If you live in Toronto, chances are good that at least one of your friends is thinking of moving to the Junction—if they haven’t done so already. In the last few years, this lively pocket of the west end has become one of the hippest haunts in Toronto.
That said, the Junction is more than just an “it” neighbourhood. With its quiet residential streets, kid-friendly amenities, and nearly endless recreational opportunities, it’s also the ideal place to raise children.
If you’re seeking the perfect family-friendly neighbourhood, here are five reasons why we think the Junction should be at the top of your list…
Annette Community Recreation Centre
The Annette Community Recreation Centre is a great place for Junction families to get active. This recently-renovated space features a state-of-the-art gym and weight room, among other facilities. There are swim times set aside for preschool-aged kids at the pool, and you’ll find regularly-scheduled children’s camps for your little ones.
The pool also features a lift chair, which makes it highly accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Other available activities include dance classes, basketball, pickleball, along with a variety of children’s camps. Meanwhile, moms and dads will love de-stressing with pilates or cardio classes—or simply taking some quality time at the gym.
Are you considering buying your first home in Toronto? If so, the posts below can help you navigate the fast-paced market:
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- What Are Toronto’s Most Affordable Neighbourhoods for First-Time Buyers?
Annette Street Library
The Junction is home to a charming library that’s perfect for readers of all ages. The Annette Street Public Library is easily recognized by its red brick architecture and cozy interior. Open six days a week, the facility provides endless hours of activities to help your child fall in love with learning over and over again.
Step inside and you’ll find a fantastic selection of children’s books, along with big, spacious tables that are ideal for reading. However, there’s more to Toronto’s Public Library System than books. It’s also a great place to socialize while making something new. A series of drop in programs provide opportunities to make crafts or learn about music, technology, and more.
Ongoing programs like Toddler Time and Babies Storytime make this space especially welcoming for families, so check out the library’s website to see what’s on the schedule.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
If you’re having one of those days when making dinner isn’t an option, the Junction has you covered with an endless selection of restaurants, pubs, and cafes that will suit everyone’s tastes. We could write a novel outlining all of the excellent options, but for the sake of time, we’ve narrowed it down to a few delicious highlights.
Burattino Brick Oven Pizza is the local family go-to for family pizza night. Whether you dine in or opt for delivery, their creative menu items are crafted with love and care, which shows in every bite. This is one place the whole family will love!
Thien Tam Restaurant is perfect if you’re looking for healthy-yet-creative vegetarian fare that will appeal to even the pickiest diners. Vibrant flavours and a laid back atmosphere create a welcoming vibe anytime, whether celebrating with friends or on a family outing.
Craving some Italian fare? Look no further than Nodo Junction, one of our favourite neighbourhood hotspots. Creative chefs serve up your ultimate comfort food dishes, such as rigatoni, ravioli, gnocchi, linguine, and more!
For dessert, head over to Ice Cream Junction, where there are over 60 different flavours to choose from. And when you do feel like cooking, be sure to visit the Sweet Potato—a grocery store that specializes in organic, fair trade, and health foods.
Vine Avenue Parkette
Not far from the Sweet Potato, you’ll find Vine Avenue Parkette. This quaint green space is a true hidden gem in the Junction. Your kids will love the colourful playground that includes slides and climbing equipment, along with a wading pool where they can cool off when the hot weather arrives.
Older kids can shoot hoops at the basketball net, and several benches are available where parents can sit, chat, and keep an eye on their little ones.
Healthy grass and mature trees provide plenty of natural beauty, so grab the kids and visit this community attraction for some fresh air!
What else is there to do in Toronto’s West End? The excitement never ends!
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The Events
If you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, you’ll find no shortage of activities in the Junction. When it’s in season, the Junction Farmers Market is well worth checking out. Put simply, this is the go-to spot for fresh, local produce.
There’s always something on the calendar when living in the Junction. Check out Toronto Junction to learn what’s on the agenda in the weeks ahead! Then, when winter rolls around, the Junction often hosts exciting holiday festivities that are not to be missed. These events can also be the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
Looking for your ideal family home in the Junction? We’d love to help! Get in touch info@sidorovainwood.com or call 416-769-3437 to learn more about the neighbourhood—and what’s available in the area.
