CHIJMES

Pronounced 'chimes', CHIJMES (the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus) began life in 1854 as a Catholic convent, school and orphanage, its centrepiece a soaring neo-Gothic chapel with delicate stained glass. Lovingly restored and deconsecrated, the complex is now one of the city's most atmospheric dining-and-nightlife enclaves: restaurants, bars and cafés ring tiered lawns and fountain courtyards beneath the old cloisters. The chapel — now a sought-after events hall — anchors it all and is breathtaking when lit at night. It's free to wander day or night, lovely for a drink, and right in the Civic District by City Hall. A popular spot for photos and, fittingly, weddings.