Kensington Market, Toronto - a man walking down a street next to tall buildings
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Kensington Market Toronto

4.6
·491k reviews·Toronto, Canada

Toronto's bohemian heart, Kensington Market is a vibrant hub of vintage shops, global eats, and colorful street art. A true feast for the senses!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Street festival vibes

CrowdHigh
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Kensington Market, Toronto - a man walking down a street next to tall buildings

Kensington Market Toronto

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Street festival vibes

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Toronto's bohemian heart, Kensington Market is a vibrant hub of vintage shops, global eats, and colorful street art. A true feast for the senses!

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's a bohemian haven with a vibrant mix of vintage shops, specialty food stores, and lively street art."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the unique shops and food stalls! :athletic_shoe:

💰 $20 Food Challenge

Try to sample delicious treats and viral food items within a budget. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Fashion Finds

Vintage Fashion Finds

Various vintage stores

Hunt for unique clothing, accessories, and leather jackets in a treasure trove of vintage shops.

TikTok
Global Culinary Delights

Global Culinary Delights

Throughout the market

Embark on a food crawl, sampling everything from Brazilian coxinhas to Mexican tacos and delicious pies.

TikTokReddit
Carlos House of Spice

Carlos House of Spice

Augusta Ave

Discover a vast array of spices, herbs, and unique ingredients at this beloved specialty shop.

Reddit
Kensington Parking Garage View

Kensington Parking Garage View

Baldwin Street

Ascend to the 4th floor for a surprisingly stunning panoramic view of the Toronto skyline.

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Eclectic Vibe

Kensington Market is a bohemian haven with vintage shops, specialty food stores, and vibrant street art. Prepare for a sensory overload and wear comfortable shoes for exploring its winding streets and unique boutiques. Reddit

Pedestrian Sundays for the Win

If possible, plan your visit for a Sunday when Kensington Market transforms into a pedestrian-only zone with street performers, food vendors, and a lively atmosphere. TikTok This is the best time to experience the full energy of the market. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Street festival vibes
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Full video with 22 hidden gems on my YouTube #toronto #torontodowntown #torontohiddengems #ontario #ontariohiddengems #kensingtonmarket #Chinatown
@ontarioroadtripping
14.8K likes • 248.6K views

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the unique shops and food stalls! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

💰 $20 Food Challenge

Try to sample delicious treats and viral food items within a budget. :moneybag: TikTok

WU WEI IS BACK 😝🫶 It’s Toronto’s beloved matcha spot for a reason and now they’re in a gorgeous lowkey space 😍 Definitely make a visit if you’re at kensington or even come just for the matcha itself 🤤...
@eatsbyjoo
11.1K likes • 170K views
Mexican food has a special place in my heart 🥰🥰 214 Augusta Ave 📍 @Taco Love #kensingtonmarket #kensingtonmarkettoronto #toronto #mexicanfood #torontotacos #fyp
@fabiana.penagos
11K likes • 121.5K views

🌮 Taco Tour Adventure

Sample tacos from various vendors for a true taste of Kensington's diverse culinary scene. :taco: Reddit

☕️ Coffee & Pie Break

Enjoy a relaxing break with coffee and a slice of pie at Wanda's Pie in the Sky. :coffee: :pie: Reddit

Should I make this a series and go to different areas around Toronto with a $20 challenge?! #kensingtonmarket #kensingtonmarkettoronto #kensingtonmarketto #kensingtonmarketfood #torontofood #torontofo...
@erin22xoxo
6.5K likes • 117.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the unique shops and food stalls! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

💰 $20 Food Challenge

Try to sample delicious treats and viral food items within a budget. :moneybag: TikTok

🌮 Taco Tour Adventure

Sample tacos from various vendors for a true taste of Kensington's diverse culinary scene. :taco: Reddit

☕️ Coffee & Pie Break

Enjoy a relaxing break with coffee and a slice of pie at Wanda's Pie in the Sky. :coffee: :pie: Reddit

🛍️ Explore Beyond Augusta

Don't limit yourself to Augusta Ave; explore Kensington Ave for more hidden gems. :shopping_bags: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Kensington Market's eclectic vibe, diverse food scene, and unique vintage shops. It's praised for its bohemian atmosphere and the lively energy, especially during Pedestrian Sundays. Some find it can get crowded, and parking is a common complaint.

What People Like

Eclectic atmosphere
Diverse food options
Unique vintage finds

What People Dislike

Crowded on weekends
Difficult parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kensington Market is easily accessible by public transit. Take the streetcar to College Street or Dundas Street and walk a few blocks west. The closest subway stations are Spadina or Chinatown, both a short walk away. TikTok Parking can be challenging, so public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking garage on Baldwin Street, which offers a great view of the city skyline from its top floor. TikTok However, street parking is limited and can be difficult to find, especially on weekends. Reddit

Yes, Kensington Market is within walking distance from the downtown core, particularly from the Chinatown area. It's a pleasant walk, allowing you to see more of the city. Reddit

The best way to explore is on foot. Start from Augusta and College, walk south to Dundas, then cross over and walk up Kensington Ave. Reddit Consider visiting on a Sunday when streets are closed to vehicles for a more immersive experience. Reddit

Yes, biking is a great way to reach Kensington Market. There are bike racks available, and the area is relatively bike-friendly, especially during Pedestrian Sundays. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kensington Market is a public neighborhood and does not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely through its streets and explore its shops and eateries. Reddit

Most shops and restaurants in Kensington Market have varying hours, but generally, they are open from late morning to early evening. It's best to check individual business hours if you have specific places in mind. Reddit

No, Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market are free to attend. It's a community event that celebrates local culture, music, and food. TikTok

Yes, Kensington Market hosts Pedestrian Sundays on the last Sunday of each month from May to October, transforming the streets into a vibrant festival. TikTok Keep an eye out for other community events and pop-ups throughout the year. Reddit

Dogs are generally welcome in Kensington Market, but they must be kept on a leash. Some indoor establishments may have specific pet policies. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Kensington Market is famous for its eclectic mix of independent shops, including vintage clothing boutiques, antique stores, specialty food shops (spices, cheese, international ingredients), bookstores, and unique gift shops. TikTokReddit

There are numerous vintage clothing stores throughout Kensington Market. Some popular spots include Uncle Vintage, Courage My Love, and Bungalow. TikTokReddit

Look for handcrafted jewelry, unique spices from Carlos House of Spice, artisanal cheeses, vintage finds, or local art. TikTokReddit

Yes, Seekers Books is a recommended spot for a varied selection, and BMV Books is also nearby. Reddit

Carlos' House of Spice is highly recommended for its extensive selection of rare and common spices, with friendly service and good pricing. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You must try the tacos from Seven Lives or Gus Tacos, the empanadas from Jumbo Empanada, the pies from Wanda's Pie in the Sky, and the delicious cookies from Little Pebbles Cafe. TikTokReddit+2

Seven Lives is famous for its Cali-style tacos, while Gus Tacos offers amazing birria and barbacoa. El Pastorcito is also a great option for pastor tacos. TikTokReddit

Yes, Greens Vegetarian is a popular spot for hearty and affordable vegan meals. Many other eateries offer vegetarian options. Reddit

Consider Golden Patty for delicious and affordable beef patties, or La Chilaca in the food hall for great tacos. Reddit

Absolutely! Kensington Market is perfect for a food crawl. Plan to sample small bites from various vendors like Seven Lives, Rasta Pasta, and Wanda's. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for vibrant street art and murals, the colorful storefronts, the unique vintage shops, and the panoramic city view from the Kensington Parking Garage. TikTokReddit

Yes, Kensington Market's eclectic atmosphere, diverse people, and vibrant street art make it an excellent location for street photography. Reddit

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while Pedestrian Sundays provide dynamic street scenes with performers and crowds. TikTokReddit

Don't miss the colorful murals, the unique architecture, and the bustling energy during Pedestrian Sundays. The view from the parking garage is also a unique shot. TikTokReddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the architecture and skyline views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kensington Market offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The vibrant street art and colorful shops provide plenty of visual stimulation for children. Reddit Consider visiting during Pedestrian Sundays for a car-free environment where kids can roam more freely and enjoy street performers. TikTok Pack snacks or plan for a food crawl, as there are many kid-friendly options like tacos and pies. TikTokReddit

Look for unique souvenirs that kids might enjoy, like quirky toys or colorful accessories. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and the variety of food ensures even picky eaters can find something they like. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Kensington Market is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers. Many of the shops offer affordable vintage clothing and unique items. TikTok For food, look for cheap eats like beef patties from Golden Patty or delicious tacos from La Chilaca. Reddit Participating in the $20 food challenge can be a fun way to sample multiple items without breaking the bank. TikTok

Entry to the market and Pedestrian Sundays is free, making it an excellent way to experience Toronto's culture without spending a lot. TikTokReddit Utilize public transit to get there, as parking can be expensive. Reddit

couples

Kensington Market offers a romantic and eclectic backdrop for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, exploring the unique shops and vibrant street art. Reddit Share a delicious food crawl, sampling international flavors and local treats together. TikTokReddit Consider a coffee and pie break at Wanda's Pie in the Sky for a sweet moment. Reddit

For a unique experience, visit during Pedestrian Sundays to enjoy the lively atmosphere and street performers. TikTok The vintage shops also offer opportunities to find unique gifts or mementos for each other. TikTok The relaxed and bohemian vibe makes it a perfect spot for a casual and memorable date. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Bohemian Melting Pot: The Vibe of Kensington Market

Kensington Market is more than just a market; it's a vibrant, bohemian neighborhood that has long been a hub for counter-culture and diverse communities in Toronto. Its eclectic charm comes from a unique blend of independent shops, vintage boutiques, specialty food stores, and a rich history of multiculturalism. Reddit The streets are often adorned with colorful murals and street art, adding to its visually stimulating atmosphere. Reddit

This neighborhood is a place where you can find everything from rare spices and artisanal cheeses to vintage clothing and unique handcrafted goods. Reddit It's a destination that encourages exploration, with hidden alleyways and unexpected discoveries around every corner. The relaxed and inclusive vibe makes it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike seeking an authentic Toronto experience. Reddit

During Pedestrian Sundays, the market truly comes alive. TikTok The streets are closed to traffic, allowing for a lively street festival atmosphere with live music, street performers, food vendors, and a general sense of community celebration. This event is a must-experience for anyone wanting to soak in the full spirit of Kensington Market. Reddit

Culinary Adventures: A Food Lover's Paradise

Kensington Market is a culinary playground, offering an incredible array of international flavors and local delights. Foodies can embark on a delicious journey, sampling everything from authentic Mexican tacos and Brazilian coxinhas to savory empanadas and sweet pies. TikTokReddit+1

Must-try spots include Seven Lives for its renowned Cali-style tacos, Jumbo Empanada for its flavorful fillings, and Wanda's Pie in the Sky for a delightful slice of pie. Reddit For those on a budget, Golden Patty offers delicious and affordable beef patties. Reddit Don't miss the chance to explore the food hall at 214 Augusta Ave for a variety of quick and tasty options. TikTokReddit

Beyond the main attractions, keep an eye out for smaller vendors offering unique treats like churros or specialty coffees. TikTokReddit The market's diverse offerings mean there's something to satisfy every craving, making it a perfect destination for a food crawl or a leisurely meal. Reddit

Treasure Hunting: Shopping in Kensington Market

For those who love to shop for unique finds, Kensington Market is a dream destination. The neighborhood is renowned for its independent boutiques, particularly its vintage clothing stores. TikTok You can spend hours sifting through racks of clothing, accessories, and unique items, often finding incredible deals. TikTokReddit

Beyond fashion, Kensington Market is a haven for specialty food shops. Carlos' House of Spice is a standout, offering an extensive selection of spices that can elevate any home cooking. Reddit You'll also find cheese shops, international grocery stores, and artisanal producers, making it a great place to discover unique ingredients. Reddit

Other shopping highlights include independent bookstores like Seekers Books, quirky gift shops, and stores selling handcrafted jewelry and art. Reddit The joy of shopping here lies in the discovery – stumbling upon a hidden gem that you won't find anywhere else. Reddit

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