It’s August, and fall is right around the corner. Before we know it, the leaves will be changing and the air will be brisk. But don’t pack away your warm-weather wear just yet. Summer’s not over, and there’s no better way to enjoy what’s left of the season than by exploring your own backyard. Here, we’ll look at five Toronto neighbourhoods you should visit before September arrives.
1) St. Lawrence Market
Summer is a great time to enjoy fresh, local food—something St. Lawrence Market has in abundance. Once named the best market in the world by National Geographic, this thriving pocket of Old Toronto caters to shoppers, foodies, and cooks (both amateur and professional).
When you visit, be sure to peruse the charming shops and fragrant food stalls in the St. Lawrence Market South building. Head over to the North Market on the weekend if you like antique and farmer’s markets. And for a fun way to mark the end of summer, plan your trip for August 24th, when merchants will be battling it out to determine who can build the tastiest skewer. Vote for the winner, listen to some live music, and enjoy various food and drink options for purchase.
2) The Junction Triangle
The Junction Triangle has come into its own recently—especially Sterling Road. This once unassuming strip of warehouses has officially become one of the most exciting up-and-coming districts in the West End. Before September begins, why not see what all the hype is about?
Start off with a savoury bite on the patio at the Drake Commissary. Next up, head over to Henderson Brewing Co. for a local pint. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday in August, you can cap off your evening at the outdoor Open Roof Festival, which features independent film screenings, live local music, and delicious catering.
3) The Annex
Lively and eccentric, the Annex sits in the heart of the city. Though the area makes many Torontonians think of the nearby University of Toronto, it has a lot more to offer than student-friendly amenities—especially in the summer.
Take a stroll along Bloor Street, where you’ll find a unique mix of shops and eateries. Stop for some top-notch pub grub or full-flavoured Korean food in one of the area’s many colourful restaurants. Afterwards, make your way over to the Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM). This August, exhibitions include Spiders: Fear & Fascination and a preview of the museum’s new Dawn of Life Gallery, among others.
4) Roncesvalles Village
If you haven’t spent much time in Roncesvalles Village, summer is a great time to explore the neighbourhood. This west-end gem features quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with a small-town charm that’s hard to find in most urban neighbourhoods.
Take in your surroundings with a walk down Roncesvalles Avenue (known as “Roncy” to the locals). Get your caffeine fix at Cherry Bomb Coffee, sit down for some slow-cooked BBQ at Barque Smokehouse, and catch a classic or independent flick at the Revue Cinema.
5) The Beach
The Beach (also known as “The Beaches”) is one of the most popular areas in Toronto, and it’s not hard to see why. Boasting sandy lakefront and well-frequented commercial districts, this east-end neighbourhood is the perfect place to while away a summer day.
Take the family for a dip in the lake, a walk on the boardwalk, and an ice cream cone at Ed’s Real Scoop. If you visit on a Wednesday evening, you can also catch a movie in Kew Gardens Park when the sun sets. Upcoming selections include Big Fish and Night at the Museum.
Interested in learning more about some of the most exciting neighbourhoods in Toronto? Ready to call one of these incredible communities home? Check out our neighbourhood guides—or get in touch to discuss your home-hunting needs.
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