PHOTO: PUBLIC-SECTOR-LISTS.COM VIA FLICKR (CC BY 2.0)
The age-old High Park brings peaceful serenity to the city. It remains one of the largest public parks in Toronto, attracting thousands of people every season.
“Running through the park and all the leisure activities that are available to you for no money,” says Frank Pavlovic, 55, a Toronto resident. “Although certain things require money now, you are able to go swimming, play tennis and walk or run through the nature trails.”
Owned by John G. Howard in the late 1800’s, the was handed the park over to the city upon his death under the condition that it remains alcohol free forever.
Opening to the public in 1876, today the park has evolved, remaining alcohol-free and providing visitors with a beautiful landscape, recreational activities, and a restaurant located at its centre.
Offering 399 acres in the middle of Toronto, High Park is an excellent getaway for children and adults of all ages as stated on the park’s website.
Providing sports facilities to sports enthusiasts, children and adults can come and make use of the baseball diamond, soccer field and outdoor swimming pool equipped with a water slide.
The tennis courts are maintained and run by the Howard Park Tennis Club. Although use of the tennis courts requires a membership fee, there are six alternative courts for public use.
Seasonal factors don’t limit the available activities. Winter brings cross-country skiing along the trails and a hockey rink for those who enjoy the thrill of being on the ice. Spring time means cherry blossoms, and blossoms mean that tourists are attracted to our city.
Located around the hillside gardens, donated by the Japanese Embassy, “the cherry blossoms bring a variety of people to the park,” said Jon Hayes, family programs co-ordinator at the High Park Nature Centre. “They also play an ecological role for squirrels and birds that eat the cherries.”
During the months of April and May when the trees begin to bloom, the pink of the tree’s flowers fills the area.
Symbolizing spring time, the Sakura cherry blossom adds to the serenity offered by High Park and contributes to the existing beautiful landscape that continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
