Are you searching for the perfect city for your family? Toronto is hands down the best place in Canada, if not the world – at least in our humble opinion. There are so many things to love here, incredible amenities, superb schools, not to mention endless fun and recreation.
If you decide to put down roots in Toronto, the next step is to find the right neighbourhood. Though the city is full of outstanding communities waiting to welcome you, Riverdale is one of our top choices for families. Many residents swear that you could live here for 20 years and never experience the same day twice. In this post, we’ll shine a spotlight on the many joys of living in this gorgeous East End neighbourhood.
Breathtaking Parks
Toronto is famous for its greenery and spectacular parks! Beautiful green spaces abound, making it easy to forget you’re in the middle of Canada’s most populated metropolis. Some of the best of these can be found right here in Riverdale. In fact, the whole neighbourhood was named after one of the finest parks in the city, Riverdale Park.
This oasis of natural beauty is so expansive that it’s divided into two sections, one for the east and one for the west. Riverdale Park East is a massive green space, complete with an ice rink, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, sports fields, and a spectacular view of the Toronto skyline.
This also happens to be where you’ll find one of the best tobogganing hills in the city. Snow days are no longer something to dread; it means a whirlwind of excitement and adventure awaits you.
The west side of the park features a wading pool where little ones can keep cool and splash away, as well as a leash-free dog park and even a small farm! Your family is in for the time of their lives, no matter which section of the park you visit!
Want to learn more about Toronto’s incredible neighbourhoods? Here is some related reading you are sure to enjoy:
- These Toronto Neighbourhoods are Perfect for a Fresh Start
- Up and Coming Neighbourhoods for Families
- Top Dog-Friendly Neighbourhoods in the West End
Fantastic Shopping and Entertainment
Besides stunning green spaces, Riverdale is best known for its spectacular shopping districts. Venture over to Danforth Avenue (a little east of Broadview) and check out the endless array of boutiques, specialty stores, as well as incredible restaurants with everything and anything you crave.
If you still need some retail therapy, you’ll find more opportunities to browse along Gerrard and Broadview. Be sure to shop hungry because you’ll find plenty of bakeries and gourmet food stands to expand your culinary horizons.
Riverdale is also a fantastic place to be in terms of family-friendly entertainment. You could catch the latest flick at Alliance Cinemas if you’re looking for a more traditional outing. Or you can get creative and try a new activity, such as axe throwing or rock climbing! If you have a taste for live entertainment, the Young People’s Theatre is sure to have a production your whole family will love.
Access to Top Quality Schools
For families with children, access to schools is typically top of mind. A comprehensive education early in life will open many doors later on, and living in Riverdale puts you in the catchment area for some of Toronto’s top schools.
To learn more about your public options, you can visit the websites of the local school boards. The public education system is governed by the Toronto District School Board, while the Toronto Catholic District School Board oversees the Catholic schools. Toronto also offers numerous French schools, which fall under Conseil scolaire Viamonde.
Fraser rankings will vary from year to year, but Withrow Avenue Junior Public School, Pape Avenue Junior Public School, and Riverdale Collegiate Institute consistently earn high scores. Private options such as The Linden School and Branksome Hall provide specialized education for girls, while Montcrest School and Sunnybrook welcome all students.
Looking for something fun to do in East Toronto? The posts below will give you some inspiration:
- Luxury Living in Toronto’s East End
- Our Favourite Indoor Activities in the East End
- Hiking in the East End: Our Favourite All-Season Trails
The Value of Riverdale Real Estate
Housing in Toronto is in high demand, and the market is becoming more competitive as time goes on. When buying a home in Riverdale, it tends to retain its value well even during slower conditions.
Your real estate options consist primarily of older character homes in gorgeous Victorian architecture. Expansive lots and generous square footage make them ideal for families. For the more budget-conscious buyer, there are also smaller homes available in the north, as well as some newer condos and townhouses.
It’s hard to go wrong, no matter what style you have your eye on. You not only get a home in a neighbourhood your family will love, but you’ll also make a sound investment in your financial future.
Are you ready to start your home search in Toronto’s East End? We are here to help every step of the way. Reach out to Erica@EricaReddy.com or call 416.443.0300 to begin a conversation.
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