+15 Amazing Places to Find Flowers in Ontario
Are you looking for a whimsical experience this spring and summer in Ontario? You can live out your Alice in Wonderland fantasies at the best gardens, flower festivals and flower fields in Ontario this year. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to pick your own bouquet of flowers or for photogenic places I’ve got you covered! I’ve compiled an epic list of the best places to see flowers in Ontario.
This guide has everything from sunflower fields, like at Laura’s Farm Stand in Innisfil to festivals dedicated to flowers, like the Warkworth Lilac Festival. Plus, I’m also sharing a few of my favourite parks to visit to see wildflowers in Ontario.
What kinds of flowers can you find in Ontario?
Ontario is home to a vast variety of wildflowers, flowering trees and bushes as well as incredible gardens full of flowers. Ontario’s provincial flower is the Trillium. These precious three pedaled flowers usually bloom in May and can be found in woodland areas.
Ontario is home to five species of trilliums, white, red, painted, drooping, and the nodding trillium. It is illegal to pick them in many places but also highly advised not to because of their delicate growth cycle.
While there are a ton of wildflowers in Ontario I do have a few that I love. Beyond the trilliums, other beautiful flowers that can be found here are the columbine, Jack-in-the-pulpit, trout lily, bullhead lily, chicory, cow vetch, bird’s-foot trefoil and so many more.
But did you know that Ontario is also home to over 50 orchid species? Some popular places to find them include the Bruce Peninsula and Lake Superior Provincial Park.
The Best Places to See Flowers in Ontario
Nothing says spring in Ontario like when you start to see those beautiful buds on the trees that hint at blossoms to come. And from spring through summer there are so many beautiful flowering plants and trees in Ontario that come alive and beg for your attention. If you’re looking for where to find flowers in Ontario the options are endless!
Canadian Tulip Festival
The most famous flower festival and the best place to see tulips in Ontario is the Canadian Tulip Festival. Held in Ottawa every year in May since 1953, the Festival was brought about to celebrate the friendship of the Dutch. Check out the Canadian Tulip Festival for more information on the history behind the festival.
It is now the world’s largest Tulip Festival. With over one million tulips on display, you’ll want to add this 10 day festival to your Ontario bucket list.
The main collection of tulips can be found at Commissioner’s Park but you’ll find them along the Rideau Canal, at Major’s Hill Park and Parliament Hill. Along with strolling the pathway among the multi-coloured tulips the festival also has live music, food vendors and fireworks for the Victoria Day long weekend.
Can’t travel to Holland? Make it a European getaway in Ontario instead with a visit to the Tulip Festival.
If you’re looking for more places in Ottawa to see flowers then consider visiting the Dominion Arboretum and Green Corners Farm. The Dominion Arboretum is Canada’s oldest arboretum and home to a wide range of flowers and plants.
You’ll find cherry blossom trees, wisteria, magnolias, rhododendrons and more! Green Corners Farm, located just outside Ottawa, is a lovely family-run farm is home to over 30,000 tulips. You can choose to wander the fields or pick your own tulips.
Address: Queen Elizabeth Driveway in Ottawa
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
One of the most beautiful gardens in Ontario is the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens in Niagara Falls. Stretching nearly 100 acres, the Gardens are home to a butterfly conservatory and European-style gardens. The Niagara River Recreation Trail runs through it too, making the gardens a perfect addition to any Niagara weekend itinerary!
Since 1936, visitors have been enamored by these beautiful gardens. At the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens you’ll find an endless listing of flowers and flowering plants, from rhododendrons to azaleas.
It’s also home to a world-famous rose garden. The garden features over 2400 roses! But that’s not all! There’s herb and vegetable gardens, formal gardens and a host of perennials.
If you’re looking for other places in Niagara Falls to see flowers check out Queen Victoria Park and Centennial Lilac Garden.
Most known for being the park beside Niagara Falls, Queen Victoria Park is also home to tulips, magnolia trees and over 500,000 daffodils in the spring.
As you may have guessed, Centennial Lilac Garden is home to yes, lilacs! Located just north of the floral clock, the Lilac Garden is over 1,200 plants in over 200 varieties.
Address: 2565 Niagara Parkway in Niagara Falls
Toronto
For those looking for flowers and blossoming trees near Toronto you don’t even have to leave the city! There are an awesome assortment of parks and gardens in Toronto that are bursting with fantastic flowers and brilliant blooms.
For cherry blossoms in Toronto there a few great options, like the popular High Park and Trinity Bellwoods Park. But you’ll find pockets of them in other areas of the city too. A few other great options are Osgoode Hall, Broadacres Park and Centennial Park where you’ll find over 400 trees.
Allan Gardens, Toronto Botanical Gardens along with Edwards Gardens are a few great places in Toronto to see flowers.
For a fairy tale like setting head to Allan Gardens. This over 100 year old conservatory is one of Toronto’s hidden gems. Its home to six greenhouses, a cool temperate house, a palm house, an arid house, and three tropical ones. All filled with a plethora of incredible flowers like orchids, hibiscus and more.
In Edwards Gardens be sure to check out the rhododendrons when they’re in bloom in the spring. And of course, the Toronto Botanical Gardens is home to award-winning themed gardens that are must-see.
Another great spot in the GTA to see flowers in bloom is Centennial Park Conservatory in Etobicoke. The park is home to three greenhouses that are home to a host of plants and flowers like bromeliads, orchids, cacti as well as beautiful blossoming trees. And the best part, admission and parking are free!
JP Tulip Farm
If you’re looking for pick your own tulips near Toronto then I recommend JP Tulip Experience. This is one of the best flower fields in Ontario.
The JP Tulip Farm is located 25 minutes west of Niagara Falls and is home to over 1 million tulips. And what really stood out to me during my visit was the vast number of different kinds of tulips. The tulip field features 85 different varieties.
So, there’s not just different colors but different looking ones. I had no idea there were so many different kinds. I loved the frilly looking ones; they are so pretty!
Among the rows of tulips are a few fun photo-ops too! There are chairs, a giant sign and more. Plus, the best part is that included in your ticket price is 10 pick your own tulips!
Insider Tip: The tulip farm only takes people who have booked tickets online in advance.
Address: 1934 Centre St, Ridgeville
Laura’s Farm Stand
Ontario is home to a ton of great sunflower fields! One of my favourite sunflower fields near me is at Laura’s Farm Stand. While it may not be the largest in Ontario, I love it for its real roadside farm appeal. Plus, she’s added a number of fun photo-ops throughout the field.
There’s a wide, one-way, path that has a few picturesque pockets that takes you winding through the large sunflowers. At the end of your walk consider purchasing some of Laura’s great farm fresh produce from her small farm stand. You can also purchase pre-picked bouquets of sunflowers and other wildflower arrangements and all at great prices.
Address: 5590 Simcoe County Road 27
Purple Hill Lavender Farm
If you’re looking for fabulous lavender fields in Ontario then I highly recommend a day trip to Creemore. This charming small town if home to Purple Hill Lavender Farm.
Purple Hill Lavender Farm is home to three large lavender fields that wrap around a grand Victorian home. There are a number of fun photo-ops like purple Muskoka chairs as well as a small tranquil pond.
Perched on a hill, the lavender farm overlooks the town and scenic rolling countryside. It makes the perfect summer day trip, as you can pack a lunch and enjoy it in the fields.
While there is no food generally available at the farm, they do run luxury picnic experiences. The experience includes a charcuterie board, drinks and a luxury set up with a picnic table and cushions among the lavender.
Before you leave, pop into their pretty purple barn shop. Inside you’ll find a variety of lavender products like candles, lotions, and more.
Insider Tip: Be sure to head to the back of the barn and peek into the hanging lavender waiting to dry. It smells so lovely!
Address: 7484 6/7 Sideroad Nottawasaga, Creemore
Sunnidale Park
Call me biased but one of the best places to see flowers in Ontario is right here in my home town of Barrie. Considered one of the top things to do in Barrie, a visit to Sunnidale Park is a must for blooms in Ontario.
Covering over 15 acres, Sunnidale Park is home to winding trails, a dog park and over 1800 trees and shrubs, many of which are labeled with both their scientific name and common name.
Sunnidale Park is a popular spot for locals year round but it truly comes alive in the spring and summer when everything is in bloom. Starting in May you’ll find all the favourites here. From pockets of tulips to an enchanting and fragrant Lilac Dell full of varying colours. There are also various cherry blossom trees, magnolia trees as well as a butterfly garden and rose garden.
Along with beautiful blooms, Sunnidale Park is home to a portion of the Trans Canada Trail (Canada’s trail spanning coast to coast to coast. Nearly 20 km of the trail runs through Barrie.
While you’re wandering the park in search of flowers you’ll also want to take note of the information plaques found throughout the Arboretum that share the area’s history, from the Indigenous who once called this area home up to what was here before the park came to be.
Address: 227 Sunnidale Road in Barrie
Related Post: Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in Canada
Andrews Farm Market & Winery
How about a farm that has it all! From flowers to wine to berries, Andrews Farm Market & Winery makes for the perfect day trip in Southern Ontario! Bert and Lauraine had a vision to create a special place where families could make memories and visitors could celebrate local food. So, Andrews Farm Market & Winery, otherwise known as Andrews Scenic Acres was born some 40 years ago!
This beautiful farm is set on 165 acres and is famous for their dahlia and sunflower fields as well as their awesome pick your own berry fields.
At the farm you can opt to pick some tasty local goods like raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins and more! Or choose to pick your own flowers like peonies, sunflowers and dahlias.
That’s not all! You can enjoy a wagon ride, corn maze, see their farm animals or take in their walking trails. It’s not all just fun and games, the farm also boasts the only winery in Halton Region.
You can enjoy of their 25 award-winning fruit wines made fresh from the fruit grown on the farm. Don’t worry, if wine isn’t your thing they also have hard apple ciders. Come for the flowers and stay for the fun!
Address: 9365 10 Side Road in Milton
Grant’s Woods Nature Reserve
One of my favourite hikes in Simcoe County is also a treasure trove of wonderful wildflowers in Ontario! Grant’s Woods Nature Reserve is a 21 hectare park located just outside Orillia.
Grant’s Woods is home to 4 kms of loop trails taking you through woodlands, marshes, over boardwalks and even past a fun old abandoned car. While this is a fantastic place to visit any time of year, the clear winner is spring!
Under the canopy of towering maples, pines and oak trees you’ll find the forest flower blanketed in trilliums. One of the trails is even called the Trillium Trail! And a wander along it will show you just why. But there are so many other flowers to see like the magnificent Marsh Marigold.
The reserve is part of the Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit organization that manages many significant lands in the area. They’ve even created a Traditional Medicine Trail in Grant’s Woods. The trail has a host of interpretive signs sharing information on various plant species and how the Indigenous people of the area use it in healing and other ways.
Address: 1485 Division Road West in Orillia
Royal Botanical Gardens
For those looking for a more structured garden full of flowering blooms near Toronto then Royal Botanical Gardens should be on your radar. West of Toronto, in Burlington you’ll find the Royal Botanical Gardens – the RBG as its affectionately called.
Fashioned after London’s Kew Gardens, RBG covers over 2500 acres and is home to five different gardens, 27 km of trails and over 300,000 plants.
The Royal Botanical Gardens is the largest botanical garden in Canada, and so, is one of the best places for flowers in Canada! You’ll find everything from tulips to daffodils as well as sought-after blooms like cherry blossoms, magnolias and lilacs.
You’ll find around 700 different species of lilac in the Lilac Dell, a colourful collection of over 1000 types of iris as well as 20 unique heritage trees. You can find a list of all the best times to view the various blooms on their What’s In Bloom page.
There are also a bunch of other things to do at RBG, like explore the Interpretive Centre, check out their workshops and enjoy one of their many events like the Great Pumpkin Trail in the fall.
I recommend planning for a full day at the Royal Botanical Gardens to fully appreciate all of the gardens, attractions and trails. One of my favourite trails is the Bridle Trail Loop in Hendrie Park!
Address: 680 Plains Road West in Burlington
Purdon Conservation Area
I bet many of you didn’t know that Ontario is home to native orchid species? There are over 50 different species of orchids in Ontario! If you’re looking for one of the best places to see Ontario orchids then you’ll want to plan a visit to Purdon Conservation Area.
Located approximately an hour and a half west of Ottawa, the Purdon Conservation Area is part of the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority.
Every year, from mid to late June, the park is home to over 10,000 orchid blooms. This is an incredibly rare sight in Ontario and is even considered to be one of the largest colonies of orchids in Canada.
The conservation area is a unique wetland and so is the perfect habitat for orchids like the big and beautiful Showy Lady Slipper. If you’re not sure when to go, check out the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority Facebook Page for updates on the bloom.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Joe Purdon, who fostered a small crop of them on this farm over 50 years ago, we now have this hidden gem in Ontario.
At Purdon Conservation Area you can enjoy these incredible blooms by hiking the 2.5 km boardwalk trail through the park. Enjoy enchanted forests and one of Ontario’s best boardwalks. Don’t forget to pack a lunch for a wonderful picnic at Purdon Lake.
Address: Concession Road 8 in Lanark Highlands
More Ontario Flower Farms
There are so many more Ontario flower farms than the few I’ve mentioned above. There are farms where you can enjoy a wealth of activities for everyone in the family as well as ones where you can pick your own flowers. Below you’ll find a list of more incredible farms and flower fields in Ontario where you can see, experience and enjoy a day of flowery fun!
Davis Family Farm
One of my favourite summer flowers is the sunflower! Beaming yellow petals, facing sunward and standing tall in all their glory they are such a happy flower to behold.
Ontario is home to a ton of great sunflower fields to explore this summer and one of the best is in Caledon. The Davis Family Farm is home to one of the best sunflower fields near Toronto.
Located an hour north of Toronto, the Davis Family Farm is a great place to visit nearly all year long, with pumpkins in the fall and trees for Christmas or fresh eggs and farm goods year-round. But many flock here in July and August to visit their 45 acres of sunflowers.
Wander the paths, take sunflower selfies and enjoy the perfect summer day here. Be sure to add Davis Family Farm to your list of things to do in Caledon!
Address: 15770 Mountainview Road
Country Cut Flowers
If you’re looking for a fun flower experience in York Region then head to Newmarket’s Country Cut Flowers. With a passion for flowers and the environment, owner Janet Tuenschel uses only all-natural products and grows her flowers naturally. Also, a popular spot for weddings, you’ll love the picturesque rolling hillside with beautiful flowers.
Country Cut Flowers is home to a wide variety of flowers from favourites like lilacs and dahlias to more unique ones like ranunculus. You can visit their beautiful historic barn, wander the grounds and cut your own flower bouquet from July through to September.
You can also purchase pre-made flower bouquets, flower subscriptions or check out their workshops. Be aware that the farm is only open on select dates so check them out on Facebook for up-to-date information.
Address: 970 Miller’s Sideroad
Lochland Botanicals
For a truly enchanting flower experience, you’ll want to add Lochland Botanicals to your Ontario summer bucket list! This dream farm in Milton has everything from fields of flowers to adorable little secret villages.
If you’re looking for amazing places to find flowers near Toronto then you’ll want to take a day trip out to Lochland Botanicals. It’s hands down one of the best places to see flowers in Ontario, including sunflowers, lavender, a wide range of beautiful flowers and there are a ton of fun things to do.
The dream team behind Lochland Botanicals is veterinarians Diane Corlett and Steve Noonan. They wanted to create a space for people to unwind and reconnect.
You can choose from a general admission ticket to explore or opt for the Build-A-Bouquet ticket that gives you access to explore 30 dreamy acres of their farm and pick your own flowers or herbs to take home.
Address: 2468 25 Side Road
Dahlia May Flower Farm
If you’re looking for a wondering flower farm in Southeastern Ontario then pop over to Dahlia May Flower Farm. Located just north of Trenton, this farm has a farmstand that’s open year round as well as a Flower Market every weekend from March through December.
The Dahlia May Flower Farm has everything from indoor plants to fresh cut, sustainably grown flowers as well as locally made goods.
This small family run farm covers three acres and is the perfect road trip stop for a dose of beautiful flowers or a great local business to buy a special arrangement from an expert florist.
You’ll find an array of different flowers in fields at Dahlia May Flower Farm and they also run workshops on how to create your own bouquet.
Address: 1226 Stockdale Road
Garden Party Flower Farm
Just outside Kitchener, there’s a farm that celebrates flowers and wants you to come and join their party! Garden Party Flower Farm is a four acre farm in St. Agatha that specializes in organically grown flowers.
Peter and Theresa were organic vegetable farmers for over three decades and after trying to retire decided to switch gears. Now they cater to florists, weddings and other events but also welcome visitors to enjoy their raw slice of flower haven.
There are some 200 varieties of flowers at Garden Party Flower Farm and every summer they run pick your own flower nights. On Thursday and Friday nights as well as Saturday mornings you can pick your own bouquet or you can always choose one of their ready-made bouquets from their flower shop.
Be sure to check their website’s Bloom Report weekly to see which flowers are in bloom and to book a picking time.
Address: 1528 Notre Dame Drive
Ontario Flower Festivals
If you’re like me and enjoy festivals then I have a few for you’ll love! There are a bunch of fun Ontario flower festivals that can be found throughout the province. Many take place from May through August. Be sure to check each festival’s site or social media for up-to-date information.
Franktown Lilac Festival
Do you know where the Lilac Capital of Ontario is? It’s in the charming little hamlet of Franktown, about an hour outside of Ottawa. And every year they celebrate with the Franktown Lilac Festival near the end of May. Throughout the village, in fields, along streets and in front yards of homes you’ll find this fragrant flower.
Franktown has a long history and is home to stunning architecture and even has a famous Lilac Lane! But if you’re visiting for one of the quaintest festivals of flowers in Ontario then you’ll find a day filled with activities.
Many things take place at their Centennial Hall, including a pancake breakfast, craft market and live music. The best part is there’s even a wagon ride to take you down the scenic Lilac Lane!
Bruce Peninsula Orchid Festival
One of Ontario’s most popular places to visit also has a hidden gem! Many flock to Tobermory every summer to experience one of Ontario’s most charming small towns, the incredible waters of Fathom Five National Marine Park and to visit Flowerpot Island.
But you may not know that the area is also home of one of the best Ontario flower festivals – the Bruce Peninsula Orchid Festival. The Bruce Peninsula is considered one of North America’s best places for its variety of orchids. If you’re lucky while hiking on the Bruce Peninsula you may come across one of the 44 species of orchid that call the area home.
The Orchid Festival takes place every year at the beginning of June when the area comes alive with wildflowers including orchids like the Yellow Lady Slipper or the Ram’s Head Lady Slipper. Running out of the Bruce Peninsula National Park the festival offers a variety of workshops and walking tours from photographers and naturalists.
Apple Blossom Tyme Festival
What pairs well with apple blossoms? How about tasty apples and a festival! In Colborne you’ll find the annual Apple Blossom Tyme Festival where you can enjoy the beautiful blossoms of the apple trees.
Held at the end of May at the Keeler Center in Colborne, this flower festival showcases the wonderful apple orchards and local vendors. At the Apple Blossom Tyme Festival you can taste some of the goodies from the various food vendors, check out the fun contests and enjoy live music.
It’s a fantastic outing for families as there’s a Kid’s zone full of things to do for the littles. And before you leave Colborne don’t forget to pop by this Big Apple. This fun roadside attraction is a nod to Colborne being one of the largest apple-producing areas in Ontario.
Peony Festival
Who can say no to pretty peonies? If you love this beautiful full flower then you’ll be delighted to hear there’s a Peony Festival in Ontario. The Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden hosts one of the largest peony festivals and has even made the list of the top 100 festivals in Ontario for multiple years in a row.
Did you know that Canada is home to over 5,000 peony species? The Peony Festival takes place every year during the middle of June. At the festival you’ll be able to take in the glorious smells and sights of over 300 species of peonies.
Along with the beautiful flowers there’s also live music, food vendors and of course educators to help you learn more about these incredible blooms.
Warkworth Lilac Festival
Another fun flower festival in Ontario is the Warkworth Lilac Festival that takes place in the town of – you guessed it – Warkworth.
This incredible festival showcases hundreds of lilacs, a craft marker, live music and so much more in this charming small town. Learn about the multitude of lilac varieties from master gardeners and be prepared for some pretty fantastic photo opportunities.
Taking place over a couple of weeks at the end of May and beginning of June, you don’t have to worry about missing the Warkworth Lilac Festival. And with different species blooming at different times you’ll be sure to see them in all their glory.
Another great highlight of the festival is the Millennium Lilac Trail. This 2.5 km trail is easy and offers a beautiful stroll by these beautiful flowering bushes.
A Few More Places to See Flowers in Ontario
Trillium Woods – For those seeking a great place to find trilliums in Ontario head to Oxford Township. Just south of Woodstock is Trillium Woods. This provincial nature reserve is home to a plethora of trilliums and the perfect spot to hike amongst them.
Lake Superior Provincial Park – Are you looking for an epic Northern Ontario road trip and wildflowers in Ontario? Head north to Lake Superior Provincial Park. Located just north of Sault Ste. Marie, this massive park is home to an array of stunning Ontario wildflowers. Hidden within are the Hyacinth, Bloodroot and Bunchberries. There are also a couple of my favourite Ontario flowers, the Pink Lady’s Slipper that’s otherwise known as the Moccasin Flower and the Yellow Lady’s Slipper.
Centennial Botanical Conservatory – Another hidden gem in Northern Ontario is the Centennial Botanical Conservatory in Thunder Bay. It opened in 1967 and has everything from beehives to a manmade waterfall. Whether you’re looking for places to see flowers in Ontario or great things to do in Thunder Bay be sure to check out the Conservatory’s arboretum. Here you’ll find an array of tropical flowers as well as trees and plants from around the world.
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