Toronto, the bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture, thriving arts scene, and vibrant nightlife, is also a hotspot for celebrity sightings. From Hollywood actors to world-renowned athletes, Toronto offers ample opportunities to catch a glimpse of your favorite stars in their natural habitat. Here’s a curated list of the celebrity hotspots where you might rub shoulders with the rich and famous in the city.
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The Top Celebrity Hotspots Around the City
Yorkville is an upscale neighborhood and the nucleus for celebrities seeking luxury shopping and fine dining. Keep your eyes peeled around Bloor Street, where you might spot A-listers like Drake, who is known to frequent local boutiques and restaurants, or athletes like Kyle Lowry or Kawhi Leonard indulging in some retail therapy.
The Ritz-Carlton Toronto is a five-star hotel haven for visiting celebrities, who often stay here during film festivals or concert tours. Past guests have included George Clooney, Jennifer Aniston, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
During the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the area around the TIFF Bell Lightbox becomes celebrity central. You are guaranteed to spot any Hollywood royalty walking the red carpet, attending exclusive film screenings, shopping close by, or drinking and eating anywhere around King St. W. and John St.
1 Hotel’s Harriet Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, which was previously the Thompson Hotel, has stunning views of the city skyline, the rooftop lounge has the perfect CN Tower backdrop to any evening out as a popular hangout for both locals and celebrities alike.
The Drake Hotel, not to be confused with the rapper of the same name, is a cultural institution known for its live music, art exhibits, and celebrity sightings. Past guests have included Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Lauren Conrad, Kate Bosworth and members of the Toronto Raptors.
Rosedale is an affluent neighborhood that is home to some of Toronto’s wealthiest residents. Take a stroll along the tree-lined streets, and you might catch a glimpse of stars like Geddy Lee, or Gordon Lightfoot’s old home 5 Beaumont Road.
What A Bagel at Spadina and Queen: This humble bagel shop became a hotspot for Toronto Blue Jays players seeking a pre-game smoothie during any of their recent post-season years. Fans flocked to What A Bagel in hopes of catching a glimpse of their favorite athletes sitting on the patio indulging in bagels and lox before hitting the field.
Queen Street West is known for its trendy vibe and eclectic shops, and is a favorite for many musicians and artists to hang around in. Look out for Canadian indie darlings like Feist grabbing a coffee. But tucked away in Toronto’s Kensington Market is Sonic Boom, a beloved independent record store known for its vast collection of vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia. While browsing through the aisles, you might spot local musicians like members of Broken Social Scene digging through crates in search of rare finds.
Kensington Market is a bohemian neighborhood and a favorite among creative types and foodies. While wandering its colourful streets, you might bump into stars like Rachel McAdams or Ryan Gosling grabbing a bite at one of the area’s eclectic eateries. Also in Kensington Market is Blackbird Baking Co., a cozy bakery specializing in artisanal bread and pastries. Despite its modest size, it has become a favorite haunt for celebrities such as actor Michael Cera and musician Emily Haines, who appreciate its freshly baked goods and relaxed atmosphere.
Celebrity Sightings Beyond the Six
While not in Toronto proper, Cottage Country, particularly the Muskoka region, is a popular retreat for celebrities seeking privacy and relaxation. Many notable figures, including Justin Bieber, Drake, Shania Twain, Martin Short, Cindy Crawford, Kurt Russell, and Goldie Hawn have spent summers in Muskoka cottage country. With its scenic lakes and upscale resorts, it is a common destination for celebrity sightings visiting during the summer months, in the summer of 2023 the Beckham family, where David and Victoria Beckham were spotted enjoying some time on the water.
So, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of your favorite celebrity in and around Toronto, be sure to keep these hotspots in mind. Who knows? You might just find yourself sharing a sidewalk and maybe a selfie with a celebrity.
Interested in finding a home in any of these celebrity zones? Contact one of our agents, they can help you find the best home in the city for year-round celebrity sightings!
