21 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Ontario 2024
Spring is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it’s time for the Sakuras, or Japanese cherry trees, to burst into bloom!
So if you are wondering where the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Ontario are, we have got you covered!
There’s nothing quite like the sight of these delicate pink flowers blooming en masse. Seeing the parks and gardens turn into a stunning sea of pink and white, is something I look forward to every year.
Lucky for us, Ontario has plenty of places to catch this annual spectacle. In fact, some places are practically in my backyard!
We’ve put together an awesome list of the best spots to see beautiful cherry blossoms in Ontario, from well-known hotspots to hidden gems.
Let’s jump in!
🌸 When is Cherry Blossom Season in Ontario?
Before we get into when cherry blossoms in Ontario bloom, let’s talk about what cherry blossoms are. These delicate flowers come from cherry trees, which are native to Japan.
However, these gorgeous blossoms can also be found in other parts of the world, including Canada. Cherry blossoms typically have five petals and range in colour from white to pink.
🌸 Fun Facts: In Japanese, Sakura refers to the blossoming cherry trees and their delicate flowers, commonly known as cherry blossoms.
In Ontario, cherry blossoms typically bloom in late April or early May. However, the exact timing can vary depending on a few different factors.
One of the biggest factors is the weather. If it’s been a particularly cold winter, the cherry blossoms may take a little longer to bloom.
On the other hand, if we experience a warm spring, the blossoms may arrive a little earlier than usual.
Another factor that can affect when cherry blossoms bloom is the location. Cherry blossoms tend to bloom first in warmer, more sheltered areas like urban parks and gardens.
So if you’re in Toronto, for example, you may see the cherry blossoms bloom earlier in High Park than you would in a more rural area.
And because the exact timing of the cherry blossoms can be so unpredictable, it’s always a good idea to check local reports and social media updates to get the latest information.
🌸 Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in Ontario
If you’re looking to see cherry blossoms in Ontario, you’re in luck! These delicate flowers can be found in a variety of locations across the province, from urban parks to rural areas.
Listed below are a few places to check out if you want to see the beauty of the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Cherry Blossoms in Toronto
If you’re in Toronto and want to see cherry blossoms, there are several places in the city to check out.
1. High Park
Perhaps one of the most iconic places to see cherry blossoms in Ontario, and especially in Toronto, High Park truly does become a sea of pink in the spring.
High Park is a huge green space located at the west end of the city, and it’s home to one of the largest concentrations of cherry blossoms in Toronto.
One of the best things about seeing cherry blossoms in High Park is that there are so many different areas to explore.
You can take a stroll along the winding paths and admire the flowers up close, or find a quiet spot to sit and just enjoy the beauty of the park.
One of the best places to see the cherry blossoms in High Park is in Hillside Gardens.
Another great view of the cherry blossoms is from the top of the hill near Grenadier Pond. From there, you can see the blossoms stretching out in every direction.
Of course, you really need to keep in mind that High Park gets extremely busy during cherry blossom season. People literally flock to the park by the thousands, so just be prepared for crowds.
In fact, we would recommend going to the park early in the day and using public transportation to get there. It’s also best to avoid weekends if at all possible.
🌸 Location: 1873 Bloor Street West, Toronto
2. Trinity Bellwoods Park
If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to see the beautiful Toronto cherry blossoms, Trinity Bellwoods Park is definitely worth checking out. Here’s what you need to know.
For the perfect photo opportunity, head to the northwest corner of the park near Queen Street West and Gore Vale Avenue.
Here, you’ll find a row of cherry trees that makes an awesome backdrop for your springtime selfies.
The majority of the cherry blossoms, however, are situated on the circular path located in the southern section of the park.
That’s where you’ll see rows of these stunning trees in full bloom.
Be sure to snap a photo with the iconic CN Tower in the background – it makes for the perfect Instagram shot!
Besides, with a total of 70 Sakura trees in the park, your only problem will be deciding which photo to use!
🌸 Location: 790 Queen Street West, Toronto
3. Centre Island Park
Looking for a serene spot in Toronto to take in the cherry blossoms? Then Centre Island Park should definitely be on your list.
This peaceful oasis is located just a short ferry ride away from the city, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful cherry trees in Toronto.
And although you won’t find a large concentration of trees on Centre Island, it is definitely more of a unique experience.
You also won’t find huge crowds like in other parts of the city!
One of the best places to view the cherry blossoms in Centre Island Park is just beyond the Centreville theme park.
And the best part is, it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the ferry.
Head through Centreville, stay to the right and cross the bridge. You will come across a stunning fountain surrounded by 30 gorgeous cherry trees.
This is the best spot, offering a beautiful photo opportunity, as well as a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the views.
🌸 Location: 6 Avenue of the Island, Toronto
4. Woodbine Park
In 2017, Woodbine Park received 20 Sakura trees as a gift from the city’s Japanese partners.
Since then, an additional 50 more were presented to the park.
As a result, Torontonians have been flocking to Woodbine Park every spring to see the Sakuras blooming.
In fact, the park has become so popular, that the first Cherry Blossom Festival was held in 2018.
The park offers an excellent alternative for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the gorgeous blooms with vastly fewer crowds than other places in the city.
🌸 Location: 1695 Queen St E, Toronto
5. Centennial Park Etobicoke
Trying to find a stunning display of cherry blossoms in Etobicoke? We have you covered!
Opened in 1967 to celebrate Canada’s birthday, today, Centennial Park is home to the second-largest collection of cherry trees in the city.
In fact, we were absolutely amazed to find 463 cherry trees scattered throughout the park.
So you can definitely be sure to find that perfect spot for your Instagrammable photos.
For the best places to see the cherry blossoms, be sure to head to the northeast corner of the park at the intersection of Rathburn Road and Centennial Park Boulevard.
Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
But the cherry blossoms aren’t the only thing worth seeing at Centennial Park.
Inside the Centennial Park Conservatory, you’ll find over 300,000 annual and perennial plants that are used to beautify the city.
This is actually where John and I took our wedding photos!
And if you’re looking for more than just a stroll through the park, Centennial Park also offers a variety of attractions year-round.
From skiing on the park’s ski hill in the winter, to go-karting or enjoying the playgrounds and sports fields in the summer, there is always something for the family to do.
🌸 Location: 256 Centennial Park Road, Etobicoke
Cherry Blossoms in Burlington
Burlington is another great place to see cherry blossoms in Ontario. Located just 45 minutes southwest of Toronto, you will find fewer crowds and wonderful views.
6. Spencer Smith Park
Located in Burlington, Spencer Smith Park is a beautiful place to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
This waterfront park is home to 50 Sakura trees that were donated to Burlington by its twin city in Japan, Itabashi.
One of the best places to view the cherry blossoms in Spencer Smith Park is from the pathway that runs along the water’s edge.
From here, you can take in the beauty of the trees and the lake, all while feeling the warm spring breeze on your face.
What we found to be most incredible about seeing the cherry blossoms in Spencer Smith Park, is that the trees actually flank both sides of the walkway.
When the blossoms are in full bloom, they create a gorgeous canopy over the walkway. It’s one of my favourite reasons to come to this park.
🌸 Location: 1400 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
7. Royal Botanical Gardens
If you’re in the Burlington area and looking for a truly breathtaking display of cherry blossoms, the Royal Botanical Gardens is the perfect place to visit.
This beautiful botanical garden is home to a wide variety of flora, including stunning cherry trees.
Designated a National Historic Site in 1994 and considered Canada’s only royal garden, the Ontario Royal Botanical Garden (RBG) is an incredible place to visit any time of the year.
The best place to view the cherry blossoms in the Royal Botanical Gardens is at the Arboretum.
You will find the largest concentration of cherry trees just south of the Lilac Dell.
But just a heads up, RBG requires pre-registration and reserved parking during the bloom season.
🌸 Location: 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
8. Itabashi Way
Unlike most of the other locations we talk about in this post, Itabashi Way is not a park, but a residential street.
Named after Burlington’s twin city in Japan, Itabashi Way is located off Upper Middle Road.
And although you won’t get the same relaxing vibes that you would at a park, strolling down this suburban street when the blossoms are in full bloom is still pretty wonderful!
🌸 Location: Itabashi Way, Burlington
Cherry Blossoms in Oakville
9. Gairloch Gardens
Gairloch Gardens is an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in Oakville.
Although the area is small, you won’t have trouble capturing that perfectly Instagrammable photo of the Sakuras in full bloom.
Located between Lakeshore Road and Carincroft Road, Gairloch Gardens is popular year-round for wedding photography, picnics by the lake, and people strolling around the flower gardens.
During cherry blossom season, the park provides beautiful views of the Sakuras with Lake Ontario as the perfect backdrop.
🌸 Location: Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville
10. Centennial Park Oakville
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to see cherry blossoms in Oakville, you’ve got to check out Centennial Park.
In 2014, 37 cherry trees were donated to Centennial Park by the students and alumni of the Toyo Eiwa Jogakuin School in Japan.
The trees were an expression of gratitude for the founder of the school, Martha Cartmell, who was also a Canadian missionary.
As you enter the park, you will find the trees lining the pathway that leads along the water’s edge.
The best spot to view the blossoms is right on the water’s edge, where you can sit on the rocks and soak in the view.
Not only is the view stunning, but the sound of the gentle lapping of the water combined with the sweet scent of the blossoms is seriously peaceful and rejuvenating.
🌸 Location: 1 East Street N, Dundas
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Cherry Blossoms in Hamilton
11. Bayfront Park
Located in Hamilton, Bayfront Park is a wonderful place to see cherry blossoms in Ontario. In fact, the park received a donation of Sakura trees from Japan in 2002.
As you enter the park, you can see the cherry blossoms in full bloom by making your way to the end of Harbourfront Drive.
It’s seriously stunning – the pink flowers seem to go on for miles.
But that’s not all! This section of the park also includes picnic benches nestled amongst patches of wildflowers and a natural grass amphitheatre.
🌸 Location: 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton
12. Gage Park
If you’re on the hunt for a lovely spot to see cherry blossoms in Hamilton, you definitely need to check out Gage Park.
With 70+ acres to explore, this park is definitely popular with the locals.
The park is not only home to many lovely cherry blossom trees, but you’ll also find a bandshell for live music, a rose garden and a brand-new tropical greenhouse.
And right behind the greenhouse, is where you will find some beautiful mature Sakura trees which are jaw-dropping when in full bloom!
🌸 Location: 1000 Main St E, Hamilton
Cherry Blossoms in Stratford
13. Shakespearean Gardens
If you’re planning a visit to Stratford during cherry blossom season, you absolutely must check out Shakespearean Gardens.
Located on the south shore of the Avon River, the Shakespearean Gardens has been an attraction since 1939.
When the park was first created, it was intended to showcase the plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s works.
However, as time passed, the gardens expanded to include many more varieties of plants, including some that were popular during Shakespeare’s era.
Today, the park also houses picnic benches, as well as a beautiful gazebo.
There are several Sakura trees sprinkled throughout the gardens, as well as statues and plaques dedicated to Shakespeare’s works.
We would definitely recommend finding a bench and just taking it all in.
With the soft pink petals against the blue sky and the scent of the sweet blossoms in the breeze, the garden really is quite calming.
🌸 Location: 5 Huron St, Stratford
Cherry Blossoms in Mississauga
14. Kariya Park
If you’re on the hunt for a beautiful spot to see cherry blossoms in Mississauga, you’ve got to check out Kariya Park.
Not only will you find gorgeous Sakuras and Magnolias throughout the park, but the completely peaceful setting will make you forget that you are actually in downtown Mississauga.
As you make your way into the park, you will find a beautiful pond surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant cherry blossom trees.
The reflection of the trees on the water’s surface is truly magical and makes for some stunning photo opportunities.
The best time to visit is early in the day when the crowds are smaller.
You can sit on one of the nearby benches and watch the ducks and turtles swimming in the pond while taking in the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
And if you’re a fan of Japanese culture, you’ll appreciate the nods to it that are woven throughout the park.
From the various sculptures to the pavilion, the Friendship Bell, and the overall peace and tranquil atmosphere, there are many things that pay tribute to Japanese traditions.
Kariya Park is truly a hidden gem. And, as Mississauga residents, we would definitely recommend a visit if you are in the area.
🌸 Location: 3620 Kariya Dr, Mississauga
Cherry Blossoms in Brampton
15. Joyce Archdekin Park
Joyce Archdekin Park is one of the only places in Brampton that is home to a gorgeous collection of Sakuras.
And as an added bonus, the trees in this park also seem to produce an over-abundance of cherry blossoms.
As you enter the park, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful and vibrant display of cherry blossom trees lining the path.
And the best part is, this hidden gem in downtown Brampton is far less congested than many other parks in the GTA.
You will also be happy to note that the park is easily accessible by public transit, and there is also plenty of free parking nearby.
If you’re planning a visit, I recommend going early in the morning or in the evening, when the park is less crowded and the light hits the blossoms just right.
And if you’re up for a picnic or even some outdoor yoga, you won’t have a hard time finding that perfect spot to relax and take in the natural beauty around you.
🌸 Location: Main St S, Brampton
Cherry Blossoms in Niagara
16. Kingsbridge Park
If you are in the Niagara region and looking for a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of cherry blossoms, Kingsbridge Park should definitely be on your list.
Just a short drive from Niagara Falls, head towards where the Niagara River and Welland Canal meet and you’ll come across this hidden gem.
During the season, Kingsbridge Park is bursting with stunning cherry trees in full bloom – a truly breathtaking sight to behold.
But that’s not all Kingsbridge Park has to offer. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a picnic in the park or take a stroll on the walking trails, Kingsbridge has got you covered.
🌸 Location: 7870 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls
17. Queenston Heights Park
Queenston Heights Park in Niagara offers a stunning view of cherry blossoms during the spring.
This historical park is located approximately 13 minutes from the Falls, and close to the Floral Clock.
Not only will you find a ton of cherry blossom trees, but Queenston Heights Park is also home to the Brock and Laura Secord monuments, a bandshell, picnic areas, and tennis courts.
The views of the Niagara River from the cliffside are also amazing.
🌸 Location: 14184 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake
18. Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens are located just over 10 minutes from the brink of Niagara Falls, and right next to the Butterfly Conservatory.
The Botanical Gardens are home to many gorgeous Sakura trees and is the perfect place to enjoy spring in Niagara.
You will find both soft pink and white cherry blossoms dotted throughout the property, providing plenty of opportunities for some amazing photos.
Of course, while you are there, you can also plan to enjoy the 99-acre park.
From beautifully landscaped grounds to herb and perennial gardens, there is plenty to see.
The Botanical Gardens are also home to a world-renowned rose garden, featuring 2400 flowers.
🌸 Location: 2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls
Cherry Blossoms in Thorold
19. Lakeview Cemetery
Lakeview Cemetery in Thorold is home to 60 incredible Sakura trees.
And although a cemetery is not really what comes to mind when you are planning to go blossom-peeping, it really is a unique and beautiful place.
The trees were planted approximately 10 years ago to commemorate Martha Cartmell.
She was a female missionary from Thorold who founded a Christian girls’ school in Japan in 1884.
But what made her work so important, was at that time, Japanese girls were not allowed to be educated.
The donation of the 60 trees from Japan was a beautiful symbol of gratitude.
Just remember, Lakeview Cemetery is not a public park.
You need to be respectful of people who are visiting the cemetery while you are taking your selfies.
🌸 Location: 2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls
Cherry Blossoms in Ottawa
20. Dominion Arboretum
Although there are many awesome places to see cherry blossoms in Ottawa, one of the most popular spots is the Dominion Arboretum.
Located near the Central Experimental Farm and the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, many smaller cherry blossom trees can be found throughout this spacious botanical garden.
However, if you are looking for the best spot to see cherry blossoms, head over to the outskirts of the park along Prince of Wales Drive.
There, you will find a lane of blooms that is definitely Instagram-worthy!
But just a heads up, we found that many people pull over on the side of the road to also get that perfect shot of the line of pink blooms, so be careful of the traffic.
🌸 Location: Arboretum, Ottawa
21. Rideau Canal
Along the Rideau Canal in Ottawa is the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in the spring.
Hop on a bike or go for a stroll, and you will be treated to several sections of the trail where you can see the Sakura trees bloom.
There are several trees around the Glebe neighbourhood, some near the Laurier Avenue bridge, near the Flora Footbridge, and several around Dow’s Lake.
And the best part about going to Ottawa to see the cherry blossoms is that you will also get to enjoy the tulips that are blooming all over the city.
In fact, the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa is one of the most popular festivals in the city.
We were even able to get several photos with both cherry blossoms AND tulips in the same frame. Talk about Instagram-worthy!
🌸 Location: Rideau Canal, Ottawa
🌸 How Long Do Cherry Blossoms Last in Ontario
If you are thinking about chasing cherry blossoms in Ontario this spring, you may be wondering about how long they actually last.
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the weather, the location, and the specific type of cherry blossom.
Generally speaking, cherry blossoms in Ontario tend to bloom in late April or early May, and they can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
If the weather is warm and sunny, the blooms might last for a shorter period of time.
Conversely, if the weather is cooler and cloudy, the blooms might stick around a bit longer.
The location also plays a role – some parks and gardens in Ontario have more cherry blossom trees than others, so the blooms might be more concentrated and last longer in those areas.
The specific type of cherry blossom also affects how long they last.
Some varieties, like the Yoshino cherry, have a shorter blooming period, while others, like the Kwanzan cherry, have a longer blooming period.
So, while it’s hard to give an exact timeline for how long cherry blossoms will last in Ontario, you can expect them to be in full bloom for a week or two.
If you’re planning to catch them, make sure to keep an eye on local reports and social media updates to find out when and where the blooms are expected to occur.
🌸 Tips for Seeing the Cherry Blossoms in Ontario
There’s nothing quite like the sight of cherry blossoms in Ontario in full bloom.
So if you’re planning to see them for yourself this year, we’ve got some tips to help you make the most of your experience.
🗓️ Plan Ahead
The first tip for seeing cherry blossoms in Ontario is to plan ahead. While these flowers typically bloom between late April and early May, the exact timing can really vary from one year to the next.
Check local reports (like the City or park’s website) and follow social media accounts for updates on when the blooms are expected to occur.
Some parks even set up live webcams!
📍 Know Where to Go
There are a number of parks and gardens throughout Ontario where you can see cherry blossoms in bloom.
We have mentioned several of the top spots in our above list.
And because some of the parks are pretty big, make sure that you know exactly where in the park to find the Sakura trees.
You could also do some research to find out which locations are closest to you and which ones are expected to have the best blooms.
⏰ Time of Day Matters
The best time to see cherry blossoms is early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky and the light is soft and warm.
This will create a beautiful atmosphere, making for some truly stunning photographs.
Early morning and late afternoon also tend to be less crowded. Weekdays are also better than weekends when it comes to the more popular parks as well.
🎒 Pack Your Gear
If you’re planning to take photos of the cherry blossoms, make sure you bring your camera, tripod, and any other gear you might need.
Be sure to also bring water, snacks, and sunscreen to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
🚷 Be Respectful
Remember that you’re visiting a public space and that these flowers are delicate and should be treated with care.
Be respectful of the environment and other visitors, and avoid touching, picking, or damaging the flowers in any way.
Cherry blossoms are not only found in public parks. You may come across some that are located on farms, at businesses, or even on private residential properties.
And although this may seem like common sense to most of us, we would like to remind you that if the trees are located on private property, do not trespass to take that Instagram selfie!
💗 Enjoy the Moment
One of the most important tips for seeing cherry blossoms in Ontario is to simply enjoy the moment.
Take your time to wander through the parks and gardens, and soak up the beauty of the blooms.
This is a fleeting moment of beauty, so make sure to take it all in and create some wonderful memories.
Cherry Blossoms in Ontario – FAQs
The cherry blossoms in Ontario typically bloom in late April or early May.
Cherry blossoms usually last for a week or two, depending on the weather.
The most common type of cherry blossom found in Ontario is the Yoshino cherry.
Many parks allow dogs, but it’s important to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Be sure to check park rules before bringing your dog.
Yes, many public parks allow picnicking under the cherry blossom trees. But if the trees are roped or fenced off, respect the rules and do not climb over the barriers.
It can get quite crowded, especially during peak bloom times. It’s best to arrive early or visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Yes, some organizations offer guided tours during cherry blossom season. Check with local tourism boards or parks for more information.
Many parks have accessible paths and facilities, but it’s best to check with the park beforehand to ensure accessibility.
There may be restrictions on commercial photography or the use of tripods in certain areas, but photography is generally allowed.
Check with local tourism boards or the park’s website for updates on the bloom status. You can also follow social media hashtags related to cherry blossoms in Ontario.
It’s best to admire the cherry blossoms from a distance and avoid touching or picking them. This can damage the trees and ruin the experience for others.
Final Thoughts on Seeing the Cherry Blossoms in Ontario
Ontario is home to some of the most beautiful cherry blossom displays in the world.
Whether you’re in a big city like Toronto or a small town like Niagara-on-the-Lake, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore during cherry blossom season.
From the vibrant pinks and whites of the trees to the festive atmosphere of the parks, it’s a must-see event for nature lovers and photographers alike.
So grab your camera, pack a picnic, and head out to see some of the incredible displays of cherry blossoms in Ontario.
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