For those exploring Toronto, High Park is a must-see destination, offering a serene escape amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Located in central west Toronto, this 400-acre urban oasis is perfect for nature enthusiasts, senior tourists, and families alike.
I lived about 150 meters from High Park for about 25 years. Remaining is a small, cramped apartment so that I could stay close to this rural oasis in the middle of the city. I still today try to get there once a month to chill under my favourite tree and read a book.
For the most up-to-date information on activities and more check here.
High Park History
High Park, nestled in the heart of Toronto, spans a remarkable 400 acres and is renowned for its lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, and recreational activities that beckon every nature lover.
From it originally being resources for the indigenous tribes of the area in the 1700s and before to the 1800s, the park’s transformation began with John George Howard, a prominent architect, who bequeathed his estate to the city in 1873, envisioning it as a public park. Colonel William Smith Durie Lodge, a visionary of his time, played a significant role in the park’s development, ensuring its design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Today, High Park is a haven for locals and tourists, boasting upgraded trails, modern playgrounds, and restored habitats. It’s a favourite Toronto tourist attraction, offering diverse activities for all ages.
Getting to High Park
By TTC Subway
High Park is easily accessible via Toronto’s subway system. If you’re coming from downtown, hop on the Bloor-Danforth line (Line 2) and get off at High Park station. It has escalators to street level, perfect for senior travellers or those with mobility concerns. Note: work has begun on installing elevators for access to the subway platforms. But many TTC construction projects, no exact opening date has been given.
If elevators are essential, Keele station, located near the park’s north-east entrance, is fully equipped, though it involves a bit of an uphill walk.
Further, at High Park station during the summer season there is a shuttle bus that will take you around the main traffic loop in the park. It is fully accessible and runs approximately every 30 minutes (but in my experience it is a bit longer than that).
By TTC Streetcar
Alternatively, take the westbound Carleton Streetcar #506. It runs along Carleton and College streets, entering the park at Parkside Drive. However, this route isn’t recommended for those with mobility devices due to the terrain.
Save and follow my blog as shortly I will do a “streetcar” itinerary of the Carleton Streetcar which include beginning or ending in High Park.
Getting Around High Park
If walking is an issue, there is a trolley that circumvents the park. With stops at many key points of interest, the easiest spot to hop on is near the first playground as you enter the park. It is right outside the seasonal food kiosk. Prices start at about $5.00 for kids and seniors and go up from there.
Things to Do in High Park
Explore Nature and Play in High Park
- Playgrounds: Perfect for families, with a splash pad for sunny days in Toronto.
- Trails: Walk or bike through scenic routes. Bikes are available for rent at the park’s entrance. Check out more about Toronto’s Bike Share Program here.
- High Park Zoo: Spend hours visiting animals, a joy for kids and adults alike.
- Colonel Lodge Homestead: Located at the southern end of the park, this homestead offers a look back in time. During the summer there are guided tours.
Dine and Relax in High Park
- Grenadier Restaurant: Open from 7am on weekdays and 9am on weekends, offering everything from breakfast sandwiches to hearty meals.
- Other seasonal services: Throughout the park there are seasonal food kiosks that offer everything from burgers to pitas to ice cream.
- Bring your picnic basket: Pack your lunch and bring it with you. There are plenty of picturesque picnic sites around the park. Note: open fires are not allowed in the park.
Fitness Activities in High Park
- Fitness Trail: Engage in exercises like pull-ups and jumps along the designated fitness route.
- Swimming Pool: High Park Swimming Pool is open through the summer months for those seeking a way to cool down. It is one of the many city of Toronto pools that will occasionally offer extended hours during heatwaves.
- Skating: During the winter months, there is an outdoor rink next to the swimming pool. It offers family skates to pick-up shiny hockey games. Further if the weather becomes cold enough, you will find that someone has probably cleared a spot to skate down on Grenadier Pond. Warning: always check around for signs from park staff whether the ice on the pond is thick enough.
- Snowshoeing or X-Country skiing: Should Toronto’s winter turn extremely wintery and there is a good snow pack, on any given day you will find some hearty adventurers trying the many trails with snowshoes or skis.
- Running & Cycling: With limited car traffic, the park is safer for running and cycling, with routes ranging from gentle to challenging.
Cultural Events in High Park
- The Dream in High Park: Enjoy Shakespearean plays during the summer. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged. Here is the link to the Canadian Stage Company’s website to find out what is playing and when.
- Cherry Blossom Season: Visit in late April to mid-May to witness the park’s cherry trees in bloom—a highlight for photographers and nature lovers.
- Sculpture Garden: Located in the northeast corner of the park near the Keele Street entrance, you will find several larger than life sculptures that are great for the “grammers” out there.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a senior tourist seeking relaxation, a family looking for entertainment, or a nature lover eager to explore, High Park Toronto has something for everyone. Its rich history and diverse activities make it a standout on any Toronto itinerary. Next time you’re planning things to do in Toronto, ensure High Park is top of your list. Happy exploring!
Please note: The opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences after 40-plus years of business and vacation travel. My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours. Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Most of all have happy travels and see you out there on the road!
Al of Al Murray Travel & Photography: From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world.
My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona. I spent more time on trains and buses than I did in class.
After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way. But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education!
It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again. First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.
I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.