Overview
Islington Village, in the heart of Etobicoke, blends history with charm. Its vibrant shopping district on Dundas West features 25 stunning murals by John Kuna, showcasing the area’s past. The neighbourhood offers boutique shopping, cozy dining spots, diverse housing options, plenty of green space, and easy transit access. Mimico Creek and Islington Golf Club add to its scenic appeal.
History
Islington Village began in the early 1800s as a small hub along Dundas Street West, with shops, churches, a school, and the historic Montgomery Inn—now a museum at 4709 Dundas St. W. Originally called Mimico, the village was renamed Islington in 1858 to avoid confusion with the lakeshore community. The Islington Burial Grounds, dating back to 1807, is one of Toronto’s oldest cemeteries.
Lifestyle
Islington Village on Dundas West blends an upscale vibe with small-town charm. It features gourmet food shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants, and unique boutiques. The area is rich in arts and history, home to Arts Etobicoke, Creative Village, The Music Studio, and Montgomery’s Inn. Further west in Dunbloor, you’ll find retail plazas, restaurants, medical offices, and salons. Known for its stunning murals, the village showcases local history, from volunteer firefighters to Hurricane Hazel. Visitors can enjoy walking tours and cultural events like Doors Open Toronto and Culture Days.
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Homes
Islington features a mix of classic homes from the 1930s-50s, including Georgian, Colonial, Tudor, and Cape Cod styles, along with ranch bungalows and split-levels. Many sit on spacious lots, some backing onto Islington Golf Course. The area is also seeing more custom-built homes that complement its historic charm.
Recreation
Montgomery’s Inn, a historic gem on Dundas St. West, is now a museum hosting festivals, a farmers’ market, lectures, and cozy afternoon teas. Nearby, Islington Golf Club offers a family-friendly, par-72 course designed by Stanley Thompson. For tennis lovers, Rosethorn Park has three courts and a playground. The Islington Baseball League, running since 1952, offers programs for kids, including T-Ball and Rep teams.
Transportation
Buses on Islington and Kipling Avenues link to the Bloor-Danforth subway, with Kipling Station also connecting to GO Transit. Drivers are about 20 minutes from downtown via Bloor St. and just 10 minutes from Highway 401, giving easy access to Toronto’s major highways.
Islington Village Stats
