The Distillery Historic District: A Victorian Stroll Through Toronto's Past
Explore Toronto's Victorian-era Distillery District: a unique blend of history, arts, culture, and entertainment in a pedestrian-friendly village.
Step back in time at Toronto's Distillery Historic District, a pedestrian-only village filled with Victorian-era industrial architecture. Once home to the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, it's now a vibrant hub for arts, culture, dining, and unique shopping experiences. Explore cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants housed in beautifully restored buildings.
A brief summary to The Distillery Historic District
- 55 Mill St, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5A 3C4, CA
- +1416-364-1177
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the Distillery District is a pedestrian-only area with cobblestone streets.
- Visit during one of the many festivals or events for a unique experience.
- Explore the art galleries and studios to discover local Canadian artists.
- Check the official website for event schedules and detailed information.
- Bring your dog, but remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Note that animals are not permitted inside food/beverage establishments.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Union Station, walk 7 minutes north on Bay Street to King Street. Take the 504 King East Streetcar to the Distillery Loop. Cross Cherry Street at the Mill Street intersection and enter via Tank House Lane or Distillery Lane. A single fare is approximately CAD 3.30. Alternatively, take the subway to Castle Frank station on the Bloor line and connect to Bus 65A Parliament. Exit at Front St. and walk one block South to Mill St.
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Walking
From Union Station, the Distillery District is a pleasant 20-minute walk along the Esplanade. From Old Town, take the 121 bus from Front St East at Berkeley St to Front St East at Cherry St. The Distillery District is a short walk away. A single fare is approximately CAD 3.30.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Toronto. A short taxi ride from downtown Toronto (e.g., Union Station) to the Distillery District will typically cost between CAD 10-20, depending on traffic. Note that rates may be higher during peak hours or special events.
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Parking
Paid public parking is available in the Distillery District, with several Green P parking lots nearby. Underground parking is available at 100 Cooperage Street (Green P #283), a covered surface lot at 40 Rolling Mills Road (Green P #285), and an underground parking lot at 83 Tannery Road (Green P #284). Hourly parking rates typically range from CAD 3-5, with daily maximums around CAD 20-30. You can pay for parking through the Green P or Flowbird app, or at the closest parking meter. Parking availability may be limited during peak hours and special events.
Discover more about The Distillery Historic District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Love Locks
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Experience the Love Locks installation in Toronto's Distillery District, where love stories are immortalized through colorful padlocks and artistic expression.
Historic Plaque: This Millstone
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Clock Tower
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Old wagon with barrels
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Historic Plaque: Imperial Bank of Canada 1908
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Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada Plaque: Canada's First Electric Telegraph
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Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada Plaque: St.Lawrence Hall
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Site of Toronto's First Well
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Toronto Heritage Plaque: 71 Front Street East 1982
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Gooderham Building
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The Beardmore Building
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Cherry Street Strauss Trunnion Bascule Bridge
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Metropolitan United Church
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Toronto DownTown
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Birkbeck Building National Historic Site of Canada
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Unmissable attractions to see
Corkin Gallery
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Spirit of York Distillery Co.
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Proof Studio Gallery
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Mill Street Brewpub Distillery District Toronto
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The Distillery Winter Village
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Thompson Landry Gallery
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Illuminarium Toronto
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Soulpepper Theatre Co
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Young Centre for the Performing Arts
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Arta Gallery
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Go Tours Canada - Distillery District
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The Haunted Walk of Toronto
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Big Heart
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Parliament Square Park
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Enoch Turner Schoolhouse Museum and Special Events Venue
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Essential places to dine
6SpiceRack
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Pure Spirits
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El Catrin Destileria
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SpiritHouse Toronto
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Madrina Bar y Tapas
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BOKU Japanese Eats + Drinks (Distillery District)
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District Pizza
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Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie
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Souk Tabule
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The Chefs' House
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HOTHOUSE
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The Sultan's Tent and Cafe Moroc
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ēst Restaurant
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GEORGE Restaurant
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The Old Spaghetti Factory
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hoi Bo
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Blackbird Vintage Finds
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Peace Collective
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Queen's Trunk
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Jellycat London
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Toronto Pen Shoppe
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The SPORT Gallery (SPORT at the Distillery)
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Adore Alma
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Bergo Designs
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CRIMSON & CLOVER
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Hatley Boutique Toronto Distillery District
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Distillery District Shops & Galleries
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GIFTWORKS
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Anything Goes Accessories
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Kochi Stores
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arena Coffee Bar
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Aprés Lounge
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Henrietta Lane
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Bar Noir
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Dobbernationloves
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Aura
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Prohibition Social House
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Scotland Yard Pub
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The Reservoir Lounge
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Pravda Vodka Bar
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Walker Law - Litigation Lawyers in Toronto
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EATERTAINMENT Events & Catering
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Firkin on Harbour
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PIMCO Canada Corp.
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Chartroom Bar and Lounge
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