An ideal neighbourhood for the quiet urban dweller, Seaton Village is a residential pocket near the Annex and Bloor West. Dating back to the 1880s, the village was annexed by the City of Toronto and became its own residential development, bordering just east of Christie, between Dupont and Bloor. The Village or often dubbed the “West Annex,” offers the best of both worlds——a small town vibe but also walkable to an abundance of restaurants and shops.
The neighbourhood has plenty to offer with summer street sales, community events, and play dates at the revitalized Vermont Square Park. There’s no need to get in a car with multiple subway stops and everything you want right around the corner. Even a famous Canadian author once called this neighbourhood home. Here are three things you probably didn’t know about Seaton Village.
An Alligator Pie playground.
Famous children’s writer, Dennis Lee, once lived in the neighbourhood. The author of Alligator Pie and other popular kids books, grew up in Toronto and recently had a park named in his honour. The Dennis Lee Playground inside Vermont Square Park on Palmerston Avenue was renovated in 2012, transforming the green space into a pirate adventure playground. It’s one of the city’s best community parks with a boat-shaped “pirate” climber, sandbox with water hose and a nearby splash pad. The park is adjacent to the St. Alban’s Boys’ and Girls’ Club for recreational events and most importantly for parents, a public bathroom.
A hidden indoor ice rink.
Located inside the Bill Bolton Arena and right beside Vermont Square Park, is an indoor ice rink, a secret gem known to local residents. Opened in the 1970s, the centre operates seven days a week for community skate, lessons and hockey (there’s even a pro shop and snack bar inside!). Shinny up at this hidden neighbourhood rink!
Free flicks at Palmerston Library.
Here’s a well-kept secret from the Toronto Public Library. Many branches including the Palmerston Library, north of Bloor Street offers free Hollywood movie nights. Bring the family (or come on your own) for a free monthly flick in the library’s air conditioned theatre. The next screening is June 11 at 6:00pm.
Photo via Multiple Mom Blog
