Rosedale has long been one of Toronto’s finest neighbourhoods. Many of the city’s who’s who of business and the arts grew up in Rosedale; Ted Rogers comes to mind as one. As one can imagine, there is plenty of space for a family to live in these grand century-plus Rosedale homes. The charm and character make for an alluring draw for many families. It’s also worth noting that those who can afford a house in Rosedale benefit from the ease and accessibility of Yonge Street, which provides all that a family could desire, from toy stores to restaurants and cafes, and there are a few parks, including Ramsden Park.
Rosedale homes offer excellent value growth over the long term. The acquisition cost is certainly higher than nearly every neighbourhood in the city, but there always remains a long waiting list of young families looking to move into the neighbourhood. It’s not a wonder considering the grandeur of houses, the century-old trees lining the winding streets, and, as we dive into below, the long list of family-oriented activities and education within the Rosedale community.
Searching for more family-friendly neighbourhoods in Toronto? Click here to read my blog ranking the best communities for families in the city.
What is Rosedale Like?
Rosedale is a safe and family-centric neighbourhood that offers the space, nature, and accessibility to all that one family could ask for. We have always loved the houses and streets of Rosedale. Not to mention the long history of artists and the families who have built and run some of Canada’s most successful businesses.
The Rosedale neighbourhood is steeped in historical significance and built primarily in Toronto’s great era, the 1880s through to 1920 – the houses are large, intricately designed with an architecturally significance differentiating point. You often catch us in the area, taking it all in before and after showings with clients.
Parks
Parks and large stretches of nature remind us of what can matter in life: an escape from the cityscape and a focus inward and toward family connection. Playing, picnicking, climbing trees and splashing in puddles on a rainy day are wonderful ways to have fun. In fact, we think most people have childhood memories of playing in nature with their family and friends. Parks offer a refuge from the busyness of life and a great opportunity to reset as a family.
Most people who visit or are new to Toronto are shocked by our city’s many parks. Rosedale conceals one of the very best green stretches in the city. The ravine system that begins in Lawrence Park works through the city and goes through the heart of Rosedale. Not only is that ravine weaving through the city, but there is also Yellow Creek, which can be found by entering off of dead-end streets, all of which feel like a secret garden-like entrance. Dropping down into the ravine is a great escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s also worth noting that Chorley Park is likely one of the least frequented parks in the city and ties right into our beltline. Whether it’s tennis in the summer or skating our shinny at an ice rink at Ramsden Park or Rosedale Park, there are great year-round options for families.
An annual must is the Mayfair at Rosedale Park. This weekend fair (in May) is a fantastic time for the family. Three-legged races, rides, cotton candy, you name it.
Restaurants
One of the most popular family-oriented restaurants is Terroni’s on price. The pizza is a hit with the little ones. Whether it is enjoying summer afternoons on the rooftop or staying warm in the cozy main part of the restaurant, this is a great spot for families to enjoy. It’s common to arrive around 5 or 5:30 p.m. and see numerous families enjoying their early dinners.
With the closing of the Rosedale Diner, having a good brunch option has pivoted to the Pantry at Yonge and Roxborough as well as Bar Centrale (the street-level space of Terroni’s.) Both are great options and offer a good bite for the family to enjoy.
Searching for more family-oriented real estate content? Read these blogs next!
- Is The Annex, Toronto Safe?
- Best Family-Friendly Toronto Parks
- Guide to Buying and Selling Real Estate With Kids
Schools
Having local (excellent schools) nearby simplifies family life, with less driving and more walking as a family. And, in the years to come, more independence for the children to walk home safely within the Rosedale neighbourhood versus public transit and commuting longer distances.
Many families in Rosedale choose to send their kids to the most prestigious independent schools in the city, like:
Not all of these are within Rosedale; however, all of them are reasonable drives.
Often overlooked is how great the public education system is within Rosedale, like Rosedale Public School and Whitney Jr. Public School. Some of the best public schools resist in Toronto’s finest neighbourhood partly because of parental involvement from participating in parent-teacher interviews, valuing education, and an often overlooked fundraising component that helps top up financial shortfalls from the board of education.
We frequently see clients start their kids in the public system and then transfer them to the private school system in the later junior grades before high school. Rosedale PS is renowned for strong academic standards, small community feel, and smaller classes ( in part because many parents send their children to the independent schools listed above.) Whitney also has excellent academic standards while situated in a leafy part of Moore Park; it’s quite an idyllic locale.
Staying Active, Clubs, & Facilities
The Toronto Lawn Tennis Club is often the first to come to mind. However, it’s worth noting that the Badminton and Racquet Club of Toronto is another option within walking distance. Rosedale families love walking to the clubs, enjoying a weekend brunch, and participating in summer camps. The ease and simplicity of life are big bonuses, not to mention the social boost that one gets by staying within the community with other like-minded families.
Searching for the perfect Toronto neighbourhood to call home? I’m here to help. Reach me by email at ryan@ryanroberts.ca or call 416-925-9191.
