Imagine this: you have an entire day free on a weekend—no work, no errands (lucky you), and the weather forecast seems great. You decide to go out and make a whole day out of it. What about heading over to Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood and rediscovering this beautiful corner of Toronto? If you’re not quite sure where to go and what to do, check out this itinerary:
Photo credit: Dark Horse Espresso Bar Instagram
8 A.M. | Caffeinate at Dark Horse Espresso Bar
Obviously, the best way to start the day is with a cup of great coffee. Dark Horse, which has several locations across Toronto, is a local favorite.
Dark Horse Espresso Bar: 630 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G3
Photo credit: Christian Jay B. Quilo
8:30 A.M. | Have a photo op at the Riverside Bridge
If you’re new to the neighborhood, it would be a missed opportunity not to take a photo of the iconic “Time and a Clock” art piece. To find it, walk towards River Street, cross the bridge, and turn back facing east. There’s also a great view of the Don River from here. Tip: you can find Parts 2 of the art piece in the four corners of Queen & Broadview and Part 3 near Jimmie Simpson Park.
Riverside Bridge: Time and a Clock, Queen St E, Toronto, ON
Photo credit: Christian Jay B. Quilo
9 A.M. | Take a stroll around Joel Weeks Park
Get some sun and walk around the park (and work up an appetite for a hearty brunch). This space is especially beautiful in the spring and summertime. Here’s a tip: you can find three art sculptures here—a local favorite is the squirrels with the acorn.
Joel Weeks Park: 10 Thompson St, Toronto, ON M4M 1L9
Photo credit: White Lily Diner Instagram
10 A.M. | Brunch at White Lily Diner
Because of its popularity and limited seating, White Lily Diner can get packed real fast. You can make a reservation online so you don’t have to wait long for a table.
White Lily Diner: 678 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G8
Photo credit: Common Sort Instagram
11:30 A.M. | Go thrift shopping at Common Sort
Stop by Common Sort for their selection of stylish secondhand clothing. You know what’s better than scoring a unique fashion find? Helping reduce waste and shopping sustainably!
Common Sort: 760 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H7
Photo credit: UNTITLED by Flaunt Boutique Instagram
12:30 P.M. | Get a new ‘do at UNTITLED by Flaunt Boutique
Whether you just want a trim or a completely new hair color, the stylists at UNTITLED have you covered. While they do take walk-ins, it’s best to book an appointment before coming in.
UNTITLED by Flaunt Boutique: 792 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H4
Photo credit: Bonjour Brioche Instagram
2:30 P.M. | Grab some pastries from Bonjour Brioche
Who can resist fresh croissants from Bonjour Brioche? However, it might be difficult to look through the display and leave with only a croissant or two. Their quiches and tarts are popular as well.
Bonjour Brioche: 812 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H7
Photo credit: Isaan Der – Thai Kitchen & Bar Instagram
5 P.M. | Early dinner at Isaan Der – Thai Kitchen & Bar
Indulge in delicious Thai food at Isaan Der. You can’t go wrong with classics such as the Pad Si Ew and Tom Yum Goong. Don’t skip dessert—the Mango Coconut Sticky Rice is a must-try!
Isaan Der – Thai Kitchen & Bar: 730 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H2
Photo credit: The Opera House Instagram
7:30 P.M. | Watch a show at The Opera House
The Opera House is one of Riverside’s most historic structures and a popular music venue for many artists from different genres. Check this page to see the full list of their upcoming events.
The Opera House: 735 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1
Photo credit: Prohibition Social House Instagram
10 P.M. | Nightcap at Prohibition Social House
The night is still young! Grab post-show drinks over at Prohibition, just in time for their late night happy hour. The gastropub has a wide selection of cocktails, wines, beers, and ciders.
Prohibition Social House: 696 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G9
Now that seems like a day well spent. Bookmark this post for whenever you want to go explore and feel like a tourist in your own city. If you’re taking the TTC, Riverside is easily accessible by streetcar and bus. Follow @riverside_bia on Instagram for real-time updates on the latest happenings in the neighborhood, from events to promos!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Christian Jay B. Quilo, Riverside BIA Marketing Assistant
Christian is an international student from Cebu, Philippines, currently interning at the Riverside BIA. He has a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and is currently taking post-graduate studies in Lifestyle Media at Centennial College. He has been writing professionally since 2018; his favorite subject matter being food, travel, and fashion. When he’s not busy as a student or marketing assistant, he goes full-on tourist, exploring Toronto one neighborhood at a time—most likely with an iced oat latte or bubble tea in hand.