Originally, different groups of First Nation's Tribes, including the Algonquins, the Huron-Wendat, and Iroquois, lived in the area. Etobicoke got its name from the Mississauga word meaning “where the alders grow.” Early settlers were British loyalists and individuals from the British Isles.
Over the next two centuries, the population grew at a steady rate and eventually became dotted with towns and villages. Beginning in the 1950s, many communities were merged into Etobicoke. The district officially dissolved in 1998 and became part of Toronto.
Retail options in Etobicoke include several shopping centers, such as CF Sherway Gardens, Cloverdale Mall, and Woodbine Shopping Center. There are big-box retailers, chain stores, and small shops as well. Dining choices in the district range from typical American fare and breakfast cafes to more exotic options, like Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Lodging ranges from cost-conscious hotels to high-end hotels with many inside the limits of Etobicoke. Just because a hotel's address lists a surrounding community doesn't mean it's far from the district's center. There are dozens of accommodations within a 5-mile radius.
When to Visit Etobicoke, ON
The springtime months from March through May are a great time to visit the area. Hotel rates haven't climbed with the number of tourists during that period, and the weather is fairly nice. Average high temperatures are in the 50s and 60s with lows falling below 45 degrees. Make sure to pack light layers or a warm jacket. It gets chilly in the evenings.
In March, Canada Blooms draws thousands of visitors to Toronto. This flower festival has a focus on drawing people closer to nature and is heading into its 22nd year. Enjoy strolling through flowered, colorful displays and checking out rare plants. Learn more about flowers and gardening in one of over 100 seminars.
Summertime is brief in Etobicoke with just a few short months of warm, sunny days. High temperatures hover near 80 degrees from June through August with lows in the mid-60s. When winds come in off the lake, it can bring in some chilly air and brisk breezes. Toronto hosts many popular festivals that bring in droves of tourists during the summer months. Expect higher rates and book well in advance.
Pride Toronto is a massive party celebrating diversity over several days in June, drawing nearly one million people to the city. Events include the colorful and famous Pride Parade and festivities along Church Street. Street food and merchandise vendors line the street, and area businesses gladly welcome partiers in this pedestrian-only zone. In August, the city celebrates another culture in raucous fashion at Caribana over three weeks, culminating in a long weekend filled with parties, music, dancing, and food.
Autumn in Etobicoke is a wonderful time to visit since travel numbers decline along with hotel rates. Temperatures are still fair in the 50s and 60s with lows in the mid-40s by November. Fall festivals still bring in crowds, so book in advance to take advantage of hotel deals.
Art Toronto happens in October and is Canada's premier festival for international modern and contemporary art. View works from leading galleries across the globe and engage in lectures and discussions with top art figures through PLATFORM. Other notable fall events include the Toronto International Film Festival in September and the Cavalcade of Lights in November.
If you don't mind cold weather, traveling to Etobicoke in the winter can reap big savings. Daytime highs struggle to reach the freezing mark, and the lows are in the teens. Overall, the district isn't subject to an overwhelming amount of snow but does see a few storms with accumulations over five inches. A rare type of winter storm, known as a Colorado Low, can dump several inches of rain, snow, and ice over many days. Pack a heavy coat, hat, and gloves for a winter trip.
Embark on a gastronomic adventure at Winterlicious. This is a two-week culinary festival that begins in January. Rather than experience delectable samples at a central location, over 200 of the best restaurants craft specialty three-course menus. You wouldn't be able to enjoy all the menus, but rest assured, you'll be delighted. Other winter events include Holiday Magic on Bloor-Yorkville and the Toronto International Boat Show.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Etobicoke, ON:
Etobicoke, ON: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Etobicoke, ON. Browse these charts to determine the best seasons to book a room in Etobicoke for any future trips.
Luxury Hotels in Etobicoke, ON
Feel like royalty when you stay at The Adelaide Hotel in Toronto. Nestled in the financial district, this top-of-the-line hotel offers rooms starting at 550 square feet. The largest suite holds two king beds and one sofa bed. The open design features a black and silver color scheme, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows with skyline views. Each room has a touch panel that allows you to control lights and curtains, and there are opulent linens to facilitate a great night's sleep. Pamper yourself in the deep soaking tub while catching up on the news via the TV in the bathroom. Relax in the heated saltwater infinity pool or the hot tub overlooking the city.
Take your vacation to the next level at the Ritz-Carlton Toronto. Rooms range from 650 square feet to an expansive 2,415 square foot suite. All rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows with views of either the skyline or Lake Ontario. Upgrade to Club Level for unbelievable perks such as private shopping excursions, wine and cheese tastings, and cocktail samples from the Ritz Bar and DEQ Lounge. As a Club member, you'll get breakfast, hors d'oeuvres, snacks, sweets, and alcoholic beverages throughout the day. Enjoy recreational opportunities such as the saltwater pool, Jacuzzi, and fitness center with trainers on hand.
Affordable Hotels in Etobicoke, ON
3 Star Average Prices: £59.44
At Stay Inn Toronto, you're greeted by warm decor and friendly staff. You'll be close to Dixie Outlet Mall and Sherway Gardens, just three miles from Etobicoke. Business travelers will love express check-in and check-out, a 24-hour business center, and a large meeting area. Stay entertained with free wired and wireless internet and cable programming on LED TVs. Enjoy free breakfast from 6:30 to 9:30 a.m.
The Parkdale Hostellerie offers beds in shared dorms, single-bed apartments, and two-bed studios. Each room has a fridge and microwave, bathroom with shower, and sofa bed. All beds have down comforters for more comfortable resting. Keep your food budget intact by cooking dinner on the barbecue grill, and eat it outside on the terrace.
Enjoy being right by the lakeshore at Howard Johnson Inn Toronto Downtown West. You'll be close to High Park and less than a mile from the business district. Working visitors enjoy express check-in and check-out, home office rooms with a desk, fridge, and microwave, and high-speed internet. Before heading off to your meeting, enjoy the Rise and Dine breakfast with pastries and beverages.