Aliu IsaIf you’re looking for a city with a relaxed, countryside feel, I believe Scarborough hits the mark. Often overshadowed by its more popular central Toronto counterparts, it’s a dope spot on the east side of Toronto with a mix of nature, culture, and fun vibes.
Up north, you’ll find some of Toronto’s last farms—green spaces so peaceful they’ll make you forget those pesky work deadlines. If you love animals, beaches, history, (or all of the above!), then you’d definitely adore this place.
To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a list of must-see attractions and activities in Scarborough!
Visit Toronto Zoo
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Website: https://www.torontozoo.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetorontozoo
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (416) 392-5900
A trip to Scarborough wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Toronto Zoo, one of the largest and most renowned zoos in the world. You can encounter literally thousands of animals, including giraffes, lions, polar bears, and—my favorite—pandas!
The zoo is divided into several nifty areas, such as the African Savannah, the Tundra Trek, and so on, so you’re free to explore wildlife from across the globe. For a more interactive experience, check out the zoo’s seasonal exhibits.
If you’re visiting with kids, the Discovery Zone is a must-see. It features fun, educational exhibits focused on sea creatures and their habitats, with Splash Island—a playful water park—teaching little ones about the three states of water.
Pro Tip:
The Toronto Zoo’s Zoomobile is a great way to see the entire zoo without tiring out, especially on busy or hot days. Be sure to grab a day pass so you can hop on and off at various stops to explore different exhibits at your own pace!
Hang out at Rouge National Urban Park
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Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parks.canada/
Address: 25 Zoo Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Rouge National Urban Park is one of my go-to natural sanctuaries, and it’s massive to boot. In fact, it’s one of the largest urban parks in North America, allowing you to choose which adventure to have—be it in forests, wetlands, meadows, or even beaches!
The park is home to hundreds of species of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and over 200 species of birds. You can also hike trails like the Mast Trail or take a fun guided tour to learn more about the park.
Kayaking and bird-watching are other leisure options. Plus, it’s near downtown Toronto, making it easily accessible by public transportation or car.
Pro Tip:
Bring bug spray, especially in the warmer months, as the park’s wetlands are known to attract mosquitoes, particularly near dawn and dusk. This will make your hiking or picnicking experience at Rouge more comfortable!
Go hiking at Thomson Memorial Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/543/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomsonmemorialpark/
Address: 1005 Brimley Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Thomson Memorial Park is a huge green area named after David and Mary Thomson, who were some of Scarborough’s earliest settlers. The Scarborough Historical Museum is actually located here as well (that’s how big it is!).
The park’s natural beauty is complemented by really fun recreational amenities that make it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. For instance, it has several playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields.
Additionally, its network of trails, including connections to the nearby Highland Creek, is perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. During the winter months, the park transforms into a hub for snowshoeing and tobogganing, offering year-round outdoor fun.
Pro Tip:
If you’re planning to visit the park in summer, check out the free outdoor events and festivals hosted there. These include historical reenactments at the Scarborough Museum and community fairs—perfect for all ages!
Explore Milliken District Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1088/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milliken-district-park/
Address: 5555 Steeles Ave E
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 396-7757
Milliken District Park is known for its picturesque pond, rolling hills, and carefully maintained gardens. Fun fact: it’s one of the most quiet places I’ve been to!
For those who enjoy active lifestyles, I recommend exploring its walking and cycling paths that loop around the park, as well as using the exercise equipment installed along the trails. The pond area is also home to ducks and geese, and a popular boardwalk.
In addition to sports, this community space hosts summer concerts, outdoor movie nights, and more—definitely a great spot to meet up with friends.
Pro Tip:
Check out the local community’s social media pages or the Milliken Park Recreation Centre’s website for updates on upcoming festivals, cultural events, and outdoor activities. They often host seasonal celebrations and family-friendly events.
Check out the Scarborough Museum
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Website: https://www.instagram.com/tohistorymuseums/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tohistorymuseums/
Address: 1007 Brimley Rd
Hours: Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (416) 338-8807
Scarborough Museum is a small (yet incredible!) museum located in Thomson Memorial Park. It’s like a time machine—offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s early settler history, specifically focusing on the lives of the Thomson family and other early settlers.
The museum is housed in a collection of historic buildings, including original log cabins and a mid-19th-century frame house. The staff and volunteers even dress in period costumes, providing authentic demonstrations and sharing stories.
As a bonus, it hosts workshops, educational programs, and events that celebrate the area’s heritage. Picnics and outdoor activities are sometimes organized as well.
Pro Tip:
Follow the museum’s social media channels or website for announcements on special events and workshops. Many of these activities, such as the annual fall fairs or historical cooking classes, are family-friendly (and so much fun!).
Have a blast at Kidstown Water Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/352/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidstown-water-park/
Address: 3159 Birchmount Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 7 PM
Contact: (416) 396-8326
Kidstown Water Park is the only water park operated by the City of Toronto. We like that it was designed specifically for children and families, so you know it’s a fun, safe, and exciting place to cool off during the hot summer months.
The park features a variety of water play structures, including splash pads, spray rings, wading pools, tipping buckets, and water slides. It’s also surrounded by grassy areas and has lots of seating for parents or guardians.
In the summer, it transforms into a hub for community events, hosting free activities and programs. It’s free to the public and opens seasonally, typically from late June to early September.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to take a peek at the City of Toronto’s website or the park’s social media pages for real-time updates on opening hours and potential closures.
Stroll through East Point Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/1079/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/east-point-park/
Address: 101 Copperfield Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-4386
East Point Park is one of the largest parkland areas on the eastern waterfront of Toronto. It’s part of Toronto’s ravine system, with a mix of grassy meadows, forested spots, and steep cliffs that offer amazing views of the lake.
Via the park, you can actually visit quiet, lesser-known beaches, and enjoy a lovely lakeside experience without the crowds. It’s a great spot for picnics as well, so better get that wicker basket full of goodies ready!
Note that visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by staying on marked trails and practicing responsible outdoor behavior.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on local birding and nature group social media pages for organized walks or bird-watching tours. East Point Park is especially popular during the spring and fall migration seasons, and these tours can help you spot rare species!
Take pics in Rosetta McClain Gardens
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/19/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosetta-mcclain-gardens/
Address: 5 Glen Everest Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact Details: (416) 392-8188
Rosetta McClain Gardens offers a peaceful—and might I say, gorgeous—retreat from city traffic and work deadlines. It boasts a collection of plants and flowers, including a wide variety of perennials (plants that regrow every spring), shrubs, and trees.
The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom. As a bonus, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Ontario while hanging out in its many seating areas.
Beyond its natural beauty, it hosts various community events and educational programs. These provide opportunities for visitors of all ages to learn about gardening, native plants, and sustainable practices—not a bad way to spend the weekend.
Pro Tip:
To make the most of your visit, consider going early in the morning or during the late afternoon when the light is soft for photography, and the gardens are less crowded.
Marvel at the Scarborough Bluffs
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/scarborough-bluffs/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarboroughbluffsofficial/
Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S, Bluffers Pk Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 5 AM – 7 PM
Contact: (416) 338-0889
The Scarborough Bluffs are a stunning natural feature that offers breathtaking views and geological formations.
Its lush green spaces and picturesque cliffs make it an ideal location for family outings, nature walks, and photography. Throughout the year, you can also enjoy seasonal events, outdoor activities, and community gatherings.
This gorgeous spot mainly attracts outdoorsy locals and tourists due to the famed Scarborough Bluff trail. Birdwatchers also find the Bluffs a great spot to observe various species, especially during migration seasons.
Pro Tip:
For the best views, consider visiting the Bluffs during sunrise or sunset. The soft light during these times enhances the stunning colors of the cliffs and the lake, providing a perfect backdrop for photography.
Discover new art in the Bluffs Gallery
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Website: https://www.scarborougharts.com/bluffs-gallery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarborougharts
Address: 1859 Kingston Road
Hours: Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (416) 698-7322
Bluffs Gallery is only a few minutes away from the scenic Scarborough Bluffs. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, the gallery serves as a platform for both emerging and established artists.
It not only focuses on visual arts but also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year. You can attend fun openings, interesting artist talks, and art workshops that’ll get your creative juices flowing.
The art space also collaborates with schools and local organizations to promote artistic skills among youth, encouraging the next generation of artists.
Pro Tip:
When visiting Bluffs Gallery, check their website or social media pages for upcoming events and exhibitions. Attending an opening night can provide a unique opportunity to meet the artists, learn more about their work, and even enjoy snacks.
Shoot arrows in Archery Circuit
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Website: http://www.archerycircuit.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archerycircuit/
Address: 3791 Victoria Park Ave #8
Hours: Mon – Sun: 8 AM – 12 AM
Contact Details: (416) 662-8828
Archery Circuit is a facility that caters to both beginners and experienced archers. With state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable instructors, it offers a range of programs, including lessons, workshops, and organized competitions.
You and your squad can choose from different archery disciplines, including target and field archery. The spacious indoor range also allows for year-round practice, while the outdoor range provides a picturesque setting.
In addition to individual lessons, the recreation area often hosts events and tournaments that foster friendly competition. Time to channel your inner Katniss!
Pro Tip:
For newbies, consider booking a lesson in advance before heading to Archery Circuit, especially during peak times or weekends. This ensures you have a dedicated instructor available to guide you through the basics.
Have a picnic at Guild Park
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/406/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guild-park/nearby/
Address: 201 Guildwood Pkwy
Guild Park and Gardens is a unique and historic park nestled along Scarborough Bluffs. We think it’s super cool that their collection of architectural remnants and sculptures is salvaged from demolished historic buildings throughout Toronto.
One of its highlights is its amazing view of the Scarborough Bluffs and Lake Ontario. It also offers beautiful gardens, forested areas, and open spaces perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or just destressing from a chaotic work week.
It’s a fantastic place for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the park’s sculptures and landscapes are bathed in golden light.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to check the park’s event schedule before you visit. Guild Park often hosts outdoor theater performances, art workshops, and guided tours that highlight the park’s history and artwork, providing an even richer experience!
Attend Scarborough festivals and live concerts
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Scarborough offers a lot of hip cultural experiences, with live performances and film festivals happening throughout the year. For instance, Theatre Scarborough hosts live theatre productions, providing entertainment for both local audiences and visitors.
The Scarborough Worldwide Film Festival showcases fantastic multicultural films. The annual Heritage Day festival at Highland Creek Village also offers an opportunity to connect with local history and traditions.
Music lovers in Scarborough enjoy free concerts held every Sunday at the Scarborough Civic Centre, and the Port Union Summer Concerts featuring local and national acts. Jazz lovers can even get lost in the sounds of the Scarborough Town Jazz Festival.
For foodies, events like Taste of Lawrence and the Scarborough Ribfest offer mouth-watering opportunities to indulge in local and international cuisine. Sign me up!
Pro Tip:
Plan your visits around festival and concert dates by checking local event calendars. Many of these events are free, so you can enjoy Scarborough’s rich cultural scene without spending a dime!
