian Architecture In Toronto
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