Aliu IsaThe Ultimate Guide to Toronto’s Edwards Gardens
The famous Edwards Gardens is located on the southwest corner of Leslie Street and Lawrence Avenue East in Toronto. It’s also the site of the Toronto Botanical Garden, a private not-for-profit organisation previously called the Civic Garden Centre.
The gardens were originally part of the estate of William Edwards, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist. Some of the notable features of the gardens include the Rose Garden, the Perennial Garden, the Rockery, and the Arboretum.
Planning to visit Edwards Gardens? Read on to learn everything you need to know about one of Toronto’s most beloved gems.
The Ultimate Guide to Toronto’s Edwards Gardens
Time Zone
Eastern Daylight Time (GMT-4)
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Edwards Gardens depends on what you want to see and do. For instance, fall (September to November) is a great time to visit the gardens to see the changing leaves.
In the spring, Edwards Gardens is a riot of colour. The tulips, cherry blossoms, and other spring flowers are in bloom, and the gardens are filled with the sound of birds.
In the summer, Edwards Gardens is a lush oasis. The roses and other summer flowers are in bloom, and the trees provide shade from the hot sun.
In the winter, Edwards Gardens is a peaceful and serene place to visit. The gardens are covered in snow, and the trees are bare.
Things to Know
Currency: Canadian Dollar
(Check the current exchange rate)
Languages: English
Calling Code: +1
Where is Edwards Gardens?
Edwards Gardens is located at 755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2. It’s at the southwest corner of Leslie Street and Lawrence Avenue East and is a part of the Toronto Botanical Garden.
Here’s a map of Edwards Gardens and its surrounding area:
How to Get There
By public transit:
Take the TTC Yonge-University subway line to the Lawrence Station and take the 162 bus south on Lawrence Avenue. Get off the bus at the Leslie Street stop and walk east on Leslie Street until you reach Edwards Gardens.
By car:
Take Highway 401 to the Leslie Street exit and drive south on Leslie Street until you reach Lawrence Avenue. Turn right onto Lawrence Avenue and continue driving until you reach Edwards Gardens.
Where to Stay near Edwards Gardens
The Hazelton Hotel Toronto
Address: 118 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1C2
Phone: +1 416-963-6300
Pricing: $$$
The Hazelton Hotel is a five-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Yorkville, Toronto’s most upscale neighbourhood. The hotel is known for its elegant design, world-class amenities, and impeccable service.
It has a state-of-the-art fitness center that is equipped with the latest cardio and strength training equipment. It also has a business centre that is equipped with computers, printers, and other business amenities.
The hotel is a popular destination for celebrities and VIPs, making it the perfect choice for a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Toronto.
The Anndore House
Address: 15 Charles St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1S1
Phone: +1 833-745-8370
Pricing: $$
Founded in the 1950s, The Anndore House is a stylish neighbourhood boutique hotel located in the heart of Yorkville. Inside the hotel is Constantine, a restaurant and lounge that celebrates the diverse and stimulating cuisine of the Mediterranean.
Originally known as The Anndore Hotel & Apartments, it was home to many of Toronto’s most eccentric personalities and famous faces over the years. The hotel has an entire floor, called Next Level, dedicated to private events and meetings.
Town Inn Suites
Town Inn Suites, 620 Church St. Toronto. I stayed here for 2 weeks in the 70s as a kid when my Dad was temporarily assigned there. My 1st trip to Toronto. pic.twitter.com/ObwuThC1xg
— Hogamadog (@hogamadog) August 16, 2023
— From: @Hogamadog
Address: 620 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2G2
Phone: +1 416-964-3311
Pricing: $$$
Town Inn Suites is a hotel located in the heart of downtown Toronto, just steps away from the Bloor-Yonge subway station, that offers spacious fully furnished suites with kitchens. It has a 24-hour front desk and a friendly staff that is always happy to help.
The hotel’s spacious suites and convenient location make it a great option for families, extended stays, and group travel. Its location is conveniently close to the city’s major attractions.
Radisson Hotel Toronto East
#Follow us on #Facebook Radisson Hotel Toronto East and #Instagram Radissontorontoeast_ to get the latest scoop! pic.twitter.com/SWkyJo0SPl
— RadissonToronto (@RadissonEast) November 6, 2014
Address: 55 Hallcrown Pl, North York, ON M2J 4R1
Phone: +1 416-493-7000
Pricing: $$
The Radisson Hotel Toronto East is a four-star hotel located in the North York district of Toronto. It offers plenty of amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, a fitness centre, a cafe, a massive event space, and laundry services.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are spacious and well-maintained at all times. It’s also close to many popular attractions including the Ontario Science Centre, Toronto Zoo, and Scarborough Town Centre.
What to Do in Edwards Gardens
Take a walk through the gardens
Taking a walk through the gardens is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of nature. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Edwards Gardens’ many themed gardens to find magnificent flowers and unique landscapes.
You can also book a guided tour to learn about the history of each section and how the experts maintain the plants. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Have a picnic
With its lush green lawns, shady trees, and various themed gardens, Edwards Gardens is a beautiful place to relax and have a picnic. There are many picnic tables located throughout the gardens, but you can also bring your own blanket to sit on.
Take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful meal with friends and family.
Visit the Children’s Teaching Garden
The Children’s Teaching Garden at Edwards Gardens is a fun and educational outdoor space for children of all ages. It offers a variety of educational programs led by experienced educators that cover topics like gardening, nature, and sustainability.
It’s a great place to introduce your kids to the importance of nature and our responsibilities as humans to take care of it as much as we can. Gardening can be a messy activity, so be sure to dress accordingly.
Attend a concert or event
Edwards Gardens hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. Edwards Summer Music Series, for instance, is a free outdoor concert series that takes place every Thursday night in July and August.
There’s also an annual holiday market that features a variety of vendors selling unique gifts and crafts. To stay up-to-date on the latest events at Edwards Gardens, be sure to check their website or social media page.
Where to Eat near Edwards Gardens
Congee Queen
— From: @18.jul
Address: 895 Lawrence Ave E #8, North York, ON M3C 3L2
Phone: +1 416-916-0338
Pricing: $$
Congee Queen is a popular Cantonese restaurant chain in Toronto, with several locations throughout the city. It’s known for its authentic and delicious congee, as well as its other Cantonese dishes.
Congee is a rice porridge that is typically served with a variety of toppings, such as meat, seafood, vegetables, and eggs. It’s a popular breakfast food in Cantonese cuisine, but it’s also enjoyed as a main course or light meal at any time of day.
JOEY Don Mills
— From: @clukinggoodfood
Address: 75 O’Neill Rd, North York, ON M3C 0H2
Phone: +1 416-445-6391
Pricing: $$
JOEY Don Mills is a relaxed, contemporary dining spot with a broad menu featuring international & regional dishes. It’s part of the JOEY Restaurants chain, which has over 30 locations across Canada and the United States.
The restaurant has a patio, perfect for dining on a warm day, and is also known for its extensive wine list and its creative cocktails. Its lively atmosphere makes it a great place to celebrate any occasion.
Mantra by Host
Address: 2 O’Neill Rd, North York, ON M3C 0H1
Phone: +1 647-748-4678
Pricing: $$
Mantra by Host is a stylish Indian restaurant located in the heart of the CF Shops at Don Mills in Toronto, Ontario. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options.
Run by Chef Ashish Sethi and The Host restaurants, they offer a modern take on classic Indian cuisine, using fresh seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.
Ice ‘n Cake
Address: 30 Clock Tower Rd, North York, ON M3C 0G2
Phone: +1 416-444-2100
Pricing: $$
Ice ‘n Cake is a popular dessert shop also located in the CF Shops at Don Mills known for its delicious gelato, crepes, and other sweet treats. The shop has a wide variety of gelato flavours to choose from, including both classic and unique options.
In addition to gelato, Ice ‘n Cake also serves a variety of crepes that can be filled with your choice of sweet or savoury ingredients. The shop has a bright and cosy atmosphere, making it a popular spot for people of all ages to enjoy a delicious dessert.
