30 Best Places to See Toronto’s Cherry Blossoms This Spring
Every spring, Toronto comes alive with the stunning sight of cherry blossoms, turning parts of the city into glorious shades of pink and white, making it the best place to see cherry blossoms!
The trees are so pretty, and heading out to take photographs of the Sakura cherry blossoms in bloom is one of my favourite springtime activities in Toronto.
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The tradition of cherry blossoms in Toronto began in 1959, after Tokyo gifted the city 2,000 Sakura trees as a thank you for welcoming relocated Japanese Canadians after World War II. Today, this makes Toronto a perfect destination to witness the cherry blossoms bloom each spring!
Most consider High Park to be the best place to see cherry blossoms in Toronto, but there are so many different places around the city to see these stunning spring flowers.
Keep reading to see my list of the best places to see cherry blossoms in and around Toronto this spring.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Toronto?
In Toronto, Sakura trees usually flower around the end of April or early May. However, peak bloom will vary each year as the timing is influenced by the temperature.
❋ Cherry Blossoms in Toronto are usually visible late April to early May.
The blooms only last about a week, so once cherry blossom season in Toronto begins, you won’t want to wait long to grab your camera and catch the blossoms in peak bloom.
Remember, don’t shake the trees or pick any of the cherry blossoms as this shortens how long the blooms last and can damage the trees!
1. High Park Toronto Cherry Blossoms
1873 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON
High Park is considered by many to be the best place to see cherry blossoms in Toronto. The cherry blossom trees are truly spectacular, but it can get really busy (and I mean really busy) as thousands of visitors come to the park during peak bloom days!
There are approximately 50 trees in the park, and there is even an online website known as Cherry Blossom Watch where you can watch to see when the blossoms are in peak bloom.
Cherry blossom trees can be found close to the Grenadier Cafe, near Grenadier Pond, Hillside Gardens and Spring Road near Upper Duck Pond.
➤ Check out this map of the Sakura Cherry Blossoms in Toronto’s High Park.
This is such a popular place to see the cherry blossoms that the park is vehicle-free both day and night once the blossoms are in peak bloom. If you want to visit the blooms here, you will have to plan accordingly – and I recommend coming early in the morning.
Cycling and public transportation are highly recommended. From High Park subway station, visitors can walk south through the park toward Grenadier Pond. Snack cafes, ice cream trucks, and food trucks are also open during the cherry blossom festival.
2. Trinity Bellwoods Park
Trinity Bellwoods Park is another popular spot in Toronto to see the cherry blossoms. Because the trees line both sides of a walking path, it creates a picturesque tunnel of flowers. It’s a really pretty place to visit in the spring.
From this park, you can also catch a glimpse of the CN Tower through the blossoms as the walkways line up with the tower. This spot is a very popular Instagram photo spot and a photographer’s dream!
3. University of Toronto Robarts Library
Personally, one of my favourite spots in Toronto to see the cherry blossoms is throughout the University of Toronto campus. There are several spots here in the heart of downtown where you can view beautiful cherry blossoms.
The most popular spot on the University of Toronto campus is Robarts Library. There are lots of mature trees here that line the walking path at the corner of Huron Street and Harbord Street.
Roberts Library is also close to the Museum subway stop and the Royal Ontario Museum. I like this particular spot due to its central downtown location and easy access. It’s also not nearly as crowded as High Park, although it does get very busy so I recommend coming early if you can.
4. Trinity College at The University of Toronto
Right beside the Royal Ontario Museum, you will find a beautiful, scenic path known as Philosopher’s Walk. Beside this path, you will find U of T’s historic Trinity College. Trinity College was founded in 1851, and it is one of the most stunning buildings in Toronto.
In front of the entrance to Trinity College, there are four glorious dark pink cherry blossom trees. The contrast between the trees and the historic architecture makes this one of my favourite places to capture a classic spring photo of the blooms.
Continue walking throughout the University of Toronto campus and you will see several locations to enjoy and appreciate many cherry blossom trees.
5. Queen’s Park
110 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON
Queen’s Park is one of the oldest parks in Toronto and is located beside the Ontario Legislature and the University of Toronto campus. I am amazed that more Toronto travel blogs don’t mention Queen’s Park in their recommendations as it’s such a pretty and historic place to visit.
There are a handful of cherry blossom trees near the legislature buildings. The trees contrast nicely with the historic legislature buildings in the background, resulting in some very pretty pictures.
6. Centre Island on Toronto Island Park
One of my absolute favourite places to visit in Toronto in any season is the Toronto Islands. While summer is the most popular time to visit the Toronto Islands for tourists, as a local, my favourite time to visit the islands is in the spring and fall.
Take the short ferry ride over to the islands, where you will find approximately 30 cherry blossom trees on Centre Island, close to the William Meany maze.
The great thing about the Toronto Islands is that there is so much to see and do in addition to seeing the blossoms. The ferry ride provides an excellent view of the Toronto skyline, and once there, you can walk along the boardwalk, visit the pier, or enjoy a meal.
And while you’re there, you might want to stay until sunset, as the Toronto Islands are one of the best places to see sunsets in Toronto.
7. Centennial Park, Etobicoke
256 Centennial Park Road, Etobicoke, ON
If you want to see lots of cherry blossoms, then Centennial Park is the place to go. Located in the northwest part of Toronto, hundreds of cherry trees are planted here. You can find these trees along Rathburn Road, on Centennial Park Boulevard, and near the Centennial Park Conservatory.
There’s free parking available in the park, so it’s easy to visit and walk to see the trees. As Toronto’s second-largest park, it also offers lots of other things to do within the park, including playgrounds, sports fields, and even a golf centre.
While it does get busy here, I did not find it to be nearly as crowded as High Park. Perhaps that’s because of how spread out the trees are, making it much easier to take photos and enjoy the blossoms.
8. Mount Pleasant Cemetery
375 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON
Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto was established in 1876 and spans over 200 acres. It feels like a large park and is one of Canada’s most significant arboretums, thanks to its abundant tree collection.
Found throughout the cemetery are glorious magnolia and cherry blossom trees, making it a unique spot to experience nature in the spring. The cemetery also features walking paths, impressive mausoleums of prominent Toronto families like the Eatons and Masseys, and an entrance leading to Moore Park Ravine and the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail for extended walks.
This is a place to visit with respect and appreciate the beauty of nature throughout this historic cemetery.
9. Woodbine Park in the Beaches
Woodbine Park is just down the street from where I live in the east end of the city in the Beaches neighbourhood. Woodbine Park is also right across the street from Woodbine Beach and the Ashbridges’ Bay Skatepark.
There are a dozen cherry blossom trees planted along the path close to the pond. These trees are still quite young and not as mature as some of the other cherry blossom trees in the city, but they are still a pretty photo opportunity.
I found them particularly great for close-up photography as you can get really close to the blossoms. Give these trees a few years and they will really be spectacular.
Now, if you do decide to visit, don’t get Woodbine Park confused with Woodbine Beach. Woodbine Park is located just north of and directly across the street from the beach. There are also lots of parking options close to Woodbine Park.
In addition to cherry blossoms, Woodbine Park has some of the best outdoor concerts and events in the city of Toronto. My personal favourite is the Beaches Jazz Festival that takes place each July!
10. Exhibition Place
Exhibition Place, 25 British Columbia Road, Toronto, ON
Exhibition Place is home to some of Toronto’s best summer events, including the Honda Indy and the Canadian National Exhibition.
Although there is not much to do at the Exhibition during the rest of the year, it is open to the public, and 68 cherry trees were planted throughout the Exhibition Grounds in 2002. These trees are located near the Liberty Grand and behind the Toronto Event Centre.
These trees are a particularly pretty colour and make a lovely spot to stop for a quick picture. Be sure to walk around as they are in several locations. Parking can be found on the Exhibition grounds.
11. Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is located near the Aga Khan Museum and is a place where the culture, history, and legacy of Japanese Canadians are celebrated.
This location probably surprised me the most. It was much better than I was expecting. In fact, I think it’s one of my favourite locations to see the blossoms.
All around the parking lot of the cultural centre, you’ll find lots of cherry trees with different varieties of blossoms and different stages of maturity. The centre is very welcoming to visitors.
Plus, there’s plenty of free parking available in a large parking lot, making it easy for visitors to come and enjoy the beautiful flowers. It’s definitely worth the drive to this location, especially if you want to see different kinds of blossoms.
12. Toronto Music Garden
479 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON
If you are strolling along the waterfront in downtown Toronto, you will want to stop by the Toronto Music Garden! This beautiful garden comes alive with spring flowers and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the spring sunshine. The gardens are located right beside the Spadina wave deck, and Starbucks is across the road.
There are a series of giant grass steps that offer beautiful views of the CN Tower and Toronto waterfront. There is also a stunning weeping willow, and behind the stairs there are several cherry blossom trees.
This is a very popular spot for couples, and you might even see a marriage proposal or two!
13. Osgoode Hall
Located right in the heart of downtown, Osgoode Hall is located right beside the iconic Toronto sign and Nathan Phillips Square. Osgood Hall was designed more than 100 years ago and is one of the finest examples of Victorian classical architecture in Canada.
There are a few cherry blossom trees located in the gardens directly in front of the building, and they are a stunning shade of deep pink.
Osgoode Hall itself is not usually open to the public, but if you are in town during Doors Open Toronto, I highly recommend taking the opportunity to tour the inside of the building.
14. Ramsden Park
1020 Yonge St & Ramsden Park Rd, Toronto, ON
Cherry blossom trees are scattered throughout this wonderful park located close to Yonge and Davenport. In addition to enjoying the spring blooms, visitors can play pickleball or tennis, let your dogs run around in the off-leash park, and the children can play in the fantastic playground and splash pad.
There are also picnic tables, bathrooms, and lots of parking available, and it is close to Rosedale Subway Station and close to Yonge and Davenport. And if you like seeing the leaves change colour, Ramsden Park is also a great place to see the fall foliage in Toronto.
15. York University, Keele Campus
More than 250 trees have been planted throughout the York University campus, and there are some glorious spots to see the cherry blossoms here. With this number of trees, it’s a great alternative cherry blossom picture location.
The reason why most people do not visit here is due to its location. York University is a bit isolated in the north end of the city.
However, it is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are parking lots in the area. So if you love cherry blossoms and are looking to avoid the crowds, then you will want to consider heading up to York University.
16. Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Gardens
755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON
A visit to Edwards Gardens is one of the best things to do in spring in Toronto. Within the gardens, there are a few cherry blossom trees located near the water fountain and 2 mature trees close to the bridal path entrance.
For the size of the gardens, there are not as many cherry blossom trees as you might anticipate, but this is one of my favourite gardens to visit in the spring as they are full of tulips and daffodils too.
The gardens are free to visit, but there is paid parking. There is also a small garden café that opens on weekends in the spring. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in the gardens.
17. Mini Blossom Park Cherry Street
Located close to Cherry Beach and Polson Pier, as well as the brand new Cherry Street Bridges you will find a small but cozy park with 45 cherry blossom trees that were planted in 2006.
This park is a hidden gem in the east end of the city and a perfect spot to capture some cherry blossom views. Currently, there is a lot of construction in the area due to the revitalization of the Toronto Port Lands but it does make for an interesting contrast between the industrial buildings and the beautiful cherry blossoms.
18. Cedarvale Park
Cedarvale Park is a large park with lots of open space. There are tennis courts, an off-lease dog park, a playground, and splash pad for kids. In the winter, it has an awesome tobogganing hill!
There is a row of several beautiful cherry blossom trees located close to the tennis courts. Cedarvale Park is located close to Eglinton West subway station, and you can park for free at Phil White Arena.
19. Sakura Grove at the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus
1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, ON
At the University of Toronto’s Scarborough Campus, you can see cherry blossoms near the Pan Am Sports Centre and Colonel Danforth Park. There are about 50 cherry trees right in front of the Humanities Wing.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for parking if you drive there. Even though this campus might not look as impressive as the downtown U of T campus, it’s a nice place to check out the cherry blossoms in Scarborough.
20. Birkdale Ravine Cherry Blossoms
71 Lyon Heights Rd, Scarborough, ON
Birkdale Ravine in Scarborough is an ideal spot to see cherry blossoms, especially if you’re looking for a quieter place than the busy High Park. It has a path lined with about 45 cherry trees near the entrance at Pomeroy Street and Lyon Heights Road.
These trees were planted between 2015 and 2016, so they’re still fairly young and don’t have as many flowers as older trees in other parts of the city. This ravine is within a residential area, making it a great place for a walk or bike ride in the afternoon to see the blossoms.
21. Broadacres Park
35 Crendon Dr, Etobicoke, ON M9C 3G6
Broadacres Park, a small park in Etobicoke, is home to 100 cherry trees planted back in 2002. The trees are located in the southwest corner of the park, close to Elderfield Crescent.
The park has a big grassy area for you to enjoy, but it doesn’t have trails or other facilities. It’s a simple, peaceful spot to see cherry blossoms if you’re in the area.
22. Cedar Ridge Park
225 Confederation Drive, Scarborough, ON
The City of Toronto does list Cedar Ridge Park as one of the parks to see cherry blossoms, however, there are only five trees planted in this location. The park is a peaceful, neighbourhood park. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this location, however, unless you happen to be in the area.
23. Toronto Neighbourhoods
While there are lots of incredible parks and ravines throughout the city to see the cherry blossoms, Toronto’s neighbourhoods are not to be forgotten.
Many of Toronto’s streets are lined with trees, and spring is an ideal season to see many cherry trees and magnolia trees scattered throughout these residential areas.
I love exploring Toronto’s neighbourhoods including areas such as the Beaches, Leslieville and Riverdale, Rosedale, and High Park. Here you will see spring flowers, cherry blossom trees, magnolia trees, and lots of interesting homes and attractions.
Cherry Blossoms Outside the GTA
If you are willing to travel beyond the Greater Toronto Area, there are even more breathtaking opportunities to view cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Explore these ideal spots outside the GTA, where the beauty of spring unfolds in a dazzling display of pink and white petals.
24. Kariya Park in Mississauga
3620 Kariya Dr, Mississauga, ON
Kariya Park in Mississauga, just outside Toronto, is one of the most beautiful spots to see cherry blossoms in Ontario. The park features several different varieties of cherry blossom trees, all set within a stunning Japanese garden right in downtown Mississauga.
Besides the cherry blossoms, you’ll also find gorgeous magnolia trees, Japanese-inspired gardens, walkways, structures, and a duck pond. The park is named after Mississauga’s sister city, Kariya, in Japan.
Finding parking can sometimes be a bit tricky since there’s only limited street parking available. Also, remember that dogs and bicycles aren’t allowed in the park.
25. Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington
680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON L7T 4H4
Although located outside of Toronto, my absolute favourite place to see the cherry blossoms is at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. Not only are there many different types of trees, they range in maturity, and the magnolia trees are pretty spectacular too. Many of my cherry blossom photos in this article are from this location.
There is an entrance fee to go into the Royal Botanical Gardens, and you will also need to pay for parking. Be sure to arrive early on the weekends during cherry blossom season, as the gardens often reach capacity.
There are several spots to see the stunning trees and flowers, but the most popular location is in the Arboretum. There are many different types of cherry trees, making for lots of photo opportunities in this location.
Beside the Rock Gardens parking lot before you enter the gardens, you can also see the cherry blossoms for free. A great spot if the gardens are full!
If you absolutely love visiting flowers and gardens in Ontario, I would highly recommend purchasing a membership to the Royal Botanical Gardens.
26. Spencer Smith Park, Burlington
1400 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, ON
Spencer Smith Park in Burlington, located right on the waterfront, is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. This park is considered one of the best places to see cherry blossoms, with the trees creating a stunning tunnel along a narrow, cobbled path.
While there is only one area of cherry blossom trees, they are facing the water, so they offer a fantastic view and photo opportunity. During the Sakura season, this small path can get pretty busy, so it’s best to go early.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds of High Park in Toronto, Spencer Smith Park in Burlington is a great alternative that doesn’t require you to travel into the city.
27. Centennial Park, Hamilton
Address: 71 Cootes Dr, Hamilton, ON
Centennial Park in Hamilton is a stunning park with about 25 mature cherry blossom trees. This small park is free to enter and easy to access with many local parking options available close by. I particularly liked that the trees were together clustered in the park, but also in rows, making for many different photography options.
I found this to be a really pretty park to visit and an excellent option for pictures and no where near as crowded as the High Park cherry blossoms.
28. Bayfront Park, Hamilton
200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON
Bayfront Park in Hamilton is a great place to see cherry blossoms in the spring. 35 trees were planted in 2003 along a walkway leading to the water. Once again, you have a lovely line of trees creating a small cherry blossom tunnel.
29. Joyce Archdekin Park, Brampton
Main Street South, Brampton, ON
Joyce Archdekin Park in Brampton is a gorgeous spot to check out cherry blossoms. It’s a smaller park but sits along the Etobicoke Creek trail. With around 25 Sakura trees planted close together, they create a stunning canopy of blooms overhead.
This park is perfect for anyone looking to snap some beautiful photos, thanks to the low-hanging branches. Many consider it the best place to enjoy cherry blossoms, especially because it’s not as crowded as High Park in Toronto.
If you’re looking for a quieter but equally breathtaking option for cherry blossom viewing, Joyce Archdekin Park is definitely worth a visit.
30. Niagara Falls
If you’re willing to venture a little further, Niagara Falls is a fantastic place to enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring. I recommend driving along the picturesque Niagara River Parkway between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake where you will see many breathtaking cherry blossom trees.
Another must-visit location is the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, which is a peaceful setting where you can admire many different cherry blossom trees for free. In addition to the cherry blossoms, you can see see other spring flowers like trilliums or tulips. Another hidden gem are the Lilac Gardens located right beside the botanical gardens! If you time it right, you may get to see both spring flowers!
A day trip to Niagara Falls for cherry blossom season pairs perfectly with a visit to the iconic Falls, a bike ride along the trails, or a stop at one of the region’s renowned wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake. With so many incredible things to do, spending a spring day in Niagara Falls is a truly unforgettable experience.
Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Toronto
Toronto and its surrounding areas offer several exceptional spots for cherry blossom viewing during their peak bloom. High Park, with its well-known reputation, draws large crowds excited to see the picturesque sakura trees.
Other great options in the city include the University of Toronto, the Toronto Islands and Centennial Park.
Kariya Park in Mississauga, outside the GTA, provides a unique setting with a variety of cherry blossoms set within a Japanese garden. For those willing to venture a bit further, Joyce Archdekin Park in Brampton and Bayfront Park in Hamilton are also excellent choices for enjoying the blossoms.
Each location, with its distinct features and settings, is among my recommended best things to do in Toronto in spring.
Join the celebration of the season and embrace the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms by exploring these stunning locations in public gardens throughout Toronto and GTA.
Before You Go: Learn More About Visiting Toronto
Having explored the best places to see cherry blossoms in Toronto through this post, you might also enjoy discovering a tulip farm near Toronto where you can pick your own flowers, checking out my guide to Toronto’s best beaches, and my list of the best spots in Toronto to watch a sunset.
⭐️ For further information on hotels in Toronto, visit my other articles:
☞ Honest Review of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
☞ Best Hotels in Toronto with a Pool
☞ Best Hotels near the Beaches neighbourhood, Toronto
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