Guildwood Park

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, try Guildwood Park on the Scarborough Bluffs. It’s a nice quiet spot with perennial beds and flowering trees and shrubs, but what makes it special is the large collection of salvaged architectural fragments and sculptures placed throughout the gardens for you to discover as you explore. It’s a sad reminder that in the past we didn’t value old buildings as much as we should have, and many were torn down to make way for newer, “better” replacements. But fortunately some beautiful pieces were recovered for us to enjoy, and they give the gardens an other-worldly, dream-like atmosphere. Beyond the rear gates there is an impressive view out over Lake Ontario (from very high up) and delightful wooded walks as well. I think the sign says that bikes, balls and Frisbees are not allowed in the garden, so if you’re looking for rowdy play with the kids this isn’t the spot, but for a quiet, even romantic, stroll, it’s a great choice.