By Natalie Tuesday, April 2, 2024

As the winter chill fades away and spring begins to bloom, Ontario transforms into a breathtaking canvas of colour. One of the most enchanting sights to behold during this time of year is the blooming of cherry blossoms. These delicate flowers paint the landscape with shades of pink and white, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Cherry blossom season is short-lived though, typically lasting only a few weeks during end of April – mid May, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and bloom updates to make the most of this fleeting spectacle.  If you’re wondering where to witness this stunning spectacle in Ontario, look no further! We’ve rounded up some of the best spots to see cherry blossoms in the province.

HIGH PARK – TORONTO

High Park, located in the heart of Toronto, is renowned for its cherry blossom display. Every spring, thousands of visitors flock to this urban oasis to witness the cherry trees in full bloom. The park boasts over 2,000 cherry blossom trees, making it one of the largest collections in Canada. Stroll along the winding pathways and marvel at the beauty of these ethereal flowers against the backdrop of lush greenery. If you are driving, there is no vehicle access through High Park on the weeekend during the cherry blossom bloom period so try to go on a weekday for less crowds and access to onsite parking or plan to take an Uber or TTC if visiting on the weekend. For an up to date bloom report follow along the Bloom Prediction so you can plan your visit accordingly.

ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDEN – BURLINGTON

For a more serene cherry blossom experience, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. This expansive botanical sanctuary is home to several varieties of cherry trees, including the iconic Japanese cherry blossoms. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you admire the delicate blooms. The Royal Botanical Gardens also offer educational programs and guided tours, providing a deeper insight into the fascinating world of cherry blossoms.

MCMASTER UNIVERSITY – HAMILTON

Located on the campus of McMaster University in Hamilton, the cherry blossoms in the McMaster University Medical Centre Courtyard are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This lesser-known spot offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a moment to relax under the shade of the cherry trees and revel in their beauty. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet picnic or a romantic afternoon stroll.

CANADIAN TULIP FESTIVAL – OTTAWA

While not strictly cherry blossoms, the Ottawa Tulip Festival is a must-visit event for flower enthusiasts. Held annually in Canada’s capital city, the festival showcases millions of tulips in bloom, along with other spring flowers, including cherry blossoms. Wander through the vibrant displays and soak up the festive atmosphere as you celebrate the arrival of spring. With numerous events and activities scheduled throughout the festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

CENTENNIAL PARK – ETOBICOKE

Centennial Park is a hidden gem and a great option to High Parks large crowds. It is home to the second-largest cherry blossom tree collection in Ontario with almost 500 trees! For the best views of the spring blooms visit the during the spring season, the best spots to see the cherry blossoms in bloom are northeast of the Centennial Park Conservatory and along Rathburn Road and Centennial Park Boulevard.

NIAGARA PARKS BOTANICAL GARDENS – NIAGARA FALLS

The sprawling grounds at the Botanical Gardens feature formal and manicured gardens, a distinguished Victorian rose garden, an extensive herb section and peaceful walking paths and trails. The magnolia trees are a highlight from early to mid-May, followed immediately by the cherry tree blossoms near the entrance in mid to late May. Park entrance is free with plenty of metered parking. Bonus attraction is the Butterfly Conservatory right next door!

TRINITY BELLWOODS PARK – TORONTO

One of the city’s largest downtown green spaces, Trinity Bellwoods is a popular park for picnickers, dog walkers and local sports events. Of the approximately 400 trees in the park, 70 are Sakura trees. They stand in the south end, providing a stunning scene when in bloom, with the CN Tower in the background.

Have fun and please don’t forget to respect nature and the surrounding environment while enjoying the beauty of Ontario’s cherry blossoms.

Natalie