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: NoRegular Hours:
May differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
Phone: (416) 364-1177
Official Website: Distillery District
Reviews
Rated
out of 5 I've travelled to Toronto from Saskatoon 20+ times and this was my first time visiting the Distillery District. I know it's renowned for its Christmas Market but I went in February, on a quiet Monday afternoon. It's a beautiful little area, lined with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The buildings are now filled with independent boutiques and eating places. There are lots of unique spots for photo ops. I wouldn't rank this as a must-do/must-see for travellers outside of the holiday season but if you have time to just stroll around and/or enjoy shopping at unique independent boutiques, the Distillery District has a beautiful vibe.
Jacki Andre - in the last week
This district was recommended by one of my colleagues during our recent short trip to Toronto and it was quite an experience.
Little did I know that this historical district is one of the best-preserved Victorian-era industrial areas in all of North America. Simply wandering through the lanes is a captivating experience, allowing one to truly travel back to a bygone era with its red-bricked buildings, cobblestoned roads and the overall ambiance. It is a must visit place if you are planning a trip to Toronto.
There are a number of pubs and restaurants where you can spend time with your near and dear ones as well. We had our dinner in this area.
Amartya Ghosal - in the last week
We just had a brief visit to the Holiday market and it is GORGEOUS! So cute and fun. Lots to see and do. Dress warmly and be prepared to pay higher prices. Lots of photo ops and good restaurants. Amazing treats and gifts all around!
Kathryn Parsons - 2 months ago
A great touristy place to visit for eating, drinking and shopping. I was there in the evening and admission was free. The atmosphere is fantastic. It's an old Toronto neighborhood, literally a short walk from downtown - I found the walk to be pleasant and easy. The art galleries are great. It's easy to spend a few hours here, and it's worth coming back again and again. We had a great time exploring the neighborhood. Recommended!
Nataliia Holovanchuk - 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
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