Dylan YoungToronto is so vast that visiting each area can be a monumental task in itself. Plus, there’s the question of personal taste: should one prefer parks over buildings or nature over man-made attractions?
Today, we cover all of them, from natural wonders to districts buzzing with arts, culture, and entertainment, and those in between. Plus we made sure that each spot is picturesque enough for your memories as well as for your social media curation!
- Scarborough Bluffs
- Etienne Brulé Park
- Glen Stewart Ravine
- Leslie Street Spit
- Charles Sauriol Conservation Area
- Rouge National Urban Park
- Colonel Samuel Smith Park
- Marilyn Bell Park
- Toronto Music Garden
- The Brick Works
- Casa Loma
- Humber Bay Parks
- The Humber Arboretum
- The Toronto Island Park
- Trillium Park
- St. James Park
- Riverdale Park East
- HTO Park
- Sugar Beach
- Kew Balmy Beach
- CN Tower
- Distillery District
- High Park
- Edwards Garden
- Toronto Zoo
Scarborough Bluffs
– Media credit: imagesofcanada
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/scarborough-bluffs/
Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S. Scarborough, ON
Contact details: 416-338-0889
Operating hours:
- Scarborough Bluffs: 5 AM – 7 PM
- Scarborough Bluffs Park: Open 24 hours
- Bluffers Park & Beach: 6 AM – 11 PM
If you’re into dramatic landscapes, the Scarborough Bluffs should be on top of your list. To blend in with the locals, call it the Bluffs as you make your way to the park, where you’ll find a marina, picnic spots, and green trails.
For the more adventurous, this park serves as a gateway to nine additional parks, a beach, and other natural wonders. If you decide to go there, try to get yourself in the frame as social media proof.
You can even quack with the ducks and swans gliding near the Bluffer’s Park Marina, but of course only if you want to. And if you’re in pursuit of the perfect selfie backdrop, the rock-lined water’s edge extends westward to Bluffer’s Sand Beach.
| Pro Tip: Nearby, a small lake with untreated water has a bridge while a trail from the bridge loops back to the parking lot. Continue northeast to discover a waterfall and man-made rock paths to make more memories to take more pictures. |
Etienne Brulé Park
– Media credit: blogto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/10/index.html
Address: 10 Catherine Ave, Toronto, ON M6S, Canada
Contact details: 416-338-4386
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Canada’s famous for its salmon run. As temperatures cool from early September to November, it’s your chance to witness a remarkable natural phenomenon in Toronto’s rivers: the massive migration of salmon.
Some of these aquatic giants weigh up to a staggering 50 pounds, and their journey from Lake Ontario to their spawning grounds is a spectacle to behold, whether in still photos or videos with sounds.
For a firsthand view, head to Etienne Brule Park near the Old Mill Inn, where the Humber River poses more challenges for the migrating salmon. This spot is particularly popular for this awe-inspiring sight.
But don’t worry, other spots are available for viewing the salmon run. Lower Don Trail, Glen Rouge Campground, and the Credit River at Erindale Park are your alternate options if the crowds are too much for you.
| Pro Tip: To help visitors spot the fish, the Toronto Region Conservation Authority hosts the annual Highland Creek Salmon Festival at Morningside Park with guided nature hikes for excellent views. |
Glen Stewart Ravine
– Media credit: blogto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/3596/index.html
Address: 10 Catherine Ave, Toronto, ON M6S, Canada
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
You can channel your inner fairy tale or become like Frodo and the fellowship in Glen Stewart Ravine. Spanning 11 hectares, it gives you access to greenery that can usually be found in books and movies.
Get to it via Balsam Road during the warmer months and you’ll thank us for the views.
If you choose to come here, expect a climb. A set of 140 steel stairs takes you to Balsam Avenue with breathtaking views, worth every deep inhale and exhale.
Platforms every 20 steps provide moments to catch your breath while snagging that perfect view on your phone’s camera. An alternative route along the boardwalk gets you a rounded lookout extension with benches, perfect for pausing and posing.
A 15-minute walk gets you to the path’s end, where you’re offered the option of a leisurely stroll along Beech Avenue or a challenging climb up wooden stairs, providing an intense and rewarding finish. Celebrate this with a big smile and a great selfie!
| Pro Tip: The ravine is ideal for a morning walk or quiet time with friends as it caters to runners with two towering staircases. Safety measures include replacing old wooden structures with steelwork during a significant restoration in 2016. |
Leslie Street Spit
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Website: https://tommythompsonpark.ca/about/
Address: 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON M4M 3M2, Canada
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 4 PM – 9 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
- Holidays: 5:30 AM to 9 PM
Torontians call it the Spit, Tommy Thompson, or the Outer Harbour East Headland. Whichever you use, this five-kilometer path from Leslie Street to the water is your gateway to the power of nature.
Initially constructed in the 1950s as a breakwater and later repurposed as a dumping ground, this area has transformed, thanks to the efforts of groups like Friends of the Spit.
Looking to capture nature taking back its space? The hour-long walk takes you to remnants of eroded cement and rebar that house various plants and birds, making it perfect for photographing contrasting worlds, ideas, and textures.
Due to hazardous materials, strict entry rules prohibit cars and dogs to ensure safety and environmental preservation. Also, note the early weekend openings and late closures on weekdays.
| Pro Tip: The park’s floating bridge has stunning views of the outer harbor towards Cherry Beach. A sheltered lookout along the tree-lined path provides a picturesque view of Toronto’s skyline, especially during sunset. |
Charles Sauriol Conservation Area
– Media credit: blogto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/980/index.html
Address: 1191 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3A 3P9, Canada
Contact details: 416-338-4386
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
They say at the end of the rainbow lies a pot of gold. The Charles Sauriol Conservation Area has an iconic rainbow tunnel, though the only gold you might find is the sunlight that strikes the place at the right angles.
Go through it and you’ll enter a world that’s surreal and silent. Below, the East Don Trail Pedestrian Underpass has several intriguing works of art.
Crafted by sculpture and installation artist Robert Sprachman, the underpass bears the evocative title “A Walk In The Woods”. You’ll find people on IG posting this often.
This is where most urbanites take their selfies. Maybe you should, too!
| Pro Tip: Another underpass further south is the “High Water Mark ” installation by Sprachman. It consists of 15 stones, symbolizing significant flood events in the Don River from 1886 to 1998. |
Rouge National Urban Park
– Media credit: explore.ontario
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
Address: 25 Zoo Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8, Canada
Contact details: 416-264-2020
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Glamping isn’t going anywhere, and the Rouge National Urban Park takes it to a different level. Here, the park introduces the modern oTENTik housing for the ultimate leisure-meets-luxury stay, camping style.
These cabin-tent hybrids let you sleep under the stars with the comfort of contemporary amenities, eliminating the usual camping stress.
You don’t have to be an influencer to enjoy this. Even astrophiles and amateur astrologists can take advantage of these spots.
With three beds, ambient lighting, and accommodation for up to 6 people, these tents bring the stars to you. All you need to do is bring your sleeping bag, and you’re good to go.
| Pro Tip: A free app developed by University of Toronto students offers news, maps, alerts, and event details about National Urban Park. The app can be downloaded by iPhone and Android users. |
Colonel Samuel Smith Park
– Media credit: longlegsphotography
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/466/index.html
Address: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-2489
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Tired of being stuck in the cityscapes of Toronto? A quick skip away is Colonel Samuel Smith Park, one of Toronto’s largest waterfront parks.
Here, you can take in the sea air and the panoramic view stretching from the CN Tower to the distant city of Hamilton. Several deep breaths later, you’ll feel like a new person ready for new discoveries.
The nearby sanctuary is a good spot to explore, full of plants, trees, birds, and wildlife. Plus, a network of paths weaves through wooded areas, long grass fields, wetlands, and meadows to give you that nature-in-the-city feel.
This park’s no slouch during winter either. Skaters dot the trail during winter, making the most of the area with stunning shots and quirky selfies.
The 250-meter, figure-eight-shaped rink, surrounded by mature trees, offers a unique skating experience in the heart of nature. Throughout the sanctuary, strategically placed benches invite you to pause and connect with the surroundings.
It’s here that you can stop and ponder: did you get enough snaps for the day? If not, there’s always tomorrow!
| Pro Tip: The observation deck, accessible from the dirt path near the parking lot, provides stunning views of the marsh, panoramic lakefront scenery, and distant sightings of downtown Toronto’s skyline. |
Marilyn Bell Park
– Media credit: streetsoftoronto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/471/index.html
Address: 1095 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6K 2R5, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-2489
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
We can’t imagine anyone getting tired of Toronto’s western beaches, but if you’re one of them, then Marilyn Bell Park can be a good spot to visit.
The 4.5-meter-wide two-lane paved trail is often used by bikers and joggers, which they often post on IG. Now that you know where they were, you can snap your own pics too.
Sections of the tree-lined trail offer welcoming escape vibes for walkers and joggers alike.
Feel like people-watching? You can pause here and record with your memory or with your phone’s memory card.
Marilyn Bell Park also serves as one of Toronto’s six golf locations. It’s got a year-round nine-hole course for you to enjoy, just bring your own equipment.
Fun Fact:
Marilyn Bell Park pays tribute to Marilyn Bell, a local Toronto girl who, at the age of 16, achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first person to swim across Lake Ontario. The park was dedicated to her on the 30th anniversary of this historic event in 1984.
| Pro Tip: As a visitor, respecting the park involves picking up your trash and ensuring the area remains as beautiful as you found it. |
Toronto Music Garden
– Media credit: harbourfrontcentre
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1707/index.html
Address: 479 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5V 3M8, Canada
Contact details: 416-973-4000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Blending music with nature and art isn’t easy, but Canadians have made it possible at the Toronto Music Garden. It’s inspired by Bach’s First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello with its form taking shape from the highs and lows of the suite.
It’s pretty normal and calm during the colder seasons, but summer’s the time when string quartets and acoustic guitars fill the air. And perhaps the clicks of cameras, if you didn’t put your phone on mute.
Admission is free, so you’re welcome to visit anytime.
| Pro Tip: Take one of the guided tours, available from June through the end of September to get more appreciation of this park’s musical greenery. |
The Brick Works
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Website: https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, Canada
Contact details: 416-596-7670
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
When you’re a history buff with a penchant for taking dramatic photos, then the Evergreen Brick Works has to be on your list. It’s a site rooted in history since 1889 when the Taylor brothers established a quarry and brick-making factory.
The bricks produced here contributed to iconic structures like Casa Loma, which we’ll explore after this.
There are a lot of winding trails but make sure to check the interconnected ponds, but be careful not to drop your phone here. You’ll see red-eared slider turtles and fish from the Don River find refuge in these murky waters.
As boardwalks transition into dirt pathways, you’ll encounter more natural wonders that’ll make you go wow.
Why? An expansive outer loop goes through the entire park, providing panoramic views of the Don Valley from higher terrain, the perfect backdrop for that awe-struck expression you’ll take on your phone.
| Pro Tip: While exploring the lush greenery, visitors need to stick to official trails as the train tracks are deemed private property. As always, it’s best to leave the park as clean as possible. |
Casa Loma
– Media credit: casalomatoronto
Website: https://casaloma.ca/
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Contact details: 416-923-1171
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 9:30 AM – 5 PM
In love with romance, drama, and bygone eras? Perched atop a hill, Casa Loma stands as a testament to grandeur and romance, making it one of Toronto’s famous landmarks.
Conceived in the early 20th century by financier Sir Henry Pellatt, Casa Loma is the manifestation of a romantic dream, built out of love for his wife.
If you’re a fan of architecture, your phone is not going to cut it when it comes to photos. But for dreamy images, they’ll work especially when you position yourself in one of the furniture pieces.
It’s no wonder it’s a hotspot for events like weddings, receptions, and even corporate activities. Who knows, one day you might have it as your venue as well.
| Pro Tip: Warmer seasons like spring and summer tend to draw in the most visitors, so try to visit during fall or winter for that perfect frosty photo or selfie without the crowds. |
Humber Bay Parks
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1074/index.html
Address: 2225 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 3X7, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-2489
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Some people love bridges and parks while others just go for the greenery. If you’re both, then head to Humber Bay where you can check out the park as well as the bridge.
The park has stunning lake views, panoramic lookout points, and an intricate web of leisurely trails that can leave you clueless when it comes to taking the most scenic shots. Take the photos anyway, and take as many as your phone can manage.
Within Humber Bay Park East you’ll find a butterfly habitat that serves as a home for various native butterfly species. There’s no need to remind you that this is another prime chance for that nature selfie with butterflies hovering around you.
For pet enthusiasts, the westernmost point has a spacious off-leash dog area, providing a haven for furry friends to frolic freely. Whether strolling along the beachfront or paved trails, you’ll see views of Lake Ontario and the ever-evolving Toronto skyline.
| Pro Tip: Getting to the west end of Humber Bay Park West, known as Etobicoke Point, rewards visitors with a lighthouse, picnic tables, and benches, providing a perfect spot to take in the scene. |
The Humber Arboretum
– Media credit: matthewemmerich
Website: https://humber.ca/arboretum/
Address: 205 Humber College Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 5L7, Canada
Contact details: 416-675-5009
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:45 AM – 4 PM
- Closed on Saturday to Sunday
At Humber College, you’ll find its arboretum just beside it sprawling across 250 acres filled with winding paths and greenery.
Established in 1977 by horticultural students, it has evolved into a hub of natural beauty, featuring tranquil ponds, charming bridges, and a diverse array of plants. And all of them are ready for their close-ups.
If you’re a butterfly enthusiast, the Native Pollinator Garden is a standout spot, particularly during the monarch butterfly migratory season in August. Visitors wait for this moment to take the most epic snaps, and you should think about doing it too.
| Pro Tip: The main Arboretum area can be explored in half an hour but you can try the secluded trails to appreciate the Carolinian Life Zone’s greenery, including unique plants like black walnut trees. |
The Toronto Island Park
– Media credit: toronto.islands
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/
Address: Lake Ontaio
Contact details: 416-203-0405
Operating hours:
- According to ferry schedules
When you take a brief 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Toronto, you’ll find yourself at the Toronto Islands. Whether you’re drawn to sandy beaches or playful amusements, a day on the islands can promise you a great adventure.
Starting on the west side at Hanlan’s Point, known for a clothing-optional beach, you’ll encounter sun-seekers seeking a more liberating experience. Be nice: this is not the place to take selfies.
The Ned Hanlan Memorial celebrates local rowing history, while the Mermaid Cafe is a spot for you to unwind. The iconic Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, dating back to 1808, stands with stories of the past, so snap a pic before you leave.
You’ll find that Centre Island, bustling with activity, is recognized by the influx of bikes. Convenient rentals near the ferry dock make exploration easy, that is if you know how to bike.
The Centre Island Pier offers stunning views of Lake Ontario for your picture-perfect selfie stroll. Meanwhile, William Meany Maze and Centreville Theme Park are perfect for those snazzy action snaps.
On the east side, Ward’s Island gives off a charming residential feel. And while you’re there, you might want to check the Frisbee golf nets and discover a serene beach for relaxation.
Or if picnic sites are more your thing, Snake Island could be the spot for you. For more scenic views and snaps along Lakeshore Avenue, get to the boardwalk.
Here, you can take leisurely strolls with glimpses of the city skyline.
Feeling athletic? The Ward’s Island Clubhouse can introduce you to the timeless sport of lawn bowling.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the swan rides and food options like Carousel Cafe and Toronto Island BBQ & Co on Centre Island. For Ward’s Island, the Island Cafe near the ferry dock is perfect for snacks before enjoying the beach. |
Trillium Park
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Website: https://ontarioplace.com/en/whats-on/trillium-park-and-william-g-davis-trail/
Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6K 3B9, Canada
Contact details: 416-314-9900
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Trillium Park stands as a well-designed space, using its undulating topography to give you breathtaking panoramas of the iconic Toronto skyline.
You’ll notice that it doesn’t have a conventional beach. The rugged beauty of rocky sections discourages you from swimming too, considering the water quality near Toronto’s bustling harbor.
While there’s limited shade now, the promise of over 1,000 trees in various stages of growth hints at a future with verdant canopies providing cooler pockets and spots. In the midst of this natural spectacle stands the open-air pavilion, shielding you from the sun.
If you can wait for the evening, do so. The large fire pit takes center stage, setting the mood for cosy summer nights framed by the tranquil lake and the dazzling city skyline, perfect for that dramatic snap.
If not, then you can take the William G. Davis Trail as it weaves through Trillium Park. You can either walk, jog, or run as the views pass you by while you get that addictive dose of fresh air.
| Pro Tip: You can access the park by heading south from the intersection of Lake Shore Boulevard West and Ontario Place Boulevard, marked by kiosks and a public washroom complex. |
St. James Park
– Media credit: fabiobuzinaro
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/408/index.html
Address: 120 King St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1G6, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-2489
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The old St. James Park just got a facelift, and it’s looking better than ever. Sure, the gazebo’s gone, but there’s an open-air pavilion in its place.
For those interested in architecture, the pavilion is made of glued-laminated timber and made to look like a criss-cross geometric structure.
The inspiration? The adjacent cathedral’s Gothic revival design.
As part of the ongoing revitalization project, you’ll see new plazas and paths leading to the pavilion. Plus, the improved lighting enhances the park’s visibility and safety after sunset.
| Pro Tip: Take snaps of the colourful flower gardens, meandering walking paths, charming fountain, and delightful playground with a producing theme. Visitors tend to enjoy leisurely strolls, dog walking, and family outings here. |
Riverdale Park East
– Media credit: orxan.666
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/343/index.html
Address: 550 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2N6, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-2489
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
You know you need to go outside when the open greens at Riverdale Park call out to you. It’s approximately 104 acres and divided into two sections, each with unique features for you to explore.
On the eastern side, sports enthusiasts will find well-maintained fields, a running track, and a gym for active pursuits and leisurely strolls. The Lower Don River Trail guides you towards a green pedestrian bridge, connecting to the park’s west side.
The west side features the Sam Pollock Baseball Diamond, where the sounds of the game blend with the surrounding greenery. Trails here lead you to the Riverdale Farm, an agricultural oasis in the heart of the city.
You’ll also find that Riverdale Park reflects cultural diversity with the Sun Yat-sen monument, a symbolic tribute to East Chinatown, adding cultural richness to the park’s landscape. And yes, you can take pictures there too.
| Pro Tip: Riverdale Park East is the more popular area since it has a sprawling hill offering an unforgettable view of downtown Toronto, perfect for winter tobogganing and summer picnics. |
HTO Park
– Media credit: __.pietruzzo.__
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1663/index.html
Address: 339 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5V 1A2, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-8188
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
It’s pretty tempting to say H2O when you read HTO. Or maybe it’s just us.
Established in 2007, HTO Park is a testament to urban building brilliance, a landmark beachfront in the heart of Toronto. The park’s name, “HTO,” ingeniously combines H2O, the chemical formula for water, with “T.O.,” representing Toronto.
Near the Harbourfront Centre, HTO Park’s docks not only offer views of the waterfront but also serve as starting points for aquatic adventures via water taxis.
Heading westward, you’ll meet a fleet of canoes and boats available for rent, providing an opportunity to explore the waters at leisure. And, of course, more pictures.
On the western side, occupying the former Peter Street Slip, witness the park’s seamless blend of natural beauty and sophisticated urban architecture.
Throughout the summer, HTO Park becomes a bustling hub of activity, hosting a diverse range of events. If you’ve not been here, then this is a sign to add it to your summer itinerary.
| Pro Tip: Early arrival is advisable to secure a spot under the coveted yellow umbrellas for memory-banking with families or sharing on social media with friends. |
Sugar Beach
– Media credit: torbucketlist
Website: https://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/our-projects/canadas-sugar-beach
Address: 11 Dockside Dr, Toronto
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 8 AM to 11 PM
You’d think the sand was like sugar based on the name, but it’s not. It’s a man-made spot that gives you beach vibes while still being in the heart of Toronto.
The beach’s aesthetic appeal is highlighted by iconic pink umbrellas that contrast with the industrious surroundings, making it ideal for your selfies and short videos.
Its appeal is made even more IG-worthy by the presence of a massive sugar freighter ship, adding maritime magic to the harbor and your picture.
While Sugar Beach doesn’t allow swimming, it draws you in with its oasis-like atmosphere. Muskoka chairs, strategically placed rocks for lounging, and an accessible paved area with a charming boardwalk contribute to its appeal.
The beach’s thoughtfully designed plaza, lined with trees, is a popular spot for joggers and fitness groups. And of course, for selfie-ready people.
| Pro Tip: To reach Sugar Beach from Lower Jarvis, visitors can cross toward the Martin Goodman Trail and follow the path leading to the beach. |
Kew Balmy Beach
– Media credit: jivanshaili
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/427/index.html
Address: Toronto, ON M4L 1B8, Canada
Contact details: 416-338-0889
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 7 AM – 8 PM
Dating back to the 1920s, the Kew-Balmy Beach Lifeguard Station is one of the last historic structures on Toronto’s shores. One of its storied past includes the heroic rescue of over 6,000 lives.
At a glance, you’ll notice the scattered beach chairs across the sand, inviting you to relax and soak in the timeless atmosphere. Wander along the boardwalk, and you’ll spot man-made rock fingers extending every 200 meters into the lake.
These aren’t for show only: they stabilize the shoreline. And they provide a great backdrop for dramatic pics, whether colored or in black and white.
Convenient wooden beach chairs along the boardwalk offer you the perfect vantage points for basking in your favorite spots, capturing selfies, or snapping breathtaking landscape photos.
The beach’s thoughtful design extends to water sports rentals, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and canoeing, adding adventurous options to the serene surroundings. You know these are prime opportunities for more selfies!
If you enjoy scenic memories, the raised patio of the Balmy Beach Club offers stunning panoramic views of the lake. Plus, Kew-Balmy Beach has become a favored haven for off-leash dogs to romp, play, and frolic so you can take them with you and snap away.
| Pro Tip: Continuing along the boardwalk leads to the Nursewood Dog Park and the R. C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, an Art Deco building nicknamed the Palace of Purification. |
CN Tower
– Media credit: cntower
Website: https://www.cntower.ca/
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada
Contact details: 416-868-6937
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 10 AM – 9 PM
What could be more iconic for Toronto than the CN Tower? At over 550 meters, the CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline, symbolizing the city’s ambitious spirit and commitment to innovation.
The observation decks, considered among the most beautiful places in Toronto, draw in visitors looking for great views of Toronto, whether by day or night. Here, you can snap your pictures to your heart’s delight.
One standout feature is the Glass Floor, providing a unique perspective of the bustling city below. For this one, videos are the way to go to record the expressions of glee, terror, or helplessness that you or your companions may have.
Higher up, the SkyPod offers expansive views that stretch for miles. On clear days, you’ll see Niagara Falls make a cameo appearance in the distance, proof of the natural wonders surrounding Toronto.
As night falls, the CN Tower becomes a beaming beacon, illuminating the skyline with a mesmerizing display of colors. The dynamic lighting often reflects events or causes, solidifying its status as the Canadian spirit glowing in the heart of the city.
It’s here when you can truly shine, with the dramatic colors playing across your camera as you take the most dramatic pics you can conjure.
| Pro Tip: Visitors at the CN Tower’s observation decks can enjoy a unique dining experience at the 360 Restaurant. Slowly rotating, the restaurant provides a constantly changing panorama, ensuring that meals here are unforgettable. |
Distillery District
– Media credit: distilleryto
Website: https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/
Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada
Contact details: 416-364-1177
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
In Toronto’s Distillery District, a glimpse into the past awaits you as soon as you set foot on its famous pavements. The historic enclave, with cobblestone streets and well-preserved Victorian buildings, starkly contrasts with the modern city skyline.
As you stroll along, passing art galleries, theaters, and boutique shops, each contributes to the district’s unique character. Throughout the year, various events and festivals celebrate culture, from the visual arts to culinary delights.
The diverse range of restaurants and cafes caters to every palate, offering a gastronomic journey within this cultural district.
If you haven’t been to one, consider going this year. You’ll find that despite being held annually, the spirit shifts ever so slightly from one year to the next.
As the sun sets, the Distillery District undergoes a magical transformation. The historic architecture shines with warm lights, casting a dreamy aura over the area.
Now, all that’s left is to press that button.
| Pro Tip: When visiting this district, make sure to prioritize shops, bars, and restaurants that appeal to you. Of course, you can always go with the flow and pop in the nearest spot to check in on the action. |
High Park
– Media credit: highpark_official
Website: https://www.highparktoronto.com/
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
Contact details: 416-338-0338
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Ponds, woodlands, and manicured gardens may lead you to think you’re in some storybook setting, but you’re actually in High Park, Toronto’s largest park.
As you go through the network of trails, you might meet playful squirrels and curious birds, and, during the cherry blossoms bloom, witness a surreal shower of pink petals blanketing the landscape.
(Now we’re starting to get the storybook reference.)
The High Park Zoo introduces you to various animals, while children’s playgrounds provide spaces for laughter and play.
For a nostalgic journey, the park offers train rides weaving through the scenery. Life happens only once, so hop on board and let the train go choo-choo!
If you’re into snacking and snapping, Grenadier Pond is a favorite spot for picnickers and nature enthusiasts. Its shores are perfect for fishing and birdwatching, allowing you to unwind and capture relaxed nature selfies.
| Pro Tip: Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, ranging from theatre performances to educational workshops and nature walks so be sure to check out any events prior to visiting this place. |
Edwards Garden
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/473/index.html
Address: 755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-8188
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 10 AM – 8:30 PM
Edward’s Garden has well-tended flower beds, meandering pathways, and serene water features. In short, it’s the perfect spot for moody images, goofy groufies, or fun family photos.
Plus, what’s better than an ever-changing landscape and backdrop without paying anything for it?
In spring, vibrant tulips paint the landscape with a riot of colors. In autumn, the maples blaze with fiery reds and oranges.
Think of how these would look in your curated feed.
Each section of the garden has its own secret appeal for photos. The aromatic rose garden dazzles your senses with the sweet perfume of blooming roses, while the serene rockery provides a zen retreat with carefully arranged stones.
Edward’s Garden is also a paradise for birdwatchers. The varied flora attracts various bird species that sometimes stay there for the season or stay there for good.
Don’t get upset if one of those feathered friends gets in the frame. It might end up being your best pic yet.
| Pro Tip: Enhance the experience with educational programs and themed tours for both adults and children. |
Toronto Zoo
– Media credit: thetorontozoo
Website: https://www.torontozoo.com/
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7, Canada
Contact details: 416-392-5900
Operating hours:
- Opens daily from 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Where can you roar like a lion, trumpet like an elephant, and clap like a seal? You can do that anywhere, actually, but the Toronto Zoo is a more fitting venue.
In this expansive zoo, you get to have a global safari experience, witnessing environments from the icy landscapes of the Arctic to the lush rainforests of Africa.
Interactive exhibits offer insights into the lives of animals and their natural habitats, providing a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of ecosystems. Also, it’s your chance to photograph them, whether alone or with you in the foreground.
The zoo’s commitment to conservation extends to special breeding programs actively contributing to the protection of endangered species. Make sure to respect the signs, especially if they have special instructions when photographing the animals.
| Pro Tip: Noteworthy experiences include the Giant Panda Experience and the Tundra Trek, offering close encounters with iconic animals. |
