Dreams really can come true, and the residents of High Park are living proof of that. Many Toronto communities boast the rare luxury of city conveniences combined with peaceful green spaces. High Park simply takes all of it to a whole new level.
Just imagine stepping outside your door, where countless shops and cool eateries are a short walk away in one direction. Walk the other way, and you’ll soon find yourself in Toronto’s second-largest park, surrounded by tall oaks, beautiful flower gardens, cherry trees, peaceful fishing areas, and countless scenic nature trails.
We almost forgot to mention that this highly sought-after neighbourhood also has some of the most beautiful homes in the city! These are just a few reasons why High Park real estate is one of the hottest markets in Toronto.
The History of High Park
Like many of Toronto’s vibrant neighbourhoods, High Park real estate comes with a fascinating history. Its existence as we know it today is largely in thanks to John Howard, Toronto’s first professional architect, who made significant contributions to the city. In 1836, he and his wife Jemima purchased 165 acres of land, intending to use it as a sheep farm.
Later, they deeded 120 acres to the city to become a public park.
This generous contribution came with a few caveats, including:
- The park must be kept in a natural state.
- It must be free to use for all citizens.
- No alcohol was permitted in any public area.
- The name must always be kept as High Park!
Upon John Howard’s death in 1890, his remaining 45 acres also became part of High Park. In 1930, the City of Toronto acquired another 71 acres, bringing the total size to 400, and making it the second largest park in the city after Centennial Park.
Interesting fact: Though the neighbourhood of High Park is known for its pubs and breweries, the park itself remains the only “dry” area in Toronto because of the “no alcohol” stipulation.
Types of Homes for Sale in High Park
What would High Park be without the beautiful heritage homes and stunning estates it is known for? The neighbourhood is characterized by impressive and well-kept Victorian, Edwardian, and Tudor-style homes, many of which were constructed in the 1800s and early 1900s.
Expansive lots with lush lawns, gardens, and a canopy of mature trees make the residential streets feel like an extension of the park. These estates offer a wide variety of features that make each home as unique and distinguished as the individuals who live there. Luxurious fireplaces, authentic hardwood floors, distinctive brick designs, and intricate wood trim are a few of the defining characteristics of the upscale homes of High Park’s wealthiest residents.
You will also find a mix of other housing structures, including semi-detached homes and duplexes, along with large houses that have been converted into multi-unit dwellings. The mix is topped off with a few condo buildings that make High Park real estate surprisingly accessible.
Who Lives in High Park?
The diversity of the High Park real estate landscape means your neighbours could come from all walks of life. From wealthy executives and affluent families to young singles and students, High Park is welcoming to all!
A large percentage of residents are highly educated, and many work in professional, scientific, and technical fields. With its emphasis on quality education, High Park is understandably home to numerous reputable schools, which, in turn, draws many families to the area. It is not uncommon to see children happily laughing and playing in the park.
You’ll also find a significant number of European residents living in High Park. As you stroll about, you’re likely to catch snippets of conversations in French, Polish, and Spanish, as well as English. An abundant student population also lends a certain trendiness and artistry to the area, which only adds to the whimsical appeal of High Park.
Things to Do in High Park
For lovers of the great outdoors, it’s hard to find a more beautiful oasis of nature than High Park. With 400 acres of forests, marshes, fields, gardens, and paths, the neighbourhood lends itself to exciting outdoor activities all year long.
Cycling, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are but a few examples. When the weather gets cold enough, you may spot people skating away on Grenadier Pond, but this is not recommended due to ice thickness. Not to worry; you can always glide around in safety at High Park Rink, which is mere minutes away.
Do you love organized outdoor sports? Why not get your heart pumping with a rousing game of tennis, baseball, or basketball? The little ones can play and explore the adventure playground, taking in the view from the tower, gliding down the spiralling slide, or storming across the wooden bridges that lead to the castle. There’s even a zoo that is free to visit, where families can get up close and personal with animals like capybaras, bison, llamas, and rabbits. A leash-free dog park means even your four-legged family members are invited to run, play, and join in all of the fun.
Want to learn even more about beautiful High Park? Check out some of our blog posts below:
- West End Green Oasis: Why High Park is Perfect for Nature Lovers
- 6 More Reasons to Love High Park
- 4 Ways to Enjoy High Park’s Cherry Blossoms Like a Local
The park isn’t just for those who want to get their heart rate up while surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature. It’s also a great place for a relaxing escape, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic, meander through the flower gardens, or watch the ducks on the pond. If you need refreshments or to warm up, Grenadier Cafe provides a tasty meal and a fabulous view of the park.
It may be hard to believe, but High Park isn’t just about greenery. It’s just as much about community, shopping, music, and art. Bloor Street West is lined with unique restaurants, pubs, and breweries, meaning there’s always something delectable on the menu. In between meals, you can spend an afternoon popping in and out of the many fashion boutiques, vintage stores, and gift shops. If you haven’t gotten your fill, the dynamic shopping district of Bloor West Village is within easy walking distance, where you’ll discover a treasure trove of shops and eateries.
Community Services in High Park
High Park itself is the hub of the community, providing endless opportunities for recreation and socialization. However, there is much more to this desirable neighbourhood than parks, trails, and lush beauty.
Ready access to essential and community services is another building block in the quality of life High Park residents have come to know and enjoy. Education is a staple of the community, and the neighbourhood offers numerous schools at the primary and secondary levels, both public and private.
Do you want to know more about the schools in High Park? Read West End Schools: Our Guide To High Park next.
Residents also enjoy excellent healthcare options, with several practitioners and walk-in clinics conveniently located right in the neighbourhood, including Ellis Park Medical, High Park Health Centre, and Evercare Medical Centre.
Close proximity to the neighbouring communities of Bloor West Village, Parkdale, and Roncesvalles means High Park offers the best of all possible worlds. Multiple recreational centres are moments away, including Parkdale Community Recreation Centre, Keele Community Centre, and Annette Community Recreation Centre, where you and your family can come for a swim or engage in other sporting activities. Swansea Community Recreation Centre is also nearby and features an epic tobogganing hill for the wintertime.
Living in the neighbourhood means having nearly unlimited ways to socialize, get fit, and have fun while making new friends. No wonder High Park real estate is becoming more desirable by the minute!
How to Pick the Right High Park Real Estate Agent?
Like much of Toronto, the High Park real estate market is constantly changing and evolving. Buying a home here can be challenging as more people set their sights on the neighbourhood. Nothing will help you find the right home faster than partnering with a local real estate agent who has the inside track on upcoming listings. How do you choose an expert to represent you?
Online research is a great place to start. You can learn a lot about their core values, experience, and localized expertise. Better yet, book an in-person or online meeting where you can ask your questions on one to get a feel for their level of service.
Click below to learn more about our buying services.
When selling your home, partnering with a High Park real estate agent who knows how to present and promote your listing is the best way to maximize your results. Every market is just a little bit different, and a professional Realtor® with hyper-focused expertise can help you stand out no matter what.
Learn more about our selling services below.
High Park Real Estate FAQ
That is easy; it’s both! High Park refers to the expansive natural green space that spans nearly 400 acres (or 160 hectares for those of us using the metric system). High Park is also the name of the nearby residential neighbourhood, where you’ll rub shoulders with fascinating people from all walks of life.
If safety, a supportive community, outstanding natural beauty, and access to some of Toronto’s best schools are important to you, then yes, High Park is a fantastic place for families! Its prime location just 5 minutes from the QEW and on major public transit routes, also makes it highly convenient.
Besides swimming, skating, cycling, playing sports, browsing the gardens, cross-country skiing, picnicking, hiking, exploring nature, frolicking in the splash pad, or running off-leash with their family dogs?
High Park also offers a ton of incredible restaurants, shops, and services. Plus, it’s within easy walking distance to the many attractions at Bloor West Village and Roncesvalles.
Surprisingly, more than you may think! Though High Park is known for its elegant heritage homes and mansions, there are also semi-attached houses and numerous condo buildings that are ideal for starter homes.
This is an excellent question. A good place to start is by asking around to see what kind of service you can expect. Also, be sure to check out a potential real estate agent’s website to see what communities they serve and how much local expertise they have. Ideally, you want a dedicated professional who is committed to outstanding service, has an excellent track record, and has boots on the ground right in the neighbourhood.
To an outsider, this may seem like an odd question. To a High Park local, it’s perfectly logical. Of course High Park has llamas! We also have bison, emus, sheep, cattle, capybaras, and even peacocks. You can visit them all in person at the High Park Zoo, which is free to attend.
