Welcome to Annex-Casa Loma
A vibrant yet peaceful area is full of picture-perfect architecture.
Just ten minutes from downtown Toronto, Annex-Casa Loma is a jewel of Toronto neighbourhoods. The lush, gorgeous atmosphere is brought to life by the romantic backdrops throughout the neighbourhoods, aided not only by stunning architecture but also by a real castle, Casa Loma.
Built-in 1911 by a foundational member, Sir William Henry Mill Pellatt, Casa Loma defined the opulent, architecturally significant ambiance of the area, even giving one of the neighbourhoods the name “Casa Loma.” Two neighbourhoods that border one another, the Annex-Casa Loma locale is perfect for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life and a calm, friendly atmosphere without wanting to sacrifice access to a bustling downtown full of city amenities.
Annex-Casa Loma is bursting with eye-catching architecture and great community. Most homes in Annex were built around the 1880-1930s, while Casa Loma grew throughout the early 1900s, from 1905 to the 1930s. The homes are gorgeous and built in a range of styles. The Annex unfurls with tree-lined streets dotted by architectural styles such as Victorian, Queen Anne, Richardsonian, and Romanesque. Casa Loma is home to spacious, stately homes in the Tudor, Georgian, Edwardian, and English Cottage styles. It also boasts some luxury condos in the area, offering the best of both worlds.
Things to Love
- Friendly neighbourhood atmosphere
- Grandeur on minor and major scales
- More spacious than downtown
- Extensive local history
- Plenty of green space and recreational opportunities
Local Lifestyle
The Annex beautifully melds culture, calm, and vibrancy throughout its eclectic streets. Affluent and stately, there’s a perfect mix of long-time residents, nearby Toronto University students, newer families, and others all love the area, helping to give it a dynamic ambiance. Casa Loma enjoys much of the same vibe as the Annex but with an extra emphasis on peaceful friendliness. Considered a quiet oasis from the bustling nature of city life, Casa Loma is known for its arts scene and prestige.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Residents of the Annex-Casa Loma enjoy easy access to downtown and other destinations. The area brims with ideal destinations for the discerning foodie, shopping enthusiast, and more.
The paragon of shopping in the Annex, Bloor Street, is overwhelmed with clothiers, cafes, local gems, historical hot spots, and boutiques. It is even home to one of Toronto’s last independent cinemas, Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema. Locals love spending a leisurely weekend strolling the grand streets while checking out unique stores like Monkey’s Paw before grabbing a bite to eat at mainstays like The Annex Food Hall.
On the other hand, while Casa Loma is revered for its gorgeous residential vibe, it also has more than its fair share of access to incredible dining and shopping opportunities. Everyday needs can be easily taken care of with the nearby Bathurst and St. Clair shopping districts, while fine dining, luxury brands, and professional services are all available on Spadina Road.
Things to Do
Like its surprising access to non-stop entertainment and top-tier eateries, the Annex-Casa Loma neighbourhoods are not lacking in recreational options. Between ample access to lush greenery, top-of-the-line equipment, and a strong community vibe, the area is full of opportunities.
The Sir Winston Churchill Park offers fully-lit tennis courts, running routes, verdant surroundings, children’s playgrounds, and even a local tennis club. The whole family can enjoy the connection with nature and each other in this luxurious outdoor experience. As if that weren’t enough, the rich forests and natural surroundings tucked around Casa Loma, such as Nordheimer Ravine, provide atmospheric surroundings and beautiful escapes any day of the week.
The Annex, of course, enjoys a great wealth of recreation. With traveling college students as at home as family-friendly engagements, everyone and anyone can find a perfect way to spend an evening here. While it shares access to the same parks as Casa Loma, it also boasts many cultural centers and museums such as the Bata Shoe Museum, Royal Ontario Museum, and the Annex Theatre.
Schools
The Annex-Casa Loma area is home to many top-tier educational opportunities. Served by much excellent public and private options, top options include:
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