The Don Mills name makes reference to the historic Don River, and the fact that several mills were operating in this part of the Don Valley during the 1800's. Don Mills is recognized as the first planned and fully integrated post war community in North America. It is credited with laying out the blueprint for Toronto's post-war suburban development and the building of contemporary neighbourhoods.

Don Mills is one of Toronto's most treed neighbourhoods. The spacious front lawns in Don Mills are covered with a great variety of trees including birch, willow, spruce, pine and maple, as well as an assortment of ornamental and fruit trees. Many of the homes back onto park lands or ravines that run throughout the area.