We think Toronto is an amazing city for families, but don’t just take our word for it! We’re asking local moms all over the city to tell us why they love their neighbourhoods and to share their favourite spots for kids.
Want to tell us about what makes your neighbourhood great for families? We’d love to hear it! Connect with us on Twitter @HelpWeveGotKids #HelpILoveMyNabe or Facebook.
Rosie Ferguson is a South Etobicoke mom who works full-time at a GTA radio station. Her website, My Toronto Scoop, covers great places in Toronto for families and foodies.
Here’s what Rosie has to say about her neighbourhood.
Why I Love My ‘Hood
From organic kiddie rice bowls to hip interactive play spaces, South Etobicoke families have it made! Check out these family-friendly spots the next time you are heading out with the little ones south of the Queensway.
1. Children’s Urban Enrichment Studio
This 4,000-square-foot play-based learning space is super cool and super fun. From mini day-camp sessions to creative arts-inspired birthday parties, CUES (2986 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) offers an exciting selection of programs for kids from sewing and quilting to yoga and Lego-building. Parents can try their hand at expert-led workshops in baby-food making and toddler nutrition.
2. Thrive Organic
Finally, organic-food lovers in the west end have a great, kid-friendly dining option. The menu at this organic kitchen and café (3473 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) is full of fresh, healthy, and delicious organic offerings: energy-boosting juices made on the spot and a kid’s menu featuring rice bowls with roasted sweet potato, to mention a couple. Plus, there’s live music on Tuesday nights!
3. Hooray for Play
This indoor play centre has a climbing tower, two-story play structure with slide and separate area just for toddlers. Hooray for Play (3432 Lake Shore Blvd. W. at 30th St.) offers birthday parties, drop-in play sessions and the popular Parents Night Out once a month, which lets parents have an evening out on the weekend while kids are cared for in a safe and fun environment.
4. Prince of Wales Park
Looking for a playground with a wading pool, sandbox, exciting climbing structure and tennis courts, all with a stunning view of Lake Ontario? Prince of Wales Park (1 Third St.) is tucked away in a residential pocket south of the Lakeshore. Shaded by huge beautiful trees, it is a perfect park to take the kids to burn off some energy while you perch on a rock enjoying a stunning view of the Toronto skyline.
5. Ice Cream Junction
South Etobicoke families in the know head to Ice Cream Junction (3426 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) for some of the best ice cream in Toronto. Just east of 30th Street, this yummy old-fashioned ice-cream shop features a delectable selection of Kawartha Dairy ice cream flavours and a huge wall of retro candy. The itty-bitty cone is perfect for when you just want an itty-bitty taste.
Read more: “The Ultimate Toronto Ice Cream Guide“
open the map
South Etobicoke borders the waterfront in Toronto’s west end and incorporates the former indeptendent towns and villages of Mimico, New Toronto, Alderwood, and Long Branch. The area was developed in the 19th century and has seen a significant influx of young families in the past decade. Mimico, in particular, is due for significant revitalization. It’s an overwhelmingly residential, family-friendly area. Draws are the waterfront trail and beaches, the wooded Humber Trail, and small businesses along busy Lake Shore Boulevard.
PHOTO: ADAPTED FROM GRANT MACDONALD/FLICKR CC
Read more in our Why We Love Toronto series:
Why We Love the Danforth for Kids
Why We Love Roncesvalles for Kids
