Get active, chow down or go shopping at this Toronto urban landmark in the Don Valley.
The days may be frosty, but there are still many adventures to be had in Toronto’s crisp winter air. First stop: Evergreen Brick Works.
From its lush surroundings to its ongoing initiatives, Evergreen Brick Works lends itself to exploration, meaning with every visit, you get to choose your own adventure.
Here are three ways you can explore Evergreen Brickworks this winter.
Adventure 1: Work up a sweat in the great outdoors
One of Toronto's best-kept secrets is Evergreen Brick Works' skating rink. Nestled within the walls of the old brick factory, this open-air skating rink sits under the building's rustic, exposed beams.
The ice-skating surface weaves around a snow-covered garden lined with beautiful evergreen trees.
By day, skaters enjoy a sunny winter wonderland. But by night, the twinkle lights are aglow under the moonlight, creating a magical experience unlike any other (talk about a great date spot!).
In true Evergreen fashion, the skating rink uses a sustainable refrigeration system called ECO CHILL, which cools the ice and reuses any excess heat to warm the adjacent Marketplace building.
Best of all, admission to the skating rink is free, and it's open every weekend from December to March, weather permitting.
Have your own skates? Bring them with you and get them sharpened on-site. Skate rentals are also available for those without a pair.
And for anyone looking to learn how to skate, there are a variety of lessons available for all ages.
If hiking is more your thing, you’ll love the snowy trails of Don River Valley Park. Connected to the Evergreen Brick Works site, the park spans 2 sq km (200 hectares), taking you from Pottery Road down to Corktown Common on the Waterfront.
If you only have 20 minutes to spare for a hike, make your way to the Chester Hill Lookout Path for an unmatched view of Toronto’s winter skyline.
Also see: Amazing Toronto Winter Workouts for Scenic Sights & Lights
Adventure 2: Heighten your taste buds at the Farmers’ Market
Did you know Evergreen Brick Works is home to Toronto's largest farmers' market? Held on Saturdays year-round, it offers the widest variety of local and seasonal food in the city.
Shop over 60 vendors, including local farmers, producers, entrepreneurs and chefs. Hailing from different parts of Ontario, they offer a range of locally made products, from fish, produce, cheese and baked goods to kombucha and artisanal nuts.
The farmers’ market is also great for finding sustainable and eco-friendly gifts. Check out Omo Bamboo for zero-waste household goods and bodycare and Board Out Of My Mind for locally crafted hardwood cutting boards and charcuterie platters.
The Farmers’ Market runs outdoors from May to November and indoors from November to April.
Adventure 3: Find some greenery at the Evergreen Garden Market
If you want to add to your garden or make your condo flourish, the Evergreen Garden Market provides a selection of native Ontario plants that will do just the trick.
This sustainable garden market incorporates aspects of a general store and a contemporary gift shop to make this spot the perfect place to find a great gift or treat for yourself.
Expect to see home decor, local food, books, children’s toys, garden tools and, of course, a rotation of seasonal greenery.
No matter what you walk into the market looking for, you’re almost guaranteed to step away with something unique.
Getting to Evergreen Brick Works
Take the Line 1 Yonge-University subway to Davisville station, then catch the 28 Bayview bus southbound.
About Evergreen Brick Works
Situated in the Don Valley ravine system, this picturesque destination offers an escape from the bustle of the city, a variety of seasonal activities and a whole lot of hygge (the Danish art of living cozy).
Evergreen Brick Works is a public space on Bayview Avenue that focuses on sustainability, recreation, education and green design initiatives.
Its rich history dates back to 1889 when it was the site of a quarry and brick-making factory called the Don Valley Brick Works.
In 2010, Canadian non-profit organization Evergreen transformed the collection of abandoned heritage buildings into the dynamic cultural centre and verdant indoor/outdoor space it is today.
Open year-round, Evergreen Brick Works hosts public markets, conferences, public art exhibitions and other events.
