In Toronto, there are plenty of things to do in the city, but a whole world within the blocks that make up Kensington Market. Toronto itself is a mosaic of cultures and in this cool neighbourhood they all get a spot to shine and connect. Here’s everything you need to know to tackle Kensington Market in one go!
How do I get there?
Kensington Market is centrally located downtown Toronto. It’s easily accessible from the local TTC transit system on the bus or streetcar.
What’s the vibe?
Brightly painted walls, Victorian houses and small shops run by locals – everyone is welcome in Kensington Market. There’s an all-are-welcome vibe here that makes you feel instantly accepted, and at home.
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What are the locals eating?
Don’t forget to bring your appetite to Kensington Market. There’s vegan friendly options plus a HUGE range of cuisines (we’re talking Italian, German and Filipino), but there are two places you cannot miss! Rasta Pasta is a popular spot that serves Caribbean eats alongside Italian-Jamaican fusion pastas for very affordable prices. We’re talking jerk chicken paninis, reggae lasagna and a weekly fish special. The second spot is Seven Lives Tacos. Here expect some of the city’s best Baja-style tacos and seafood. Talk about some delicious food!
Image source:Juan Rojas / Unsplash
What are things to do in Kensington Market?
Go art shopping. Art is a big part of the Kensington Market community pride and spending a dollar or two here on locally made arts and crafts goes straight back to the people who made. The locals here have managed to keep big corporate chains out by taking ownership of the shops and turning it into a rotating art exhibition of sorts. Check out Paradise Bound for Japanese collectible, or art gallery Orbital Arts for abstract pieces that you’ll pass onto your children.
It doesn’t take long to explore this cool neighbourhood. You’ll find pedestrian-friendly streets and street art throughout the area. There’s plenty of colourful murals decorating the laneways and adorning the sides of buildings so don’t forget to walk down every single street! Perfect for that new phone background! The famous Kensington Market garden car is a do not miss piece of street art.
Image source:Patrick Tomasso / Unsplash
What’s my ultimate must do?
Since art is a big part of the Kensington Market community, make sure you don’t miss out on art shopping. You’ll find tons of locally made arts and crafts with all of the profits going straight back to the people who made. The locals here have managed to keep big corporate chains out by taking ownership of the shops and turning it into a rotating art exhibition of sorts. Check out Paradise Bound for Japanese collectible, or art gallery Orbital Arts for abstract pieces that you’ll pass onto your children.
You can also shop your heart out at the many stellar vintage shops! There’s something for every taste and every budget here and you’ll be sure to find your next crazy outfit or cannot live with coat.
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Should I plan an evening here?
100%! There’s a fantastic bar and live music scene in Kensington Market that you would kick yourself for missing. Handlebar has something on every night of the week whether it’s a live music set, DJs or karaoke. Explore the area and find a place that’s the perfect fit for you.
Got more time?
Check out the top things to do in Toronto when you’re visiting the city.
