Toronto Music Garden: A Symphony in Green
A waterfront oasis where landscape design interprets Bach's cello suite, offering a unique blend of nature and music in downtown Toronto.
The Toronto Music Garden is a unique public park designed in collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma and landscape architect Julie Moir Messervy. Inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach's First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello, its six sections embody the movements of the music, offering a tranquil escape on Toronto's waterfront.
A brief summary to Toronto Music Garden
- 479 Queens Quay W, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3M8, CA
- +1416-973-4000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the Summer Music in the Garden series for free classical music performances.
- Explore each of the six garden 'rooms,' each representing a different movement from Bach's Cello Suite No. 1.
- Take a self-guided audio tour narrated by Yo-Yo Ma and Julie Moir Messervy for a deeper understanding of the garden's design.
- Enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil setting; picnic areas are available within the garden.
Getting There
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Walking
From Harbourfront Centre, walk west along Queens Quay West. The Toronto Music Garden is located on the south side of Queens Quay West, just west of Lower Spadina Avenue. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers scenic views of the waterfront.
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Public Transport
Take the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) to Union Station. From Union Station, take the 509 Harbourfront streetcar west to the Rees Street stop. Walk south on Rees Street to Queens Quay West, then turn left (east). The Toronto Music Garden will be on your right. A single TTC fare is $3.35, and provides a two-hour transfer window. Alternatively, a PRESTO card costs $6.00 plus the amount you wish to load onto the card, and deducts $3.30 per ride.
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Parking
Limited street parking is available near the Toronto Music Garden. Several parking lots are also located nearby. For example, the parking garage at 82 Queens Wharf Rd is a short walk away. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $7-$37 for a few hours. Booking in advance with services like SpotHero can guarantee a space.
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