Here are my picks for the most tranquil places in Toronto.
Toronto Islands
There are plenty of pockets on the Islands that will get you away from
the crowds but Ward's Island is one of my favourites for peace and
quiet. The northern tip of Centre Island can also work. In these places
you'll find a majestic view of the skyline, less people, and benches to
hunker down for a couple of hours.
Leslie Street Spit
This is probably my favourite place in Toronto on a blistering hot day.
You feels as though you're in the middle of the lake with a cooling
breeze skimming off the water. You have to walk or ride a kilometre or
two before it gets more secluded, but then you're bound to find all
sorts of nooks and crannies to explore.
Glen Stewart Ravine
Want to do something that will restore your belief that beauty exists in
this world. Head to Glen Stewart Ravine at first light, when the mist
begins to slowly rise from the lower reaches of the green space and
unveils a lush tree canopy broken by a vein-like trail that cuts through
the heart of its gorgeous expanse.
Humber Arboretum
The Humber Arboretum is one of those places that doesn't get quite
enough credit for being beautiful and secluded. From the botanical
gardens to over six kilometres of walking trails that criss cross the
natural area, this is a place to lose yourself for a day.
Knox College
The courtyard at Knox College is one of a few at U of T that's secluded
and serene. I imagine that relaxing here 100 years ago would have been
much the same as it is today. Semi-hidden, it's an ideal place to get
away from it all right in the heart of the city.
Miles Rd. End Parkette
Chances are you don't know about this place unless you live in the area.
It's a tiny, tiny park at the end of a street that terminates at Lake
Ontario. There's only a couple of benches and a chess table, but the
view of the lake is fantastic and the location is almost entirely
secluded save for the private residence behind you.
The Palm House at Allan's Gardens
Head to Allan's Garden's on a weekday morning, and you might be lucky
enough to have the Palm House all to yourself. There you can take in the
exotic world enclosed by its glass, and breathe in the moist,
oxygen-thick air.
Air India Memorial
This is a solemn place, devoted to the victims of Air India 182. Every
time I've visited, it's struck me as a quiet place to collect my
thoughts and wonder about my own mortality. Removed from the rest of the
action at Humber Bay park, it's a serene escape to pay respects and
think about life.
Marilyn Bell Park
My favourite time to visit this lakefront park to the west of Ontario
Place is at night when only a few people will be found watching the dark
and glassy water. If you fix your gaze to the south west, you can pick
up the lights of the Burlington Skyway on a clear night.
Rouge Beach
The beach itself can get rather busy here at the eastern edge of the
city, but if you follow the waterfront trail in either direction, there
are lots of spots to set up and take refuge from the crowds of swimmers
and sunbathers. It's a particularly peaceful spot on weekday mornings
and evenings.
What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments.
Photo of the Humber Arboretum.
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