Originally published June 6, 2015
Updated May 31, 2021
Urban agriculture operations like Community Shared Agriculture (CSA) programs, rooftop farms & small commercial enterprises have been cropping up over the years throughout Toronto. As a leader in the space, the city has shown that urban spaces have enormous potential for agriculture.
So what do these spaces look like? Where can visitors go to see world-class “agritectural” innovation? We’ve put together a list of interesting agricultural spaces in Toronto (and beyond!) where you can see city and farm collide.
Ryerson Urban Farm
Ryerson’s Urban Farm aims to build capacity for food security by producing fresh, wholesome food and providing interactive educational opportunities in urban agriculture. The quarter-acre farm grows roughly 8,000 to 10,000 lbs. of produce annually. Although not currently running, Ryerson normally offers tours of the space and educational experiences. Learn more
Avling Kitchen Rooftop Farm
In Toronto’s east end, Feast On certified Avling Kitchen + Brewery built a 4,000 sq. foot farm on their rooftop. The innovative space uses ecological farming methods to grow a variety of crops for use in their kitchen, in their beer, and their retail store. Avling routinely hosts workshops to learn hands-on skills to grow your own garden, plus private tours of the space. Things change quickly these days, so for the most up-to-date offerings visit their website at avling.ca
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Sundance Harvest
Cheyenne Sundance runs this justice-centred one-third-acre farm in Downsview Park. Their Growing in the Margins agricultural mentorship program provides free training to low-income youth who face barriers within the food system. There’s also an Energy Exchange program where the public can help out on the farm in exchange for produce & workshop vouchers. Learn more
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Black Creek Community Farm
BCCF is a seven-acre site located on conservation land in the heart of Jane-Finch community. The farm is a collaborative project with an aim to build community food security by growing fresh healthy food, and to re-imagine the urban food and farming landscape, providing a model for other cities around the world. Learn more
Fresh City Farms
Fresh City Farms operates Canada’s largest commercial city farm (they’re also Feast On certified!). At Downsview Park, they organically grow on six acres and in a greenhouse, which includes an aquaponics system.
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Riverdale Farm
Riverdale Farm is located in the heart of the downtown community of Cabbagetown. It’s free to visit and features a historic working farm, scenic pathways, programs and seasonal events, and a collection of barnyard animals. It’s currently closed due to the pandemic, but keep an eye on their website for updates. Learn more
Bonus: Venture Outside Toronto!
Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa
Did you know that Canada is the only country in the world with a working farm IN its national capital region? Normally open to the public throughout the year (but you’ll have to check), the Central Experimental Farm is also home to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. Visit!
