MY MEDALLION
Taking a stroll through your favourite park is a great mood booster that ensures you get some exercise and sunshine. Making sure you’re enjoying the outdoors while also observing social distancing rules can be a bit tricky, however. Luckily, there are over 1,500 green spaces in our city, many of which don’t see a lot of traffic. Here are our top picks for lesser-known Toronto parks.
Spadina Park
Next to Casa Loma is a small strip of shaded park benches. Besides the views of Toronto’s famous castle, Spadina Park provides some of the very best views of the city courtesy of the Baldwin Steps, which face south on Spadina towards downtown. The steep escarpment lets you see straight to the CN Tower on a clear day. As a bonus, if you’re counting your steps, taking the stairs here provides a great workout!
Cedarvale Park & Ravine
This is a gem in the St Clair West neighborhood that you should discover if you haven’t already! Boasting an off-leash dog park, two sports fields, outdoor tennis courts, and a baseball diamond, Cedarvale has it all. The size of the park (it spans from Vaughan Road almost all the way to Eglington) ensures it’s safe to visit since overcrowding is unlikely. Best of all, this park connects to Cedarvale Ravine, which provides a nestled-away area for a stroll through nature.
Wellesley Park
This Cabbagetown favourite gets much less crowded than neighbouring Rosedale Ravinelands and Riverdale Park. Known for its tranquil and charming atmosphere, this is a must-see for anyone living in the east end. It’s conveniently accessible from Rosedale Valley Rd by a set of picturesque steps.
Stanley Park
This greenspace will be a great escape for Liberty Village dwellers looking to get outside. It boasts a dog run, a baseball diamond, and a playground area. Trees form a canopy over park benches, so you can enjoy the shade while you take in the views of the city skyline.
Hillcrest Park
Another St Clair West staple, Hillcrest Park is divided from Davenport Rd by a deep layer of trees, which protect from the noise and bustle of the street. Climb some steps and you’ll find yourself in a shaded oasis with a small community garden, playground, and many areas for sitting and lounging. A favourite for dog walking and strolling, if you live nearby be sure to check out Hillcrest Park.
With a bit of digging, you’ll find it’s easy to enjoy the outdoors safely with these lesser-known Toronto parks. Enjoy your summer and be sure to follow along with the Medallion blog for more Toronto lifestyle tips.
