Touring delightful public gardens and parks or picking fresh-cut farm flowers is a new favourite way to experience this region. From designed spots to fields of colour, discover the unforgettable canvas of blooms in Ontario’s cottage country this summer. Here is just a partial list of some of the cool spots to get your outdoor flower fix:

Tower Hill Heritage Garden Parry Sound

Not just a stunning scenic and historical lookout tower but also a calm and relaxing space! Maintained by dedicated volunteers, this piece of paradise has six specific zones to explore. Wildlife Habitat, Rain Garden, Lilac Walk, Goldfish Pond, The Tower Rock Garden and the Sundial Garden. Learn about what native plants attract birds and butterflies, or like many generations of Parry Sound residents and delighted visitors alike, find a spot to sit and read a book or to spread out your picnic blanket. Click here to explore some great take-out options.

James Bartleman Island Park Port Carling

Home of the Muskoka Lakes Museum, the island park and gardens are also perfect for a picnic, where you can also watch the busy nearby locks and the coming-and goings of the iconic Peerless II or the Muskoka Cruises‘ Lady Rosseau.

For more information on touring the Township of Muskoka Lakes, click here.

Tom Thomson Park South River

The design and layout of this park was inspired by the work of painter Tom Thomson. It boasts beautiful gardens, walking paths, a boat launch and an 18-hole disc golf course.  The beautiful backdrop of the South River and natural features are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic stop.

For more info on discovering this gorgeous part of the Almaguin Highlands, including ‘The Forgotten Trails’, visit ExploreSouthRiver.ca

Rotary Centennial Gardens Bracebridge

Tucked away on the corner of Pine Street and Taylor Road, this scenic hideaway is a small oasis. Meander through the pathways, gather ideas for your own outside space, relax on one of the many benches, take a mindful moment or two in the meditation garden, or take a selfie by the fountain, the possibilities for a little getaway are waiting. Down the road at 102 Pine Street, check out the District’s Pollinator Garden created by the Muskoka Watershed Council.

Tree Museum Gravenhurst

Open from June to October, the Tree Museum was established in 1997 and is a wonderful walk in nature, past beaver ponds, meadows, rocky pathways, all surrounded by native plants and interesting art installations.

Centennial Park Baysville

The Canadian flag flies on a pole as a focal point and the grounds feature extensive gardens. The park was developed by the Baysville Community and Horticultural Society in 1967 for the Canadian centennial celebrations. A short walk through the gate takes you to Baysville Dock West, or follow the walkway under the bridge to check out Grist Mill Park/Robertson Parkette and the Baysville Dam Park.

Storybook Trail at Woodchester Villa Bracebridge

The trail features the story, Penny and the Trail of Wonders, by author Courtney Murrell and illustrated by Kristin Wright, two local Bracebridge artists who created the story with their hometown in mind. As visitors walk the trail they are invited to follow the story of Penny and her dog Ralph as they embark on an adventure with eight pages along the route. There is a lookout platform and a cute array of flowers around Woodchester Villa with great picnic areas around the base of the Bracebridge Falls.

Galeairy Lake Memorial Park, Whitney

This park is the perfect place to stop for a stretch if you are on a long journey or wanting to enjoy an al fresco meal on a beautiful day. There are tables, a sun shelter, a playground, a path along the water’s edge and several picnic areas which are complete with barbeques.

Wild Flower Farms

Casa Niya Farm Bracebridge

Nestled amidst the scenic Bracebridge, this family-run cut-flower farm cultivates a vibrant array of seasonal blooms, each nurtured with care and passion. From delicate spring tulips to lush summer dahlias and autumnal sunflowers, Casa Niya boasts a diverse selection for nature enthusiasts craving the beauty of freshly-picked flowers.

Happy Acre Farms Utterson

From Thursday night bouquet bars, to Saturday morning u-pick events, this farm outside Huntsville is a little ray of sunshine with its wide array of fresh flowers. They can be found at local markets and fresh bouquets can be found at their roadside stall on Friday and Saturdays.

Peony+Pine Floral Co Golden Valley

A small-scale family-operated flower farm that provides full-service wedding florals, DIY buckets of flowers, mixed market bouquets, and a seasonal u-pick field. There is also a DIY Bouquet workshop on August 3. All flowers are grown and cultivated with the environment in mind, and as such they employ only sustainable and organic farm methods.

Thorne Flower Farm Burk’s Falls

Opened in 2023, the farm has a u-pick garden where you can create your own bouquets.

Three Birds Flower Farm Bracebridge

A micro flower farm created by sister duo Leslie and Jackie Brunton in 2021. It is located between Port Carling and Bracebridge and is small scale, high intensity operation, allowing them to grow large volumes of high quality blooms on four acres of land. To book a u-pick session follow this link.

This summer and fall, stop and smell the flowers at one of many delightful spots to enjoy a serene break in the day.

To plan your stay in the Great Canadian Wilderness click here.

Featured image of Tower Hill Heritage Garden volunteers courtesy of the Town of Parry Sound website.