The Distillery District

The Distillery District

With over 40 specialty boutiques, restaurants, cafes, theatres, galleries, and artist workshops plus world-class festivals and events, The Distillery Historic District is one of Toronto's most unique shopping, culinary, arts and entertainment neighbourhoods.

Recognized as a National Historic Site, this pedestrian-only neighbourhood connects the past and present. Modern design seamlessly blends with historic 19th-century architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

Explore boutiques, inviting cafes, and restaurants and enjoy performance venues and special events.

The back of a womans head as she faces a cobblestone road as two other women cross.

The Distillery District | Destination Ontario

How to get to The Distillery District

Location: 55 Mill Street, Toronto

By car: Limited paid parking is available nearby, get driving directions and parking information.

By transit: Toronto Transit (TTC) and GO Transit provide direct connections to The Distillery District.

By bike: Cycling is a great option, choose from multiple Bike Share Toronto locations near The Distillery District.

Know before you go

Public transit travel is recommended, especially during festivals and events such as the Winter Village, as the area attracts large crowds.

Motorized vehicles and bicycles are not permitted within The Distillery District. However, dogs are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends for a stroll.

Things to do at The Distillery District

Discover more activities and experiences.

Visit an art studio

Several fine art and modern art studios display the work of talented artists, with original pieces of art up for sale.

Enjoy live theatre

From musicals and plays to live readings and workshops, there’s an ever-evolving calendar of engaging events at Soulpepper Theatre. Book tickets in advance.

Savour great food

Stop for a bite at one of the restaurants, bistros, pubs and cafes. With such a diverse dining scene, The Distillery is perfect for a casual meal or the ideal date night.

Embrace holiday magic

Experience a true winter wonderland at The Distillery District Winter Village. Enjoy live music, visit artisan stores, savour delicious food and spend quality time with your loved ones.

Take a tour

Book a walking or segway tour to explore the district’s charming cobblestone streets and Victorian buildings.

The Gooderham & Worts bridge lit up over the distillery district.
The Distillery District | Destination Toronto

Interesting facts about The Distillery District

The first known structure built by James Worts and William Gooderham in The Distillery District was a 22-metre brick windmill erected in 1832.

Over the next 50 years, the Gooderham & Worts firm developed the property into a limestone mill and the world’s largest distillery of the time. War, prohibition and other factors led to its decline and closing in 1990.

In 2001, developers with a vision purchased the abandoned industrial buildings. Two years later, The Distillery District was opened to the public. It has since been transformed into a place where creativity and culture reign, attracting over two million visitors annually.

Last updated: November 25, 2024

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