Allan Gardens

Discover Allan Gardens, a gorgeous green oasis in the heart of Toronto that’s open year-round and free of charge. Home to six greenhouses, 47 different species of trees, an off-leash dog park, playground, and conservatory, Allan Gardens is a breath of fresh air for urbanites yearning for a dose of greenery. 

Occupying an entire city block, Allan Gardens is bordered by Sherbourne, Carlton, Gerrard and Jarvis Streets in downtown Toronto. 

To find out more information about Allan Gardens, we recommend that you visit its section on the city of Toronto’s official website. For information about other places of interest to explore nearby, keep scrolling to see what Destination Ontario recommends. 

A woman looks up in an indoor conservatory surrounded by lush green foliage.

More about Allan Gardens

Opened in 1860, Allan Gardens is one of the oldest parks in Toronto. Formerly known as the “Horticultural Gardens,” it contains a diverse collection of flora maintained within six greenhouses. Every greenhouse is tucked away in the Allan Gardens Conservatory, a 1,500-square metre neo-classical and Edwardian-style building with a 16-sided aluminum and glass dome. 

Visitors with botanical inclinations will swoon over the Allan Gardens Conservatory’s two Tropical Houses that shelter a collection of colorful orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, and begonias. It also has a Cool Temperate House that is home to Jasmine, Camellias, and other native Australian and Mediterranean plants. Looking for a tropical escape in the big city? You will love the Palm House and the Tropical Landscape House, with its abundant collection of palm trees, banana sprouts, green jade vines, hibiscus, ginger, cycads, and exotic seasonal plants. Visitors looking for a spot of warmth will also appreciate the Arid House and find themselves entertained by its collection of curious cacti and succulents such as sweet agave, aloe, haworthia, and opuntia. 

Visitors can relax on the grounds of the Allan Gardens before venturing out to explore urban Toronto. Head to the Distillery District and admire its Victorian industrial architecture as you explore its many trendy art galleries, restaurants, and 19th century era boutiques, or see what's on at Yonge-Dundas Square. Music lovers can enjoy a live show at the Horseshoe Tavern, its stage has been graced by acts such as The Rolling Stones and The Strokes.

Last updated: August 18, 2023

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