Looking for a unique farm experience in the heart of the city? Look no further than Riverdale Farm in Toronto’s Cabbagetown neighbourhood. Nestled in a 7.5-acre space, this functioning farm brings the countryside to the urban landscape.
Explore the fields, interact with livestock, and discover the beauty of agriculture just steps away from Riverdale Park’s vibrant offerings. With free admission and year-round activities, Riverdale Farm is the perfect destination for a sunny weekend getaway in Toronto.
How To Get To Riverdale Farm
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To get to Riverdale Farm in Toronto, you can use various modes of transportation depending on your starting point. Here are some options:
Public Transit: Riverdale Farm is well-served by public transit. You can take the subway to the Broadview Station on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) and then catch a southbound streetcar (route 504) to the Broadview Avenue and Gerrard Street stop. From there, it’s just a short walk east along Winchester Street to the farm.
Cycling: Toronto has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, making cycling a convenient option. You can use the city’s bike-sharing system, Bike Share Toronto, or bring your own bike. Riverdale Farm is accessible via various bike-friendly routes, such as Gerrard Street and the Don Valley Trail.
Driving: If you prefer to drive, Riverdale Farm is located at 201 Winchester Street, Toronto, ON M4X 1B8. There is limited paid parking available nearby, and it’s important to check for any parking restrictions or time limits in the area.
Walking: If you are in the vicinity, Riverdale Farm is within walking distance of many neighborhoods, including Cabbagetown and Riverdale. You can enjoy a pleasant walk to the farm through the surrounding residential streets.
Remember to check the official website or contact Riverdale Farm directly for the most up-to-date information on directions, parking, and any additional details that may affect your visit.
Hours
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Riverdale Farm in Toronto is typically open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day of the week. This includes weekends and holidays. Because of this, you’ve got ample opportunities to visit and explore the farm’s 7.5-acre space.
However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the hours of operation. They may vary during certain seasons or in response to special events or maintenance. Checking the official website or contacting Riverdale Farm directly will ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their hours of operation.
Riverdale Farm Map
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The History Of Riverdale Farm
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Riverdale Farm has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Here is an overview of its history:
Early Settlement: First Nations peoples originally inhabited Riverdale Farm’s original location. European settlement began in the early 19th century when the area was part of the Town of York (now Toronto).
Riverdale Park: In the 1850s, the City of Toronto purchased land in the eastern part of the city, including the area that is now Riverdale Farm. The land was named Riverdale Park and was initially used as a public park.
Riverdale Zoo: In 1880, a small zoo was established within Riverdale Park, known as the Riverdale Zoo. It featured a collection of animals, including deer, peacocks, bears, monkeys, and exotic birds. The zoo aimed to provide entertainment and education to the local community.
Transition to Riverdale Farm: In 1974, the Riverdale Zoo was closed due to concerns over outdated facilities and animal welfare. The City of Toronto decided to repurpose the area and transform it into an urban farm. The farm was officially opened to the public as Riverdale Farm in 1978.
Urban Farm: Riverdale Farm was designed to provide an authentic farm experience in the heart of the city. The farm features a collection of heritage breed farm animals, including cows, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and ducks. Visitors can learn about farming practices, interact with the animals, and explore the farm’s gardens and fields.
Educational Programs: Riverdale Farm serves as an educational resource for schools and the community. It offers various programs and workshops on farming, gardening, and sustainable living. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities, seasonal festivals, and special events throughout the year.
Today, Riverdale Farm continues to be a cherished attraction in Toronto, providing a glimpse into the city’s agricultural past and promoting awareness of farming practices and sustainability.
When Did The Riverdale Zoo Close?
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The Riverdale Zoo in Toronto closed in 1974. They made the decision to close the zoo because of concerns about outdated facilities and the welfare of the animals. Following its closure, the area was transformed into an urban farm, which is now known as Riverdale Farm.
The farm opened to the public in 1978 and continues to operate as an educational and recreational attraction in Toronto.
How Big Is Riverdale Farm?
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Riverdale Farm covers a significant portion of the park, encompassing 7.5 scenic acres of land. The farm includes various areas such as animal paddocks, barns, gardens, pastures, and walking paths. It offers ample space for visitors to explore and engage with the farm animals and enjoy the surrounding natural environment.
This size allows visitors to enjoy a diverse and picturesque environment while exploring the farm and its surroundings.
What Time Of Year Can You Visit Riverdale Farm?
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Riverdale Farm is open to visitors year-round, allowing people to enjoy the farm and its activities in different seasons. Here’s some information on visiting the farm throughout the year:
Spring: Spring is a lovely time to visit Riverdale Farm. The weather starts to warm up, and you can witness the farm awakening with new life. You may see baby animals being born, blossoming flowers in the gardens, and the farm coming to life after winter.
Summer: Summer is a popular season to visit Riverdale Farm. The farm is bustling with activity, and the gardens are in full bloom. You can enjoy the pleasant weather, spend time with the animals, explore the fields, and participate in various programs and events offered during this time.
Autumn/Fall: Autumn brings beautiful foliage and a change in the farm’s atmosphere. The colors of the trees and gardens transform, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy the harvest season, participate in fall-themed events, and witness the farm preparing for winter.
Winter: Riverdale Farm remains open during winter, although some areas may have limited access due to weather conditions. The farm takes on a quieter and more serene atmosphere during this time. But don’t worry… you can still see the animals. Plus, you might be able to catch some special winter-themed events or activities.
It’s important to note that specific hours of operation may vary. This can depend on the season, day of the week, and any ongoing events or maintenance. We recommend to follow along with them on Instagram for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and any seasonal closures.
Related: Sheldon Creek Dairy Farm is the perfect family day trip!