This blog was produced in partnership with Evergreen Brick Works.
Welcome to Evergreen Brick Works, a community hub in the heart of Toronto. Constantly working towards sustainability through fun events and the best hiking trails in the city!
Explore what makes Evergreen Brick Works a must-visit destination in Toronto, learn about the history, and choose the best activities (from a huge list of options) available for you.
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About Evergreen
Evergreen is a non-profit organization operating across Canada transforming public spaces in our cities to build a healthier future for people and our planet. By refreshing urban spaces, a sustainable lifestyle strengthens community connections.
Evergreen built and opened Evergreen Brick Works from an abandoned industrial site in Toronto. With the goal of bringing nature to the people in the city, Evergreen Brick Works now sees 500,000+ visitors every year.
The History Behind the Name
Evergreen Brick Works dates back to 1889 when it was originally known as the Don Valley Brick Works. The site was a major producer of bricks used in many of Toronto’s iconic buildings, like Casa Loma and Massey Hall
Brick production at the Don Valley Brick Works ended in 1984 due to changes in building materials and a decline in demand. The site was left abandoned until Evergreen Brick Works transformed it into the community space we see today.
In 2010, Evergreen opened the doors to Evergreen Brick Works, turning the once-industrial site into a leading example of adapting unused spaces for the community to use and enjoy.
Named one of the top 10 ecotourism destinations in the world by National Geographic, Evergreen Brick Works is your gateway to the Don Valley Brick Works Park: a 40-acre park with trails, ponds, and Toronto skyline views.
“Evergreen Brick Works is Toronto’s backyard. Whether you come here to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Don Valley, bring your kids for Weekend Nature Play, or participate in our many events, festivals, tours and markets, this space is for everyone. We hope the connections you forge here help make Toronto home.”
– Jen Angel, CEO of Evergreen Brick Works.
What to do at Evergreen Brick Works
Whether you’re interested in environmental education, local arts and crafts, or simply looking for a day out in nature, there’s always something happening here. Start your visit with a guided tour to learn more about the space!
Picnic Cafe
Stop for breakfast, brunch, and lunch every day. Try coffee, pastries, or pasta. Picnic Cafe also offers over 400 wine brands, craft beer, liquors from around the world, and gift baskets for sale in-store. See Picnic’s opening hours here.
Evergreen Garden Market
Did you know the Evergreen Garden Market sells Toronto’s largest collection of plants native to Ontario? The classic general store is now a gift shop and a sustainable garden center combined into one market. Find out when the Garden Market is open here.
Weekend Nature Play
Play and learn outside with the little ones. Using their natural surroundings, children have the chance to explore a wild landscape. This free, year-round, supervised outdoor program is for all ages and abilities. Plan your visit for when Weekend Nature Play is open every Saturday and on select Sundays.
Farmers Markets
One of the most popular events at Evergreen Brick Works is the Saturday Farmers Market. Held every Saturday all year long, this market is the largest one in Toronto offering local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food. It’s a great place to support local farmers and small businesses. Did you know that supporting local businesses reduces your carbon footprint?
Workshops and Classes
Evergreen Brick Works also hosts numerous workshops and classes. These range from gardening and cooking workshops with Newcomer Kitchen to sustainability and environmental education sessions. They provide a hands-on learning experience for people of all ages.
Seasonal Programming
There are free and low-cost events happening at Evergreen Brick Works all year round! This summer, Evergreen is hosting Outdoor Eats, a pop-up food market featuring international cuisines every Thursday – Sunday until September 2, 2024. There will also be Free Outdoor Movie Nights this summer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with community, spend time with friends and family and enjoy an open-air movie at Evergreen Brick Works!
This fall, Evergreen is excited to be hosting the Tastes of Home festival, which will feature food vendors, art and music from around the world. You can also look forward to the Good Mourning Festival, a 2-day celebration that includes Evergreen’s Day of the Dead celebration.
In the winter, keep an eye out for free public ice-skating and lessons for both kids and adults. Plus, Evergreen will be hosting its annual Winter Market, a place for everyone to come together to experience the magic of the season.
They are always bringing new and returning visitors something spectacular to experience.
Best Hikes Near Toronto: Discover Evergreen Brick Works Trails
The trails here are well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels. You can even bring your dogs along to enjoy the outdoor spaces, including the hiking trails and the Don Valley Brick Works Park. However, it’s important to keep furry friends on a leash and clean up after them.
What are the best hikes in downtown Toronto?
- Beltline Trail
- Crothers Woods
- Mud Creek Trail
Beltline Trail
The Beltline Trail is a fan favourite. This trail follows an old railway line and provides a scenic route. It’s a great trail for jogging, walking, or biking.
Crothers Woods
Crothers Woods is another popular trail that winds through the forest, offering a more rugged hiking experience. The trail is known for its beautiful fall colours from September to November. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city, this is the trail for you!
Mud Creek Trail
The Mud Creek Trail connects Evergreen Brick Works to other parts of the Don Valley, making it a great starting point for longer hikes. The trail is relatively flat – easy for families and casual hikers.
Directions and Parking
You can easily get to the Evergreen Brick Works via public transit and bike paths. Don’t forget to look for the free shuttle bus. Running seven days a week, all year round, you can get picked up and dropped off at Broadview Station.
Visitors can also access Evergreen Brick Works from the Don Valley Parkway by taking the Bayview Avenue exit from Highway 401. Parking is available on-site, but for an added cost ($2-$10 depending on how long you are parking for).
Stay Connected with Evergreen Brick Works
Subscribe to the What’s On e-newsletter for updates on events and programs. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and photos.
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