Distillery District

The Distillery District is a haven for creativity and inspiration. In 2003, a dream became a reality as the Distillery Historic District opened its doors. Today, it stands as one of Canada's premier destinations for arts, culture, and entertainment. This unique destination is a thriving hub of creativity and innovation, attracting some of the most talented and imaginative individuals from around the world.

The Distillery District features shopping, dining, arts & culture, and entertainment. For shopping, it boasts over 40 one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques. Dining options here include bars, restaurants, bakeries, and cafes. You can also immerse yourself in creativity and the magic of performing arts with the district's 6 art galleries and live performance venues. Throughout the year, the district also hosts a number of special events including the famous Toronto Christmas Market, as well as music festivals, Toronto Light Fest, Yoga Series, and many smaller events.

Whether you're looking for inspiration or simply want to soak up the energy and excitement of this incredible space, The Distillery District is the perfect place to be. From artists and artisans to entrepreneurs and business people, this vibrant community is a place where dreams come true and creativity flourishes. So why wait? Visit The Distillery District today and discover why it's widely regarded as one of the most inspiring places in Canada!

What to Know

Discover the Charm of Toronto's Distillery District! Nestled in the heart of Toronto, the Distillery District is a bustling commercial and residential hub, showcasing the allure and character of the city's rich history. This 13-acre paradise is home to over 40 heritage buildings, making it the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America.

Step back in time as you wander through the ten historic streets, lined with picturesque cafés, restaurants, and unique shops. Each building in the district has been carefully restored, preserving the heritage of the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery and creating a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience.

The Distillery District was officially recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988 and has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're in search of a delicious bite to eat, a unique shopping experience, or a glimpse into Toronto's rich history, the Distillery District is the perfect place to visit. So come and immerse yourself in the beauty and character of this captivating district.

How to Get There

Stroll amidst the charming brick-lined avenues of the meticulously rejuvenated Distillery Historic District, where only footsteps are allowed to grace the pedestrian-only promenades. Immerse yourself in a haven of peace and leisure, perfect for a leisurely exploration on foot. Nestled on 9 Trinity Street, accessing the Distillery District is a breeze with the seamless combination of the TTC Subway and Streetcar or Bus.

But why do that when you can book a guided Toronto tour which will solve all your problems from pick-up to drop-off? Bonus point: you won't even have to purchase tickets or worry about any admission fees as that's also included in this tour! What's more? You'll get to explore the iconic CN Tower as well!

Best Time to Visit

Come see the delights of the Distillery District whenever you're in the mood for a culinary & shopping adventure, as this is a year-round attraction with a cold season special Distillery Winter Village (a must-visit in the spirit of the holiday season). If you prefer traveling in warmer seasons, plan your visit in balmy weather so you can comfortably see as many attractions of this charming little village as you can! For Christmas aficionados, the best time to visit is from mid-November through mid-December when the district hosts its vibrant Toronto Christmas Market!

Highlights

Whether you're in the mood for a shopping spree, or longing to treat your tastebuds to foods you have never tried before, or searching for an outlet to express your creativity — the Distillery District has got you covered! With over 65 unique and local shops, artisans, eateries, and cafes, this beautiful district invites you to check out some of the most stylish outfits you'll ever see, contemporary jewelry, eclectic souvenirs, and international award-winning cuisine cooked with the promise of being unforgettable!

Don't miss out on the incredible festivals and events happening in the area, including the Distillery Winter Village and Après Ski Weekends. Get artistic inspiration from world-class artists, art galleries, and theater companies. Plan your visit today and experience the culture of The Distillery District for yourself!

Features 

Uncover the best of creativity at the Distillery District and get ready for a shopping adventure like no other! The Distillery District is a must-visit destination for those in search of the best of the best in creative businesses. From stylish fashion to an eclectic selection of gifts, this charming district has it all. Shop unique souvenirs at Blackbird Vintage Finds from tarot cards and candles & diffusers to vintage apparel and themed journals! Browse contemporary jewelry, beautiful watches, and more at Bergo Designs! While you're there, don't forget to get yourself a trendy outfit at Gotstyle Fashion!

The Distillery District is a feast for your senses with a diverse selection of international award-winning cuisine, from quick coffee breaks to delicious sit-down dinners. From its famous Arena Coffee Bar and classic Cacao 70 to its authentic Mexican El Catrin Destileria bar & restaurant and Spanish Madrina Bar Y Tapas, this district has a lot to offer which would tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more! When you're done with your tour, don't forget to treat yourself to a unique ice cream flavor at Scooped by Demetres!

And while you're there, be sure to check out the incredible festivals and events happening in the area, from vibrant cultural events to world-renowned festivals. Après Ski Weekends in The Distillery is a hit among tourists who love a cozy seat in Muskoka chairs gathered around the fire pits roasting delicious marshmallows with their loved ones! If you're touring in the cold season, don't forget to take a trip to the Distillery Winter Village. Here, you'll get to embark on a magical journey where twinkling starlight illuminates your path as you wander down charming cobblestone streets. 

Snap a memory by the grand centerpiece Christmas Tree in Trinity Square and savor delectable holiday and festival fare while searching for the perfect gifts for your loved ones. With over 65+ one-of-a-kind and local shops, artisans, eateries, and cafes, your shopping experience is sure to be both delightful and meaningful. Experience the culture of The Distillery District for yourself. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration, surrounded by world-class artists, art galleries, and theatre companies. Plan your visit today and get ready to discover the best of Canada's premier arts and culture scene!

History

Two decades ago, a team of forward-thinking developers had a vision for Toronto. They saw potential in a collection of abandoned Victorian industrial buildings and dreamed of transforming them into something special. The Gooderham & Worts Distillery, made up of 47 structures, was restored to its former glory, incorporating both original materials and modern, sustainable technologies.

The result was a mesmerizing blend of Victorian industrial design and 21st-century creativity, now known as the Distillery Historic District. This internationally acclaimed village is home to a collection of one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, restaurants, and more. Visitors to the district step back in time, surrounded by the beauty of Victorian architecture and 21st-century artistic innovations.

Today, the Distillery Historic District is celebrated as Canada's premier destination for arts, culture, and entertainment. It's a place where creativity flourishes and dreams come to life. For those in search of inspiration, this historic district is a must-visit destination!