Old Oakville
THE VIBE:
Historic, picturesque, and walkable — a waterfront village with timeless charm.
Old Oakville blends heritage beauty with modern sophistication. Cobblestone streets, century homes, and views of Lake Ontario make it one of the GTA’s most coveted neighbourhoods. Locals stroll to cafés, boutiques, and the marina, all within a few scenic blocks of downtown Oakville. Excellent schools, mature trees, and a true sense of community define this lakeside neighbourhood.
EAT, SIP & EXPLORE:
Snack: Black Forest Pastry Shop — European-style bakery that’s been a local favourite for decades. Don’t sleep on the butter tarts.
Meal: Cucci Restaurant — refined Italian dining with a romantic atmosphere and great service. Perfect for celebratory dinners.
Brunch: Kerr Street Cafe — bright, relaxed, and beautifully designed. Expect thoughtful brunch classics, and strong coffee.
Coffee: Tribeca Coffee Co. — a minimalist café serving ethically sourced beans and small-batch pastries. A true local staple for quiet mornings.
Drink: Hexagon Restaurant & Bar — inventive cocktails and a Michelin Guide–recommended tasting menu.
Shop: For Living — a home decor shop curated by an interior design studio featuring contemporary home goods, textiles, and furnishings.
Hidden Gem: The British Grocer — a tiny, family-run shop packed with imported British treats, teas, and sweets.
Park: Lakeside Park — sweeping lake views, heritage gardens, and the perfect spot for sunset picnics.
Workout: Hot Yoga & Pilates at iGita Wellness — an Oakville staple for mindful movement with lake views.
Wellness: Rosewater Spa of Oakville — a serene, luxury retreat offering massages, facials, and pure relaxation.
Date Night: Learn a few new moves together at Boléo Latin & Ballroom Dance Studio.
With Kids: In summer, grab an ice cream from Duckies Dairy Bar and wander down to Lakeside Park for playground time, and a stroll along the harbour. In winter, check out the Oakville Museum’s kids programs, then cozy up with hot chocolate from Chocolato.
Architecture: St. Andrew’s Church — One of the oldest remaining churches in Southern Ontario, this Gothic Revival building features limestone construction and original stained glass. It anchors the historic downtown streetscape and showcases early Scottish craftsmanship.
Signature Home Style: Queen Anne and Georgian Revival homes — think wraparound porches, beautiful symmetry, and heritage façades lovingly restored. I think some of the most beautiful GTA homes are located in this pocket.
History Tidbit: Old Oakville flourished as a 19th-century shipbuilding port along Sixteen Mile Creek. Skilled craftsmen built schooners that sailed the Great Lakes, fueling trade and growth in the young settlement. Many of Oakville’s heritage buildings still trace their origins to that industrious maritime era.
INSIDER TIP:
Don’t miss Oakville’s beloved St. Andrew’s Christmas House Tour — a long-standing local tradition where you can step inside beautifully decorated homes, each styled for the season by talented local designers.
If you’re drawn to lakeside living, heritage charm, and want to be close to a vibrant downtown, I’d love to help you find your perfect Old Oakville home.
