The city’s most picturesque beach, Sunnyside Pavilion, is back in action this summer

The city’s most picturesque beach, Sunnyside Pavilion, is back in action this summer

Photography courtesy of the City of Toronto Archives

After a two-year renovation, the beaux arts dame of the city’s western harbourfront is once again open to the public. Launched in 1922, Sunnyside Pavilion is a reminder of the time Toronto was a popular beach destination—for real. The lake and the pool were the main attractions, but the odd dancing bear, boat burning (exactly what it sounds like) or cutest-baby contest didn’t hurt. The Water Nymph Carnival—where women and girls learned to swim—drew thousands, and free “bathing cars” shuttled swim-seeking city kids to and from the grounds. The construction of the Gardiner in the ’50s wiped out a sizable chunk of Sunnyside, including the amusement park. But the recent restoration reinstates the second-level observation deck, a prime perch from which to ogle sunsets, the skyline or the volleyball action on the beach below. The boardwalk-fronting restaurant serves pints and wood-fired pizzas. 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W., 416-531-2233.

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