Introduction
Woodbine-Lumsden is bordered on the east by Main Street, on the north by Taylor Creek Park, and on the west by Woodbine Avenue and O’Connor Drive. The southern border runs along Oakcrest from Woodbine to Westlake, and from Westlake to Main it runs along the Danforth. This low-key Toronto neighbourhood is lively during the day but quiet at night.
Lifestyle
This is a quiet, largely residential, neighbourhood, with most of the action taking place on the Danforth, the main shopping strip. The residential streets are quiet and green, with lots of trees, and schools, parks, and playgrounds provide neighbourhood kids with places to go. The area is easily accessible by transit and cars.
The Vibe
The Woodbine-Lumsden neighbourhood has a relaxed feel to it, even when the sidewalks and streets bustle with pedestrians and cars. There are restaurants, shops, and cafes in the area, and there are also some pubs that stay open late, but it is less busy, with less night-life, than the Greektown to the west.
Meet the Neighbours
Woodbine-Lumsden is a neighbourhood of adults, a smaller but substantially growing younger presence. The area is just starting to gentrify and many older homes are being sold and updated. Because the area does still have rent and even homes that are more affordable, there is a lot of interest in the area and a lot of new residents.
In the Area
Woodbine-Lumsden is a great area for families, with two elementary schools and a high school within the neighbourhood boundaries. The northern boundary of the neighbourhood runs through Taylor Creek Park, which connects to the Don River trail system, and there are several other parks in the area. There are some corner stores on the neighbourhood’s side streets, and there are grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping on the main streets.
10.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
This is a very convenient area for getting around. The neighbourhood includes both the Woodbine and Main subway stations on the Bloor-Danforth line, and multiple bus routes run through the area. The Danforth GO station is close by, and the Don Valley Parkway is not too far from the northern part of the neighbourhood.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Woodbine-Lumsden is a reasonably priced neighbourhood with good transit service, schools, and great parks facilities. There is some decent shopping in the neighbourhood, and there are several restaurants to choose from. However, buildings in this area often look a bit more tired and worn than further westn in Greektown, and the area is not as lively as the more well-known parts of the Danforth.
Dollars & Sense
Prices in this neighbourhood range from average to low, so there are deals to be found. Restaurants and shops are generally mid-range, with a few geared specifically towards those on a budget. Housing prices are close to average, although semi-detached houses tend to be a little higher. Rental prices tend to be below average.
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Chill Grill & Cafe
This shisha “hookah” cafe serves halal food, roohafza, and of course, many varieties of flavoured tobacco to smoke in their hookahs. You can catch belly-dancing or other events depending on the schedule.
more infoJohn’s Hobbies
John’s Hobbies has a great selection for hobbyists. There are model trains, boats, and planes, remote-control vehicles, Playmobil playsets, and tools and accessories for building and decorating. Staff are knowledgable and friendly.
more infoLa Monica Boutique
In this wonderful clothing store you can find beautiful skirts, shirts, and dresses, some imported from Europe and some made right here in Canada. The owner is happy to make suggestions or help with sizes.
more infoThe Rib House
The Rib House isn’t much to look at, but the food - especially the ribs have a great reputation. Prices are good, they’re open late, and they deliver, making them an attractive option for night-owls.
more infoStan Wadlow Park
With six baseball diamonds, a multi-purpose field, skate park, splash pad, playground, arena, and off-leash dog area, this park has something for everyone. The East York Curling Club is across the street.
more infoViking Bakery
Run by an Icelandic expat, Viking Bakery specializes in Icelandic treats. The owner is friendly and happy to talk customers through the selection of unfamiliar names and treats, and the pastries are fantastic.
more info