Without a doubt, Bloor West Village is one of Toronto’s most charming business districts. The neighbourhoods that surround this quaint strip of shops and eateries, including High Park and Swansea (among others), have just as much to offer. While virtually anyone will enjoy spending time in the area, it’s especially appealing for families seeking the perfect day out.
If you’re looking for all-age fun in Bloor West-High Park, here are five local activities that the entire family can enjoy…
1) Grab a bite
Nothing brings families together like a great meal. Fortunately, Bloor West Village has more than its fair share of fantastic kid-friendly restaurants. For brunch, head to the Good Fork. Grab a high chair and a colouring sheet, and sit your little one down for some fluffy pancakes or delicious French toast. Later in the day, round everyone up for dinner at Gatto Wood Oven Pizza. Gourmet ingredients make for flavourful dishes that moms and dads can savour, while the “kids special” offers delicious classic options for those under 12.
2) Enjoy some green space
For some family fun in the sun, check out one of the beautiful green spaces in Bloor West-High Park. There are several small parks located off of the Bloor Street West strip, which are highly convenient for kids who need to blow off some steam after spending time in the village. Of course, no discussion of green space in the area would be complete without a mention of High Park. At 161 hectares, this sprawling area is the best place in the city to relax and enjoy nature. Walk the trails, bring your dog to the off-leash area, and (when the season is right) be sure to check out the gorgeous cherry blossoms!
3) Go for a skate or swim
Still looking for fun things to do in Bloor West Village with the family? Try getting out of the business area for some fantastic recreation. Situated near Bloor Street West and South Kingsway, Rennie Park is home to both a wading pool and an artificial skating rink. Whatever the season, this is the perfect place to take full advantage of the weather—while encouraging your kids to stay active. If your children are older, grab some rackets and hit up one of the park’s four tennis courts—or pack a lunch and get set up at one of the picnic tables.
4) Head to the zoo
There’s a truly incredible number of things to do at High Park, which is why you need to visit more than once to get the full experience. If you’re going as a family, at least one of your trips should be to the zoo. You’ll discover a delightful selection of animals there—from bison and deer to llamas and peacocks. The area is open until dusk, so you can stroll around the grounds for a fun and educational experience at any time of day. The best part? There’s no admission, making a visit to the High Park Zoo one of those rare family activities in Toronto that’s completely free.
5) Go shopping
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Bloor West Village, don’t forget about shopping. It’s true that browsing shops isn’t every youngster’s idea of a good time. Luckily, the kid-focused boutiques along Bloor West are entertaining for shoppers of all ages. Start by checking out the toy department at Marlborough’s, which also carries a wide selection of stationary and gifts. Quipus Crafts is a must-visit for creative kids, while Moonbeam Books offers a wide variety of children’s literature.
Looking for a home in one of the family-friendly neighbourhoods near Bloor West Village? We know the area inside and out. Get in touch—we’d love to discuss your needs!
