McMichael Cemetery
A rare glimpse into Toronto's second oldest Catholic cemetery, home to Group of Seven painters and a serene sculpture trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rare public access days
McMichael Cemetery
Best Time
Rare public access days
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare glimpse into Toronto's second oldest Catholic cemetery, home to Group of Seven painters and a serene sculpture trail.
"A unique blend of art, history, and nature, but access is extremely limited."
🎯 Check Open Dates
Access is very limited; confirm open days via social media or local event listings.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a place of rest. Explore quietly and with reverence for the departed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Group of Seven Graves
Artist's Cemetery
Pay respects to six of Canada's most celebrated painters, resting in this serene, wooded section.
Sculpture Trail
Forest Trails
Wander through a beautiful forested area dotted with sculptures, offering a unique blend of art and nature.
Historic Burial Ground
Main Cemetery Grounds
Explore Toronto's second oldest Catholic cemetery, a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by the city's bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Rare Access to a Historic Gem
+1Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Open Dates
Access is very limited; confirm open days via social media or local event listings.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a place of rest. Explore quietly and with reverence for the departed.
🌳 Enjoy the Nature
The forested trails and sculptures offer a peaceful escape within the city.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are uneven and involve walking through wooded areas. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Open Dates
Access is very limited; confirm open days via social media or local event listings.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a place of rest. Explore quietly and with reverence for the departed.
🌳 Enjoy the Nature
The forested trails and sculptures offer a peaceful escape within the city.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are uneven and involve walking through wooded areas. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate St. Michael's Cemetery for its serene, forested grounds and the unique opportunity to visit the graves of the Group of Seven painters. The sculpture trail adds an artistic element to the peaceful exploration. However, the extremely limited public access is a significant drawback for many, making visits a rare and carefully planned event.
"The grounds are open to walk and explore through the sculpture trail and artist's cemetery. Lovely forested area!"
Bryan Stafford
"Most of the group of 7 guys rest here.
May they rest in peace."
TheFatelessHero
"You should definitely visit the old cemetery. Six of the “Group of Seven” painters are located here."
Heide Düne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Michael's Cemetery is accessible via an alleyway off Yonge Street, near St. Clair Avenue. Public transit is recommended, with the Yonge-University subway line stopping at St. Clair Station.
Parking is extremely limited as the cemetery is surrounded by residential buildings and busy streets. Street parking may be available in surrounding neighborhoods, but public transit is the most convenient option.
No, public access is very restricted. The cemetery is typically only open to the public for a few days each year, often around Easter weekend or during events like Jane's Walk. Always check for specific open dates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are generally not required for the rare open days, but it's always best to check the official announcements for any specific entry requirements or donation suggestions.
Opening hours vary significantly as the cemetery is not regularly open. On the days it is accessible, hours are typically from morning to late afternoon. Confirm specific times for open days.
Yes, for general public access, St. Michael's Cemetery is almost always closed. It opens its gates only on very specific, limited occasions throughout the year.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the historic gravestones, find the resting places of six Group of Seven painters, and enjoy a sculpture trail through the forested grounds.
While not its primary purpose, the cemetery's secluded nature and limited access on open days can offer a quiet, contemplative space for reflection.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, especially on open days. However, always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, due to the cemetery's solemn nature and limited access, it's best suited for families with older children who can understand and respect the environment. Ensure children are supervised and reminded to be quiet and mindful of the gravesites. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the grounds.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Beyond the artists, the cemetery itself is a historical artifact, reflecting Toronto's early Catholic community. Exploring the old gravestones and the peaceful, wooded landscape provides a unique glimpse into the past. Plan your visit meticulously, as these open days are infrequent and highly anticipated.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of St. Michael's Cemetery
The cemetery is particularly renowned for being the resting place of six of the seven members of the iconic Group of Seven painters: Lawren Harris, J.E.H. MacDonald, Arthur Lismer, Franklin Carmichael, Frank Johnston, and A.Y. Jackson. This connection adds a layer of artistic and cultural significance, drawing art enthusiasts and history buffs alike during its rare open days.
Despite its historical importance, St. Michael's Cemetery is known for its extremely limited public access. It is typically only open to visitors for a handful of days each year, often coinciding with special events like Easter weekend or Jane's Walk. This scarcity makes a visit a special occasion, requiring careful planning to coincide with these infrequent opportunities.
+1Exploring the Grounds: Art and Nature
This blend of art, nature, and history creates a unique atmosphere for exploration. The trails are generally well-maintained, though visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain in some sections. The quietude of the cemetery, even on days it's open, allows for a contemplative experience, making it a place where one can appreciate both the artistic endeavors of the past and the enduring beauty of nature.
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