Situated just east of Downtown Toronto, the 13 acre Distillery District is a national historic site that is home to a number of unique restaurants, cafés and shops. With over 40 different heritage buildings spread out among 10 streets, the Distillery District has the largest collection of industrial architecture from the Victorian era in North America, with each of these heritage buildings housing different businesses.

Mill St. Brewery
The first commercial micro-brewery to open in East Toronto for over 100 years, the Mill St. Brewery produces small-scale seasonals, and is run alongside the Mill Street Brew Pub, where you can soak up the brewing action while tasting some of their unique creations.

Soma Chocolatemaker
Founded in 2003, Soma Chocolatemaker is a boutique chocolate factory that has its original location in the Distillery District. For those who want to learn more about the chocolate making process, all the way from bean to bar, this is a great little store to stop off at, and you will also be able to sample some delicious chocolates while you are at it.

Shopping and Dining
In addition to the two unique venues mentioned above, there are plenty of other shopping and dining options throughout the Distillery District. The shops make for ideal stop-off points when taking a stroll through the area, whether you choose to browse through fashion, homeware or food. When it comes to dining, some of the highlights include the Tappo Wine Bar and Restaurant, Boku, and the Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie.

Young Centre for Performing Art
The Young Centre for Performing Arts is another unique building that you will pass by when walking through the Distillery District, and is the hub of Toronto’s arts community. For those who enjoy performance arts, this is a great place to stop off at, and, if you have the time, to check out one of the shows. Some of the current and upcoming performances include A Doll’s House, The 39 Steps, and Father Comes Home from the Wars.

Special Events
There are a number of special events hosted each week at the Distillery District, ranging from music to markets to the arts. Each Sunday at the Distillery District sees the set up of the Distillery Sunday Market, which is considered to be one of the very best weekly markets in Toronto. Another popular upcoming event is Artfest Toronto, which will be held from the 2nd to the 5th of September this year, showcasing the work from 75 different artists and artisans. For those hoping to catch some live music, there is plenty to choose from, especially with the current Music City Summer Series being held.

Considered to be one of Toronto’s most interesting attractions, the Distillery District has long since attracted both locals and tourists to the unique features that it offers. With everything from the arts and culture to small-batch production companies of artisan ingredients, a walk through the Distillery District is a feast for the senses, with something captivating to look at no matter which way you turn.