One of the best features of the original City of Toronto – long regarded as ‘the city of neighbourhoods‘ – is how the fabric of our urban landscape is like a colourful patchwork quilt of domesticity. Each neighbourhood pocket, woven into the threads of the others surrounding it, has its own unique qualities that have evolved over time, creating the patina and character that makes each of them special and Toronto so vibrant.
Although the proximity to shops or services, public schools, and access to transportation are important amenities that support an urban life we believe what ultimately anchors a neighbourhood to its geography is its green space. Accessible to every citizen (although how the City has addressed homelessness in public parks warrants attention), not only does access to the terra firm landscape benefit our mental, emotional and physical health, but it allows us to engage with our family, our neighbours and the community at large. This kind of connection – a kind of natural connectivity that existed long before the internet – grounds us in ‘our place’ from which we can grow and navigate the world.
For its fortunate residents – as well as anyone else who has discovered them – The Annex features two parks that support the community, each with its own features that create the opportunity for engagement.
St Albans Square
The first is St. Alban’s Square – a small park with a pretty vista of a former church that now serves the students attending Royal St Georges College – which is more contemplative and serene. It’s a place to sit and people-watch, decompress from the urban fray and enjoy the simple pleasures nature offers, like the magnificent rose walk and native species created to honour community-activist and local resident Jane Jacobs.
Jean Sibelius Square Park
The second – a classic square surrounded by residences – is Jean Sibelius Square Park. Although it’s a great destination for lounging, reading and chit-chatting, it’s also chock-a-block with fun recreational opportunities for kids! There’s a large faux-rock wall intersecting the square, a big rope climber, a sandbox with a water feature, an open sandy play area with plenty of shared toys (one of my favourite aspects of Toronto is how many family-friendly parks there are where families leave toys out for everyone to play with), and a convenient bathroom facility.
Because the park is wrapped by homes on all sides and is relatively compact in size; the park feels safe, quiet, and friendly. It’s also unique that there is an abundance of sand, meaning there’s plenty of space for children to play without worrying about scraped knees on the pavement, or tree roots causing spills.
I love how both of these parks foster community spirit. These are the places where local volunteer groups gather, where neighbours meet to walk their dogs, and where clubs and classes can fraternize on the open space!
Consider shutting down your phone, and instead stroll through the Annex to enjoy these places, and the opportunities they invite to experience idyllic and engaging urban moments.
You may be surprised by who you meet!
How do you spend your time in your neighbourhood park? Whatever it may be, it’s undeniable that having great green space will help ground any urban dweller.
If you love The Annex and green space, Jean Sibelius Square is just steps away from a charming just-listed 2bed 1bath condominium in a magical historic 8-unit condo called Audley Court located at 68 Kendal Avenue.
Check out our promotion –> A Charming Vintage Apartment In Beloved Audley Court In The Annex! NOW SOLD!
Contact steve@urbaneer.com for more details!
How many of these other 34 amazing Toronto parks located near properties we’ve promoted for sale or rent have you visited?
Getting Back To Nature On The Don River
Our Favourite Off-Leash Dog Parks In Toronto
Creativity & Ingenuity Intersect At Underpass Park In Corktown
Walking The Wonderful Williamson Park Ravine In The Upper Beach
Carefree At Cassels Park In The Upper Beach
Rennie Park: A Vital Lockdown Playground!
We Adore Kew Gardens In The Beaches
East Lynn Park: The Heart Of A Community
We Love Sorauren Park In Roncesvalles Village
Explore Expansive Sherwood Park In Midtown Toronto
Let’s Play At Riverdale Park East In Toronto
A Lotta Love For Toronto’s High Park
Splashing It Up At Berczy Park’s Dog Fountain
Toronto’s Terrific Trinity Bellwoods Park
Carefree At Christie Pits Park
Bickford Park: An Oasis Of Green
Let’s Catch Up At Earlscourt Park!
A Gold Star For Toronto’s Green Line Linear Park
Stephenson Park Near Main And Danforth
A Pocket Full Of Sunshine: Phin Avenue Parkette
Symphony Of The Senses At Harbourfront’s Toronto Music Garden
We Adore Kew Gardens In The Beaches
Thanks For Coleman Park At Main And Danforth
Barking Good Time At Baird Park
Strolling Massey Harris Park & Stanley Park On King West In Toronto
Ski The Slopes At Earl Bales Park Near Bathurst & Lawrence
May my team and I be your realtors of choice?
With decades of experience navigating the ever-changing Toronto real estate market, a commitment to promote the sale of properties like yours with interesting and relevant information, and the ability to guide Buyers with credible insights and well-informed guidance, we are here to help without pressure or hassle.
Thanks for reading!
-The Urbaneer Team
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000
– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –
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