I can’t help but to have park envy of those who call High Park their local green space.

Toronto’s largest public park, the 400-acre park (between Bloor St. W and the Queensway along Parkside Dr) is a family outing oasis: tons of trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, a pool, a pond and our personal fave the free zoo.

Whether a local or from across town, you really need to plan a few trips throughout the year to take in all it has to offer. So far, we did a trolley tour after some play time in the small playground, then explored the Zoo and the huge Jamie Bell Adventure Playground on another visit. Annually, we attempt (with the entire city) to see the cherry blossoms in the spring. Next: Colbourne Lodge and the Children’s Garden.

TRIP TIPS:

Getting there: Driving, there are three entrances. Free parking. Directions by TTC, bike and foot are here. Consult this handy map to figure out where all amenities are.

Potty time: Yes, washrooms are usually open come May for Cherry Blossom time.

Food: Grenadier Cafe and tons of picnic areas.  

Stroller-friendly: The park is pedestrian-friendly, but bring a stroller or wagon for when little legs get tired. Vehicles are all over and the distances between destinations can be long, especially in the summer’s heat.

Trolly ride: Kinda fun. Weekends starting mid-April then daily as of May 1st until Labour Day. Starting at 10:30 am. $4.50 for adults; $3.50 for kids and adults 60+. Hop on, hop off between the park’s destinations.

Zoo: First opened in 1893 for deer, the High Park Zoo now has 11 spaces for bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle, wallabies, emus and sheep. Open daily from 7:00 am to dusk. You can feed and pet the llamas on weekends and holidays between 11 am to 2 pm from March until the end of October.

Cherry Blossoms: Early spring, usually for a week or so in March or April depending on the weather, it’s Cherry Blossom madness. Try to plan your trip on weekday and if driving, expect parking chaos.

Colbourne Lodge: The historic cottage of the couple who founded High Park. Currently on our to-do list. Stay tuned!

Children’s Garden: And teaching kitchen is on the to-do list for the next trip. They also offer Eco-Programs.

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