Families flock to Bloor West Village for its top notch schools and convenient proximity to High Park Toronto’s most renowned park making it a sought after neighbourhood in the west end known for its retail scene that draws in shoppers from across the city.
History Of Bloor West Village, Toronto
In the 1850’s era of the century Bloor West Village belonged to Lieutenant Colonel William Smith Durie, who served as the commanding officer of the Queen’s Own Rifles. The road that traversed his property is now Durie Street. The modern day community began to take shape in 1909, when this area officially became a part of Toronto city. Following its integration with Toronto, streets in Bloor West were. Essential city services were provided.
Originally populated by immigrants from Eastern Europe Bloor West saw its first residents settling in the neighbourhood. The people living here were instrumental in establishing the Bloor West Village Business Improvement Area. The pioneering initiative of its kind in Canada that has played a role in shaping Bloor West Village into one of Toronto’s sought after communities.
Lifestyle
The Bloor West Village Business Improvement Area stands out as the most thriving BIA, in Canada with a tapestry of over 400 establishments offering a diverse range of goods and services for the community’s convenience right within their own neighbourhood boundaries. The shopping scene, in Bloor West Village goes beyond therapy; it’s a vibrant mix of bakeries bursting with aromas that tempt the taste buds and cafes beckoning with cozy corners to savor delightful culinary experiences. You can also discover convenience stores and other shops that cater to household necessities, on Jane and Annette Streets alongside fruit and vegetable markets and dry cleaners.
Bloor West Village boasts a blend of owned shops and well known chain stores that cater to diverse preferences and shopping needs. The shops in Bloor West Village are popular among the locals who appreciate the convenience of having their shopping district in their neighbourhood.
Bloor West Village, Toronto Parks & Facilities
Throughout the year, in Bloor West Village (BIA) you can enjoy family festivals and events such as the June Sidewalk Sale and the July Festival to the Ukrainian Festival and Sidewalk Sale in October followed by Halloween festivities and the iconic Cavalcade of Lights leading up to Christmas in the Village celebration! Additionally High Park—a 399 acre park—is conveniently located within walking distance, from Bloor West Village.
This iconic spot in Toronto features spots for picnics and strolls among blooming gardens and cute animal enclosures that kids adore! You’ll also discover a restaurant to dine in and an open air amphitheatre for events and shows to enjoy under the skys expanse. For sports enthusiasts or families looking for fun activities together there are facilities like sports grounds and a charming trackless train ride that kids love riding on!
In addition to that there is an adventure playground to keep the ones entertained all day long beside a serene pond perfect for tranquil walks. Just next door to this hub is the Annette Recreation Centre which comes with an inviting pool for swimming sessions or relaxation time while offering a small gymnasium space and baseball diamond suited for various activities. A bit down from the Centre you’ll stumble upon the Annette Street Public Library known for its engaging programs tailored to adults as well as children of all ages including preschoolers ensuring plenty of opportunities for learning and exploration, through reading. Bloor West Village also boasts a movie theatre called The Humber Theatre situated conveniently on Bloor Street west of Jane Street.
Bloor West Village, Toronto Transit
The Jane and Runnymede subway stations belong to the Bloor Danforth subway line. Are conveniently located near the residences, in the Bloor West Village area. Passengers can take the Annette Street bus to reach the Dupont subway station along the Yongue University Spadina subway line. Moreover there are bus services along Jane Street and Runnymede Road. For motorists traveling from these locations toward the city centre or outwards the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Boulevard can be reached within ten minutes offering a route in and out of the city.
Bloor West Village, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
In Toronto lies Bloor West Village. A welcoming community recognized for its flair and cozy streets adorned with trees alongside a shopping area that residents adore! Families residing here have access to choices ranging from public and Catholic schools, to private institutions that cater to children from elementary through secondary high school levels.
- Public Schools: 5
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 3
Public Schools:
- King George Junior Public School
- Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School
- Swansea Junior and Senior Public School
- Humberside Collegiate Institute
- Western Technical-Commercial School
Catholic Schools:
- St. Pius X Catholic School
- St. Cecilia Catholic School
- Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
- Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
Private Schools:
- High Park Montessori School
- Toronto Prep School
- Hudson College
The Bloor West Village is an area for families because it offers a range of educational choices such as public schools and private schools that ensure children receive a high quality education within a caring and interactive environment.
Bloor West Village, Toronto Homes
The homes, in Bloor West Village are alike in size and design as they were constructed within a timeframe spanning from 1912 to 1923.The houses in Bloor West Village come with spacious front porches that enjoy ample shade from the grand Oak and Maple trees that grace the neighbourhood streets. Most of these houses boast oak embellishments, alongside hardwood floors and cozy fireplaces.