The Junction’s relaxed vibe and diverse collection of conveniences on the Dundas West shopping strip, are just a couple of the many reasons why so many families absolutely love living in one of Toronto’s coolest neighbourhoods. With so much to do, living here comes with a true promise for easy and convenient family life, offering something for everyone! As parents, we know what’s important in the day to day and here’s why we think living in this west end neighbourhood, will rock your families world…

1) The amenities

Which parent doesn’t want to be surrounded by trendy, unique yet family friendly amenities? We all do, and that’s why The Junction shopping strip has consistently received praise. Here, you find anything from indy coffee shops, family friendly and delicious restaurants, grocery stores, butchers, art supply stores, baby stores, vintage and modern furniture stores, just to name a few. The best part is, you will find all high quality stores, relaxed vibe and no pretentious attitude. Some of our favourites include: Coal Miner’s Daughter, Snug As a Bug, Tokki, Cornerstone Home Interiors, The Sweet Potato Grocery Store, Above Ground Art Supply, Full Stop Coffee, Type Books, etc.

2) The parks and playgrounds

As two working moms, we’re always on the lookout for green space accessibility and playgrounds, and The Junction offers plenty. The locals and kids call the Vine Avenue Playground the ‘train park,’ always a hit with the kids who google at the great view over the Canadian Pacific rail. Often times, the trains are stopped and in full view, offering hours of entertainment. Malta Playground is another local favourite with lots of shade and shared community toys. Grab your bikes and head to some of the city’s best and largest green space located just a 5 minute bike ride to High Park and 10 minute bike ride to The Humber River.

3) The restaurants

Living in The Junction means having a selection of incredible restaurants and take out options at your fingertips. This neighbourhood offers a very satisfying culinary experience and some of the best food in Toronto, with a relaxed and family friendly vibe. Trust us when we say you have to try Chica’s Chicken, The Indy Ale Pub, Isaander, Honest Weight and Nodo. The list is just too long to name all the mouth watering choices, but let’s just say, having options will never be a problem.

4) The accessibility

A bonus of The Junction often overlooked is the accessibility to all major highways (heading to cottage country will finally be easy) and easy access to High Park Subway, Dundas West Subway or the Up Express. Biking will also be a breeze with an 81 bike score, offering easy access to the city, lakeshore, plus many of the great bike trails found in High Park and The Humber River.

5) The schools and kids camps

Happy kid happy life…isn’t that the actual truth? The Junction is home to some of the best schools in Toronto’s west end, offering both, traditional and alternative options. Most of The Junction’s catchment includes Annette Public School, St. Cecilia CS, High Park Alternative School, Indian Rd Crescent Jr PS, Humberside Collegiate, Ursula Franklin and Western Tech. Kids camps and programs are plentiful here with easy access to the Annette Recreational  Centre, which offers Parks and Rec Programs, plus a long list of private camps such as Jack of Sports, Pedalheads and 4Cats, just to name a few – all running kids camps in convenient nearby locations.

Thinking about moving to the Junction? We know the local market—and what life in the area is really like. If you’re looking to learn more about what’s available in the neighbourhood, get in touch!

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