Frommer's Review
Back in 1972, the federal government took over a 38-hectare (94-acre) strip of waterfront land to preserve the vista. It wasn't exactly prime real estate at the time, but that has changed in decades since. The abandoned warehouses and crumbling factories have yielded to a stunning urban playground that stretches over the old piers. Today, Harbourfront is one of the most popular destinations for locals and visitors alike -- a great place to spend time strolling, picnicking, gallery hopping, biking, shopping, and sailing.
Queen's Quay, at the foot of York Street, is the first stop you'll encounter on the LRT line from Union Station (you can also get there in 5 min. on foot walking south from Front Street, but that requires you to go under the Gardiner Expwy., which I personally hate). From here, boats depart for harbor tours, and ferries leave for the Toronto Islands. In this renovated warehouse, you'll find the Premiere Dance Theatre and two floors of shops. To get something to eat, you can stay at Queen's Quay's casual BoatHouse Grill or walk west to York Quay's Lakeside Terrace restaurant. York Quay also boasts an art gallery and ever-changing art installations, and an information booth where you can pick up information on Harbourfront events.
Harbourfront has several venues devoted to the arts. The Power Plant is a contemporary art gallery; behind it is the Du Maurier Theatre Centre. At the Craft Studio you can watch artisans blow glass, throw pots, and make silk-screen prints. You can buy their works at Bounty Contemporary Canadian Craft Shop. The Artists' Gardens currently includes mature and new outdoor gardens created by landscape architects, designers, and other artists.
More than 4,000 events take place annually at Harbourfront, including the Harbourfront Reading Series in June and the International Festival of Authors in October. Other happenings include films, dance, theater, music, children's events, multicultural festivals, and marine events. Harbourfront is best in the summer, but a great destination year-round.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
