With rising gas prices, costly maintenance fees, and the high cost of a vehicle itself, Canadians are starting to wonder about the pros and cons of a car-free lifestyle. Even in major cities like Toronto, there are some neighbourhoods where having a car is more of a necessity than in others. The most important consideration is whether you can live comfortably without owning one.
Is it possible to commute to work, take your kids to daycare and school, run errands, dine out, and enjoy entertainment all on foot or by transit? This new series with highlight the best car-free neighborhoods, starting with living in Trinity Bellwoods.
Trinity-Bellwoods, Toronto
Trinity-Bellwoods ranks in the top three most walkable neighbourhoods in Toronto. It features numerous dedicated bike lanes and excellent access to public transportation. Many homes in the area are Victorian-style houses with original brickwork that date back to the 19th century, alongside high-rise buildings and condominiums. Beyond being a vibrant and historic residential area, Trinity Bellwoods is a popular destination thanks to its trendy restaurants, cozy cafes, and unique boutiques.
Community
Trinity-Bellwoods is home to approximately 16,800 residents from diverse cultural backgrounds, making it a rich and inclusive community. With strong Chinese and Portuguese populations, it blends a trendy, creative energy with a warm community feel. Trinity-Bellwoods is also well-suited for families who value city life and a close-knit community, with families with children making up roughly 28% of households in the neighbourhood.
Necessities
Multiple grocery stores, including Longo’s and No Frills, as well as Shoppers Drug Mart, are just a 15 to 20 minute walk, a 5 to 10 minute bike ride, or an 8 to 10 minute bus ride away. Essentials like gyms, pharmacies, and banks are also conveniently nearby, making it easy to go about your day without ever needing a car.
Schools in Trinity-Bellwoods
Trinity-Bellwoods is home to multiple impressive elementary schools, high schools, as well as several specialized academic programs. The neighbourhood has a total of twelve public schools, four Catholic schools, and one private school. Notably, Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Jr and Sr Public School, Harbord Collegiate Institute, and Pope Francis Catholic School are all just a short 5 to 10-minute walk away.
Green Space
The neighborhood is home to five parks and more than 35 recreational facilities. This includes playgrounds, dog parks, skating rinks, and sports fields. At the heart of it all is the iconic Trinity-Bellwoods Park, where residents can enjoy free concerts, picnics, and even have their portraits drawn by local artists. This 14.6-hectare park is one of the most popular and largest in the city, especially during the summer months.
Things to Do
Living in Trinity-Bellwoods offers much more than just its parks and green spaces; the neighbourhood is also known for its vibrant visual arts scene and social energy. Several art galleries, including the Susan Hobbs Gallery and Pari Nadimi Gallery, showcase local and contemporary works. From early May to October, the Trinity-Bellwoods Farmers’ Market is open, offering fresh produce, fruits, and other locally sourced goods.
There are also plenty of cafes within a 6-8 minute walk of Trinity-Bellwoods Park, including:
- Woolshed Coffee – “hole-in-the-wall coffee shop”, perfect for a solo coffee date or quiet catch-up with friends
- Sonndr Cafe – warm and modern interior with comfy seating, ideal for a coffee break after a stroll through the neighbourhood
- Cafe 23 – a cozy, relaxed cafe filled with plants and features a back patio
Public Transportation
Although Trinity-Bellwoods isn’t in the downtown core, it still offers excellent access to public transit. The 501 Queen streetcar runs directly along the edge of the park, while the 504 King streetcar serves nearby streets, providing convenient connections throughout the neighbourhood.
Nearby Neighborhoods
Trinity-Bellwoods is within walking distance of other vibrant neighbourhoods, such as Ossington and Little Portugal, which are popular for their trendy shopping spots, restaurants, and cafes, creating a lively atmosphere similar to Trinity-Bellwoods. With its mix of parks and cultural spots, it makes a great place for individuals looking to live in neighbourhoods similar to Trinity-Bellwoods.
Trinity-Bellwoods: Walkable, Bikeable, and Easy Access to Transit
Living in Trinity-Bellwoods means you can comfortably get by without owning a car. With high scores for walking, biking, and public transit, plus easy access to parks, schools, cafés, and grocery stores, it’s the perfect neighbourhood for those who get around without a vehicle.
Looking for homes in the area? Explore our listings today!