Riverdale Farm, Greater Toronto Area Travel Guide

4.6 (5584)

Escape to the countryside in the heart of Toronto. Explore heritage farm animals, historic buildings, and scenic gardens at Riverdale Farm.

Riverdale Farm offers a unique glimpse into rural life right in the heart of Toronto's Cabbagetown. This 7.5-acre working farm features heritage breed animals, historic buildings, gardens, and wooded areas, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. It's a fantastic place for families and anyone seeking a connection with nature and agricultural history.

A brief summary to Riverdale Farm

201 Winchester St, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M4X 1B8, CA
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Riverdale Farm.

Visit during the daily farm demonstration at 11:30 a.m. in the Lower Francey Barn to learn about the animals.
Combine your visit with a picnic in the adjacent Riverdale Park West, which offers lovely green spaces and a wading pool.
Check out the Riverdale Farm's Fall Festival in early September for children's games, activities, and contests.
Explore the walking trails to discover the duck pond, farm buildings, and access to the broader ravine system.
Note that dogs, bicycles, and other recreational equipment are not permitted on the farm property.

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Explore Riverdale Farm on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Riverdale Farm, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From College Station on Line 1, take the 506 Gerrard streetcar eastbound to Parliament Street. Cross Parliament and walk north one block to Winchester Street, then walk east for about 10 minutes to the farm. A single TTC fare is $3.30.
Walking

From the intersection of Parliament Street and Carlton Street, walk north on Parliament Street for one block to Winchester Street. Turn right onto Winchester Street and walk east for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the farm.
Driving

The nearest major intersection is Parliament and Carlton. Drive north on Parliament Street one traffic light, then turn right onto Winchester Street. Continue on Winchester Street until you reach the farm. Street parking is limited. Check city signage for parking regulations. Nearby parking garages can cost between $7 and $22 for a few hours.

Discover more about Riverdale Farm

Step back in time at Riverdale Farm, a charming representation of a 19th-century Ontario farm nestled in downtown Toronto. This 7.5-acre farm provides an immersive experience with its picturesque landscapes, including wooded trails, ponds, and vibrant gardens.Visitors can observe a variety of heritage breed farm animals, such as cows, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens and ducks. The farm's historic buildings, including the Francey Barn, Simpson House, and the ruins of the old Riverdale Zoo, offer a glimpse into the region's agricultural past. The Francey Barn, originally built in 1858, is a rare Pennsylvania Bank Barn, while the Simpson House is a Victorian-style farmhouse.Riverdale Farm is not just a place to see animals and old buildings; it's a community hub where visitors can learn about farm life and enjoy a peaceful retreat. The farm hosts daily demonstrations where farmers introduce different animals and answer questions. The adjacent Riverdale Park West offers additional recreational opportunities, including picnic spots, a wading pool, and tobogganing hills in the winter.Originally owned by John Scadding, the land was purchased by the City of Toronto in 1856. From 1894 to 1974, the site was home to the Riverdale Zoo. In 1978, Riverdale Farm was established to showcase Ontario's small family farm heritage. Today, Riverdale Farm continues to operate thanks to the support of corporate and private donors, ensuring its preservation for future generations.