Brianna HarrisonIf you’ve ever wandered into Don Mills, you’ll know it’s the kind of place that quietly wins you over. In fact, it’s my go-to spot to grab a latte and people-watch, shop without the downtown crowds, or take a breezy walk through leafy paths.
What makes it special is how it blends big-city perks with small-town charm. Not only does it offer stylish shops and great eats, but it also has idyllic green spaces all within arm’s reach.
In this guide, I’m spilling the beans on this beautiful Toronto spot—insider tips, local gems, what-have-you—so that you can make the most of your Don Mills visit.
Where is Don Mills?
Don Mills is a neighborhood in the eastern part of North York, Toronto, Ontario. It’s roughly bordered by York Mills Road, Eglinton Avenue East, Leslie Street, and the Don Valley Parkway.
What is the main street in Don Mills?
The main street in Don Mills is generally considered Don Mills Road. It runs north-south right through the neighborhood and connects it to major routes like York Mills Road and Eglinton Avenue East.
How to Get to Don Mills
By Bus:
From downtown Toronto, hop on the 505 Dundas streetcar heading east and ride it all the way to Broadview Station. From there, switch to the 25A Don Mills bus, which takes you north through the city.
Get off at Don Mills Road near Chipping Road, then enjoy a short walk to the heart of Don Mills in North York.
By Car:
Head up Rosedale Valley Road and merge onto the Don Valley Parkway north. Take the exit for Chipping Road in North York, then follow it for a short drive to Park Glen Drive, right in the center of Don Mills.
By Bike:
Via bike, you’ll need to go through University Avenue, weave through Rosedale’s quiet lanes, cruise down Bayview, and tackle a few uphill climbs before rolling into The Donway and Don Mills Road.
Best Time to Go to Don Mills
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The best time to visit Don Mills is mid to late October, when the annual Fall Festival takes over CF Shops at Don Mills. The square comes alive with pumpkins, artisan markets, live music, and festive activities for all ages.
What to Do and See in Don Mills
Stroll the Don Mills Trail (Leaside Spur Trail)
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The Don Mills Trail is a great spot for walkers, runners, and cyclists, stretching about 3 km along what used to be an old CN railway line. You’ll see design nods to its past in the embedded railtracks, metal art circles, and historical plaques along the way.
Starting near York Mills Road and running south toward Eglinton, the trail connects residential pockets to parks and the Don Valley network.
I typically bring a coffee, take it slow, and keep an eye out for wildlife—I’ve taken pics of cardinals, squirrels, and the occasional hawk here. It’s also a very Insta-worthy route in the fall when the trees burst into color.
Check out the Shops at Don Mills Town Square
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The Shops at Don Mills isn’t your average mall—it’s an open-air “town square” lined with boutiques, restaurants, and art installations. It’s one of my favorite places to shop, grab a snack, and people-watch while sipping my favorite latte.
This cool space is also framed by a unique clock tower designed by Douglas Coupland, which is surrounded by playful house-shaped sculptures.
Don’t miss the various activities here, either. I just love hanging out at the square whenever there are local events like seasonal markets, live music, outdoor movie nights, and community fundraisers.
Visit Edward Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Garden
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Edwards Garden is a lush public park filled with winding paths, rose gardens, and shaded lawns. It’s popular for wedding photos, but it’s just as lovely for an unplanned stroll by yourself or with friends.
What’s cool is that the Don River West Branch runs through it, adding gentle water sounds to your walk. No wonder going here is one of the best things to do in North York.
Right next door, the Toronto Botanical Garden offers themed plots—from pollinator-friendly designs to edible gardens. They also host educational programs and seasonal displays.
Visiting both locations in one trip is an easy way to spend a relaxing, nature-filled afternoon.
Have a picnic and play at Bond Park
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Bond Park is one of the local green spaces that feels like a well-kept secret. With multiple baseball diamonds, tennis courts, open lawns, and a playground, it’s a go-to spot for casual sports and weekend family gatherings.
I love bringing a blanket and a picnic and settling in under a shady tree. Or, if I’m feeling lazy, I could grab takeout from the Shops at Don Mills, just a few minutes away.
In the summer, you might catch a friendly baseball tournament or kids’ soccer game, while in the winter, it’s famous for snowy walks and impromptu snowman contests.
Cool off at Don Mills Civitan Arena
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Don Mills Civitan Arena is a no-frills local rink where families, youth leagues, and casual hobbyists lace up their skates most winter weekends. The arena has a single, well-maintained ice pad and decent spectator seating.
Make sure to check the Toronto Parks schedule for public skating lessons, family skates, and even shinny hockey times.
I’ve been known to join pickup games here, practice a few laps, or just warm up with a hot chocolate in the lobby after watching a local league game.
Attend ArtWalk in the Square at CF Shops
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ArtWalk in the Square is a seasonal public art exhibit held at the central square of CF Shops at Don Mills.
Curated with both local and international artists, the displays change each year. This open-air gallery is often filled with dynamic and whimsical installations such as oversized sculptures, colorful murals, or interactive pieces.
In summer, glowing light installations brighten the evenings, and in fall, themed displays match the crisp and cozy vibe. This is definitely something I always look forward to in the neighborhood.
Where to Eat and Drink in Don Mills
Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar
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Website: https://scaddabush.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scaddabush/
Address: 67 O’Neill Rd
Hours:
- Mon – Wed, Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Thurs – Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (647) 254-1790
Craving for Italian food? Don Mills’ Scaddabush is your best bet.
We love that if they can make it from scratch, they do—for instance, their famous hand-stretched mozzarella is made fresh in-house daily. Plus, the menu is packed with authentic Italian favorites (like pasta and pizza) alongside creative cocktails.
Make sure to show up during Happy Hour: Monday to Friday from 2 PM to 5 PM and again from 9 PM until close. You can snag $2 off imported draughts, sangria, and spritzer cocktails, plus $6 glasses of wine.
JOEY
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Website: https://joeyrestaurants.com/location/joey-don-mills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joey-don-mills/
Address: 75 O’Neill Rd, 1090 Don Mills Rd., North York
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs, Sun: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Fri – Sat: 11 AM – 1 AM
Contact: (416) 445-6391
Located at CF Shops at Don Mills, JOEY is a spot that feels effortlessly stylish yet totally comfortable. This upscale-casual eatery is a perfect place to grab lunch or dinner, or just a drink on their all-season patio.
They’re known for unique starters like ahi tuna tacos, as well as steak-and-seafood combos (blue cheese sirloin, anyone?). But my favorite is their blackened chicken, which is served with warm potato salad, coleslaw, and creamy dressing.
As for drinks, their Happy Hour is a definite win, available in the lounge, bar, and patio. Plus, don’t miss their awesome deals like 50% off bottles of wine every Tuesday!
Where to Shop in Don Mills
CF Shops at Don Mills
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Website: https://shops.cadillacfairview.com/property/cf-shops-at-don-mills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CFshopsdonmills
Address: 1090 Don Mills Rd.
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (416) 447-6087
CF Shops at Don Mills is an open-air lifestyle centre that has a charming village vibe. It has stylish storefronts, wide pedestrian walkways, and plenty of spots to hang out in.
I love browsing high-end fashion here (well, let’s be honest, more like window shopping). And you could always find unique shops filled with locally made gifts and decor, as well as affordable fashion boutiques.
With restaurants like JOEY on site, it’s easy to turn your quick shopping trip into a whole afternoon out or a Happy Hour hang with friends.
McEwan Fine Foods
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Website: https://www.mcewanfoods.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcewanfoods/
Address: 38 Karl Fraser Rd, North York,
Hours:
- Mon – Wed: 8 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thurs – Fri: 8 AM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (416) 444-6262
McEwan Fine Foods is Chef Mark McEwan’s gourmet playground in the heart of Don Mills. This upscale market is filled with fresh produce, premium meats, artisan breads, and an irresistible deli and cheese section.
For something quick and yummy, grab ready-to-enjoy McEwan pre-packed meals. And meal lovers will want to try the McEwan Butcher Box, where all cuts are freshly butchered upon order.
Don’t forget to swing by the McEwan Wine & Beer section and choose from their carefully curated selection of premium wines, craft beers, and spirits.
Where to Stay near Don Mills
Pan Pacific Toronto
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Website: https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-toronto.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panpacifictoronto/
Address: 900 York Mills Rd, North York
Hours:
- Check in: 3 PM
- Check out: 11 AM
Contact: (416) 444-2511
Just a 6-minute drive away from Don Mills, Pan Pacific Toronto gives you the best of both worlds—peaceful green surroundings and easy access to the city. That’s because it’s set on 15 acres of parkland along the Don River Ravine!
The rooms are comfy, stylish, and stocked with the essentials. For instance, their Junior Suite offers two queen beds, a private balcony overlooking a nature reserve, and separate dining and lounge areas.
You can cool off in the seasonal outdoor pool, play a round of tennis, or hit the gym for a quick workout. And when hunger strikes, their Seasons Restaurant serves fresh Canadian dishes and custom cocktails.
Toronto Don Valley Hotel & Suites
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Website: https://www.torontodonvalleyhotel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontodvhotel/
Address: 175 Wynford Dr, North York, ON M3C 1J3
Hours:
- Check-in: 3 PM
- Check-out: 12 PM
Contact: (416) 449-4111
Toronto Don Valley Hotel & Suites is only a short 10-minute drive from Don Mills, and it’s also near the Aga Khan Museum.
Many rooms feature balconies or scenic ravine views, and come with modern touches like free WiFi, coffee makers, and a granite-topped bathroom.
Guests can enjoy two pools—an outdoor one with a sunny terrace and an indoor one under a glass ceiling. It also has a sauna and steam room, which is perfect for relaxing after a Don Mills day trip.
In addition to its onsite DV Bar & Bistro serving international dishes all day, it also has a poolside bar and a coffee shop.
