The Riverside Business Improvement Area is one of Toronto’s first BIAs, founded by local business and property owners in 1980. The BIA spans 10 vibrant blocks of Queen St East from the iconic Queen Street viaduct (Riverside Bridge) at the Don Valley, to just east of the world-famous De Grassi Street, and south to the growing Baseball Place community.

Riverside is Toronto’s small- town-in-the-big-city. Rich in history and art, the area boasts over 100 unique eateries, shops, and attractions (see our Riverside Online Directory). The BIA is home to the Riverside bridge – illuminated nightly in dynamic colours – The Broadview Hotel, The Opera House, Eastbound Brewing Co, and much more to explore.

Riverside BIA Service Area

Riverside runs alongside the Don River – an icon in Toronto’s landscape and history. The name ‘Riverside’ dates back to the 1880s. As you wander Queen Street East in the heart of Riverside, note the curving blue brick ‘river’ in the sidewalks, bright Riverside BIA-branded banners, and the public art referencing connections throughout. Come enjoy free public events and self-guided tours year-round.

It’s easy to get to Riverside by foot, bicycle, streetcar (504, 501) or car – we’re located between Corktown and Leslieville, just seconds from the Don Valley Parkway, and only 15 minutes from Toronto’s downtown core.

OUR MISSION

Riverside BIA is a community-oriented not-for-profit association of local business people and property owners who work in partnership with the City of Toronto to enhance the Riverside business district, located along Queen Street East from the DVP to Empire Avenue.

The BIA’s mandate is to improve, beautify and promote Riverside as a business and shopping district through marketing, public programming and streetscape improvements.

Meet the Riverside BIA Board of Directors

 

Contact the Riverside BIA Office