If you are looking for a place in Toronto where nature, history, and family fun come together, High Park should be at the top of your list. Spanning nearly 400 acres, it's the city's largest public park and feels like an escape into the countryside, right in the heart of Canada's biggest metropolis.
High Park isn’t just a patch of green; it’s a vibrant space filled with gardens, walking trails, a large fenced-in dog park, playgrounds, and even a small zoo. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll, a picnic with friends, or a family adventure, the park offers something for everyone.
1. Wander Through Nature Trails
With kilometres of walking paths winding through forests, ponds, and open fields, High Park is a dream for walkers, joggers, and bird watchers. In spring, cherry blossoms transform parts of the park into a pink wonderland, attracting photographers from all over the city.
2. Visit Grenadier Pond
This large pond is a calm spot for reflection (literally and figuratively). In summer, you’ll find people fishing or simply enjoying the water views, while in winter, the frozen pond becomes a picturesque backdrop for snowy walks. Often in the springtime, you'll find swans with their cygnets.
3. Stop by the High Park Zoo
A hidden gem within the park, the High Park Zoo has been delighting visitors since 1893. It’s home to animals like llamas, bison, capybaras, and peacocks—making it especially fun for kids.
4. Take a break at the Grenadier Cafe
Surrounded by the beauty of High Park, the Grenadier Cafe reflects the character of the surrounding area while also paying tribute to High Park's storied past. This multi-section restaurant offers the choice to sit and relax with a hot cocoa or cappuccino before your hike in the park or meet up with family and friends for a beautiful breakfast or lunch.
5. Family Playgrounds & Sports
High Park features several large playgrounds, including the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground, a whimsical castle-like structure kids adore. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and outdoor swimming pools in summer. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing, winter tennis, and skating on the ice rink.
6. Visit the High Park Nature Centre
The Nature Centre offers programs such as day camps to events, workshops, field trips, and more — it offers you and your family so many ways to connect with nature. Make sure to visit the open-air space located beside the school and learn about the natural habitats in the park.
High Park is a year-round destination. Spring brings cherry blossoms and fresh blooms, summer is perfect for picnics, fall colors are stunning, and winter turns the trails into peaceful snow-covered escapes.
• Getting there: High Park has its own TTC subway station on Line 2, making it very accessible. Parking is available weekdays in the park; however, the park is closed to vehicle traffic on weekends, so you will need to find parking on nearby streets. The park is bike-friendly.
• Pack a picnic: There are plenty of grassy spots and picnic tables throughout the park.
• Go early for cherry blossoms: If you’re visiting in late April or early May, aim for mornings to beat the crowds.
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