The Toronto Botanical Gardens is a verdant oasis that will ignite your passion for nature and gardening. Spanning nearly four acres, this horticultural haven in Canada offers a delightful escape into a world of lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and serene landscapes.
As you meander through themed gardens, you’ll encounter diverse plant species, eco-friendly practices, and sustainable gardening techniques. From the enchanting Entry Garden to the captivating Water-Wise Garden, every corner stimulates curiosity and awe.
The gardens also host educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events, inspiring individuals of all ages to nurture their green thumb and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
Admission to the Toronto Botanical Gardens, Edwards Gardens, and the Don Valley Ravine is FREE! The gardens and green spaces are open for the public to enjoy from dawn until dusk. However, please note that some path closures may be in effect in Edwards Gardens/Wilket Creek due to ongoing construction and winter weather conditions.
Yes! The Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) offers free admission to the public. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy the green spaces, including Edwards Gardens and the Don Valley Ravine, without any entry fee.
However, please keep in mind that circumstances can change, and it’s always a good idea to verify the most current information about admission and any possible updates or changes to the policy before planning your visit.
The Toronto Botanical Garden offers free on-site parking for visitors. There’s a parking lot available at the gardens, making it convenient for those driving to the location.
However, parking availability can vary, especially during busy times or special events. If the on-site parking lot is full, there are alternative parking options available nearby. However, they may have different parking fees and regulations.
To ensure a smooth visit, we recommend you arrive early or check the TBG’s official website. Further, you can contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on parking options, availability, and any potential changes to parking policies.
The history of Toronto’s Botanical Gardens can be traced back to the early 1950s when the Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA) began searching for a suitable location to create a centralized botanical garden in Toronto. After years of searching, the OHA, along with other horticultural and community organizations, secured the present site, known as Edwards Gardens, in 1955.
Edwards Gardens was initially a private estate, established by Rupert E. Edwards in the early 1940s. It featured beautiful gardens, landscaping, and a picturesque setting. The estate was later acquired by the City of Toronto and transformed into a public garden to fulfill the vision of a centralized botanical garden.
In 1958, the Toronto Botanical Garden was officially founded as a partnership between the City of Toronto, the Ontario Horticultural Association, and the Garden Club of Toronto. It aimed to serve as a horticultural education center, a showcase for garden design and landscaping, and a green oasis for the public.
Over the years, the Toronto Botanical Garden expanded its footprint, adding new themed gardens and green spaces. In the late 1990s, the adjacent Edwards Gardens and the nearby Don Valley Ravine were incorporated into the botanical garden, further enhancing the natural beauty and diversity of the site.
Today, the Toronto Botanical Garden spans nearly four acres, featuring diverse gardens, walking trails, and educational facilities. It remains a beloved destination for plant enthusiasts, horticulturalists, families, and anyone seeking solace and inspiration in the midst of nature’s beauty in the heart of Toronto. The gardens continue to evolve and fulfill their mission of educating, inspiring, and connecting people with the natural world and the art of gardening.
The Green Adventure Camp at TBGKids offers extended care from August 8th to 11th for a regular price of $48.00. Drop off campers as early as 8:00 a.m. and pick up as late as 5:00 p.m. TBGKids staff will supervise free play, recreational games, crafts, and nature activities, providing a safe and fun environment for kids with busy parents.
On August 9th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, you can explore the Japanese art of Kokedama: moss ball bonsai. This is where plants are potted without containers. Discover the seventeenth-century origin of this cheerful, peaceful, and calming design style. Learn to create your own Kokedama using soil, clay, and moss to support plant roots. Materials will be provided. The workshop costs $55 for the public and $45 for members (plus applicable taxes and fees).
At the Magical Adventure Camp from August 14th to 18th, take advantage of extended care for $60.00. TBGKids staff offers supervision for free play, recreational games, crafts, and nature activities. Drop off campers as early as 8:00 a.m. and pick up as late as 5:00 p.m., accommodating busy schedules while ensuring a fun and safe environment for kids.
The Floral Design Program: Classic Design Fundamentals 1 at Toronto Botanical Garden is a comprehensive course introducing classic floral design styles. Learn water-viewing, centrepiece, crescent, and mass designs, as well as flower selection, conditioning, and floral design equipment use.
This course is a prerequisite for other courses in the Floral Design Certificate program. Marg Betts, a Floral Design Judge, leads the program with her expertise and passion for floral artistry.
The in-person, indoor program takes place on Thursdays from September 7th to 28th, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The fee is $215 for the public and $170 for members (plus taxes and fees). Registration deadline is September 1st.
The Sogetsu Ikebana event at Toronto Botanical Garden showcases an ancient Japanese art form of flower arranging. The Sogetsu School of Ikebana, with a focus on encounters between humans and nature, reflects modern lifestyles.
To participate, attendees must have completed Fundamentals I and Fundamentals II courses. The in-person, indoor program runs on Tuesdays from October 3rd to 24th, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The fee is $215 for the public and $170 for members (plus taxes and fees). Registration deadline is September 29th.
We hope you enjoy your adventures at the lush and expansive Toronto Botanical Gardens!
Related: Edwards Gardens is our top pick for summertime fun.