This sleepy little village used to be way out in the country but, firmly part of the GTA, is now surrounded by estate lots, prime real estate for the affluent and sits just north of the almost unstoppable march of Woodbridge development.

Residents are clinging steadfastly to the green spaces included in the City plan for the area. It’s historic, quaintly beautiful, and hangs its hat on the boutique businesses that offer a charming alternative to the soulless big box retail model.

Many haven’t heard of Kleinburg, or aren’t quite sure where it is. It’s in Vaughan, about 30 minutes drive from downtown Toronto, and five minutes from highways 400, 427 and the 407, at Major Mackenzie and Islington. This is a suggestion for a day out in Kleinburg.

Undoubtedly, the burgeoning Sunday brunch business at The Doctor’s House influences the many GTA residents, who sample from its groaning boards, to then spend a lazy afternoon poking around in the specialty retailers, cafes and one antique store. The whole place is hardly bigger than, say, an average Costco warehouse. This makes for a great stroll which you can do in a couple of hours. You could spend an entire day if you take advantage of the walking and biking trails too, and spend a few hours at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.

Influence in the village is an interesting blend of nouveau Italian and WASP, where gelato rubs shoulders with custom framing, and a talented pastry chef displays his food art just up the street from the McMichael Gallery. There’s a Historical Walking Tour booklet that’s worth picking up in from one of the retailers and which will bring your visit to life once you get familiar with the history.

Related posts:

1. McMichael Juried Art Show & Sale
2. Beavering away at Le Petit Castor