Riverside

Riverside, just 2.5km from downtown Toronto, houses a tight-knit community that blends old charm and authenticity with gentrification in harmony. With century-old buildings, unique eateries and cafes, vibrant art, and diverse architecture, Riverside is a truly distinctive Toronto neighborhood. Embracing its Bohemian past, Riverside prioritizes revitalization over new developments, drawing people from all backgrounds. Along Queen Street, you'll discover numerous artsy boutique businesses that complement the community's charm.

History

Riverside was established in 1880’s, when the neighbourhood was predominantly industrial, housing brick workers, factory workers, and gardeners. By 1884, it was annexed by Toronto, giving rise to the Riverside neighborhood. After joining Toronto, property development flourished, giving rise to the Victorian and Edwardian homes still standing today. As the neighbourhood became known as South Riverdale, tensions sparked as Riverside's original identity was overshadowed. Despite waves of gentrification, Riverside resisted further changes, lagging behind other Toronto neighborhoods. In 2005, the BIA reverted the neighborhood's name to Riverside, signaling its commitment to progress while honoring its history.

  • Gerrard St E to the north, Logan Ave to the east, Eastern Ave to the south, and the Don Valley Parkway to the west.

  • Riverside boasts various heritage properties, including Victorian, Second Empire, and Edwardian architecture. Dominated by semi-detached and attached townhomes due to a scarcity of detached homes, Riverside's streets are lined with mature trees, contributing to its eclectic and historic ambiance.

    • K-6

      • Dundas Junior Public School

    • Grade 6-8

      • Queen Alexandra Middle School

    • Grade 9-12

      • Eastdale Collegiate Institute

  • The cult-classic series, Degrassi, was based in Riverside, which houses the famous De Grassi Street. One of the show’s producers, Bruce Makey, lived on De Grassi and was inspired to write a show about the experiences of everyday families and youth. 

Subscribe

Subscribe