Toronto may be a booming, bustling metropolis, with a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene to match. However, those of us fortunate enough to live here have more of a multi-dimensional experience.
Personally, we love the picturesque scenery every bit as much as the exciting amenities and shopping. In case we haven’t mentioned before, Toronto is home to more than 1,500 beautiful parks and trails. Today, we’re excited to talk about the Evergreen Brick Works, one of our favourite green spaces anywhere, for so many reasons!
Introducing The Majestic Don Valley Ravine
The Evergreen Brick Works are part of the Don Valley Ravine, an expansive landscape full of lush forests and a river that spans nearly 38 kms. It can be hard to believe this natural oasis exists in a city with more than 3 million residents.
For Toronto residents, this stunning green space connects to many other hiking and bike trails throughout the city. From here, you can explore the Beltline Trail, Bayview Multi-Use Trail, Riverdale Park (East and West), and Corktown Common.
Along your travels, you can enjoy more than the sight of nature itself; there are also art installations, sculptures, murals, creative billboards, and even dance performances. If you want to discover or brush up on your own skills, there are even occasional speeches and workshops by leading artists.
Curious about the East End in Toronto? Check out the posts below:
- West End Vs East End: Which One Wins in Toronto?
- Danforth Village: The Jewel of Toronto’s East End
- Why Families Love to Call Riverdale Home
The Evergreen Brick Works, All Day Every Day!
As far as top landmarks go, the Evergreen Brick Works is not to be missed. This former industrial site opened to the public in 2010, and quickly became a favourite destination among locals.
Also known as “Toronto’s biggest patio,” the Brick Works is about so much more than exploring nature (although that’s more than enough for us.) Where else can you dine, sip a refreshing beverage, shop, admire the beauty of multiple public gardens, enjoy the arts, and immerse yourself in scenic tranquillity, all in one convenient location?
It’s open all year, every day, and there is always something exciting going on, whether you’re skating in the winter, hiking and cycling gorgeous trails any time, or taking a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss a thing. For example, Family Wanders happens every day from 10 am to 11 am, rain or shine. Furry friends are welcome if on a leash.
Looking for more fun and exhilarating things to do in Toronto this summer? The list never ends!
- Cycling in the Summer: Toronto’s Hottest Bike Trails
- Toronto’s Top Beaches, Just in Time for Summer!
- Hot Places To Cool Down In Toronto This Summer
Toronto’s Largest Farmer’s Market
The Evergreen Farmer’s Market began in 2006, and it’s now the largest in Toronto! Open year-round, the market moves indoors during the colder months and back outside once May arrives. City dwellers meet nearby farmers, all of whom live within 205 km of the Brick Works.
When we say you can “shop local” in Toronto, we really mean it! Here is your opportunity to browse the best produce, crafts, and other goods Ontario producers have to offer.
The Picnic Cafe is open for brunch and lunch every day; hot coffee and freshly made pastries? Sign us up! You’ll need the refreshments to fuel your energy for the rest of the day, which will certainly include browsing the Evergreen Garden Market.
Indoors, you can shop a collection of small-batch goods from local craftspeople and artists. Outside, you can pick up a plant of your own to nurture and love. This is Toronto’s largest selection of Ontario Native plants!
The Evergreen Brick Works are a premium spot to explore nature, learn to identify your favourite foliage, spot wildlife, watch the great salmon run in the fall, and so much more. The fact that you can also get your shopping in and sample something delicious along the way makes it even better!
Fun fact for history enthusiasts: The Weston Family Quarry Garden once supplied clay and shale back when it was a working factory. What was then known as the Don Valley Brick Works opened in 1889 and provided bricks for many of Toronto’s iconic buildings, including Casa Loma, Massey Hall, and the Ontario Legislature. This is also why there are so many beautiful brick homes throughout the city.
Today, the Evergreen Brick Works are a cherished green space, and yet another great reason to live in Toronto. Depending on where you settle, this could essentially be part of your extended backyard!
Do you want to explore the idea of buying a house in Toronto? Reach out to us at erica@ericareddy.com or call 416.443.0300, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.
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