Riverdale Park

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Address: 425 Carlton St #381, Toronto, ON M5A 2M3

Riverdale Park is one of Toronto’s largest parks, offering a wide range of facilities and recreation activities. The park is on Danforth Avenue in East York, just a 15-minute walk from Broadview Station. The park is close to Greek Town and several neighbouring food outlets and transit stops. The park is separated between east and west halves by a bridge, and many people prefer the east section for its spectacular sunsets and city views.

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Things to Do

There are so many things to do at this park. If you like to stay active, you can enjoy one of the seven concrete tennis courts that are well maintained or have a nice jogging hour on the park’s east side running track. If you are looking for a relaxing day, you can have a picnic in the open green space and enjoy the view. At night, the park comes to life. You can view the city skylines with the CN tower lit up while sitting on the grassy hills, which is so peaceful to enjoy under the stars.

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The park is clean and well maintained; however, if you plan on having a picnic there, bring your picnic blanket because the park grounds can be damp at times. The park also features a skating rink for winter skating and rollerblading, as well as two baseball diamonds that are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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The Riverdale farm is located near the Cabbagetown Farmers Market and a short distance from the park’s east side. The farm is free to visit, however, because of the pandemic, being close to the animals is not permitted for the time being. You can enjoy watching horses, cows, sheep, goats, and a variety of other animals. The farm is clean and is a wonderful place to visit with your family.

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On the east side of the park, there is an outdoor swimming pool. The pool is clean and safe for children. It is recommended if you make a reservation on the City of Toronto’s website in advance. Even though leisure and lane swim is free outdoors, there are charges for indoor lane swimming. And don’t forget to bring your swimming equipment as the park doesn’t provide any.

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There is roadside parking near Riverdale farm, and there is plenty of street parking for free, right across the street and within a block of the park entrance. Parking at 720 Broadview Ave is also available for $1 for 30 minutes or a $3.00 flat rate. You can also park at 35 Erindale Ave for $2.00 for 30 minutes with a maximum fee of $11 either in cash or by credit or debit card.

Riverdale Park is a great place for some outdoor activities instead of just sitting at home. When visiting the park this summer, remember to follow the covid guidelines and avoid littering.