Where: Trinity and Mill Street in the Parliament and Front St. area
How to get there: TTC bus 72A or 172A from Union Station
$: $0 – thousands (just in case you see that must have a piece of art)
In a previous Toronto Neighbourhood BoD blog (Unique Toronto neighbourhoods: Kensington Market), we introduced Toronto travelers and backpackers to the eclectic Kensington Market. This time, when you’ve checked in at our favorite Toronto hostel and are wondering where to go and what to do, why not check out the historic Distillery District – so called because, yes, it was an actual working distillery. Imagine…13 acres devoted entirely to making booze!
OK, BoD fans, quick synopsis: Founded in 1832 by Gooderham and Worts (brother-in-laws) and the largest distillery in the British empire; largest and best-preserved collection of Victorian Industrial Architecture in North America; national historic site. That’s right. You can check out the details of the historic information here.
I’d like to concentrate on the awesome place it is to visit today. As the first pedestrian only village, this unique neighbourhood attracts the best of the best. From international galleries to artists of all genres, theatres, restaurants, cafes, and boutiques the Distillery District is fascinating and fun.
Found, of course, within minutes of our favorite Toronto hostel, this is a must see neighbourhood. Enjoy strolling exhaust free in the heart of Toronto on brick lined streets, sip a drink on a patio in the piazzas and people watch, stroll through the great little galleries and studios soaking up the great industrial architecture.
This great neighbourhood is a great place to visit year round and there is always a festival going on or coming up to add to the atmosphere – as if it needs it! This summer’s events in the Distillery include:
June 27/28, 2009: Toronto City Roots Festival
July 9, 2009: Boys Night Out
July 26, 2009: Portobello East Fashion and Art Market
August 1-3, 2009: Artisans at The Distillery Craft Show
August 8, 2009: Tamala presents “Mamaya Toronto”
So Cheers! And see you there soon BoD fans!
I like the Distillery District but I will miss all of the Gallaries which have closed. To mention a couple, Sandra Ainsley and ArtCore. Beside the Festivals, these 2 Gallaries did bring people to the DD.
Unfortunately, the restaurants are too expensive and the food…. TERRIBLE to make it a destination place.