Top 5 Greenhouses Within An Hours Drive From Toronto (2024)

Are you feeling gloomy?

Lack of colour does that to me too. This in-between weather has got a lot of us in a funk however, there are other ways around that. While, some turn to Netflix series, others will battle the elements and take part in a winter activity. But, I still need colour. So, in search of some colour and pretty flowers I look to greenhouses to fill that void. Here are some GREAT spots to bring your family, significant other or friends and bring back that colour you’ve been craving:

(ordered from nearest to furthest from Toronto)

Allan Gardens

60 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON

Built in 1910 which, makes it one of the oldest parks in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with two off-leash areas for dogs, a playground and of course, the conservatory. There is no fee to enter but, you will have to pay for street parking which, ends up being under $5.00 and a short walk to the conservatory. The glass ceiling conservatory houses six interconnected sections giving its guests lots of areas to roam. Broken down into The Palm House, The Cool Temperate House, The Tropical Landscape House, The Arid House, two tropical greenhouses and a children’s conservatory, which is attached to the Arid House and can host kids’ workshops. I’m not particularly a city girl but, the fact this is found in Toronto amazes me.

To pair with your day: iHalo Krunch is down the street and is known for its unique flavours served in a black cone.

Centennial Park Conservatory

151 Elmcrest Rd, Etobico*ke, ON

Second on the list is – Centennial Park Conservatory which, was constructed in 1969 and is in Etobico*ke, Ontario, Canada. It offers three greenhouses and 12,000 square feet of beautiful plants. Sectioning off the rectangular building into the cactus house (which is my favourite), a tropical house and a show house – seasonal room. Guests will find on-site parking and admission to be free. Altogether, this conservatory is unique and helps guests enter a different world. In short, each room has its own music and ambiance which, makes it the perfect place to escape the gloomy days.

Chinguacousy Park Greenhouse

225 Central Park Dr, Brampton, ON

Similar to above, this park holds a spot in my heart. Why is this one so, special? I grew up in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and have roamed these grounds so, many times – I’ve simply lost count.

Brampton is known as the Flower City so, its only fitting that they would have a spot like this central to the city. Recently, the city has updated the property so, guests can enjoy the skate park, petting zoo, mini-golf, pony rides, paddle boats and so much more. The greenhouse is central and homes three uniquely displayed sections homing an array of succulents, cactus, palm trees and other colourful plants. Let the calmness of the waterfall guide you into a meditative state washing all your troubles away. Or curl up with a book on one of the benches nearby

Side Note: The park hosts fun events so, be sure to check out their website. Canada Day Celebrations included performances by July Talks and they put on a wonderful firework display.

Gage Park Greenhouse

1000 Main St E, Hamilton, ON

Meet the new kid on the block!

This newly constructed 14,000 square-foot tropical oasis is in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Here guests will find parking on-site as well as admission to be free. To summarize, this glass greenhouse features a collection of subtropical plants, unique species, palm trees and some wildlife. Such as turtles and fish swimming in nearby ponds. Also, something to note is the greenhouse rents out their space for shoots and parties so, be sure to call ahead of time.

Suggestion: Sam Lawrence Park is a short drive away, offering panoramic views of the lower city and the harbour. On clear days, one could even spot the CN Tower.If timed out properly, this would be an amazing spot for a sunrise/sunset.

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

2500 Kossuth Rd, Cambridge, ON

Lastly, is this privately-owned Canadian Corporation which, relies on its admission, gift shop, café sales, and facility rentals to operate. Parking on-site is free while, admission is $15.00 per adult. Honestly, it’s well worth the admission and you know it’s going towards the conservatory. Not only is the indoor tropical garden 10,800 square feet but, it features 1000’s of free-flying butterflies from all over the world. It doesn’t stop there either. As a matter of fact, outside the gardens, there is a room full of insects both alive and deceased. Of course, this is a great place to bring the little ones for some education and a unique place to explore.

Side Note:Last time I was there they had a Bug Feast (an event) which, allowed its guests to learn about bugs and their protein/nutritional values. One also had the opportunity to sample some out. I tried: grasshopper nacho cheese, ants on fudge and bbq crickets. The first time and I didn’t hate it! Haha.

In conclusion

Now, these are just my top favourite greenhouses that I’ve explored and personally think are great spaces to get lost in. I’m sure I could have included: the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, it’s just not a favourite. Even the Botanical Gardens in Montréal, Quebec was much more impressive but, further of a drive.

Share with the community your favourite spots by commenting below. Remember just because its cold, rainy, windy or gross outside doesn’t mean you can’t find an escape from the city and into nature. Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more ideas and inspiration.