Introduction
Unionville is a thriving heritage village in the northeast corner of the GTA and in the heart of the City of Markham. The streets that bound Unionville are Rodick Road as the western limit, McCowan Road to the east, Major Mackenzie Drive to the north and Hwy. 407 as the southern limit. This quaint neighbourhood was erected in the late 1700s and has since become an extremely sought-after area known for its beautiful ambiance and historic edge.
Lifestyle
Main Street Unionville serves as the highlight of the neighbourhood, where the majority of the area’s hot spots are located. It’s a combination of the scenery, the acitivites and the people that make Unionville such a pleasant place to live. There is a thriving cultural scene with the Flato art theatre, the Varley art gallery and McKay art centre. Additionally, Unionville Highschool, which specializes in the arts, was attended by actors Hayden Christensen and Emanuelle Chriqui.
The Vibe
Unionville is highly regarded for its historic look and feel due to the preservation of heritage homes and buildings. The area’s history is especially captured in its downtown area, Main Street Unionville, which has now become an iconic staple in the neighbourhood. There is a sense of vibrancy resulting from the ultra-friendliness of the residents and the town’s annual festivals, including the Unionvlle festival, jazz festival and the festival of lights.
Meet the Neighbours
With Markham regarded as Canada’s most multi-cultural city, Unionville has also become a mosaic of people with varying ethno-cultural backgrounds. The neighbourhood is packed with married couples and families who are drawn to the low crime rate and area’s facilities, including a large network of community centres, golf courses, schools and libraries, all of which contribute to the nieghbourhoods culture and family-friendly nature.
In the Area
Unionville is one of the most affluent towns within the GTA. There is high demand and the housing prices continue to skyrocket. There has been an increase in condo developments and new townhouses, set at more reasonable prices, which are drawing in first-time buyers.
3.4 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The 407 toll highway is accessible throughout the town, but can be expensive to use. The Unionville GO Station makes downtown Toronto easily accessible and the train line runs from Stouffville to downtown Toronto. The bus service, VIVA, also makes stops throughout the GTA. The airport is approximately 30 minutes away and downtown Toronto is 34 kilometres away.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There are multiple grocery stores in the area and Markville Mall is the main shopping centre. The majority of the nightlife takes place on Main Street Unionville, where there are a number of restaurants and pubs. The area’s diversity is reflected in the variety of ethnic food restaurants, making it a hot spot for foodies. The Markham Centre is well into its development and will provide residents with a unique downtown area comprising both residential and commercial spaces.
Dollars & Sense
There is an immense amount of development in the area, causing some concern regarding its gentrification and whether the town will be able to sustain its historic edge. Due to the constant building in and around the neighbourhood and the growing population, the streets are also becoming increasingly congested.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Unionville Arms
Located on Historic Main Street Unionville, the Unionville Arms is a popular, up-beat restaurant and pub known for it’s rustic ambience. In the summer, it’s a great place to go with some friends and enjoy a spot on the patio.
more infoSmash
This is one of the newer restaurants that everyone is raving about. Tucked away in a plaza off of Hwy. 7, the restaurant has a great atmosphere, with a friendly staff and, of course, some great food! Several party rooms cater to larger parties, and there are quieter confines for those looking to have a more intimate night out.
more infoJakes on Main
Also located on Main Street Unionville, Jakes is widely regarded as an it-spot for the younger crowd. The most popular time is in the summer when customers can enjoy the large patio. During the summer, the bar has a live DJ every Friday, so people can experience a night-life scene without having to venture to far from home.
more infoOld Fire Hall Confectionary
This real-life chocolate factory is every kid’s dream! One side of the store offers fudge in every flavour imaginable, on the other side is an ice cream shop, and the back wall has a huge selection of candy. If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this is the place to go.
more infoToogood Pond
People flock here during the warmer months to take a nice stroll around the pond, fish or have a picnic. During the winter, the pond is converted to an ice rink, where residents can play hockey or show off their figure skating skills.
more infoIl Postino Ristorante
This upscale resturant is another gem found on Main Street Unionville. The restuarant serves delicious classic Italian dishes and is one of the oldest restaurants on the street.
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