There’s nothing better than hopping in your car and going for a joy ride to uncover the unexpected gems of your city. From the shores at Ashbridges Bay to the wildlife at Humber Bay Park, Toronto is full of hidden havens. In partnership with the new 2017 Ford Fusion, we list eight spots in the city you should drive to this season.
1) Ashbridges Bay
This gorgeous, underrated locale is the perfect space to get zen. A view of the downtown skyline highlights this area along with its trails, yacht club and birdwatching spots.
2) Evergreen Brick Works
Don't let the name fool you. There is far more eye-catching scenery here than its name might suggest. This former quarry site has transformed into one of the city’s most loved parks. In the summer, visit Evergreen on the weekend and purchase fresh produce from the farmer’s market.
3) Edwards Gardens
This little slice of serenity near Toronto's Botanical Gardens has ample greenery as well as plenty of biking and walking paths. The children’s Teaching Garden is proof that nature can survive and thrive within a large, busy metropolis.
4) BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
An extremely elaborate exterior is one of several assets that make this structure amazing. It’s the first “traditionally hand carved stone and marble” Mandir in Canada, consisting of five different shrines. This temple will take your breath away.
5) Riverdale Park
Riverdale Park is a massive, sprawling multi-purpose park. The eastern portion contains a more athletically-oriented area while the western part ventures into Toronto's Cabbagetown area with beautiful walking paths.
(Instagram/engclau)
6) Cloud Gardens Conservatory
It's easy to miss this quaint little paradise in the downtown core. While only open a short period of time during weekdays, the greenhouse with its plant-covered walls is a breath of fresh air among the city’s skyscrapers.
7) Humber Bay Park
A small walkway parts the east and west areas of this large park located just west of the downtown area. Whether it's walking along the shoreline or bringing along binoculars to spy herons and egrets, heading to the park is a terrific way to spend a weekend.
8) Glen Stewart Ravine Trail
A short but incredibly sweet trek on this wooden walkway is a great escape. Situated in Glen Stewart Park, the trail can be occasionally hilly but well worth the trek if you want to take in the sights and sounds the ravine has to offer.
Hop into a Ford Fusion and discover the city’s unexpected beauty this summer. With its innovative design, intuitive technology and choice of Gas, Hybrid, or Plug-in Hybrid, the Ford Fusion is for those who want more and deserve more from their car.