Toronto’s East End is full of great neighbourhoods, but when you’re searching for your next home, it can be a challenge to choose which one is best for you and your family. We’ve rounded up some highlights for two popular Toronto neighbourhoods in the East End, The Beaches and Leslieville, so you can compare location, amenities, schools and more in these in-demand spots.
We’ve also shared highlights for the Danforth and Birch Cliff neighbourhoods here, and check back soon for more neighbourhood guides!
The Beaches Neighbourhood
The reason for The Beaches’ popularity is found right in its name. Stretching between Coxwell and Victoria Park Avenues and north to Kingston Road, this neighbourhood is home to the beautiful beaches on Lake Ontario, and residents enjoy the laid back lifestyle that comes with living by the water.
With access to Woodbine Beach, Ashbridges Bay Park, the Martin Goodman Trail and more, you can stroll or cycle the boardwalk, soak up the sun, and take advantage of recreational activities like swimming in outdoor Olympic-sized pools, beach volleyball, or joining the Kew Gardens Tennis Club. There’s also lots to peruse along Queen Street East, including colourful boutiques, restaurants, and small businesses—you’ll find the Queen streetcar here too, with direct access into the downtown core.
The houses found on the leafy Beaches streets are wonderfully mixed, and you’ll see Victorian homes, modernized cottages, and newer condos and townhomes. There are also many school options in the area, including Kew Beach Junior Public School and Malvern Collegiate Institute, which offers French immersion.
Leslieville Neighbourhood
Framed by the Don Valley Parkway, Gerrard Street and Coxwell Avenue, the highly-desirable Leslieville neighbourhood offers a quick commute to downtown Toronto and trendy dining and shopping along Queen Street. With new cafés, breweries, and restaurants cropping up, this neighbourhood is a foodie’s dream. Plus, check out Little India on Gerrard Street for authentic cuisine and vibrant textiles.
Leslieville began as a village in the 1850s, and the architectural styles still vary. You’ll find detached Victorians, row homes, bungalows and newer semi-detached houses as you stroll the neighbourhood. There are a number of schools in the area as well, including Morse Street Junior Public School, Riverdale Collegiate Institute, and Liberty Prep Montessori School.
For recreation, Leslieville residents can enjoy the arena, and basketball and tennis courts in Jimmie Simpson Park, and playgrounds and dog parks at other green spaces found throughout the area. It’s also an easy bike ride to picturesque Tommy Thompson Park for some of the best bird watching in the city and stunning Toronto skyline views.
Ready to explore these Toronto neighbourhoods? We’ve called Toronto’s East End our home for generations and are here to help.
