Tucked beneath the Gardiner Expressway, Bentway Park in Fort York is a one-of-a-kind urban oasis that has redefined public space in Toronto. Once an underutilized stretch of land, this innovative park has transformed into a dynamic cultural and recreational hub, making it one of the best parks in Fort York. Whether you’re gliding along the Bentway Skate Trail in the winter, exploring immersive art installations, or simply enjoying a stroll through its creatively designed pathways, this space offers something for everyone. As one of Toronto’s best parks, it blends history, community, and modern urban design to create a vibrant gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. But what makes Bentway Park truly special? From its rich history to its year-round programming, this article will take you through everything you need to know about one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto—and why you should visit it today.
History & Origins of Bentway Park in Fort York
Origins of Bentway Park
Bentway Park in Fort York was born from a vision to transform the unused space beneath the Gardiner Expressway into a thriving public space. The idea was initiated by urban planner and philanthropist Judy Matthews, who recognized the potential of repurposing the underpass into a cultural and recreational hub. With rapid urbanization and a growing population in downtown Toronto, there was a clear need for more community-focused public spaces, making this transformation essential for the city’s future.
Key Figures Involved in Its Creation
Several key figures and organizations played a pivotal role in bringing Bentway Park to life:
- Judy & Wilmot Matthews Foundation – Provided a $25 million donation to fund the project.
- City of Toronto – Partnered to oversee planning, construction, and long-term maintenance.
- Waterfront Toronto – Assisted in revitalization efforts and urban design planning.
- Ken Greenberg Consultants & Public Work – Led the design and planning process to ensure the space met community needs.
Timeline of Development & Major Milestones
- 2015 – Judy Matthews donates $25 million to the City of Toronto to fund the project.
- 2016 – A public naming contest selects “The Bentway” as the official name.
- 2017 – Construction begins on the first phase of Bentway Park in Fort York.
- 2018 – The park opens to the public with the launch of the Bentway Skate Trail, marking its first major milestone.
- 2021-2023 – Expansion efforts continue, including the development of Bentway Staging Grounds and new public art installations.
- 2024 & Beyond – Future plans include the Bentway Islands and additional connections to adjacent parks and communities.
How It Transformed the Unused Space Under the Gardiner Expressway
Before its transformation, the space beneath the Gardiner Expressway was a neglected and underutilized corridor, primarily serving as a parking lot and storage area. Today, Bentway Park in Fort York has redefined this space as one of the best parks in Fort York, offering year-round activities, public art, and improved pedestrian and cyclist access. By integrating green spaces, cultural programming, and recreational amenities, it has become one of Toronto’s best parks, proving that even overlooked urban spaces can be repurposed for public benefit.
As the city continues to evolve, Bentway Park remains a model for innovative urban transformation, setting the stage for more projects that prioritize community engagement and sustainable development.
Location & Accessibility
Bentway Park in Fort York is located at 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9. It sits beneath the Gardiner Expressway, extending between Strachan Avenue and Bathurst Street. The park’s location makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors looking to explore one of the best parks in Fort York.
How to Get There
By Public Transit (TTC)
- 511 Bathurst Streetcar – Stop at Fort York Blvd., a short walk from the park.
- 509 Harbourfront Streetcar – Stop at Fleet Street, providing easy access.
By Car & Parking
- Paid parking is available at Green P lots near the park:
- 250 Fort York Blvd.
- 800 Fleet Street
- Visitors can also use nearby street parking where available.
Accessibility Features
Bentway Park is fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. The park features:
- Flat, paved, and wooden decked surfaces for easy navigation.
- Accessible washrooms (available during seasonal operating hours).
- Ramps and pathways designed for wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices.
- Seating areas throughout the park for those needing rest stops.
Proximity to Landmarks
One of the reasons Bentway Park in Fort York is considered among the best recreational spaces in Toronto is its prime location near several key attractions:
- Fort York National Historic Site – Adjacent to the park, offering a glimpse into Toronto’s history.
- Stackt Market – A cultural and retail hub within walking distance.
- Toronto’s Waterfront – A short walk south, connecting visitors to trails and scenic views. For those looking to complement their visit with a great meal, this guide to Toronto’s top waterfront dining spots is a must-read.
With its central location and easy accessibility, Bentway Park is not only one of the best parks in Fort York but also a convenient destination for locals and tourists exploring Toronto’s best parks.
Features & Attractions at Bentway Park in Fort York
Bentway Park in Fort York is more than just an outdoor space—it is a hub for culture, recreation, and urban innovation. As one of the best parks in Fort York, it offers unique attractions and year-round activities that make it one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto. Here’s a look at its key features:
Bentway Skate Trail
One of the most popular attractions at Bentway Park, the Bentway Skate Trail transforms into a public ice skating trail during winter, providing a scenic and dynamic skating experience under the Gardiner Expressway. The skate trail also hosts seasonal community events, including themed skating nights, workshops, and live performances, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Bentway Staging Grounds
The Bentway Staging Grounds is an environmental learning site that integrates urban ecology into public space. This area features experimental gardens that use rainwater runoff from the Gardiner Expressway to support diverse native plant species. As one of Toronto’s best parks for sustainability-focused initiatives, this site serves as a “living laboratory” for visitors to explore innovative approaches to urban green spaces.
Public Art & Installations
Bentway Park in Fort York is home to a rotating collection of public art installations, including both temporary and permanent exhibits. These works often explore themes related to urban life, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. Notable past projects include:
- Museum of the Moon by Luke Jerram
- Pulse Topology by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer
- Confluence by Striped Canary
These installations enhance the space, making it one of the best parks in Toronto for experiencing public art in an outdoor setting.
Bentway Bridge & Landing
The Bentway Bridge & Landing is a key infrastructure enhancement designed to improve connectivity between Bentway Park, Fort York National Historic Site, and surrounding areas. This pedestrian-friendly bridge offers safe passage over Fort York Boulevard and creates new public gathering spaces, further integrating the park into the city’s urban fabric.
Recreational Spaces
Beyond skating and art, Bentway Park offers various recreational spaces, making it one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto. Visitors can enjoy:
- Cycling paths and pedestrian walkways for active transportation. Cycling is a great way to explore Bentway Park and the surrounding Fort York area—if you’re in need of a new set of wheels or a tune-up, here’s a list of Toronto’s top bike stores.
- Green spaces for relaxation, picnics, and small gatherings.
- Community event areas that host cultural programs, performances, and public workshops.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, Bentway Park in Fort York continues to evolve with exciting new projects, including:
- Bentway Islands – A second Bentway Park site between Dan Leckie Way and Spadina Avenue, further expanding public space under the Gardiner Expressway.
- Under Gardiner Public Realm Plan – A long-term vision to connect urban infrastructure, green spaces, and community hubs from Dufferin Street to the Don Valley Parkway.
With its diverse range of attractions and ongoing development, Bentway Park in Fort York continues to redefine urban public space, making it one of Toronto’s best parks and a model for future city-building projects.
Events & Programs at Bentway Park in Fort York
As one of the best parks in Fort York, Bentway Park is more than just a public space—it is a hub for cultural, recreational, and artistic events. With a focus on community engagement, the park hosts year-round public programming, making it one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto.
Year-Round Public Programming
Bentway Park in Fort York offers a diverse range of events throughout the year, from seasonal activities like ice skating to large-scale public art installations and community-driven festivals. These programs are designed to foster creativity, connectivity, and engagement among Toronto’s residents and visitors.
Notable Past and Upcoming Events
Some of the standout events at Bentway Park include:
- Dominoes 2024 (September 22, 2024) – A large-scale interactive event featuring 8,000 human-sized dominoes weaving through downtown neighborhoods, celebrating urban connectivity.
- Softer City Exhibition – A summer-long public art exhibition exploring themes of inclusivity, social connection, and urban transformation.
- Museum of the Moon by Luke Jerram – A past installation featuring a large-scale illuminated moon sculpture.
- Pulse Topology by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer – A light-based installation showcasing biometric data from visitors.
These events contribute to Bentway Park’s reputation as one of Toronto’s best parks for interactive and immersive experiences.
Collaborations with Artists and Urban Designers
The park regularly collaborates with local and international artists, architects, and urban designers to transform public spaces with unique installations. Past partnerships have included projects with organizations like Frontier, Artscape, and Public Work, highlighting Bentway Park’s role in blending art with urban infrastructure.
Interactive Workshops, Fitness Programs, and Seasonal Festivals
Bentway Park in Fort York also offers a variety of community-focused programs, including:
- Fitness programs – Free or low-cost outdoor yoga, dance, and movement workshops.
- Public art workshops – Interactive sessions where visitors can contribute to evolving art installations.
- Seasonal festivals – Events like winter markets, summer block parties, and outdoor film screenings.
By hosting a mix of recreational, artistic, and cultural programs, Bentway Park continues to be one of the best parks in Fort York, offering diverse and engaging experiences for all visitors.
Why Bentway Park in Fort York is Unique
Bentway Park in Fort York stands out as one of the best parks in Fort York due to its innovative approach to urban space transformation. Unlike traditional parks, it repurposes unused land beneath the Gardiner Expressway into a dynamic space that blends art, culture, and recreation. This unique model makes it one of Toronto’s best parks for creative urban engagement.
Redefining Urban Spaces
By transforming the underutilized area beneath the Gardiner Expressway, Bentway Park demonstrates how cities can reclaim forgotten spaces for public use. The park serves as a model for how urban infrastructure can be repurposed to support community life, making it one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto for those who appreciate innovative city planning.
A Unique Blend of Art, Culture, and Recreation
Unlike conventional parks, Bentway Park in Fort York integrates public art installations, cultural programming, and recreational activities within a single space. From the Bentway Skate Trail in the winter to large-scale public art exhibits, the park provides a diverse experience that attracts visitors year-round. Collaborations with artists and urban designers ensure that the park remains a creative hub in Toronto.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability is a core focus of Bentway Park. The park incorporates:
- Rainwater harvesting systems that collect runoff from the Gardiner Expressway to nourish native plant gardens.
- Experimental gardens at the Bentway Staging Grounds, which support biodiversity and urban ecology.
- Green infrastructure initiatives, reinforcing its role as one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto with an environmental focus.
Community Engagement Initiatives
Bentway Park in Fort York is designed for and by the community. Through its public workshops, cultural festivals, and outreach programs, the park fosters active community participation. It also provides essential public amenities, including washrooms, seating areas, and accessible pathways, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
By redefining how public spaces can serve a city, Bentway Park continues to set an example for urban development, making it one of the best parks in Fort York and a leading model for future city-building projects.
How Bentway Park Supports the Community
As one of the best parks in Fort York, Bentway Park is more than just a recreational space—it actively serves the community through initiatives that support local artists, provide spaces for social engagement, and offer essential services for those in need. These efforts make it one of Toronto’s best parks for inclusive urban development and social impact.
Initiatives for Local Artists and Creatives
Bentway Park in Fort York is a platform for emerging and established artists, designers, and urban thinkers. The park regularly hosts:
- Public art installations that engage visitors with thought-provoking urban themes.
- Artist-led workshops and exhibitions to showcase local talent.
- Collaborations with cultural organizations to enhance Toronto’s public art scene.
Through these programs, the park plays a key role in fostering creative expression, positioning it as one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto for artistic engagement.
Spaces for Social Gatherings and Community-Driven Projects
Community connection is central to Bentway Park’s mission. The park provides:
- Public gathering spaces for workshops, performances, and festivals.
- Outdoor seating and open areas where residents can connect, relax, and participate in community events.
- Programs like Street Summit and Softer City, which encourage public discussions on urban living and social inclusion.
By creating these opportunities for interaction, Bentway Park in Fort York strengthens community ties and enhances the social fabric of the city.
Support for Unhoused and Precariously Housed Individuals
Recognizing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, Bentway Park integrates essential services to support unhoused and precariously housed individuals. These include:
- Public washrooms, available during skate trail operating hours.
- Power stations, providing a place to charge phones and other devices.
- Shelter from inclement weather, offering a safe and accessible space.
These initiatives highlight Bentway Park’s role as a community-first public space, ensuring accessibility and support for all visitors. By balancing cultural programming with social responsibility, the park continues to be one of the best parks in Fort York, offering more than just recreation—it provides a space where the city’s diverse communities can come together and thrive.
Practical Information for Visitors
Whether you’re planning to visit for a casual walk, an event, or a skating session, Bentway Park in Fort York offers a range of amenities and services to ensure a smooth experience. As one of the best parks in Fort York, it provides accessible facilities, free public amenities, and easy access to nearby dining and shopping options. Visit the official website for more information.
Operating Hours for Key Areas
Bentway Skate Trail (Winter Season
- Monday to Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday, Sunday, & Holidays: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Washroom Hours (Winter Season)
- Available during skate trail operating hours.
Event Spaces & Public Areas
- Open year-round, with scheduled programming and exhibitions throughout the seasons.
Socials
Free Amenities
- WiFi Access: Visitors can enjoy free WiFi provided by Beanfield. Simply connect to “Beanfield1hfree” for one hour of complimentary access.
- Accessible Pathways: The park is fully accessible with flat, paved, and wooden decked surfaces for wheelchair and stroller access.
- Seating Areas: Benches and shaded areas are available throughout the park.
Nearby Dining, Shopping, and Accommodation Options
As one of Toronto’s best parks, Bentway Park in Fort York is conveniently located near some of the city’s top dining and shopping destinations.
Dining:
- Stackt Market – A short walk away, offering a variety of food vendors and craft beer options.
- Liberty Village Restaurants – A mix of casual and upscale dining options within a 10-minute walk.
- Toronto’s Waterfront Cafés & Eateries – Perfect for a quick coffee or a full meal.
Shopping:
- Stackt Market Retail Stores – A collection of local shops featuring fashion, home décor, and lifestyle products.
- Queen Street West Shopping District – A diverse range of boutiques and national retailers nearby.
Accommodation:
- Downtown Toronto Hotels – Multiple options, including hotels in the Entertainment District and along the waterfront.
- Short-Term Rentals – Several Airbnb and rental properties available in the Fort York and CityPlace neighborhoods.
With its combination of recreational spaces, public amenities, and easy access to key city attractions, Bentway Park in Fort York remains one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto for both locals and visitors looking for a unique urban experience.
Support & Future Plans
As one of the best parks in Fort York, Bentway Park relies on community support to maintain its innovative programming, public spaces, and long-term vision. Through donations, sponsorships, and urban development initiatives, the park continues to expand and evolve, ensuring it remains one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto.
The Role of Donations and Sponsorships in Maintaining the Park
Bentway Park in Fort York is operated by a charitable organization that depends on contributions from individuals, businesses, and government grants. These funds help:
- Maintain and improve public amenities such as accessible pathways, seating areas, and washrooms.
- Support year-round public programming, including art exhibitions, community events, and fitness programs.
- Expand environmental sustainability projects, like the rainwater-harvesting gardens at Bentway Staging Grounds.
Ensure the Bentway Skate Trail and other seasonal attractions remain accessible to all.
Corporate sponsors and local businesses also play a key role in supporting Bentway Park, funding events, installations, and infrastructure improvements.
Future Expansions and Developments Under the Under Gardiner Public Realm Plan
The Under Gardiner Public Realm Plan outlines a long-term vision for transforming the space beneath the Gardiner Expressway. Future projects include:
- Bentway Islands – A second Bentway Park site between Dan Leckie Way and Spadina Avenue, expanding the public space network.
- New pedestrian and cycling connections – Enhancing access between Fort York, CityPlace, and the waterfront.
- Additional public art installations and interactive urban spaces to engage the community.
Environmental initiatives to improve green infrastructure, biodiversity, and sustainability efforts.
These developments aim to strengthen Bentway Park’s role as one of Toronto’s best parks, setting a precedent for innovative urban transformation.
How Readers Can Contribute to or Get Involved with Bentway Park in Fort York
Visitors and community members can support Bentway Park in Fort York in several ways:
- Make a Donation – Contributions directly fund park maintenance, public programs, and environmental projects.
- Volunteer – Opportunities include assisting with events, workshops, and urban gardening projects.
- Attend Events – Participating in public programming helps sustain community-driven initiatives.
- Corporate Partnerships – Businesses can sponsor programs, installations, or infrastructure improvements.
By supporting Bentway Park, donors and volunteers help shape one of the best parks in Fort York, ensuring its continued growth as one of the best recreational spaces in Toronto.
FAQs
- How do I get to Bentway Park using public transit?
You can take the 511 Bathurst streetcar (stop at Fort York Blvd) or the 509 Harbourfront streetcar (stop at Fleet St). - What types of events are held at Bentway Park in Fort York?
The park hosts public art exhibitions, fitness programs, workshops, community festivals, and seasonal events like the Dominoes 2024 project. - Is there an entrance fee for Bentway Park?
No, Bentway Park is free to access, though some special events or programs may require registration. - What are some nearby attractions to Bentway Park in Fort York?
Nearby landmarks include Fort York National Historic Site, Stackt Market, and Toronto’s waterfront. - Can I bring my dog to Bentway Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be leashed, and owners must clean up after them. While Bentway Park provides a unique urban escape, dog owners looking for off-leash adventures can explore some of Toronto’s best dog parks for the perfect playtime experience.