Located in Toronto's Garden District, Allan Gardens is a historic municipal park featuring a stunning 1,500-square-meter conservatory. As one of Toronto’s oldest public parks, originating from land donated by George William Allan in 1858, it offers you a peaceful green escape bounded by Carlton, Sherbourne, Gerrard, and Jarvis Streets. When you visit, you can explore six distinct greenhouses packed with diverse plant life.
The centerpiece of the indoor experience is the Palm House, a neo-Classical and Edwardian building completed in 1910 that features a dramatic 16-sided glass-and-steel dome. Inside the complex, you will discover dedicated plant collections ranging from delicate orchids, begonias, bromeliads, and gesneriads to tropical vines, palms, cycads, and vibrant hibiscus. You can also walk through a cool temperate greenhouse filled with Australian and Mediterranean flora, or explore the arid house with cacti and succulents.
Outside, the park grounds offer walking pathways, a children’s playground, an off-leash dog park, over 300 trees, and historical features like the Robert Burns monument. Beyond its botanical beauty, the site holds a rich history as a gathering place for public rallies and protests.
What to see at Allan Gardens
- The 1910 Palm House featuring a 16-sided glass dome
- Six indoor greenhouses housing orchids, palms, cycads, and cacti
- Historic park grounds with over 300 trees representing 47 species
- The Robert Burns Monument situated along the park's outdoor path network
- On-site amenities including a children's playground and an off-leash dog park
Visiting tips
Stroll along the outdoor pathways connecting Carlton and Sherbourne Streets to view the Robert Burns Monument after exploring the indoor greenhouses.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Allan Gardens is easy to reach on Toronto’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Toronto Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Toronto travel guide.
See the full Toronto travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.