Unionville's Main Street is one of the most photogenic historic strips in the GTA — 19th-century clapboard houses turned boutiques and restaurants, a tree-shaded sidewalk, and Toogood Pond just a five-minute walk away. Here's how to do a perfect Saturday there.
Morning: Start with coffee at Wildflour
Arrive by 9:30 AM to claim a back-garden patio seat. The almond croissant and a flat white set the tone. Bring something to read; this is not a place to rush through.
Mid-morning: Walk the historic strip
Stroll north along Main Street, popping into the indie boutiques. Highlights: Frederic's Antiques (curated mid-century pieces), the Old Fire Hall (now an art gallery), and the heritage Stiver Mill at the south end. Plan 60-90 minutes for an unhurried walk.
Late morning: Toogood Pond loop
A 20-minute walking loop around Toogood Pond. Tons of waterfowl, a wooden footbridge that's a popular photo spot, and benches if you want to pause. Family-friendly and stroller-friendly.
Lunch: Pick a sit-down patio
For lunch, you have options: The Old Country House for European bistro (reserve ahead), Sweet Lemon for a French-influenced menu with great patio, or Frederic's Bistro for a casual but elevated café lunch. All three sit on or near Main Street.
Afternoon: Markham Museum or live music
Two options depending on weather and mood. The Markham Museum is a 10-minute drive and is genuinely engaging — a working blacksmith shop, restored heritage buildings, and an outdoor train you can sometimes ride. Alternatively, many Saturdays through summer feature live music at the Unionville bandstand starting around 2:00 PM.
Evening: Dinner and drinks
For dinner, the most beloved Main Street option is The Old Country House (book by Thursday for a weekend table). For something more relaxed, the patios at Sweet Lemon or Pampero are both solid. End the night with a coffee or dessert at Wildflour (yes, again) before heading home.
Practical tips
Parking is limited — use the public lot on Carlton Road and walk in. Restrooms are scarce on the strip itself; the best public ones are at Toogood Pond. Most shops close by 6:00 PM; restaurants and bars stay open later. Saturday afternoons are the busiest; Sunday mornings are noticeably calmer.
Browse our full directory of Unionville businesses for more dining and shopping options.
About the Author
Guides & Lifestyle Editor
Daniel Tremblay was born and raised in Markham and has spent his career writing about outdoor recreation, civic life, and community resources across York Region. An avid hiker and trail runner, he has personally walked nearly every public trail in the Rouge National Urban Park and the York Regional Forest. His guides aim to give residents practical, on-the-ground information about the places, services, and routines that shape daily life in Markham and Richmond Hill.
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