The fourth-largest city in North America, Toronto is recognized as one of the world’s most multicultural destinations, with 140 neighborhoods and probably as many languages and dialects. For experience-seeking delegates, that translates into a multitude of diverse districts for dining, dancing and more.
Originally a small village in the 1850s, Leslieville is now the heart of the film district. Among the lures: bistros, cafes, pubs, martini bars and clubs. Plus, antique shops (hint: set designers come here) and East Indian silks, fabrics and music on Gerrard Street.
Just east of downtown, the Distillery Historic District is a triumphant mixed-use revival of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, founded in 1832 and by 1877 the largest whisky distillery in the world. Comprising some 47 restored Victorian industrial buildings now housing restaurants, bars, theaters and other venues, this heritage draw is widely regarded as Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destination.
In 1904, things got so rowdy in The Junction that alcohol was banned. The restriction was lifted in 2000, and since then this West Toronto neighborhood has become one of the city’s hippest, featuring great dining, shopping, nightlife and a slew of festivals.
Running one mile between Bathurst and Bay Streets, the Bloor Street Culture Corridor is a partnership of 12 arts and culture organizations, including Bloor Hot Docs Cinema, a century-old cinema and one of the world’s only documentary-focused theaters; the Royal Ontario Museum; and the Bata Shoe Museum.
