Grange Park Toronto
Free range fun
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”.
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Cool place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
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The Green Jar – A sweet sustainable shop
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
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Allan Gardens Conservatory – Ready for some green?
"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
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Arcadia Earth – An inspiring, immersive experience
Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
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Arts Market – Great selection of artisanal gifts
From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
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The Latest Scoop – Treasure trove for trend seekers
Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
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A Different Booklist – A bookstore for better
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Karma Co-op – A co-op for the conscious consumer
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Ecotique – Great for eco-friendly goods and gifts
I’ve bought a bunch here, from seed bombs to sustainable swaps like planet-friendly nail polish, and a pair of mittens made from old sweaters!
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Pretty Clean Shop – A sustainable & stunning shop
There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
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Coal Miner's Daughter – Canadian clothing and more
Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
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Brodawka & Friends – Sweet store for grabbing gifts
I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
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Broadview Espresso – Comfy coffee corner
"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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