Distillery District
The Distillery District is a popular Toronto destination featuring a variety of boutique shops and restaurants in a historic setting
The brick-lined streets of the carefully restored Distillery Historic District are limited to pedestrian traffic making it an ideal place to relax and explore on foot. Numerous outdoor patios and restaurants create a interesting vibrant experience. You wont find any franchise stores here! The film industry has used this location for filming many popular movies.
This was the original site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery - the largest distillery in the world by the 1860s. The de-industrialization of neighbouring areas finally resulted in shutting down all remaining distillery operations by 1990. In 2001, the rundown Distillery District, was reclaimed and transformed into a historical district with a unique collection of boutiques, art galleries, coffeehouses, restaurants and more. It also became the home to two theatre companies; the Young Centre for the Performing Arts, Soulpepper Theatre Company and the George Brown College School Of Performing Arts. This reclamation project has preserved the largest collection of Victorian industrial buildings in North America.
The Historic Distillery District hosts the popular Toronto Christmas Market each year from mid November through mid December. It's one of the top rated Christmas Markets in the world — definitely worth a visit if you are in Toronto during that time.
The unique atmosphere and lighting at nighttime make this an ideal place to enjoy a date or romantic evening out.
The Distillery District is easy to get to by a combination of the TTC Subway and Streetcar or Bus. See the map and directions or use our instant route-finder below.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoDistillery District Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
Phone: (416) 364-1177
Official Website: Distillery District
Distillery District Reviews
Rated out of 5
Old brewery factory is a historical site near the lake side. Very nice environment and peaceful. Many very unique stores and very rarely seen elsewhere stores are available. Of course, u won't want to miss their famous bars and snack stores. If u like to do a little walking and drinking, shopping a little by the water front. This is the 1 visit u must pay and enjoy at least 1 to 1 and half hour strolling.
Eric Choy - a month ago
What a wonderful outing, whether it be a date night, family outing, or just a solo stroll through the district. A few nice artisan shops, and gift stores. This isn't really like a street vendor market, but there are "MANY " wonderful little food shops. As always, price points for everything is medium to high. We got there mid day, mid-week, it was nice and quiet, but by 6pm was alot of hustle and bustle. Its a good, brisk 20 min walk from Union. Dress warm, and warm up with some specialty Hot Chocolate or warm Sake. Enjoy and enjoy the Christmas spirit.
Stephanie - 3 months ago
I visited the Distillery District while I was in Toronto, and it was honestly one of the most magical Christmas experiences I’ve ever had. The entire area was beautifully decorated — twinkling lights, festive displays, and that cozy holiday atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas movie.
The shops, boutiques, and food stalls made it even better. You can stroll, sip something warm, shop for unique gifts, and just soak in the whole vibe. It felt charming, safe, and full of energy.
If you’re ever in Toronto in December, the Distillery District is an absolute must-visit. It completely exceeded my expectations and made my trip so memorable.
Tania King - 3 months ago
Nice place for a walk, especially during the holidays. The Christmas tree is always beautifully decorated, and there are plenty of great spots for photos. That said, it’s not entirely clear what the entrance fee is for, since food and souvenirs inside are still paid separately.
Yevheniia - 2 months ago
Visited the Distillery District before Christmas, and since there was no entrance ticket required and it was a weekday, it wasn’t too crowded. It was such a nice experience walking around.
I visit the Christmas Market every year, and each time it gives me a different feeling. It’s always a wonderful way to enjoy the festive Christmas atmosphere.
Gi - 3 months ago
Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina | King or St. Andrew Station | 1 Minute |
| Bloor-Danforth | Castle Frank Station | 3 Minutes |
How to get to Distillery District by TTC Subway
From King or St. Andrew Station on the Yonge-University-Spadina Line take the #514 Cherry streetcar east to Distillery Loop located next to the east entrance.
From Castle Frank Station on the Bloor-Danforth Line take the #65 Parliament bus south to Parliament at Front Street. The entrance is just over 1 block farther south on your left.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Distillery District:
Photo Gallery
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The Stonehouse Distillery at night cc licensed photo by 416style -
Photo Credit: cactus_forest - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: kasio69 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: louisbavent - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: louisbavent - cc license via Flickr
