Distillery District

The Distillery District is one of Toronto's most photogenic and walkable neighbourhoods, and its car-free streets make it a natural fit for families. Located just east of downtown, this collection of beautifully restored Victorian-era industrial buildings — formerly the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, once the largest distillery in the British Empire — now houses galleries, restaurants, artisan shops, and cultural venues.

The pedestrian-only layout is the single biggest family advantage. With no car traffic, kids can walk freely on the wide cobblestone lanes while parents browse shops and galleries at a relaxed pace. The architecture is striking — red brick buildings, iron staircases, and industrial details that create a unique atmosphere somewhere between European old town and urban arts district.

For families, the food and drink scene is a highlight. SOMA Chocolatemaker is the district's most famous attraction for kids — a craft chocolate shop where you can watch chocolate being made and sample some of the best hot chocolate in Toronto. Brick Street Bakery serves fresh pastries and sandwiches.

El Catrin Destileria has an incredible Mexican restaurant with a colourful patio that kids love. Multiple coffee shops give parents their caffeine fix while kids snack on treats.

The Distillery Winter Village (mid-November through early January) is the district's crowning family event and arguably Toronto's most beloved holiday tradition. The entire district transforms into a European-style Christmas market with a towering Christmas tree, thousands of twinkling lights, vendor cabins selling artisan gifts and holiday treats, Santa's Village, live entertainment, and an atmosphere of genuine holiday magic. Admission is free before 4PM daily and for children 9 and under at all times.

Outside of the holiday season, the district hosts summer art markets, outdoor performances, and rotating public art installations. Several galleries welcome families and feature visually engaging contemporary art that appeals to all ages.

The district is accessible by the 504 King streetcar, which stops nearby on Cherry Street. Parking is limited and can be expensive — the nearby Corktown Common area has some options. Corktown Common park, a 5-minute walk east, has an excellent playground and splash pad, making it a natural extension of a Distillery District visit for families with young children.

The cobblestone streets are charming but worth noting for stroller users — they are uneven, so a stroller with good suspension or a baby carrier works best. The district is compact enough to cover in 1.5 to 2 hours of casual walking, or 3+ hours if you linger over food and shopping.