Distillery Historic District: Toronto’s sophisticated neighbourhood

A 15-minute walk from Union Station is the historic Distillery District, a place where Victorian industrial architecture is in stark contrast to the new condos and urban jungle of downtown Toronto.

Sophisticated, elegant, historic: go to the Distillery Historic District for its pretty shops, eclectic art galleries and vintage charm.

Start the day with a hearty brunch or lunch at Cluny Bistro. On the menu are raw dishes, a lot of fresh fish, steak, but also a lot of nice vegetarian options like wild mushrooms tartine or the ricotta and green peas soufflé.

When you are full, head out to discover the many art galleries of the area: the Corkin Gallery, the Arta Gallery, the All in the Wild Gallery or the Thomson Landry, among others.

Then, stock up on Canadian beauty products at Deciem, candles made in Toronto at Yummi Candles, children’s clothing at Mini Mioche or home decor at Blackbird Vintage.

With a good flat white coffee from Balzac’s Coffee Roasters in hand, wander through the pedestrian streets of the Distillery Historic District to find Instagram-worthy art installations you might have seen on social media: a peace sign made of flowers, the word "love" build of padlocks, as well as a giant red heart. Something to capture for your Instagram feed!

End the day with a guided tour of the Spirit of York distillery, where you can also buy gin and vodka made with Ontario ingredients.