If you like dogs, fountains, public art, or soaking in sun in a lovely plaza (or better yet, all of the above), then you are in for a treat at Berczy Park! Located in the St. Lawrence neighbourhood, this public space was redesigned and reopened in 2017, and has quickly become a popular destination for locals.
The jewel of the park is the dog fountain in the middle of the square. It’s impossible not to delight in the three-tier fountain lined with life-size dog sculptures, all peering intently at a bone perched at the very top. And I would be remiss not to mention the lone cat, staring, bemused and judgmental, at its canine neighbours (word is that Claude Cormier + Associés, the architects responsible for designing Berczy Park, are now designing a cat-themed park on the west side of town). This is a charming public space with a terrific sense of humour.
There are plenty of benches, and in the warmer months, I have seen Muskoka chairs that let you recline and take in some rays. Perhaps you can stop at St. Lawrence Market to pick up a snack first. So pick a sunny day and make your way down!
See also my article on the historic Gooderham Building, which overlooks Berczy Park from the east. You can see parts of it peeking out behind the large tree directly behind the fountain.
