Top Spots for Fall Photos on Toronto’s Waterfront
The weather is changing, pumpkin spice is back, and the leaves are turning colour. Fall is officially here, and as one of the most colourful seasons in Toronto, it makes for some of the most stunning photos.
We compiled a quick guide on the best places to take fall photos at Toronto’s waterfront. You can capture the gorgeous vibrancy of fall leaves and enjoy the scenic lakefront views.
Depending on the weather, the timing of the leaves turning colour can vary by season. Some locations may have leaves turning colour at different times as well. You can track the changing colours by using the Ontario Parks Fall Colour tracker here.
1. Water’s Edge Promenade
The Water’s Edge Promenade is a walking area connecting Sugar Beach to Sherbourne Common. Lining the boardwalk are over 200 trees, creating a gorgeous canopy of leaves and fall colours during September and October.
Photographers can capture the lakefront and the double row of native maple trees. Benches and delicious restaurants nearby make it a great go-to for a fall photo walk with lunch or dinner.
One of the original Toronto ferries was known as the ‘Sir John of the Peninsula’ and another ferry was known as the ‘Peninsula Packet’ because, at the time, the Toronto Islands was a peninsula and not yet Islands.
Address: At the water’s edge just east of the Portland Slip to York St.
2. HTO Park
HTO Park is separated into two parks both with picturesque views and amazing photo opportunities.
HTO Park East is lined with small trees with leaves that turn a vibrant red, and the CN Tower can be seen through the trees creating a picture-perfect photo opportunity. Jonathan Gazze, an expert photographer, recommends framing the CN Tower with vibrant red leaves, creating an iconic CN Tower photo.
HTO Park West is known as Toronto’s urban beach, it has rolling hills, a sandy beach, yellow umbrellas, and Muskoka chairs. Its unique elements make it perfect for a photo op.
Address: 339 Queens Quay W
3. Ireland Park
Tucked behind Canadian Malting Silos is Ireland Park. Visitors can find statues of figurines memorializing the Irish famine migrants.
The boardwalk along the shoreline is framed by trees that turn colour and has one of the most iconic views of the city.
At the Northern tip of the park, visitors can capture a photo that features the water, Toronto’s Music Garden, and the CN Tower.
Address: Eireann Quay, Toronto
4. Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands make for the perfect day and photo opportunity. The quiet trails, beautiful nature, and view of the Toronto skyline create endless photo opportunities.
There are over 50 different tree species on the Toronto Islands, creating a beautiful canvas of different colours and textures.
Centre Island features diverse trees and the Centre Island Bridge, elements that will make your photos unforgettable.
You can travel to the Toronto Islands by water taxi (Pirate Taxi, Toronto Harbour Water Taxi, and T Dot, ) or you can take the ferry!
