Amelie CameronWhat’s your ideal park scene?
Perhaps it’s the allure of breathtaking waterfronts adorned with sandy shorelines and charming boardwalks. Or could it be the special features like zoos and vibrant gardens that capture your attention?
The good news is that Toronto likely has it all and then some. So, regardless of your interests, there’s a park out there, patiently awaiting your exploration.
Let’s find your perfect patch of green with our curated list of the best parks in Toronto that are an absolute must-visit!
High Park
– Media by duongngocvinh
Website: http://www.highparktoronto.com/
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-0338
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Toronto’s High Park is a standout, being one of the city’s largest and most popular parks, and it’s all for good reason – there’s a ton to see and do. You could literally wander around here for days and still not see everything.
The highlight, without a doubt, is strolling through the walking trails (don’t miss Spring Creek and West Ravine).
Sports enthusiasts will love High Park for its extensive facilities, featuring tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and even an artificial ice-skating rink when winter rolls in.
But, of course, no visit is complete without checking out the High Park Zoo to meet a diverse crew of animals. And if you happen to hit it in spring, get ready to be wowed by the cherry blossoms, as the park turns into a dreamy pink spectacle.
Bluffer’s Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/2/index.html
Address: Toronto, ON M1M 3W3, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re eager to catch a view of Lake Ontario’s famous Scarborough Bluffs, head over to Bluffer’s Park. Renowned for having the best beaches in Toronto, it’s a haven for water enthusiasts keen on activities like swimming.
This spacious waterfront park serves as a delightful escape from the city buzz. You can explore hiking trails (the one leading to the Scarborough Bluffs lookout is found at the park’s southern end), go biking, or simply relax on the soft lakeshore sand.
To add to the charm, picnic tables and BBQs are scattered throughout the park. These provide a perfect setup for grilling burgers and hot dogs to enjoy a laid-back picnic lunch.
For those not interested in cooking, concession areas are available, so there are plenty of fast food options for a quick and convenient bite.
Toronto Island Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/
Address: Toronto, ON, Canada
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Heading to Toronto Island Park is like taking a quick trip to a cozy cottage just outside the city. These islands are a chill and pleasant spot with lush lawns, pretty gardens, and some of Toronto’s best beaches – it’s like this huge park that has everything going on!
It’s super easy to get there from downtown with a quick ferry ride, making it the perfect spot for a family day out. Imagine open parks with picnic tables and playgrounds, totally set up for BBQs and picnics.
If the little ones need some excitement, check out Centreville Amusement Park; it has over 30 rides and attractions to keep them smiling. For those with tiny tots, a visit to Far Enough Farm is a must, with over 40 animals waiting to be visited and maybe even petted.
Moreover, there are plenty of full-service restaurants, many with patios, where the whole family can stop by to relax and recharge with a delicious meal.
Rouge National Urban Park
– Media by tdot_shots
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
Address: 25 Zoo Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-264-2020
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Say hello to Toronto’s newest national urban park, Rouge Park, a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. This park takes nature to a whole new level, sprawling over a vast area that follows the watershed of the Rouge River as it makes its way down to Lake Ontario.
There’s a ton of cool stuff to do here – think hiking, biking, bird-watching, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. Head to the southern end, and you’ll spot Rouge Beach waiting for you.
But here’s the scoop: what you see now is just the beginning because the park is undergoing continuous, massive development as of writing. Hiking and biking trails are getting major upgrades, with new ones in the pipeline.
Two new visitor education centers are in the works as well. The campground, already known for offering some of the best camping in Toronto, is getting a complete overhaul to provide the amenities today’s campers expect.
Now, that’s a solid reason to keep coming back here!
Kew Gardens
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/107/index.html
Address: 2075 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 2N9, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-2489
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
At Kew Gardens, size doesn’t matter, but the experiences sure do!
It might not be the largest park in Toronto, but it’s packed with surprises around every corner. With sprawling lawns, lush green spaces, and the exciting bonus of a library on the grounds, there’s more than meets the eye.
And that’s just the start—we’re talking tennis courts, a baseball diamond, lawn bowling, a wading pool, breathtaking gardens, a concession stand, and a covered picnic area. Kew Gardens truly stands out as an exciting park in the city waiting to be explored.
Now, here’s a friendly tip for you – plan your visit during the summer months, and you could catch a summer concert, free film nights, and art exhibitions within the park.
Christie Pits Park
– Media by tbotoronto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/196/index.html
Address: 750 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 3K4, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
What was once a massive sand pit has transformed into one of Toronto’s favorite parks. Christie Pits Park, now offers nearly nine hectares of space for you to discover.
The park truly comes alive in the summer, as you can really hear the crack of baseballs off bats and the slap of volleyballs echoing from the numerous sports venues in the area.
But don’t underestimate the winter charm here – especially if you’re into tobogganing, as some prime spots feature sloping hills. Additionally, ice skaters will also find joy in the park, thanks to the Sid Smith Artificial Ice Rink that’s beautifully lit at night.
Sunnyside Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/394/index.html
Address: 1755 Lakeshore Blvd W Toronto, ON M6S 5A3
Ever wondered about that gorgeous beach park to your right as you inch along the Gardiner Expressway into downtown Toronto? Well, wonder no more – it’s Sunnyside Park!
Beach enthusiasts, this park is tailor-made for you, boasting three beautiful beaches in the area. Take your pick – whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beach, splashing around at the Budapest wading pool, or doing a few laps at the outdoor Sunnyside/Gus Ryder pool.
And if you’re all about that “me time,” stroll along the waterfront trail. But if you have the family in tow, the park’s got you covered with its fun playgrounds. Your furry friends are welcome too; they have their own off-leash area at the west end.
Trinity Bellwoods Park
– Media by friendsoftribel
Website: http://www.trinitybellwoods.ca/
Address: 790 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re in the mood for a traditional green space, set your sights on the trendy and culture-infused Trinity Bellwoods Park, the go-to destination for sunny weekends.
This 37-acre haven along Queen Street West truly has it all: volleyball and tennis courts, ball diamonds, an ice rink, a refreshing wading pool, a playground, and a bustling rec center. And mind you, that’s just scratching the surface.
Make the most of the green space that will draw you here in the first place. Stroll through the expansive greenery, lounge on the grassy fields, and seek shade beneath century-old trees.
And let’s not overlook the vibrant events they host here – there are captivating art installations, rhythmic drum circles, engaging plays, and delightful book fairs. You’ll even see the elusive white squirrels that locals insist call this place home.
Riverdale Park
– Media by toronto_papi_
Website: http://toronto.ca/
Address: 425 Carlton St. #381, Toronto, ON M5A 2M3, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-6794
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Amidst the many parks in Toronto that seemingly have it all, don’t let Riverdale Park slip under your radar.
This isn’t your typical lay-down-on-a-picnic-cloth kind of park. The park also offers various features such as a swimming pool, playgrounds, sports courts, and even a working farm (with free admission) where the animals eagerly await a child’s pat.
Spanning a vast 161 acres along the Don River, it’s definitely one of Toronto’s largest parks, offering ample space for different types of relaxation. Whether that’s a laid-back picnic, a soccer game, or some peaceful reading under a tree.
But here’s a pro tip: no matter what activity you choose, make sure to treat yourself to the breathtaking views of the Toronto skyline from the park’s viewpoint!
Etienne Brulé Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/10/index.html
Address: 10 Catherine Ave, Toronto, ON M6S, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
How about planning a day where you enjoy both the past and present while unwinding by the Humber River? For that, hang out at the Etienne Brule Park where you can immerse yourself in the bygone era when the river was a trade route for the First Nations in the area.
Take your time strolling along the riverbank, exploring the informative signs that detail the area’s history and traditional uses. Then, kick it up a notch and venture onto the Humber River Recreation Trail for some outdoor adventure.
Now, besides the typical park offerings like ball diamonds and picnic spots, the real gem at the park, of course, is the abundance of awesome spots where you can access the Humber River for activities like fishing or kayaking. How cool is that?
Berczy Park
– Media by tigermike68
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/277/index.html
Address: 35 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C6, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If your ideal Toronto park involves lush greenery, walking trails, hiking paths, and vibrant blooms, Berczy Park might not fit the bill. However, if you’re on the lookout for a quirky oasis in the midst of a bustling day, this 3,606-square-meter Toronto public park is your spot.
The highlight? A large, whimsical dog-themed fountain that’s impossible to ignore. This historic centerpiece unveiled in 2017, boasts twenty-seven dog sculptures, all surrounding a golden bone perched atop the fountain.
For a change of scenery from the adorable dog sculptures, head to the west end of the park and discover an artwork display titled “Jacob’s Ladder” by artist Luis Jacob. Might be a fun quick trip if you really like art!
Toronto Sculpture Garden
– Media by maw.guru
Address: 115 King St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1G6, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-4012
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Art buff but hate the lines? Avoid the lengthy queues at museums and opt for a unique art experience at the Toronto Sculpture Garden (TSG)!
Established in 1981, this space has been commissioning temporary art pieces, offering visitors a chance to appreciate art in an unexpected locale – in their case, a small park on King Street East.
Here, people can take a moment to observe the creative process, share their thoughts, and ask questions to the artists.
What sets TSG apart is not only the opportunity to witness local artworks but also international creations. In fact, artists who have showcased their works in the park hail from diverse locations, including England, the US, China, and Russia.
Queen’s Park
– Media by anv.stasia
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/2674/index.html
Address: 110 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON M7A 1A2, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-325-7500
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Great for history lovers and anyone up for a chill picnic day, Queen’s Park is one of the oldest urban parks in the city. Nestled in downtown Toronto, it started as a gift to the Prince of Wales and later got rebranded as Queen’s Park.
If you’re into history, this spot’s like a time machine. As you wander through, you’ll encounter several statues honoring renowned figures in Canada, including George Brown, King Edward VII, John Sandfield Macdonald, and many more.
It’s not just a walk down memory lane, the park’s awesome for biking too. Plus, it’s the perfect space for a picnic, as there are tables and spots to kick back with your friends no matter what time of the day.
Dufferin Grove Park
– Media by home_t_k
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/
Address: 875 Dufferin St, Toronto, ON M6H 3K8, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-0913
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If peace and quiet are what you’re after, Dufferin Grove Park should definitely be on your list of must-visit parks in Toronto.
Keep in mind, though, that summer afternoons here might be lively with kids playing, families, and friends enjoying the park’s atmosphere. Plan accordingly if you’re seeking solitude – early mornings are typically quiet!
Nevertheless, the main vibe here is all about relaxation. A standout feature of Dufferin Park is its reflexology footpath, designed for people to unwind by stimulating and massaging their feet.
For organic food enthusiasts, the nearby farmer’s market, one of the oldest in the city, is a must-visit as well.
Sunnybrook Park
– Media by trinimon18
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/28/index.html
Address: 1132 Leslie St, Toronto, ON, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Locals just adore Sunnybrook Park, and it’s not hard to see why. One big draw? Checking out the cool local wildlife!
This city oasis has these wetland spots that act as a spot for snapping turtles, great blue herons, and red-winged blackbirds. And if you’re into bird-watching, this place is where it’s at in Toronto.
But that’s not all – if you love biking, Sunnybrook Park is a dream spot. They have around 25 different bike lanes, making it a hotspot for anyone wanting to cruise on two wheels.
Additionally, a visit to Sunnybrook Park opens up the chance to explore adjacent Glendon Forest, a thriving woodland habitat. It’s where you can get up close with sugar maple, eastern white pine, American beech, and eastern hemlock.
