Distillery District
Whoever said history isn't hip has obviously never been to the streets of the Distillery District in downtown Toronto. This historic neighbourhood is one of the city's most vibrant communities, providing car rental Toronto travelers with dozens of cafes, restaurants and shops. Spanning nearly 13 acres, or 52,000 square meters, the district boasts more than 40 heritage buildings and streets, and is also home to the largest collection of Victorian era industrial architecture in North America. Known for landmarks like the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery, this neighbourhood is well worth checking out on your upcoming car rental Toronto trip.
A quick history of the district
The heart of the Distillery District is the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which was founded in 1832, by 1860, it was the largest distillery in the world, churning out over 2 million gallons of whisky. The distillery was later bought out by rival Hiram Walker Co. The distillery was left increasing derelict during the late 20th century, yet was able to avoid being torn down completely. All remaining distillery operations were closed in the early 1990s, paving the way for redevelopment and investment in the area.
Buildings to watch for in the district on your car rental Toronto trip
Car rental Toronto travelers will find dozens of beautifully preserved buildings in the Distillery District, including a staggering number of renovated warehouses. In the olden days, the Distillery district consisted of a series of buildings, all of which centred around a seven-story windmill and wharf. Although the windmill and wharf have long been torn down, a great many of the original structures remain. The following are just a few worth investigating on your next car rental Toronto vacation:
- The Malt House (built in 1860) and now referred to as the Maltings
- The Molasses Storage Building
- The Case Goods Warehouse
- The Stonehouse Distillery, designed by David Roberts Sr.
Redeveloping the district
The Distillery District began its transformation from an industrialize area to a pedestrian-oriented arts, culture and entertainment district in 2001 when Cityscape Holdings Inc. purchased the area. In 2003, the area welcomed car rental Toronto tourists with an amazing collection of attractions and amenities. While the majority of the buildings are occupied with unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and jewellery stores, car rental Toronto travelers can still find remnants of the neighbourhoods past inside the Mill Street Brewery. The area is also home to the performing arts, thanks to the Soulpepper Theatre Company and the near by George Brown College. Plans are also in the works to develop more residential condominiums in the area, as well as offices and further retail space.
Singing the district's praises
The preservation and active re-use of the Distillery District's buildings has been widely praise both in Toronto and across the country. The neighbourhood is currently listed as a National Historic Site, and has been designated for protection under the Ontario Heritage Act since 1976. The popular publication, National Geographic also listed the district as a "top pick" for car rental Toronto travelers. Further redevelopment of the area is expected to accelerate the district's transformation from an industrial site to one of Toronto's most prestigious neighbourhoods.
Find out what's happening in the district
What to know what's happening in the Distillery District during your upcoming car rental Toronto vacation? Then surf on over to www.thedistillerydistrict.com for event listings and establishment information. Car rental Toronto travelers can also learn more about the Distillery District at www.seetorontonow.com, the official website of tourism in Toronto.