Hotels near Distillery District

The Distillery Historic District is a 5-hectare pedestrian-only neighbourhood east of downtown - a Victorian-era distillery complex (the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, opened 1832) converted in 2003 into a cultural and entertainment quarter. The 47 preserved red-brick buildings now house 70+ shops, art galleries, design studios, theatres, and restaurants. It is North America's largest collection of preserved Victorian industrial architecture.

Highlights: the Toronto Christmas Market (mid-November to late December - among North America's most photographed Christmas markets), the Soulpepper Theatre, Mill Street Brewery taproom, Soma Chocolatemaker (locally roasted single-origin chocolate), and dozens of independent design boutiques. Free to walk; bring CAD for shopping. Open daily; restaurants 11:00-late, shops 11:00-19:00.

Pro Tip: Visit at Christmas (mid-November to late December) for the Toronto Christmas Market - the cobbled streets fill with light displays, mulled wine, German-style stalls, and one of Toronto's best free seasonal experiences. Otherwise the summer Sunday market on Trinity Street is the second-best time.