Overview
Long Branch is a charming, established neighbourhood along Toronto’s waterfront in the city’s southwest. It’s undergoing change with new home developments along Lakeshore Boulevard. The area offers great parks, a local arena, library, waterfront trail, Go Transit station, and a lively shopping district.
History
Long Branch was settled in 1797 by Colonel Samuel Smith. After his death, his estate was sold in 1871 to James Eastwood, who timbered the land. In 1883, developers created Long Branch Park, a popular summer resort. It became a year-round community after Lake Shore Boulevard was paved in 1916, and development continued through the 1920s to 1950s.
Lifestyle
The Long Branch BIA is all about improving the neighbourhood for everyone. They’ve added nautical blue lamp posts along Lake Shore Boulevard, complete with seasonal banners. The streetscape is enhanced with decorative brickwork, planter boxes, and benches. At Christmas, the street lights up with candy cane decorations. There’s also a fun Santa Claus parade every December. Over 125 shops, restaurants, and local businesses line the street, creating a vibrant, village-like vibe along “Toronto’s Village by the Lake.”
Homes
North of Lake Shore, the homes are smaller wiThe oldest homes in Long Branch are found along Lake Promenade between Long Branch Avenue and 38th Street, dating back to when the area was a resort community. Many have been renovated over the years but still feature original elements like turrets and front porches. South of Lake Shore Boulevard, you’ll find 1920s to 1940s brick and frame homes, including bungalows and 2-storey houses, some of which have been replaced with custom-built homes. th narrower lots, but the pride of ownership is evident, with new townhouses adding to the mix.
Recreation
Marie Curtis Park offers a beach, picnic areas, and a playground, connecting to the Toronto Waterfront and Etobicoke Creek Trails. Nearby parks like Colonel Samuel Smith and Long Branch Park feature scenic views, concerts, and outdoor activities. Birch Park has tennis courts, and the Long Branch Centennial Arena offers skating and hockey. The James S. Bell Community School hosts youth events, while the Long Branch Public Library offers programs for kids and seniors.
Transportation
Long Branch has a Go Transit station on Lakeshore Boulevard, with bus service to Union Station and the subway. Downtown Toronto is just a 15-minute drive via Lakeshore Boulevard, and commuters have easy access to the QEW and Highway 427 from Browns Line.
Long Branch Stats
Neighbourhood content from neighbourhoodguide.com