The Greater Toronto area is home to some truly inspiring views; those who live in the Waterfront have sweeping views of lake Ontario and Toronto island; residents in the downtown core enjoy the bright city lights that come with increased urban density; condo owners in midtown and North York can take in the entire city skyline, towering behind the forested foreground.
What residents’ value in a view clearly depends on the individual, but there are some traits that carry over, regardless of personal preference. To aid potential buyers and renters who are seeking a condo with an inspiring view, we’re pleased to present the best Toronto condos for waterfront, urban, and skyline views.
The Best Condos For Waterfront Views
You’re a fan of anything aquatic, and indulging in a glass of wine in the evening or a morning coffee is much more rewarding when looking out over the water. We get it. Waterfront views are desirable in virtually any city, and Toronto happens to have an abundance of waterfront condos. With that being said, not all waterfront views are created equal.
401 Queens Quay W — Harbour Terrace
What makes a great waterfront view? There are several factors, but unobstructed views and proximity to the water itself are certainly at the top of the list. Harbour Terrace offers both. Set directly against the water, the unique shape of this condo ensures that most residents have a view of the lake; those with south facing views might feel like they’re living on top of it. It’s important to note that this is a luxury residence and as such, units can be pricey.
628 Fleet St — West Harbour City I
Constructed in 2010, 628 Fleet Street is a 29 story condo in the Fort York neighbourhood. Unlike Harbour Terrace, this property offers some affordable options. Residents who face south, east and west, can all look out on Lake Ontario over Tip Top Lofts and Coronation Park, provided they’re on the upper floors: To get the most out of this view, you’ll want to be on the 15th floor or above.
1900 Lake Shore Blvd W — Park Lake Residences
There are many buyers who would scoff at the idea of living between the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Blvd, but to set the record straight — nobody scoffs at the south facing views at 1900 Lake Shore Blvd W. With no towers in front of the building and Sunnyside Park running along the length of the nearby Waterfront, most residents need only look past the roadway and trees to see the peaceful water of Lake Ontario.
The Best Condos For Urban Views
You want to be in the heart of the city, surrounded by skyscrapers, all aglow at night. That’s understandable and quite common. For some buyers and renters, to really experience the city you must be in the middle of it, but as many find out, that can mean substandard views. However, there are also several buildings that offer stunning views of urban density.
386 Yonge St & 388 Yonge St — Aura at College Park
Want the best views in the downtown core? It helps if you live in the tallest condo in Canada, which is exactly what Aura is. At 78 storeys tall, Aura provides roughly half the units in the building with unobstructed views of the core from within the core. Not only can residents see the all of the buildings that surround them, but they can actually see the waterfront, and also the tree shrouded low density neighbourhoods separating midtown and downtown Toronto.
770 Bay St — Lumiere Condominiums on Bay
Just like Aura, Lumiere is situated in the Bay Street Corridor, easily the busiest neighbourhood in the GTA. While Aura stands 78 stories tall, 770 Bay is only 32 story’s tall; as a result, those with northern exposures will be staring at a similarly styled building. Residents who face east west and south and are on higher floors, have incredible views from within the Bay Street Corridor.
180 University Ave — Shangri-La
The Shangri-La is a classic overachiever, appearing on just about every luxury condo list that’s been produced in the last decade. The 49 storey condo/hotel hybrid is not only one of the most luxurious condo in the city, but it has some of the best views from within the downtown core. Of course, if you want those views, you’ll have to reach deep into your bank account.
Best Condos To See The Entire City Skyline
32 Trolley Crescent — River City Lofts II
The river City complex has been a head turner since the first phase popped up in 2013; the views turn their share of heads as well. Residents who face west can see downtown Toronto in all its glory. Unlike many condos that have amazing views for penthouse owners and nothing but concrete for everyone else, the majority of residents enjoy a clear sight-line.
2181 Yonge St — Quantum South Tower
Quantum south tower is part of a two building development, but the South Tower enjoys the best view when it comes to the downtown Toronto skyline. Residents with south facing exposures have the best sight-lines of all in this 38 story building, and as a bonus, the views don’t cost as much as one might expect. If you want to look out over tree covered neighbourhoods towards the CN Tower, this is the place for you.
