Markham, Ontario, offers the perfect escape from the city’s hustle. A charming, picture-perfect destination awaits just north of Toronto. Planning a weekend getaway to Main Street Unionville might be exactly what you need to relax and recharge.
This historic village feels like stepping back in time, but with all the modern comforts you appreciate. Imagine cobblestone-like paths, heritage buildings, and friendly faces lining Main Street. A Main Street Unionville weekend getaway offers a delightful blend of history, shopping, dining, and natural beauty just waiting to be explored.
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Getting to Your Unionville Escape
Reaching the historic core of street Unionville is quite simple, making it perfect for a quick weekend trip away from the daily grind. It's located within the city of Markham, Ontario, part of the Greater Toronto Area. If you're driving from downtown Toronto, expect the trip to take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending heavily on traffic conditions.
The most common route involves taking Highway 404 North and exiting at Highway 7 East. Follow Highway 7 for a short distance; clear signs will direct you toward the historic Main Street Unionville area. Ample parking can usually be found in designated municipal lots off the main strip and along some side streets, but always check posted signs for restrictions, especially during busy festival weekends or sunny summer afternoons.
Using public transit is also a viable alternative. GO Transit provides train and bus services that connect Union Station in downtown Toronto directly to Unionville GO Station. From the station, you can catch a York Region Transit (YRT) bus for a short ride, or if you're feeling energetic, it's a manageable walk (around 20-30 minutes) to the heart of Main St Unionville.
Where to Stay Near Main Street
While Main Street is primarily focused on shops, restaurants, and art galleries, excellent lodging options are available nearby in the wider Toronto Markham area. The Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa is a popular choice, just a short drive from the historic village. It offers spacious suites and a range of amenities for a comfortable stay.
Several other reputable hotels are conveniently located within Markham, catering to various budgets. Consider options like the Delta Hotels Toronto Markham by Marriott or the Toronto Marriott Markham for reliable comfort and service. The Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Toronto Markham and the Monte Carlo Inn & Suites Downtown Markham provide additional choices, often with amenities like pools or fitness centers, great for enhancing your weekend escape.
For those seeking something closer or with a different vibe, exploring inns or bed & breakfasts in the surrounding residential areas might yield charming results. Websites like Airbnb or VRBO often list vacation rentals, including private rooms or entire homes, potentially within walking distance or a very quick drive to main content areas like Main Street. Booking accommodation well in advance is highly recommended, particularly during the summer months, fall colour season, or when major local events like the Unionville Festival are scheduled.
Exploring the Charm: Things to Do on Your Main Street Unionville Weekend Getaway
The true appeal of Unionville reveals itself as you begin exploring Main Street on foot. The street is exceptionally walkable, making it simple to meander from art gallery showings to cozy cafes. Prepare yourself to be captivated by the beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and the genuinely welcoming atmosphere.
Stroll and Shop
Main Street Unionville is a delightful experience for shoppers, particularly if you enjoy discovering independent boutiques rather than large chain retailers. Here, the focus is on curated selections and personal service. You will find shops offering stylish women's clothing, like Tucci Armadio, alongside stores selling distinctive gifts, captivating art, home décor items, and various artisanal goods.
Allocate plenty of time to wander in and out of the inviting storefronts. You'll encounter galleries proudly showcasing the work of local and Canadian artists, charming craft shops filled with handmade treasures, and stores offering gourmet foods or nostalgic candy. It's the ideal setting to find a special memento of your trip or a thoughtful gift for someone back home.
Arts, Culture, and History
Unionville proudly displays its rich history at every turn. Numerous buildings lining Main Street date back to the 1800s, contributing significantly to the street's distinct character and visual appeal. Keep an eye out for historical plaques affixed to buildings, which often provide fascinating details about their past lives and former occupants.
A visit to the Varley Art Gallery of Markham is essential for anyone interested in arts and culture; it's conveniently located just a brief stroll from the main commercial strip. This respected public art gallery is named after Frederick Varley, a key member of Canada's famed Group of Seven landscape painters, who lived in Unionville later in his life. The Varley Art Gallery features inspiring Canadian art, with a special focus on the Varley art collection, alongside dynamic temporary exhibitions.
The gallery serves as a vital cultural hub for Markham and the region. It often showcases diverse artistic voices, helping visitors explore culture through various mediums. Exhibitions might include the powerful work of artists like Emma Nishimura, whose art often delves into her family's experiences as Japanese Canadians during War II, creating a deeply emotional experience for viewers through mediums like printmaking and exploring themes like bitter melon.
You may also encounter works reflecting Inuit heritage, featuring artists like Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona, known for her prints and drawings that connect to her artistic lineage. Keep an eye out for exhibitions featuring talented local artists, too, such as the Markham-based artist Karen Kar Yen Law; viewing her latest work can provide insight into the contemporary art scene. Check the gallery's official website for current exhibition schedules, admission details, and operating hours before your visit.
Consider taking a walking tour to gain deeper insights into the village's fascinating past. These tours, sometimes offered seasonally by the Unionville BIA or private operators, can illuminate Unionville's origins as a milling community on the banks of the Rouge River and its evolution over the centuries. You might find details about a free guided walking tour option if you check local resources.
Enjoying Nature
If you need a peaceful break from the lively atmosphere of Main Street, Toogood Pond Park is conveniently located practically adjacent to the village core. This beautiful community park features accessible walking trails that loop around the scenic Toogood Pond. It provides a welcome dose of nature right nearby.
It's a wonderful location for a leisurely stroll, observing local birdlife (including ducks and geese), or simply finding a park bench to relax and enjoy the view. During autumn, the changing leaves surrounding the pond create a truly stunning and photogenic backdrop. If winter conditions permit and the municipality deems it safe, the pond sometimes freezes over sufficiently for community ice skating.
You can easily spend an hour or two soaking in the tranquility of the park. It offers a lovely natural counterpoint to the historic streetscape of Main St Unionville. If the weather is agreeable, consider packing a small picnic to enjoy by the water's edge.
Dining Delights in Unionville
You certainly won't face a shortage of dining options during your weekend getaway to Unionville. Main Street and its immediate vicinity boast an impressive and diverse array of cafes, restaurants, and pubs. There's truly something available to satisfy almost every taste preference and budget.
Casual Cafes and Sweet Treats
Begin your day of exploration or pause for an afternoon refreshment at one of the many charming cafes scattered along Main Street. Grab a specialty coffee, a comforting tea, and perhaps a freshly baked pastry while you absorb the pleasant village atmosphere. Many cafes offer inviting outdoor seating during warmer weather, perfect for people-watching.
And definitely don't forget about dessert. You'll easily find tempting spots offering delicious ice cream, handcrafted chocolates, classic baked goods, and other sweet indulgences. Enjoying a cold treat on a warm day is a simple pleasure here.
Restaurants for Every Palate
From cozy, intimate bistros to more upscale dining establishments, Unionville delivers a wide range of culinary experiences. You can readily find restaurants specializing in Italian, contemporary Canadian, and Asian fusion cuisines, hearty pub fare, and much more. Many of these dining spots are situated within beautifully restored historic buildings, adding a layer of unique ambiance to your meal.
Popular choices often include restaurants featuring patios that overlook the bustling street scene or offer serene views of nearby Toogood Pond. Consider spots like Il Postino for Italian, Jakes on Main for pub classics, Ambiyan for Indian flavors, or the local favorite Nextdoor Restaurant for a refined experience. It is generally wise to make reservations in advance, especially for dinner service on Friday or Saturday evenings, as popular places can fill up quickly.
Pubs and Patios
For a more relaxed meal, a casual drink, or simply to soak up the local vibe, investigate the neighbourhood pubs. They typically offer a laid-back atmosphere and satisfying comfort food and often feature live music performances, particularly on weekend evenings. Enjoying a cold beverage on an outdoor patio is a quintessential Unionville experience during the pleasant spring, summer, and early fall months.
Seasonal Charm: When to Visit
Unionville is genuinely a year-round destination, with each distinct season offering its own appeal and set of activities. Summer brings the energy of bustling patios, various outdoor community events, and the full lush beauty of Toogood Pond Park. The annual Unionville Festival, typically held over a weekend in early June, is a major highlight attracting many visitors.
Fall is arguably one of the most picturesque times for a visit to Main Street Unionville. The vibrant autumn colours surrounding the pond and lining the historic street are truly spectacular, creating perfect photo opportunities. The crisp, pleasant weather is ideal for comfortable strolling and enjoying a warm beverage from a local cafe.
Winter transforms the village of Unionville into a festive, storybook setting. Tasteful holiday decorations adorn the streetlamps and storefronts, and special seasonal events often take place, adding to the magical atmosphere. Ice skating on Toogood Pond offers classic winter fun if temperatures drop sufficiently and conditions are safe.
Spring sees the village gradually awakening after the colder months. Flowers begin to bloom in planters and gardens, restaurant patios eagerly reopen for the season, and a sense of renewed energy permeates the air. It's a lovely period for a potentially quieter visit before the peak summer crowds arrive, allowing you to enjoy free exploration of the area.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions Unionville
If you have more time during your weekend stay, Unionville serves as an excellent base for exploring other interesting attractions within Markham and the broader York Region. The Markham Museum provides fascinating insights into the city's wider historical context and development, going beyond just the main street. It features a collection of historic buildings relocated to the site and engaging exhibits spread across its 25-acre grounds.
For those seeking more extensive retail therapy, Markville Shopping Centre, a large indoor mall with numerous stores and a food court, is located just a short drive away from the historic village. If you want to explore more natural landscapes or seek adventure, conservation areas like Bruce's Mill Conservation Area offer hiking trails and treetop trekking courses nearby. Checking out the modern architecture around downtown Markham can also offer a contrast to Unionville's heritage feel.
Sports enthusiasts might note the proximity of the Markham Pan Am Centre, a legacy venue from the 2015 Pan Am Games, which hosts various sporting events and offers community recreational facilities. While significantly further afield and better suited for a longer trip, some visitors might even use a stay in the Toronto Markham area as a jumping-off point for excursions to places like Niagara Falls, though a Main Street Unionville weekend getaway is primarily about enjoying the local charm. Many attractions Unionville visitors enjoy are within easy reach.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
To help make your trip to Main Street Unionville as smooth and enjoyable as possible, keep a few practical points in mind. As mentioned, parking can be competitive, especially during festivals, special events, or on particularly sunny weekend afternoons. Arriving earlier in the day or considering a visit during the week or slightly off-peak times might make finding a spot easier.
Definitely wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll likely be doing a significant amount of strolling along the main street, browsing shops, and potentially exploring the trails around Toogood Pond. Main Street itself is mostly flat and generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some older heritage buildings may have steps leading into their entrances.
It's always a good idea to check local event calendars before you finalize your travel dates. The Unionville BIA (Business Improvement Area) website is an excellent resource for discovering information about upcoming festivals, farmers' markets, live music schedules, or special promotions. Knowing what specific events are happening can help you tailor your plans and make the most of your visit.
Most shops and restaurants accept major credit cards and debit, but having some cash on hand can be useful for smaller purchases or market vendors. Shop hours can vary, with many boutiques potentially closing earlier on Sundays or Mondays compared to peak times. Restaurants generally stay open later, especially on weekends, but checking specific hours online or calling ahead is never a bad idea.
Plan Your Escape: A Main Street Unionville Weekend Getaway
A historic Unionville visit offers a delightful escape without demanding extensive travel time, especially for those based in or near Toronto. With its undeniable historic charm, a unique collection of independent shops featuring items like women's clothing and local art, a diverse dining scene, and the adjacent natural beauty of Toogood Pond, it possesses all the essential ingredients for a wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable trip.
Planning your own Main Street Unionville weekend getaway is straightforward, and the pleasant memories you create strolling down that picturesque main street—perhaps after visiting the Varley Art Gallery or enjoying some ice cream—will surely linger long after you've returned home. All rights reserved for experiences like these should be claimed by everyone needing a break. Visit today and make the most of your time in Markham, Ontario.
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FAQs
Where is Main Street Unionville located?
Main Street Unionville is located in Markham, Ontario, just north of Toronto.
What can I do on a weekend getaway to Main Street Unionville?
You can explore boutique shops, dine at unique restaurants, walk around Toogood Pond, and visit the Varley Art Gallery.
Is Main Street Unionville good for families?
Yes, the area is very family-friendly, with parks, treats like ice cream shops, and a peaceful walking environment.
How far is Main Street Unionville from downtown Toronto?
It's about a 30–40 minute drive from downtown Toronto, depending on traffic.
When is the best time to visit Main Street Unionville?
Weekends in spring, summer, and fall are ideal when the weather is nice, and many local events or markets are active.
