Toronto Botanical Garden Toronto
A serene oasis featuring 17 themed gardens over 4 acres, offering a beautiful escape with seasonal events and a cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler temps
Toronto Botanical Garden Toronto
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis featuring 17 themed gardens over 4 acres, offering a beautiful escape with seasonal events and a cafe.
"Feels like I’m dreaming when I saw this paradise!"
🚫 Leave the Dog at Home
Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens or Edwards Gardens, except for service animals.
☕ Grab a Bite or Drink
A small cafe is available for refreshments, making it easy to enjoy a longer visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Themed Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Explore 17 distinct garden areas, each offering a unique floral and landscape experience. A true botanical wonderland!
Seasonal Cafe
Onsite
Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack amidst the blooms at the seasonal cafe. Perfect for a mid-stroll break.
Garden Shop
Onsite
Find unique plants, gifts, and gardening essentials to take a piece of the garden home with you.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Dreamy Visit
Understand the Garden's Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 Leave the Dog at Home
Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens or Edwards Gardens, except for service animals.
☕ Grab a Bite or Drink
A small cafe is available for refreshments, making it easy to enjoy a longer visit.
Visiting Toronto Botanical Gardens, Edwards Gardens, and Wilket Creek Park
Visiting Toronto in a few days and wondering if the Toronto Botanical Gardens are worth visiting this time of year
🚶♀️ Explore Adjacent Parks
Easily walk to Edwards Gardens and Wilket Creek Park for an extended nature experience.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for special events like farmers markets and concerts, especially on Thursdays!
Visiting Toronto Botanical Gardens, Edwards Gardens, and Wilket Creek Park
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 Leave the Dog at Home
Dogs are not permitted in the Toronto Botanical Gardens or Edwards Gardens, except for service animals.
☕ Grab a Bite or Drink
A small cafe is available for refreshments, making it easy to enjoy a longer visit.
🚶♀️ Explore Adjacent Parks
Easily walk to Edwards Gardens and Wilket Creek Park for an extended nature experience.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for special events like farmers markets and concerts, especially on Thursdays!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Toronto Botanical Garden for its stunning beauty and diverse themed areas, offering a serene escape. While generally free and accessible, some note it can be a bit chilly even in warmer months and that dogs are not permitted. The adjacent Edwards Gardens adds to the appeal for a longer nature experience.
"Discover the enchanting Toronto Botanical Garden, nestled in the heart of North York, Ontario, where nature and creativity flourish in perfect harmony. This stunning 17-acre sanctuary is a unique destination that celebrates the beauty of the natural world while offering a rich tapestry of history and horticultural artistry.
One of the garden's most captivating features is its diverse collection of over 20 themed gardens, including the serene Woodland Walk, the vibrant Perennial Border, and the fragrant Herb Garden. Each garden showcases a variety of plant species, providing a feast for the senses and a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or family picnics.
Historically, the site has deep roots, originally established in 1958 as the Toronto Botanical Garden. Its commitment to education and conservation has made it a vital resource for the community, hosting workshops, lectures, and events throughout the year that inspire a love for gardening and environmental stewardship.
Visitors can immerse themselves in a wealth of activities, from guided garden tours that reveal the secrets of plant care to hands-on workshops that cater to all ages and skill levels. The garden's visitor centre also features a charming café and gift shop, where you can find unique garden-related items and refreshments to enhance your experience.
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and engaging activities, the Toronto Botanical Garden invites you to connect with nature and cultivate your passion for gardening. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or a curious newcomer, this gem in North York promises a memorable escape into the world of plants and beauty. Plan your visit today and experience the magic for yourself!"
shamsan alammari
"This was way better than I thought it would be. As you're walking through the winding paths of various material (stone, wood, dirt), you can feel the silence in the air while smelling the aroma of flowers.
The winding stairs to get a 360 view was a nice touch. I'm sure they're busy during the wedding season.
The gift shop was not disappointing, and the prices are reasonable. I purchased some beautiful birthday cards which had pressed flowers on it that was created by the Pressed Flower Group for the Toronto Botanical Garden for $6.99. Way cheaper than what the drug mart sells.
I was very pleased with my day out and I'm looking forward to going back again!"
Sandra Nickerson
"walking and cycling along the trail is beautiful.
Has many beautiful wild flowers and trees.
Has well conserved greenhouse, vegetables garden, drinking water, toilet, picnic spot and a mini fall.
Great place to be away from city chaos."
Chandra Dhamala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Toronto Botanical Garden is located at 777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto, ON M3C 1P2. It's accessible by public transit, with bus routes serving the Lawrence Avenue East area. Driving is also an option, with parking available.
Yes, it's adjacent to Edwards Gardens and close to Wilket Creek Park, offering opportunities for extended exploration.
Many visitors find public transit convenient, but driving is also feasible. Consider traffic patterns when planning your route.
Absolutely! They are right next to each other, connected by a short path, making it easy to experience both.
Yes, several TTC bus routes run along Lawrence Avenue East, providing access to the gardens. Check the TTC website for specific route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the gardens are free to enter, special events or workshops may require tickets. It's always best to check their official website for current admission policies.
Garden hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Toronto Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
General admission to the Toronto Botanical Gardens is typically free, allowing everyone to enjoy its beauty.
Guided tours may be available for groups or special occasions. Inquire directly with the garden for tour options and booking information.
The gardens themselves are generally free to access. However, specific events might have associated costs.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 17 themed gardens, each offering a unique visual and sensory experience. The Perennial Border Garden is a popular spot for ceremonies.
While specific picnic areas might not be designated, enjoying a snack from the cafe is encouraged. Check park rules for broader picnic guidelines.
Absolutely! The diverse themed gardens provide stunning backdrops for photography year-round.
Toronto Botanical Garden is a charity focused on gardening and events, while Edwards Gardens is a city park. They are adjacent and share some gardening efforts.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Be prepared for varying temperatures, as it can be chilly even in summer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a seasonal cafe on-site offering drinks and snacks, perfect for a break during your visit.
While there isn't a dedicated picnic area, you can enjoy snacks from the cafe. For full meals, consider dining before or after your visit.
The cafe typically offers light refreshments, coffee, and snacks. Menu items can vary seasonally.
The garden is located in a residential area, but you can find various dining options along Lawrence Avenue East or in nearby North York.
Prices at the cafe are generally reasonable for a garden setting, offering a convenient option for a quick bite.
📸 📸 Photography
Every themed garden offers unique photo opportunities. The Perennial Border Garden is particularly picturesque, especially for events.
Professional photography is generally permitted, but for events like weddings, specific venue rentals and permissions might be required.
The diverse and beautiful gardens provide a romantic and scenic backdrop, making it an excellent choice for engagement photos.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing stunning shots. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be magical.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial shoots or large-scale productions might require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Themed Gardens
These themed areas are not just visually appealing; they often serve educational purposes, highlighting different ecological zones and plant adaptations. Whether you're interested in native plants, drought-tolerant species, or ornamental displays, the gardens offer a comprehensive look at horticultural possibilities. The seasonal cafe provides a perfect spot to rest and reflect on the beauty you've encountered.
During different seasons, the gardens transform dramatically. Spring brings a burst of bulbs and early blooms, summer is a riot of color and lush foliage, autumn offers stunning fall colors, and even winter has its own stark beauty with interesting textures and evergreens. This makes the Toronto Botanical Garden a destination worth revisiting throughout the year.
Connecting with Nature: TBG and Edwards Gardens
A short, scenic path connects the two areas, offering a delightful walking experience. You can wander through the more formal garden beds at TBG and then explore the open green spaces, mature trees, and creek-side trails of Edwards Gardens. This combination provides a varied outdoor experience, catering to different preferences for nature immersion.
It's important to note that dogs are not permitted in either TBG or Edwards Gardens, with the exception of service animals. This policy helps maintain the pristine condition of the gardens and ensures a peaceful environment for all visitors.
Events and Community at TBG
For those considering a special occasion, the TBG has been a sought-after venue for weddings and ceremonies. Couples can utilize the beautiful outdoor spaces, such as the Perennial Border Garden, for their celebrations, often combining it with indoor facilities depending on their needs.
Beyond events, the garden also features a seasonal cafe and a garden shop, adding to the visitor experience. The shop is a great place to find unique plants and gardening-related items, allowing you to take a piece of the garden's inspiration home with you.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit