Alderwood, Etobicoke Neighbourhood Guide: Close to the Heart of Toronto

Alderwood is a region in Etobicoke that has been urbanized enough to give you a taste of city life. With the sights and appeal of the big city less than half an hour away, Alderwood lets you stay in touch with the modern world while enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle. 

The proximity to Toronto has brought newer developments to the area. However, the old world charm of the mid-90s is still visible as you drive through the neighbourhood.

Originally a part of Colonel Sam Smith’s land, Alderwood was officially established in 1918 as New Toronto Park, also known as New Toronto Heights. The construction of the Queen Elizabeth Way in the 1930s kept Alderwood separate from the Etobicoke township, but European immigration led to fast development within the area after the Second World War. 

The area borrows its name from the plentiful alder trees. The word Alderwood is derived from Etobicoke, an Indigenous word meaning “Place where the alder trees grow.” 

You can see a distinct influence of post Second World War architecture in Alderwood, as many single-family homes were constructed after the war when industrialization and immigration to the area were on the rise. 

Red brick exteriors and sloping roofs on low-rise, single and two-storey houses define the residential areas of the neighbourhood, while modern, glass condo buildings can be found in the recently developed areas. Traces of European styles of architecture can still be seen in Alderwood.

Housing prices, although not as expensive as Toronto, are still high because of the location and newer constructions. 

The area offers several events and community activities to participate in. If you enjoy art, the Donna Child Fine Art Gallery is less than a 10-minute drive. Arts Etobicoke is a charitable organization that hosts many events and projects to promote arts and culture. The short driving distance to Toronto also opens up multiple options for exploration. 

Sherway Gardens and Alderwood Mall are one-stop solutions for many shopping needs. Get your retail fix at stores like Urban Outfitters, Aldo, American Eagle Outfitters, Apple, Bath & Body Works, Forever 21, H&M, Gamestop, Michael Kors, New Balance, and JCPenny. For budget shoppers, the Dixie Outlet mall is just a five-minute drive.

Kids can have their fun as well, with places like Build A Bear and Toys at Macy’s. If you’re looking for alternatives, East Mall Industrial CT and SmartCentres Etobicoke are also nearby. For your home furnishing needs, try the Etobicoke IKEA.

If you’re a fan of global cuisine and love trying new dishes from around the world, you won’t be disappointed in what Alderwood has to offer. Thai Barn Na serves authentic Thai cuisine, Leziz Kitchen is your option for Turkish take-out, and Feast of Dilli gives you a taste of Indian food in the heart of Alderwood. 

Via Allegro is an excellent fine dining place for people who enjoy Italian food paired with great wine. Barbecue restaurants, eastern European cuisine, and Latin food are also within driving distance. For fast-food lovers, Wendy’s, Chipotle, Burger King, KFC, and Taco Bell are available.

The Etobicoke Valley Park is a large, beautiful place with four ball diamonds, a playground, and a paved trail along the creek. The park has a beautiful view of the water and a large area for multiple activities. Alderwood Memorial Park is a small park with plenty of greenery. Whether you’re taking your pet for a walk or your kids to enjoy some time on the swings, this park has appeal. Smaller parks like Enfield Park and Douglas Park are also available for leisurely use. 

The Alderwood Centre hosts many recreational activities within its walls, including a large pool, gyms, leisure centres, spas, and libraries. It features a skating/hockey rink and the pool comes with swimming lessons and training for people of all ages. 

The best part about the Alderwood Centre is its located in the heart of Alderwood, which means that residents can easily walk to it.

Alderwood has access to TTC buses. Streetcar lines offer excellent connectivity within the area as well, making public transport convenient. The large roads and well-connected system also make cycling easier. 

Commute times to Downtown Toronto shouldn’t take longer than 20 minutes via the Gardiner Expressway East. The Toronto Pearson International Airport is less than 10 minutes away via 427 North.

Alderwood is a rapidly evolving and growing area situated just outside Toronto, making it a brilliant pick for people who do not want to be in the heart of a big city but still want access to everything a big city has to offer.