If you know me, you know I love a good city escape—without actually having to leave the city. Mimico and Long Branch are that dreamy, hidden-in-plain-sight combo that feels like you’ve hit pause on Toronto. I ride my bike out here on summer days just to soak it all in: quiet leafy streets, cottages that aren’t actually cottages, and some of the most gorgeous waterfront parks in the city. If I ever win the lottery? You’ll find me in a house on Lake Shore in Long Branch, backing onto the lake, paddleboard in hand, golden retriever in tow, sipping coffee before my morning SUP. It’s cottage-core, but make it Toronto.
The Real Estate Scoop
This corner of south Etobicoke has seriously evolved. Mimico brings a mix of early 20th-century charm (think bungalows and modest post-war homes) with sleek new condos rising near the waterfront. Long Branch? It’s got major “Toronto’s Hamptons” energy—where cozy beach houses, mid-century gems, and modern builds all co-exist in breezy, lake-kissed harmony. If you’re hunting for a lakeside detached or a family-friendly semi near the GO station, this is your spot. And while the prices are climbing, the lifestyle is priceless.
The Neighbourhood
Mimico and Long Branch are home to some of the city’s best waterfront parks: Amos Waites, Colonel Samuel Smith, and Humber Bay all offer walking trails, playgrounds, and lakefront views that rival the islands. There are yacht clubs, tennis courts, and enough green space to make your dog (and your Apple Watch step count) very happy.
The community vibes are real here—especially in Mimico Square, where events like summer concerts, art shows, and the Lakeshore Community Festival bring locals together all year long. Lakeshore Arts and the BIA do a stellar job at keeping the culture strong, and you’ll find no shortage of indie cafés, breweries, and family-run bakeries along Lake Shore Blvd West.
This is a neighbourhood where people say good morning, stop to chat on dog walks, and live just a little slower. And yet—hop on the GO train and you’re downtown in under 20 minutes. It’s the best of both worlds. Honestly? If you know, you know.
The Neighbourhood in Photos
