Wychwood

A popular spot for young families and first-time buyers, Wychwood has seen so many renovations of late that it’s fast becoming equally popular among more established families looking for a step-up home. Look to the southern end of the community and you’ll also find a sizable population of empty nesters living in larger homes situated on wider lots.

Over the past five years, St. Clair Avenue West – the neighbourhood’s northern border – has seen quite a transformation, with independent coffee shops and trendy restaurants opening to the delight of those seeking a good latte, a spot of brunch, or a date night close to home. Besides locals, these establishments attract clientele from neighbourhoods as nearby as Forest Hill and Deer Park, and as far south as the Annex.

Look to the south of Wychwood – along Davenport Road and its neighbouring Davenport Village – and you’ll find more independent coffee shops and restaurants opening up. These are a welcome addition to a neighbourhood that has historically been a quiet thoroughfare between central Toronto and the west end.

Given the area’s demographic, family-focused shops and services thrive in and around Wychwood, such as children’s hair salons, child-oriented martial arts studios, toy stores, and family-friendly restaurants.

Located in the heart of the neighbourhood, Artscape Wychwood Barns is a cultural go-to spot for Wychwood and Humewood residents encompassing live-in workspace for artists, art programs for kids, a community-run gallery, seasonal festivals, a weekend farmers market, a greenhouse, and administrative facilities for non-profit organizations – plus park facilities and an off-leash area for four-legged family members.

Speaking of parks, two summertime favourites for families with kids are Humewood Park, which is north of St. Clair Avenue, and Hillcrest Park, which is on the southern border of Wychwood. For year-round enjoyment, there are also community centres, libraries and nearby skating arenas.