If there’s one thing Toronto is known for, it’s luxury. From the jaw-dropping mansions along the Bridle Path to the quiet, expansive estates in affluent neighbourhoods like Rosedale or Forest Hill. Then, of course, there’s the multi-million dollar condos along the Harbourfront that show that Toronto truly offers the best of the best to those who can afford it. These high-end homes also come with exclusive shopping and dining experiences. You’ll find upscale boutiques offering the latest and greatest from the world’s best designers and distinguished restaurants, some of which boast coveted Michelin stars.
All of this may sound spectacular, but what if you don’t happen to be a multi-millionaire? The good news is that you can live your best life in Toronto regardless of your financial situation. You can choose from a vast array of experiences and activities at all price points, from the low cost or even free to the ultra luxurious and extravagant.
Here are just a few of our favourite ways to enjoy every day luxury right here in the east end.
Visit the Beaches
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re on a decadent five-star vacation while staying within a strict budget, then turn your eyes to the stunning beaches of the east end.
- Scarborough Bluffs: Formed over a period of 12,000 years, the Scarborough Bluffs are a geographical wonder to behold! A series of nine breathtaking parks awaits you, one with its very own beach.
- Woodbine Beach: The largest of the four beaches, Woodbine is a popular hotspot for sunbathing, swimming, and afternoon picnics. Lifeguards are on duty, depending on when you visit.
- Cherry Beach: Located on Toronto’s outer harbour, this is the warmest of the beaches. Recent improvements include a paved entranceway and changeroom facilities, making this a fabulous spot for friends and family to gather.
What’s the perfect neighbourhood for your new home? The posts below will give you some ideas:
- These Toronto Neighbourhoods are Perfect for a Fresh Start
- Up and Coming Neighbourhoods for Families
- Top Dog-Friendly Neighbourhoods in the West End
Visit a Day Spa
Whether you’re ready to spend a few dollars or a few thousand, it’s always a great day to pamper yourself in the East End. Nothing eases your stress like calming music in the background while a trained professional works to rejuvenate your mind and body. A simple manicure might do the trick.
Or maybe the full package is in order to make you feel ready to face the world again. With a couple of friends at your side, nothing beats a trip to the spa, especially when capping your experience with coffee and refreshments and lively conversation. If you’re ready for a day of soothing relaxation, here are a few places you might want to try:
- Body Blitz Spa East: Fancy a blissful afternoon out with the girls? Body Blitz, an award-winning, women-only spa, will make you feel like one of the rich and famous. Come, revel in the soothing, therapeutic waters or rejuvenate with an invigorating spa package deal.
- Healthwinds Spa: For over 27 years, Healthwinds has helped both men and women enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy, deep-tissue massage, and a variety of other spa services. Individual and group plans allow you to make a day of it.
- Serenity Spa and Lounge: Specializing in medical esthetics and spa treatments, the professionals at Serenity Spa provide high-end services to help you look your best. Sit back and let them work their beautifying magic as you enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
Unique Dining Experiences
Nothing brings family and friends together like the joy of food. We don’t just eat to live; we eat to converse, comfort, and laugh with our loved ones. Fortunately, Toronto is home to thousands of restaurants, covering every type of cuisine imaginable, in various types of atmospheres and price ranges.
In the East End alone, you’ll find a wide selection of dining experiences to suit every taste while you indulge and socialize. Here are a few places that you will want to visit time and time again:
- The Rooftop: What’s better, the food or the view? When enjoying a meal on the Rooftop Bistro, it can be difficult to tell. Scrumptious menu offerings like brown butter gnocchi and avocado tartine combine with panoramic city views to provide a dining experience you will never forget.
- Lake Inez: A delicious and creative Asian-inspired menu makes Lake Inez one of the best-kept secrets of the East End! The atmosphere is quirky but welcoming, and the food could reasonably be described as a work of art.
- Pinkerton Snack Bar: Where do you go when you’re in the mood for a late-night snack to the backdrop of some truly wicked tunes? Pinkerton Snack Bar will satisfy your cravings, with delectable dishes like kung pao cauliflower, fausto’s chicken, and kimchi fries to whet your appetite.
Looking for even more fun activities in Toronto? The list never ends:
- Our Top Boutique Shopping Experiences in Toronto
- Our Favourite Indoor Activities in the East End
- 5 Places To Get the Perfect Bottle of Wine Tonight
Upscale shopping experiences
When all else fails, there’s always shopping, and Toronto has turned retail therapy into an art form! Looking for an inexpensive way to spend an afternoon with friends? There is a nearly endless array of discount and thrift shops to suit your needs.
For those looking to splurge, the East End offers a vast array of shopping opportunities where you can find everything and anything. Here are a few hot spots you’ll want on your must-visit list:
- Gerrard Square: Urban fashion, unique accessories, and good eats, you’ll find it all at Gerrard Square, Riverdale’s largest shopping center. Plus, there’s free parking, a rare find in Toronto.
- Beach Mall: Looking for a community-focused hub of small businesses? Beach Mall is your ticket, where you’ll find unbelievable deals and unmatched service in what is otherwise a very expensive area.
- St. Lawrence Market: It’s impossible to talk about Toronto experiences without St. Lawrence Market entering the discussion! It’s not just a neighbourhood, it’s an epic farmer’s market, open all year long and featuring over 100 vendors. Artisan coffee, gourmet foods, fresh produce, and a world of specially items await you!
Do you want to know even more about Toronto life? We’d love to tell you all about it! Reach out today to 416.443.0300 or ERICA@ERICAREDDY.COM to explore your real estate options.
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