Edwards Gardens, Toronto - Edwards Gardens, Toronto
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Edwards Gardens Toronto

4.7
·9k reviews·Toronto, Canada

A former estate garden in Toronto, now a public park featuring wildflowers, perennials, fountains, and adjacent botanical gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers galore!

CrowdMedium
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Edwards Gardens, Toronto - Edwards Gardens, Toronto

Edwards Gardens Toronto

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers galore!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former estate garden in Toronto, now a public park featuring wildflowers, perennials, fountains, and adjacent botanical gardens.

4.7
(9k reviews)

"A beautiful, free escape with stunning wildflowers and peaceful fountains, perfect for a nature stroll."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Tips

Paid parking at Botanical Gardens lot. Weekends fill by noon! Consider street parking with trail access.

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens section. Service animals are exceptions.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wildflower Wonderland

Wildflower Wonderland

Throughout the gardens

Wander through a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers and perennials, especially stunning in spring. A true natural escape.

Reddit
Tranquil Fountains

Tranquil Fountains

Various locations

Discover charming fountains that add a serene and picturesque element to the garden's landscape. Perfect for a peaceful moment.

TikTok
Botanical Gardens Oasis

Botanical Gardens Oasis

Toronto Botanical Gardens adjacent

Explore diverse plant collections and themed gardens, offering a rich horticultural experience.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Weekend Parking Strategy

Weekends at Edwards Gardens Toronto can get busy, with parking lots filling up by noon. Arrive early or consider street parking on nearby streets with trail access to the Don Valley trail to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Know Before You Go: Pet Policy

While Edwards Gardens is a public park, dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens section. Service animals are an exception. Plan accordingly for your furry friends. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers galore!
Crowd
Medium
When
Thursday evenings
Why
Farmers market & concert
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must visit an hour away from Toronto!! No admission fee, just flat fee for day parking. It’s super accessible as you can drive to all the different stupas✨ #fyp #fypp #viral #foryoupagе #pov #Trending...
@syd.snap
32.9K likes • 1.2M views

🚗 Parking Tips

Paid parking at Botanical Gardens lot. Weekends fill by noon! Consider street parking with trail access. Reddit

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens section. Service animals are exceptions. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Toronto Botanical Gardens, Edwards Gardens, and Wilket Creek Park

reddit.com

How’s Edwards Gardens

☕ Cafe Break

Grab a drink or snack at the cafe located within the Toronto Botanical Gardens. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll to Wilket Creek

Easily walk from Edwards Gardens to Wilket Creek Park for extended nature exploration. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Toronto Botanical Gardens, Edwards Gardens, and Wilket Creek Park

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Paid parking at Botanical Gardens lot. Weekends fill by noon! Consider street parking with trail access. Reddit

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens section. Service animals are exceptions. Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

Grab a drink or snack at the cafe located within the Toronto Botanical Gardens. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll to Wilket Creek

Easily walk from Edwards Gardens to Wilket Creek Park for extended nature exploration. Reddit

🚲 Bike Trail Access

Connect to the Don Valley trail for cycling. Park on streets with trail access if lots are full. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors love Edwards Gardens for its stunning natural beauty, especially the wildflowers and peaceful atmosphere. It's a highly recommended free public park, though parking can be a challenge on busy weekends. Some find the adjacent botanical gardens' pet restrictions inconvenient.

"The gardens were part of private estate of Rupert Edwards who has created the whole ensemble of rockery, waterfalls, bridges and later sold it to the city to become a public park. Toronto Botanical garden is operating 1.8 hectare portion of Edwards gardens. The place is not that large but has nice themed gardens and arboretum. There is an ample parking lot as well as cafe on-premises."

Mike Z

"A beautiful escape in the city. Edwards Gardens is peaceful, well-kept, and perfect for a relaxing walk. Loved the flowers, little bridges, and trails that connect into the ravine. Great spot for photos or just to enjoy some quiet nature time. Free to visit and definitely worth coming back."

Wei H (IG: ohmyfoodiewei)

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Stunning garden! The vibrant colours of the flowers and the well-manicured landscapes create such a serene atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with friends and family. The variety of plants and the overall design were impressive, making it a photographer's dream.

I also appreciated the little seating areas scattered throughout the garden, perfect for taking a moment to simply enjoy the beauty around you.

If you're looking for a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle, I highly recommend visiting this garden. I can't wait to go back in different seasons to see how the scenery changes!"

Anastasia N.

What People Like

Beautiful wildflowers
Peaceful atmosphere
Free admission

What People Dislike

Weekend parking issues
Pet restrictions in botanical gardens

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Edwards Gardens is accessible by car, with paid parking available at the Toronto Botanical Gardens lot. You can also find street parking on nearby roads that offer access to the Don Valley trail, which can lead you into the gardens. Public transit options are also available, though may require a short walk. Reddit+1

Yes, there is paid parking at the Toronto Botanical Gardens lot adjacent to Edwards Gardens. However, this lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reddit

Absolutely! Edwards Gardens is a great spot to access the Don Valley trail for cycling. You can park on nearby streets that have trail access if the main lots are full. Reddit

While specific routes can vary, using a transit app to search for 'Edwards Gardens Toronto' will provide the most up-to-date bus and subway information. Be prepared for a potential short walk from the nearest stops. TikTok

Yes, Edwards Gardens is adjacent to the Toronto Botanical Gardens and is also close to Wilket Creek Park, making it easy to explore multiple green spaces in one visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Edwards Gardens itself is a public park and does not have an admission fee. However, there is a fee for parking at the adjacent Toronto Botanical Gardens lot. TikTok

Edwards Gardens is generally open from dawn until dusk. The adjacent Toronto Botanical Gardens may have specific operating hours, so it's best to check their schedule if you plan to visit their facilities. Reddit

No advance booking is required for general entry to Edwards Gardens as it's a public park. Parking fees are typically paid on-site. TikTok

Yes, the Toronto Botanical Gardens often hosts events, including a farmers market and concerts on Thursday evenings. Check their schedule for upcoming activities. Reddit

Dogs are not allowed in the Toronto Botanical Gardens section. However, as a public park, well-behaved dogs on leashes are generally permitted in Edwards Gardens itself, but always check local signage for the most current rules. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots, from the vibrant wildflower beds and serene fountains to the lush greenery. The adjacent botanical gardens also provide diverse backdrops. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally allowed in Edwards Gardens for personal use. Commercial photography may require permits, so it's advisable to check with the city if you plan a professional shoot. TikTok

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade in some areas can still be good. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant colors. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe located within the Toronto Botanical Gardens that offers drinks and snacks. For more substantial meals, consider nearby restaurants or packing a picnic to enjoy in the park. Reddit

Yes, picnics are a popular way to enjoy Edwards Gardens. There are many lovely spots throughout the park to spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal. Reddit

The cafe typically offers light refreshments, coffee, and snacks. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or a refreshing drink while you explore the gardens. Reddit

Yes, the area around Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Gardens has several dining options. You can find various cuisines in the nearby neighborhoods. Reddit

Bringing your own food is a great option for a picnic, offering more variety and cost savings. The cafe is convenient for a quick snack or drink. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Edwards Gardens is a fantastic spot for families! The open spaces are perfect for kids to run around, and the visual appeal of the flowers and fountains can captivate young minds. Pack a picnic to make a day of it, and explore the adjacent Wilket Creek Park for even more room to play. Reddit

Keep in mind the Toronto Botanical Gardens section has a strict no-dog policy, so if you're bringing a pet, ensure they stay within the public park areas of Edwards Gardens. The accessibility of the gardens makes it easy for strollers, and the natural beauty provides a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Edwards Gardens is a dream for budget travelers as it offers a beautiful natural escape with no admission fee! TikTok The main cost to consider is parking, which is paid at the Toronto Botanical Gardens lot. To save money, consider parking on nearby streets and walking or biking in, or utilize public transit. Reddit

Packing your own picnic is also a great way to keep costs down, allowing you to enjoy a meal amidst the stunning scenery. The abundance of natural beauty and walking trails provides hours of free entertainment and exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Gardens: A Visitor's Guide

Edwards Gardens is a beautiful former estate garden renowned for its naturalistic landscaping, featuring a stunning array of wildflowers, perennials, and charming fountains. It seamlessly blends into the larger Toronto Botanical Gardens, offering a dual experience for visitors. The gardens are divided into distinct areas, each with its own unique charm, from open, grassy expanses perfect for a stroll to more intimate, planted sections showcasing seasonal blooms. TikTokReddit

Visitors often rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the abundance of natural beauty. The proximity to Wilket Creek Park allows for extended exploration, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely afternoon. Remember that while Edwards Gardens is a public park, the adjacent Toronto Botanical Gardens has specific rules, including a no-dog policy (service animals excepted). Reddit+1

Key features include the diverse floral displays, the tranquil water features, and the easy access to walking and biking trails. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature without leaving the city. The gardens are particularly vibrant in the spring and summer months, but offer a serene escape year-round. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Access

Parking is a key consideration for many visitors to Edwards Gardens. The primary parking is located at the Toronto Botanical Gardens lot, which is adjacent to Edwards Gardens. This lot is paid and can become quite crowded, especially on weekend mornings, often filling up by noon. Reddit

To avoid parking hassles, especially during peak times, Redditors suggest arriving early or exploring alternative options. Some visitors have found success parking on nearby streets that offer access to the Don Valley trail system. This allows you to bike or walk into the gardens, bypassing the main parking congestion. Reddit

It's also worth noting that Edwards Gardens itself closes at dusk, so plan your visit accordingly. For those using public transit, research the best bus or subway routes to the area, as it may involve a short walk to reach the gardens. Reddit

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