Neighbourhood Guide: From Distillery to Kensington
Toronto is famously a "city of neighbourhoods," each offering a distinct personality, culture, and aesthetic. If you want to experience the true flavor of the city, step out of the downtown core and explore these two contrasting but equally iconic districts.
The Distillery Historic District
Located just east of downtown, the Distillery District is a beautifully preserved collection of Victorian industrial architecture. Once the site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery—formerly the largest distillery in the world—it has been transformed into a premier arts and cultural destination.
What to Expect: The entire district is pedestrian-only. You'll walk along cobblestone streets flanked by towering brick buildings with striking green doors and exposed ironwork. The aesthetic is elevated, historic, and slightly romantic.
What to Do:
- Art & Design: Browse the numerous independent art galleries and designer boutiques.
- Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the upscale restaurants or grab a coffee at Balzac's, housed in the old Pump House.
- Winter Village: If you visit in December, the district transforms into the Toronto Christmas Market, a magical winter village.
Kensington Market
In stark contrast to the manicured brick of the Distillery District, Kensington Market is vibrant, chaotic, and wonderfully bohemian. Located just west of Chinatown, this neighbourhood is a dense, colorful maze of diverse cultures.
What to Expect: Kensington is raw and eclectic. You'll find Victorian houses painted in bright, clashing colors, covered in street art, and converted into storefronts. The smell of international spices, incense, and fresh produce fills the air.
What to Do:
- Vintage Shopping: It is the city's undisputed hub for vintage clothing, records, and thrift stores.
- Global Street Food: Eat your way around the world. Grab Jamaican patties, Chilean empanadas, Mexican churros, or a classic bagel.
- Pedestrian Sundays: During the summer months, the streets are closed to cars on the last Sunday of the month, turning the market into a massive street festival with live music and performers.