Leslieville, Toronto’s Perfect Neighborhood
Welcome to Leslieville
Some neighborhoods just have it all. This neighborhood favorite is ones of those – welcome to Leslieville. Torontonians and tourists alike love this stand out neighborhood for many reasons including its tree lined streets, charming homes, quaint stores and hip places to sip and dine. Situated east of the Don River, Leslieville is bounded by the Canadian National railway line and Gerrard Street to the north, Empire Avenue to the west, Eastern Avenue to south, and Coxwell Avenue to the east.
Leslieville is Rich in History
This east-end neighborhood forms part of the broader neighborhood of South Riverdale. Leslieville began as a small village in the 1850s, which grew up around the Toronto Nurseries owned by George Leslie (1804-1893) and sons -after whom this charming neighborhood is named. Most of Leslieville’s residents during that time were gardeners or were employed at one of the brick-making factories in the area. Leslie’s home at Queen and Leslie no longer exists but the general store remains on Queen East of Jones Avenue.
Apart from a rich history that can still be felt in the neighborhood today, this community is also Toronto’s historic “Film District.” Vintage stores and furniture shops line the streets where set designers can attribute to locating unique pieces or décor enthusiasts can locate that one-of-a-kind piece. Enjoy scouring the local Arts Market or Farmer’s market for a unique local shopping experience.
Leslieville has an Inventive Food Scene and Boasts Cultural Flare
Not only does this rich Toronto neighborhood offer a bustling shopping scene, it also offers a vibrant infusion of superb bistros, hip bars and creative food flare like the Broadview hotel – Gar de l’est offering an upscale café during the day and a restaurant and bar at night, right in the Crownsnest Theatre. For cultural flair, head over to the Gerrard street’s Bombay Chowpatty and the commercial centre of Toronto’s south Asian community- the Gerrard India Bazaar for deals on imported silks and fabrics that are among a backdrop of exotic scents and sounds.
Leslieville is More Than a Neighborhood
Aside from innumerable unique amenities on foot, this quaint neighborhood is also the center of community and brings together both in the perfect combination. With Jimmie Simpson Park equipped with hockey, baseball, soccer, tennis or basketball equipment, this park is the place for sports. The Jimmie Simpson Community Center also offers a swimming pool and indoor gym. Hideaway Park, is a lovely little spot with a playground and splash pad tucked in between houses that’s perfect for kids to run around and enjoy the water.
Neighborhood houses range from historic brick houses rich with charm and character to renovated beauties with something for everyone. If you’re looking for the perfect place to call home in a vibrant and character rich neighborhood, Leslieville might just be the place.
For rental listings available in this Toronto favorite, visit our Leslieville listings.
Photos are courtesy of The Leslieville BIA www.leslievillebia.com and Rent it Furnished.