In the heart of Toronto, a city that breathes history and culture, lies a 16-kilometer bike lane from Runnymede and Bloor Street to Danforth Avenue and Victoria Park. This journey is not just a physical exploration but a narrative unfolding through the diverse neighbourhoods that make up this vibrant tapestry. We can’t recommend enough becoming a tourist in your own city and picking a stretch of bike lane to rediscover your own city.
Bloor West Village: Where Change Crafted a Legacy
Our adventure begins in the west, where Bloor West Village weathered the storm of subway construction in the 1960s. As the city burrowed its way through Bloor Street, the community was concerned with a decrease of foot traffic from the street cars as it was replaced by the subway. This led to the creation of Canada's first Business Improvement Area to revive the area and make it more pedestrian friendly. We now get to reap the rewards of their efforts and have many shops and cafes to enjoy including Buck's Hard Goods, a shop filled with fashion and home décor.
Bloordale Village: A Treasure Trove of Vintage Finds
The journey continues to Bloordale Village, a thrifter's paradise with Lucky Tiger, Re-Life Vintage and Siberia Vintage you almost have too many spots to choose from. Though Bloordale Village is only 10 blocks it holds a treasure trove of unique finds.
Dovercourt Village: A Funny Stop
The neighbourhood's first residents were poor immigrants from England, and the early houses were one and two bedroom made with tar and paper earning Dovercourt the nickname "Shantytown." Yet, within these humble beginnings, a community flourished and Dovercourt Village became home to Comedy Bar, an amazing spot to see both established and up and coming comedians. Stop by and catch a show!
Koreatown: A Culinary Mosaic
As we step into Koreatown, the aroma of walnut cakes from Hodo Kwaja and fish-shaped taiyaki from Kevin's Taiyaki fills the air. The neighbourhood as we know started in the 1960s as Canada’s immigration laws changed and brought a wave of Korean immigration, shaping the cultural mosaic that defines Koreatown today.
The Annex: Literary Escapades
Our next chapter unfolds in The Annex, a literary haven with the BMV, Seekers Books, and Thunderstruck Books. Here, stories come alive, and you can choose your adventure from a collection that spans popular titles, rare books, and whimsical comics.
Yorkville: Sweet Retreats and Historic Echoes
A sweet retreat awaits in Yorkville at Eataly, grab yourself a hazelnut torte and go upstairs to see pasta getting made under your eyes. Did you know that Yorkville’s name is a nod to the Town of York that preceded modern Toronto.
Prince Edward Viaduct: A Bridge Through Time
Crossing the Prince Edward Viaduct is a journey through time. Constructed in 1918 with visionary foresight, it accommodated both streetcars and rail transport. A bridge that stood the test of time, anticipating the Bloor-Danforth subway that would arrive decades later in 1966.
Riverdale: A Neighbourhood Shaped by Bridges
Riverdale unfolds as a neighbourhood shaped by the construction of the viaduct as it linked it to the west side of Toronto and brought about its growth. While you’re in the neighbourhood you might as well fill up on organic and sustainable groceries at the two mainstays of Riverdale, Rowe Farms and The Big Carrot.
Danforth Village: Culinary Delights
In Danforth Village, we're welcomed with the enticing aroma of baked goods from Athens Pastries and North Pole Bakery. The north side of Danforth was land once held by the Church of England still has street names reminiscent of this time but the land to the south of the Danforth was originally owned by families engaged in either farming or in the brick making business. Danforth
East Danforth: Sustainably Yours
As we approach Victoria Park, The Re Place calls us to embrace sustainable living and offers baked goods and warm drinks. Vintage goods from the Handwork Department weave a narrative of conscious choices, culminating our journey with a commitment to a greener tomorrow.
Our journey from Bloor Street to Danforth Avenue is not just a physical traverse but a storytelling odyssey through Toronto's varied neighbourhoods. Each stop whispers tales of resilience, innovation, and the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines this incredible city. So, wander, discover, and immerse yourself in the enchanting narratives that weave the fabric of Toronto's rich history and ever-evolving present.