Shop for fragrant, oriental spices and handcrafted garments in Rexdale. Uncover the town’s colourful Indian heritage or go for a walk in the woods and gaze across sweeping valleys.

Just off fast-moving Rexdale Boulevard, the Woodbine Centre is an enthralling place with popular chain stores dotted among nearly 200 specialty shops. Search for your favourite clothing and shoes or purchase locally made gifts and special ingredients to add to your Asian cooking. The other main attraction here is the theme park, which features a charming old carousel and Ferris wheel alongside a children’s play village.

If you are looking for something specific, try the various department stores on either side of Rexdale Boulevard. Find an abundance of furniture and discount clothing here as well as a movie theatre, bowling alley and several restaurants.

After you’ve completed your shopping, move south to check out the Shiv Mandir near the Catholic school. This magnificent Hindu temple with its swirling motifs and statues was transported here all the way from India. With a significant Indian population, Rexdale is one of the best places in Toronto to find Punjabi-style pizza, generously seasoned with curry.

Enjoy a sunny afternoon at one of the area’s fine parks. Falstaff Park, a 10-minute drive east, has an outdoor swimming pool open through the summer while Sunnydale Acres has a small ice rink during the colder months.

If you prefer walking amid the sound of rustling trees, head north in the direction of the winding Humber River. Esther Lorrie Park and Kipling Heights Park both have several woodland trails that offer views of the valley while you walk, jog or bike.

See horse racing at Woodbine Race Track. Thoroughbreds race during the day and harness races are held in the evening.

Rexdale is a 30-minute drive northwest of Toronto’s city centre. Try the main road through town for a choice of hotels, with options to suit all budgets.