The last week or so has seen a marked shift in Toronto weather. The dropping temperatures indicates Fall is certainly on the way, meaning there’s no time like the present to enjoy Bloor-Yorkville’s unique outdoor spaces!
Of course, the most iconic outdoor space is the Village of Yorkville Park, known for its own piece of the Canadian Shield (aka The Big Rock), waterfall feature, and unique variations of foliage; including crab apple trees, pine trees, and little aesthetic extras like a boardwalk and stepping stones. With tables, chairs, seating amongst the trees and of course of the Rock, there’s no shortage of people-watching while you enjoy a coffee or perhaps a musical performance during our annual Summer Music in the Park series.
If you’re looking to spend some time a little more “off the grid”, one might say, we have a few other spots to take a reprieve from the city and enjoy some authentic #BYTime.
Top Parks in Toronto:
Hidden Gems You Don’t Want to Miss
Mist Garden
With a name this intriguing, you’ll certainly want to pay a visit to the enchanting space to the east of the Four Seasons Hotel. This oasis of shrubs, bushes, and yew trees is encompassed by a beautiful rose-inscribed wall. The area is set up with a variety of chairs (some in a blissful reclined position!) and the pièce de résistance: the mist that rises from under the rose wall! Every ten minute or so, the mist provides a few minutes of cooling reprieve from the hot summer sun.
With the cooling mist and the shade provided by the trees, this may quickly become your favourite lunch-break nap spot. Despite its prime location just off Avenue Road and Yorkville Avenue, it remains a calm and fairly quiet place to rejuvenate mid-day.
Location: 34-48 Yorkville Ave
Town Hall Square
Located beside the charming Yorkville Fire Hall and Historic Yorkville Public Library is another tree-filled parkette that you may not be familiar with. Strategically placed benches throughout the rows of tree-lined hedges make for a shaded and more private lunch spot away from the crowds.
A moment in the parkette provides a prime example of Bloor-Yorkville’s juxtaposition of architecture. Surrounded by both historic buildings and modern residences, there’s never a dull sight. One can sit amongst the foliage, while appreciating the unique aesthetics of the neighbourhood. It’s set just far enough away from the bustle of office buildings, but close enough to the heart of Bloor-Yorkville to be a quick mid-day getaway.
Location: 25 Yorkville Avenue
ROM Outdoor Terrace and Plaza
Not necessarily a Toronto hidden gem, but a brand-new outdoor space is the ROM‘s recently developed terrace and plaza, providing a unique gathering spot off the very busy intersection of Avenue Road and Bloor Street. Completed at the end of August, this terrace features greenery and an ample supply of garden-side seating.
The vast area invites people to meet, relax, and enjoy their time in the heart of the city, all while admiring the fascinating architecture of the ROM and Bloor Street’s surrounding area. The terrace also features a performance area, so you never know when you might catch an afternoon of live music!
Location: 100 Queens Park (Bloor Street Entrance)
If you’re looking for close parking in the area, be sure to visit our printable Bloor-Yorkville parking guide!