Our 5 Favourite Parks in Toronto

Finding a green spot in Toronto is like snagging a seat on the subway at rush hour—a rare victory. It's where we trade concrete for grass, skyline views for tree lines, and street noise for the sweet sound of squirrels debating. These urban oases are our not-so-secret meeting spots, where the only honking you'll hear is from Canada geese with attitude problems. So, if you’re looking to swap out car alarms for cricket symphonies, you’re in the right place.

St. James Park: Picture this: a playground where kiddos can frolic among oversized veggie crates and ice cream sculptures without getting a single "don't play with your food" warning. That's St. James Park for you, a slice of historic downtown where children's imaginations run wild and adults ponder if bouncing on a rubber mound of pistachio ice cream counts as a workout. It's a spot that proves fun, and education can go hand in hand, much like convincing a Torontonian that there's life beyond the DVP. The park's design even snagged a design award, making it a certified cool spot by city standards.

McCormick Park: McCormick Park's history could rival any Toronto transit proposal—complex but fascinating. What started as an ice rink turned baseball field has morphed into a beloved community spot. Here, the spirit of transformation reminds us of Toronto's knack for turning the old into something buzz-worthy (hello, every loft conversion ever). The park stands as a monument to community spirit and the perennial hope that our sports teams will someday bring home a championship. A visit here is a lesson in Toronto's tenacity and, possibly, a chance to dream up the city's next big repurpose project.

Sorauren Avenue Park: Ah, Sorauren Avenue Park, the product of neighbourhood activism that saved us from living alongside a municipal garbage depot. If that's not the most Toronto tale of triumph, I don't know what is. This park isn't just green space; it's a testament to the power of community willpower (and probably some strongly worded letters). With its bustling farmers' market and historic Fieldhouse, it's where locals celebrate their victory over city hall and casually plot to claim more underused spaces. It's the little park that could, proving anything's possible with enough community meetings and cups of coffee.

Riverdale Park East: For those breathtaking views of the downtown skyline that makes you forget about your skyrocketing rent, Riverdale Park East is the spot. It's a haven for toboggan enthusiasts, summer picnickers, and anyone looking to practice their apologetic "oops, sorry!" as they inevitably crash into someone. This park is a friendly reminder of Toronto's layered history, from landfill to beloved city landmark, offering a moment of zen amidst the urban hustle. Plus, the view of the CN Tower from here? Chef's kiss.

Hideaway Park: Ever wanted to discover a place so secret even the locals whisper about its whereabouts? Welcome to Hideaway Park, Leslieville's best-kept secret. This park is like that one friend who's low-key but surprisingly awesome. It's where community vibes are strong, and the shared toys make it feel like a backyard party everyone's invited to. Bringing your pup or kiddo here is entering a realm of mutual fascination and possibly the setting of a new Disney movie. It's a tiny oasis in the city that proves sometimes the best places are the ones you stumble upon—just don't tell everyone, okay?

So, there you have it—your insider guide to Toronto's parks, where green spaces meet city quirks. Whether you're here for the Instagram-worthy skyline views, a history lesson, or just to escape the concrete maze, Toronto's parks are where you'll find your urban sanctuary. Just remember to leave the raccoons to their devices; we're all just trying to coexist in this big, beautiful city. See you out there, Toronto!