Standing in the middle of Grange Park, my city’s grand expression is revealed through illuminated shapes of colour. This urban oasis is an important intersection of Toronto the bold, majestic and noble.
Just west is China Town, the most prominent example of our lattice of ethnic neighbourhoods that make Toronto a true marvel. Indeed the park’s Henry Moore sculpture of two embracing forms, perfectly illustrates our proud multi-cultural harmony.
Looking east, a massive protruding checkerboard is somehow supported on high by a series of multi-coloured pillars falling at different angles. Constructed in 2004, this newest wing of the Ontario College of Art and Design received accolades for both its engineering and innovation.
The heritage of Grange Park sits just to my north on what was once the Boulton family manor. It’s now part of the Art Gallery of Ontario.
My southern view is this evening’s display from the CN Tower, tonight it’s outlined in green and purple lights. This former world’s highest building serves as an exclamation point of Toronto literally and figuratively growing up on the international scene.
Grange Park attracts people in the summer with a Frisbee or slackline, and in winter finding cozy hiding places amid the art studio-themed playground. Go there and take a deep breath.
What’s Spot On:
• 14 stone inscriptions including one from urbanist Jane Jacobs: “We and our cities, just by virtue of being, are a legitimate part of nature.”
• Another one by Tomson Highway reads: “In Cree, trees are “who,” not “what”.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!
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"Khau Gully" is my favorite Northern Indian restaurant in Toronto. Street food is its thing but it's best to sit in for its beautifully painted dining room
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From biodegradable bamboo products to personal care items that are better for both you and the planet, you can find plenty here for a more sustainable life.
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It’s rare that I leave this store without having bought something, be it a beautiful ring for myself, or a unique piece of artwork to give as a gift.
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With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.
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Founded over 15 years ago as a purveyor of vintage goods at local markets and pop-ups, Philistine now has two shops of its own, both on Queen Street.
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"Aloette" in Toronto is an upscale bistro with a wider range of food. Their burger is definitely a staple, and their iceberg wedge salad is a sleeper hit!
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"Swatow" Toronto's been my go-to for that kind of Chinese food for years -- you know, the comforting, inexpensive stuff that's still plentiful & delicious.
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"La Salumeria" is always where I go when I need something delicious on-the-go during the day. It's a delicatessen that also makes the best sandwiches!
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"The One in the Only" in Toronto is an eclectic coffee shop that just exudes positivity. Most of the decoration is a random mix of old photos & art prints.
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145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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✓ 145 Insider Tips