Downsview Park Toronto
A former military base transformed into a vibrant urban park with trails, a lake, sports facilities, and a major concert venue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Downsview Park Toronto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former military base transformed into a vibrant urban park with trails, a lake, sports facilities, and a major concert venue.
"Forget driving, take transit and enjoy the vast green spaces and major events at Downsview Park!"
🚗 Skip the Car!
Parking is scarce and traffic is heavy during events. Take the TTC or GO Train!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Downsview Park hosts many events. Confirm schedules to avoid crowds or catch a festival!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rogers Stadium
Central Downsview Park
Toronto's newest major concert venue, hosting world-class artists and events. A must-visit for music lovers.
Downsview Park Lake
Southwest Downsview Park
A serene spot for a stroll or picnic, offering a peaceful escape within the park's expansive grounds.
Walking Trails & Green Spaces
Throughout Downsview Park
Explore miles of trails, hilltop views, and diverse landscapes, perfect for a refreshing walk or bike ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Downsview Park: Transit is Key
Event-Ready: Check Schedules & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Skip the Car!
Parking is scarce and traffic is heavy during events. Take the TTC or GO Train!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Downsview Park hosts many events. Confirm schedules to avoid crowds or catch a festival!
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Discover diverse landscapes, from forests to a mini lake. Great for walks and dog owners!
🚊 Transit to Downsview Station
The TTC subway to Downsview Park Station is a reliable option for most visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Skip the Car!
Parking is scarce and traffic is heavy during events. Take the TTC or GO Train!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Downsview Park hosts many events. Confirm schedules to avoid crowds or catch a festival!
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Discover diverse landscapes, from forests to a mini lake. Great for walks and dog owners!
🚊 Transit to Downsview Station
The TTC subway to Downsview Park Station is a reliable option for most visitors.
🚝 GO Train for Convenience
The GO train to Downsview Park Station is often simpler than TTC for some routes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Downsview Park for its expansive green spaces, walking trails, and the convenience of transit access for major events. The park is seen as a versatile venue for both recreation and large-scale entertainment, though parking challenges during events are a common point of frustration.
"We had a great time at the pumpkin fest event at Downsview park! Great place to take memorable family pictures. The event is very organized, spacious, offers plenty of activities and lots of food trucks! Being such a popular event, finding a parking spot was somewhat difficult."
Wissam Ballout
"Great place to visit during fall season, has got multiple beautiful spots to explore. Great place for sunsets. Circuit trail, so no go for people not fond of walking."
christyl sunny
"What an amazing place to explore. Clean park lots of information to check out great scenery.
Recently attended the punk in drublic festival here. What an awesome spot for a concert venue very well set up the way the sound rolls through the hills is amazing. It was a very rainy, wet weekend and yes, there was lots of muddy spots but the nice thing is it looks like they put sand down and many of the spots that would take a lot of traffic like in front of the stage and what notthoroughly enjoyed myself here and will definitely keep an eye on any further being planned. Also parking was very easy. It was $25 a day but I was able to park fairly close to the venue which was easy and great for us."
Garling CGM
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Transit is highly recommended due to limited parking and heavy traffic during events. The TTC subway to Downsview Park Station is a popular choice. Alternatively, the GO train to Downsview Park Station offers a convenient option, especially if coming from certain areas. +2
Parking at Downsview Park is very limited, especially during major events like concerts at Rogers Stadium. It's strongly advised to use public transportation.
Yes, drop-offs and pick-ups are possible, but expect significant traffic delays during events. Consider designated drop-off zones away from the immediate stadium area and plan for potential waiting times.
The TTC Line 1 (Yonge-University) subway line serves Downsview Park Station. You'll want to take the subway heading towards Vaughan.
For concerts at Rogers Stadium, take the TTC subway to Downsview Park Station or the GO train to Downsview Park Station. Avoid driving if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to Downsview Park itself is free. However, tickets are required for specific ticketed events like concerts at Rogers Stadium or festivals.
Downsview Park is generally open from dawn to dusk for public access to its trails and green spaces. Specific venues within the park, like Rogers Stadium, will have their own event hours.
Access to the park's natural areas and trails is free. Fees may apply for specific facilities, sports rentals, or ticketed events held within the park.
It's best to purchase tickets for events in advance online. On-site availability can be limited, especially for popular concerts and festivals.
Be prepared for large crowds and plan your transit in advance. Check the venue's bag policy and prohibited items list before you go.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Downsview Park offers a variety of activities including walking trails, sports fields, a dog park, exercise areas, and historical walks. It also hosts major events and concerts.
Yes, washrooms are available within Downsview Park, particularly near event venues and main recreational areas.
Absolutely! Downsview Park has trails, open spaces, and sometimes hosts family-friendly events, making it a great spot for a day out.
Yes, there are picnic areas available, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed outdoor meal.
Yes, Downsview Park features a mini lake, adding to its scenic beauty and offering a pleasant spot for relaxation.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse backdrops, from the open fields and trails to the mini lake. Hilltops provide great panoramic views, and the sunset views are particularly stunning.
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal use photos are allowed, but professional equipment or flash photography might be restricted. Check the event's specific guidelines.
The park has a history as a former military base, and there are history walks that might offer interesting perspectives for photography enthusiasts.
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Weekday mornings provide a quieter atmosphere for capturing the park's natural beauty.
Drone usage is typically regulated in urban parks and near airports. It's advisable to check with park authorities or Transport Canada for specific rules regarding drone operation at Downsview Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas. It's also wise to check the park's event schedule, as family-friendly activities or festivals might be happening. While general park access is free, be aware that major ticketed events will have their own admission fees and potentially large crowds, so plan accordingly.
🎶 Music & Festival Goers
Familiarize yourself with the stadium's entry points and any specific instructions for drop-off and pick-up if you're not using transit. Check the event's website for prohibited items and bag policies to ensure a smooth entry. Be ready for large crowds and enjoy the incredible performances!
🚶♀️ Nature & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to experience the unreal sunset views from the park's elevated spots. It's an ideal location for birdwatching or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature within the city. Remember to wear comfortable athletic shoes for exploring the trails and bring water, especially on warmer days.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting Around Downsview Park: Transit First
If you must drive, be prepared for a significant challenge. Parking near the stadium is scarce and often expensive. Some Redditors suggest parking at nearby transit stations like Pioneer Village Station and taking the subway the rest of the way, or looking for parking lots around areas like Wilson Station, which is a bit further but might offer more options. Always check event-specific advice for drop-off and pick-up points, as traffic management can be complex.
For those unfamiliar with the area, the park is quite expansive. If you're heading to a specific location within the park, like the Dino's Alive event at 30 Hanover, using a mapping app beforehand is essential. Some routes might involve a bus connection after exiting the subway, so familiarize yourself with the best bus routes to your final destination.
Events and Activities at Downsview Park
Beyond large-scale events, the park offers numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy extensive walking trails that wind through forests and open fields, explore a mini lake, and utilize dedicated dog parks, exercise areas, and picnic spots. The park also has a historical significance as a former military base, with opportunities for history walks that delve into its past.
When planning a visit, it's essential to check the Downsview Park schedule for any upcoming events. This will not only help you decide if you want to attend a specific festival or concert but also prepare you for potential crowds and altered access. Even without a major event, the park is a fantastic destination for a relaxed day outdoors, offering a breath of fresh air and diverse landscapes within the city.
Photography Opportunities at Downsview Park
One of the most celebrated aspects for photographers is the unreal sunset views that Downsview Park offers. Capturing the golden hour light over the open spaces can result in truly stunning images. Weekday mornings also provide a more serene environment, ideal for capturing the park's tranquility without the hustle and bustle of crowds.
While general photography is welcomed, it's important to be mindful of event-specific regulations if you're visiting during a concert or festival at Rogers Stadium. Policies on professional equipment, tripods, and flash photography can vary. Always check the event's guidelines beforehand to ensure you can capture your memories without issue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit