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