Toronto’s busy energy can be truly inspiring, but there’s nothing like taking a break from the city’s hectic buzz and recharging with some time in nature. Luckily, North Toronto is full of parks where you can get your fix of picnics, walking trails, and well-deserved rest.

Here are 3 parks in the area that serve as the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and fun.

Eglinton Park

• Location: 200 Eglinton Avenue West
• Perfect for: Active families

This spacious park is nestled between Yonge Street and Avenue Road. It’s chock-full of amenities to keep the entire family busy all day, including five sports fields, four tennis courts, two ball diamonds, a children’s playground, and a wading pool. Skate along two of their artificial ice rinks in the winter, and don’t forget to bring your dog; although there’s no official off-leash area, there’s plenty of open space for them to run around and play.

Eglinton Park is just a short walk from Eglinton Station. If you choose to drive, there’s free parking on nearby side streets, or paid underground parking at the North Toronto Memorial Community Centre.

Sherwood Park


• Location: 190 Sherwood Avenue
• Perfect for: Friendly dogs (and their owners)

Dog lovers, take note: this North Toronto park is a canine’s dream. Sherwood Park is home to a fantastic fenced-in off-leash area, complete with a fountain just for dogs. No dog? No problem, there’s lots to do here with family and friends. This park has two wading pools, beautiful walking trails, public bathrooms, picnic tables, and a large playground. 

Convenience is key at Sherwood Park, with multiple entrances for easy access, and free parking available at the main entrance on Sherwood Street.



Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens

• Location: 2901 Yonge Street
• 
Perfect for: Photography and garden lovers

This picturesque park is a popular destination for photographers, and it’s easy to see why. Rustic gates, old stone walls and trails of bright flowers create a charming atmosphere to relax in. This park is named after Alexander Muir, famed composer of the song, “Maple Leaf Forever”, that he penned in 1867. The multi-level gardens even include a maple leaf motif in honour of the song. The walking trails in this area are open all year long, so you can enjoy the park in any season. 

Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens connects to the beautiful northern ravines, Discovery Walk route, and a long trail that leads to Sunnybrook Park.