9 Secret Spots To Discover Around Toronto That Only TRUE Locals Know About

The city is full of surprises!
Lead Writer, Travel

You probably know about the CN Tower, Casa Loma, and Ripley's Aquarium, but only true locals of the 6ix know these places in Toronto.

You can wander through tropical gardens or enjoy incredible views of the lake at these hidden gems around the city.

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Gates Gully

Price: Free

Address: 37 Pine Ridge Dr., Scarborough, ON

Why You Need To Go: Also known as the Bellamy Ravine, this serene spot boasts views of Lake Ontario and the spectacular Scarborough Bluffs. It's a good place to enjoy some nature in the city.

R. C. Harris Water Treatment Plant

Price: Free

Address: 2701 Queen St. E., Scarborough, ON

Why You Need To Go: This massive art deco-style plant is the perfect backdrop for photos and a dreamy place to take in views of the water.

Guild Park

Price: Free

Address: 201 Guildwood Pkwy., Scarborough, ON

Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem will take your breath away with its towering sculptures and gardens. You can even see a giant Greek Theatre that will whisk you off to another world.

Arthur Conan Doyle Room

Price: Free

When: Opening date to be announced

Address: 789 Yonge St., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Step into Sherlock Holmes' study at this hidden spot at the Toronto Reference Library. The room is home to one of the largest research collections dedicated to Arthur Conan Doyle in the world.

Ward's Island

Price: $8.19 ferry fee

Address: Ward's Island, Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Unlike Centre Island, Ward's Island is a quieter, residential area with fewer tourists. It boasts a peaceful beach and boardwalk where you can bask in the sunshine.

Allan Gardens Conservatory

Price: Free

When: Opening date to be announced

Address: 19 Horticultural Ave., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Filled with tropical plants and blooming flowers, this indoor botanical garden is like taking a trip to a rainforest.

SOMA Chocolatemaker

Price: Prices vary

Address: 32 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in the Distillery District, this spot is a paradise for all things chocolate. You can sip all sorts of unique drinks, indulge in ice cream, and buy some delicious treats.

Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat

Price: Free

Address: 100 Humber Bay Park Rd. W., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: This habitat is nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, and it's filled with wildflowers, trees, and butterflies. You can watch some stunning sunrises at this place.

Toronto Public Labyrinth

Price: Free

Address: 24 Trinity Sq., Toronto, ON

Why You Need To Go: Hidden in Trinity Square Park, this peaceful area is a replica of the historic stone labyrinth at France's Chartres Cathedral.

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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