Standing in the middle of Grange Park, my city’s grand expression is revealed through illuminated shapes of colour. This urban oasis is an important intersection of Toronto the bold, majestic and noble.
Just west is China Town, the most prominent example of our lattice of ethnic neighbourhoods that make Toronto a true marvel. Indeed the park’s Henry Moore sculpture of two embracing forms, perfectly illustrates our proud multi-cultural harmony.
Looking east, a massive protruding checkerboard is somehow supported on high by a series of multi-coloured pillars falling at different angles. Constructed in 2004, this newest wing of the Ontario College of Art and Design received accolades for both its engineering and innovation.
The heritage of Grange Park sits just to my north on what was once the Boulton family manor. It’s now part of the Art Gallery of Ontario.
My southern view is this evening’s display from the CN Tower, tonight it’s outlined in green and purple lights. This former world’s highest building serves as an exclamation point of Toronto literally and figuratively growing up on the international scene.
Grange Park attracts people in the summer with a Frisbee or slackline, and in winter finding cozy hiding places amid the art studio-themed playground. Go there and take a deep breath.
What’s Spot On:
• 14 stone inscriptions including one from urbanist Jane Jacobs: “We and our cities, just by virtue of being, are a legitimate part of nature.”
• Another one by Tomson Highway reads: “In Cree, trees are “who,” not “what”.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
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"Toronto Reference Library" is Canada's largest reference library & a must-stop on any downtown tour, with plenty of exciting cultural secrets to discover.
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"Maids' Cottage Butter Tarts" in Toronto makes some of the best butter tarts you can find in the city, and there's nothing more Ontario than eating them!
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Not only do they have delicious coffee and delightful baked goods, but they also stock a solid selection of Canadian-made food and drink products...
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Pick up a quick lunch at the front of this low-waste shop, which you can take away in your own or borrowed containers that can be returned later!
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"Riverdale Farm" is an oasis of culture, nature, animals and trees at the heart of Toronto. I like visiting with my camera, especially for macro photos
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I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!
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"Khau Gully" is my favorite Northern Indian restaurant in Toronto. Street food is its thing but it's best to sit in for its beautifully painted dining room
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From biodegradable bamboo products to personal care items that are better for both you and the planet, you can find plenty here for a more sustainable life.
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It’s rare that I leave this store without having bought something, be it a beautiful ring for myself, or a unique piece of artwork to give as a gift.
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With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.
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145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
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