Richmond Hill

Between cinemas and vast malls, this diverse neighborhood also features many pretty parks and stunning natural areas. 

Stroll through streets lined with department stores and clothing shops or practice your swing at one of five golf courses in Richmond Hill. Explore tranquil parks or swim in cool glacial lakes.

Richmond Hill is one of the more multicultural parts of Greater Toronto. The friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere is complemented by the contrasting range of activities and attractions available. Wander down Yonge Street as it cuts through the middle of town and discover a wealth of shops and retail parks of all sizes. Visit in June for the annual Heritage Village Festival.

For a bit more variety in one place, drive south to Hillcrest Mall. More than 130 stores include the Hudson’s Bay anchor store as well as household favorites such as Gap, Footlocker, The Body Shop and Claire’s Boutique. Stop at the food court or one of several restaurants.

Outdoor lovers can spend hours visiting as many as 100 parks and green spaces in and around Richmond Hill. Walk west from the bustling streets to relax beside the pond at Twickenham Park or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the forested Trans-Richmond Trail.

Continue to the northern part of the city to discover the gorgeous Oak Ridges Moraine. These ancient glacial pools add another fascinating element to the region and provide stunning scenery. Lake Wilcox off Bayview Avenue is the largest of these pools and is popular with swimmers and small boats. Lie on the sand at Sunset Beach Park far away from the noisy crowds of the inner city.

Golfers meanwhile can choose from five courses offering superb facilities and championship course designs. Eagles Nest Golf Club on the western side of town is a popular choice along with Maple Downs Golf and Country Club to the north.

Richmond Hill is an hour’s drive north of Toronto’s city center. Select accommodations from a handful of large hotels here or find more the closer you get to Toronto itself.