Raise a racquet at these squash courts in Toronto
Strap on your squash shoes and grab your racket. The city is sprinkled with excellent squash courts that range from elite downtown social clubs to everyday community centres. For the squash enthusiast in you, Toronto has it all. Here are some of our favourite spots to get your game on. [Image credit: iStock.com/gpointstudio]
National Squash Academy
15-75 Carl Hall Rd, Toronto, ON M3K 2B9The National Squash Academy claims to be the only North American organization dedicated to growing the sport of squash at the grassroots level. Since 2010, they have strived to, in their own words, “build and advance the future of squash while embracing its past.” Located in the Downsview Park Sports Complex, the impressive facility includes 10 public courts accessible to school groups, youth, and families (and it’s mundo-affordable, to boot!). A dedicated training facility, it’s also home to players from Canada’s national and senior squash teams.
University of Toronto Athletic Centre
55 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6You don’t have to be a U of T student to enjoy this impressive athletic centre. Community memberships are available for both alumni and the general public. The centre is an athlete’s paradise, boasting seven gymnasia, three pools (one is Olympic-sized) a strength-and-conditioning centre, an indoor track, a dance studio, cardio machines and more. Squash lovers have access to 10 courts (five English and four American-style). Court rentals begin at $24.75 for 40 minutes.
The Toronto Racquet Club
159 Bleecker St, Toronto, ON M4X 1L9It’s tough to get into this elite men’s club, but the classy facilities (cozy fireplaces and leather couches) make it worth your while. When it comes to squash, the club has two international softball courts, one North American hardball court, and a doubles court. They’ve upheld a tradition of excellence since 1905 and work on maintaining a fraternity atmosphere (gaining entry requires personal referrals from at least two existing members). Lessons are available and matches are easily scheduled between members. Doors open at 7 am so you can start your day with a serious workout.
Crescent Town Club
2A The Market Pl, East York, ON M4C 5M1A well established non-profit, the Crescent Town Club has been serving the East York community since 1971. They offer a variety of high-quality programs for members of all ages, including a range of sports and recreational programs. Crescent Town’s sizeable facility includes a swimming pool, weight and fitness rooms, a gymnasium and more. Among the attractions are squash and handball courts, and for the racquet-minded, Crescent Town organizes several squash leagues for members on a yearly basis.
Cambridge Club
100 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5H 3K6Located in the city’s financial core, the Cambridge Club attracts an exclusive clientele, including some of Toronto’s most successful executives, with equipment and facilities to match. The rich, wood-paneled walls speak to an old-world, men’s club vibe. The club offers several sport-specific fitness programs for members, tailored to personal training, golf, alpine skiing, and aquatics. The squash league is organized to match individual skill levels and ensure competitive play, and includes both house and city-wide leagues.
The Adelaide Hall
First Canadian Place, Toronto, ON M5X 1C8Since 1978, the Adelaide Club has offered its members affordable fees and excellent facilities. They provide a wide range of services, including fitness and wellness programs and select food and drink options in the lounge. You can choose from low impact activities like hot yoga, Pilates and golf or, get your heart pumping with boxing or group exercise class. And to boot? The Adelaide Club also offers private and semi-private squash lessons, as well as house leagues. Competitive players can gain entry to the Toronto & District League, which runs annually from September to March.
Mayfair Clubs
801 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4M 1A9For over 40 years, Mayfair Clubs has offered Toronto residents world-class athletic amenities and top-notch programs, geared towards both leisure and competition and catering to different skill levels. With impressive fitness, tennis, squash and swimming facilities, Mayfair boasts such extras as a bistro and wellness spa. It’s also a great spot to improve your racquet skills with adult- and youth-geared squash camps. Their personalized approach includes a complimentary squash assessment for new members. Newcomers are slotted into the program that is best suited to their skill and overall fitness levels.
St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre
230 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6Situated in downtown Toronto’s historic Old Town neighbourhood, and just a hop-skip from the St. Lawrence Market and the Gardiner Expressway, this city-run centre is an ideal recreation spot for youth, families and children. Two indoor squash courts allow play for all ages and skill levels, but the community recreation centre also boasts a gym, pool, and weight room. Call to confirm court times, availability and fees.
The Badminton & Racquet Club
25 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M4V 1K6Perched at the intersection of Yonge Street and St Clair Avenue, this private athletic and social club is focused on racquet sports of all kinds, including tennis, squash, platform tennis and badminton. They offer a modern, “boutique club experience,” while upholding the traditional values of establishment clubs. The recently renovated facilities are spectacular – trendy, upscale and gorgeously finished. The club has four international squash courts (singles) and one doubles court, and is centred around sportsmanship and a sense of camaraderie among players.
Granite Club
2350 Bayview Ave, North York, ON M2L 1E4Founded in 1875, the Granite Club hosts a family-oriented and inviting atmosphere. With gorgeous grounds and impressive facilities for members of all ages – including an upscale dining room, bistro and bar – the club caters to athletes of all ages, interests and skill levels.The Granite Club boasts aquatics, badminton, curling, fitness, golf and skating facilities, but the modern squash courts are a dream-come-true for squash enthusiasts. The club offers a wide range of squash programs including social, instructional and competitive leagues. There are two doubles courts and five singles courts on-site.
