Allan Gardens — Attraction in Toronto

I went here on a Saturday morning with my SO. This conservatory is tucked into a plot of land that I'm sure is quite green during the summer and is quite an interesting idea for a date or outing with kids! There is a playground for children and free parking at the back (about 10 spaces). The place is actually much larger than it seems! Inside there are several different greenhouses which house various plant species (for example there is one that is purely for tropical plants and another entirely full of cactuses). Walking through if you're taking your times and looking at all the plants takes about 30-40 minutes. There are a couple of benches you can expect to use to sit down if you're there for a chat which would obviously extend your stay to over an hour. Likewise, bring your camera! This is a golden Instagram photo opportunity! At the beginning of the path inside there are several small wooden bridges with numerous turtles grazing in the shallow water. Furthermore there is a koi fish pond with a statuette and a small waterfall to enjoy as well. The smells here are phenomenal with all the flowers and greenery. Expect to want to take your jacket off! Lovely little nature getaway in the middle of the city. They are open 10-5 daily. Bring your coffee and bring your camera and your S.O. for some quality...

Such a treasure! The plants, the architecture, the turtles and Koi and, oh yeah -- NO admission! Take a break from your busy day and unwind in this beautiful indoor botanical conservatory surrounded by a public park. Allan Gardens fills almost the entire block from Carlton to Gerrard between Jarvis and Sherbourne. Outside there is a playground and a dog off-leash area, lots of mature trees and perfect picnic spots. Inside the conservatory, you'll find plants from all over the world, in several separate greenhouses. Some areas are replanted throughout the year. Right now, a whole section is devoted to chrysanthemums of all shapes and colours. Spectacular! The central iron and glass structure known as the Palm House dates to 1910 (1909?)and is currently undergoing renovations. It is still accessible but most of the plants have been removed for now. I believe the conservatory is open all year but it's best to check the city's website, before you go -- toronto.ca and search Allen...

I’ve been to Allan Gardens many times now, but this is the first during their annual Hydrangea Festival!

During the festival, hydrangeas and other spring flowers are abloom throughout the gardens and it is beautiful. The giant clusters of the hydrangeas with the perfume of the Easter lilies and other flowers make for a relaxing tour.

Present during the rest of the year, the garden is still spectacular and offers a learning experience for those who are interested. Apart from the main central garden, there is a tropical garden with orchids, a water mill and turtles and an arid garden with many interesting cacti.

All of this is free! It is wonderful that everyone can visit throughout the year! The only thing to take into account is that the gardens close relatively early around 4:45/5pm depending on the...