High Park

Overview

High Park is Toronto's largest public park (400 acres) with cherry blossom gardens, a free zoo, an outdoor pool, hiking trails, and Shakespeare in the park during summer.

Highlights

• Cherry Blossoms: The Sakura grove (a gift from Japan) creates a stunning display for 1–2 weeks in May.
• Free Zoo: A small, free zoo with capybaras, bison, deer, and llamas.
• Shakespeare in the Park: Free outdoor Shakespeare performances every summer.

History

Donated to Toronto by architect John Howard in 1873, the park contains rare remnants of original Ontario oak savanna as well as Howard's 1837 Colborne Lodge.

Visitor Tips

• Cherry Blossom Season: Check the city's cherry blossom forecast — the bloom is fleeting (May).
• Southwest Corner: The most natural areas are in the southwest near Grenadier Pond.
• Duration: 2 hours.