8 Must-See Attractions in Yorkville, Toronto

At the intersection of Yonge and Bloor in downtown Toronto, you’ll discover Yorkville, an upscale neighborhood filled with art galleries, museums, high-end shops, and exquisite restaurants. Once an enclave for musicians and hippies in the 1960s, this vibrant area has transformed into a hub of luxury and culture. Nonetheless, visiting Yorkville offers so much more than just shopping – it provides a rich exploration of art, history, and local life.

01. Visit the Bata Shoe Museum

The Bata Shoe Museum invites visitors to reflect on footwear’s historical significance. Housing the largest global collection of shoes with over 13,000 artifacts spanning 4,500 years, the museum showcases the evolution and symbolism of footwear. Celebrity footwear, including pieces from Elvis Presley and Elton John, highlights the glamour associated with this art form.

02. Check Out the Gardiner Museum

The Gardiner Museum, just a stone’s throw from Yorkville, is Canada’s national ceramics museum. Founded in 1984, it offers insights into the artistic processes of various cultures, featuring collections from ancient Americas to Asian ceramics. Classes for families and adults allow hands-on experiences, including pottery-making workshops.

03. Do Some Gallery Hopping

Engage in an artistic afternoon by exploring Yorkville’s numerous galleries. Notable spots include:

• Canadian Fine Arts Gallery – contemporary and historical Canadian art
• Loch Gallery – 19th and 20th-century Canadian art
• Mayberry Fine Art – Group of Seven and contemporary artists
• Mira Godard Gallery – showcasing contemporary Canadian and international art
• Miriam Shiell Fine Art – 20th-century modern and contemporary art

04. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum

No visit to Yorkville is complete without admiring the collections at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Established in 1914, it features 40 galleries showcasing art, culture, and natural history. The vast collection covers diverse topics from ancient Egypt to South Asian art, making it a true cultural treasure.

05. Shop Until You Drop

Yorkville offers a plethora of shopping options, from designer boutiques to gourmet grocery stores. Whether you want to window shop or indulge in luxury items from Chanel, Gucci, or Louis Vuitton, the shopping experience here is unrivaled. Popular spots include Holt Renfrew for high fashion and Sephora for skincare essentials.

06. See a Movie

For a more leisurely day, consider catching a film at Varsity Cinemas. This popular theater screens the latest movies while providing VIP seating for a more comfortable viewing experience, complete with food and drink service to your seat.

07. Hang Out in Yorkville Park

Yorkville Park provides a serene escape from the bustling streets. It showcases the history of the Village of Yorkville while reflecting Canada’s diverse landscapes. The park features a significant 650-ton rock, bistro tables for coffee enthusiasts, and a peaceful ambiance perfect for relaxation.

08. Visit the Toronto Reference Library

The Toronto Reference Library (TRF) is a treasure trove for knowledge seekers and features a broad range of reference materials. This spacious library houses rare books, literary memorabilia, and offers engaging talks and workshops for the community. A café on-site makes it a great place to unwind while enjoying your favorite reads.