For a small-town vibe, head to Bradford West Gwillimbury, just 36 miles north of Toronto, where the pace is very much connected to its rural surroundings. Some spots, like Bradford Asparagus Farm, even invite you to pick your own. Today, Bradford West Gwillimbury still has the kind of small-town atmosphere where neighbors know each other, community events bring people together, and farming is often a part of life. A fun example of this spirit is the Bradford Carrot Fest, which takes place every August and celebrates the area's roots with live music, food, parades and, of course, plenty of carrots. BWG is well connected by Highway 400 and GO Transit's Barrie Line — Bradford GO is in the town center, making travel from Toronto, Barrie, or across the Greater Toronto Area nice and easy.