The 7 Best Places to Find Amazing Outdoor Wedding venues Toronto in 2026
Omg, are you planning an outdoor wedding in Toronto? SO exciting! 💃🕺 There's just something magical about saying 'I do' under the open sky, whether you're dreaming of a lush secret garden, a chic city rooftop, or something totally unique and unexpected. The hunt for the perfect spot is officially ON.
But let's be real, scrolling through endless websites trying to find the one can feel like a full-time job. It's so easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. Where do you even start?
Don't you worry! I've been there, and I've put together this guide to the absolute best outdoor wedding venues Toronto has to offer. Think of me as your wedding-obsessed friend who's done all the late-night research for you. (You're welcome, haha).
So, we're going to dive into everything from iconic estates to hidden gems, covering all the essential details like capacity, vibe, and those all-important photo ops. As a wedding photographer myself (hi, I'm Mark from Eight Two Four!), I'm always thinking about that gorgeous light and the backdrops that will make your photos timeless!
As you start hunting for your dream outdoor venue, it's also super helpful to think about broader event management best practices to make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. This guide will give you the venue-specific knowledge, so you can pair it with smart planning for a stress-free day.
My goal is simple: to help you find a place that feels totally you and makes your wedding vision come to life. Ready to find your dream venue? Let's do this! 🙂
1. EventSource.ca
Okay, let's start with the ultimate planning hub for anyone looking for outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. Think of EventSource.ca as your super-organized, venue-obsessed best friend. It’s a massive directory focused specifically on the Toronto and GTA scene, which means you're not sifting through irrelevant options from other cities. I've found it's my go-to starting point whenever I’m helping a couple map out their vision.
What I absolutely love about it is how specific you can get with your search. They have a dedicated filter for "outdoor facilities," which immediately narrows down hundreds of listings to just the ones with patios, gardens, or rooftop spaces. It saves you so much time.
How to Use EventSource.ca Effectively
The real magic is in the details. Many venue profiles on EventSource are packed with useful info that you won’t find easily elsewhere.
Dig into the listings: Look for 360° virtual tours to get a feel for the space without leaving your couch. You’ll also often find sample menus and package pricing, which is amazing for getting a ballpark budget idea right away.
Use the "Request Info" button: This is a direct line to the venue's event coordinator. It streamlines the whole process of asking for availability and detailed quotes.
Create shortlists: As you browse, you can save your favourites to a shortlist. This makes comparing your top contenders (like a garden venue opposed to a chic rooftop patio) so much easier.
My Pro Tip: Don’t just look at the venue listings! Check out their blog and editorial roundups. They often have articles like "Top Patio Venues" or "Gorgeous Outdoor Ceremony Spots" that can introduce you to hidden gems you might have missed in a standard search.
Pros & Cons
The benefits include a user-friendly interface, high-quality performance, and affordability. It also offers excellent customer support and compatibility with various devices. Additionally, it is known for its reliability and easy setup process.
Some editorial posts may have been published several years ago, so it's important to verify the information for accuracy and relevance.
So, EventSource.ca is an indispensable tool for kicking off your search. It gives you a comprehensive overview of the outdoor wedding venues Toronto has to offer, all in one place.
Check it out here: https://www.eventsource.ca/venues/wedding-venues/wedding-venues-with-outdoor-facilities
2. WeddingWire.ca
Next up is WeddingWire.ca, another big player in the wedding planning world. It’s like the national version of a planning hub, so it covers vendors and venues all across Canada. While it's not as laser-focused on just Toronto as EventSource, its broad reach means it often pulls in some seriously amazing options for outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. I usually hop over to WeddingWire for a different perspective and to see their curated lists.
What I really like about WeddingWire is its blend of venue directories and editorial content. You can find articles rounding up the best waterfront spots, garden venues, or rooftop terraces. It’s a great way to get inspired and see what's possible before you dive deep into individual listings. Plus, the user reviews are a huge help in getting a real-world feel for a venue's vibe and service.
How to Use WeddingWire.ca Effectively
The key to WeddingWire is using its strengths: inspiration and social proof. It’s a bit different from a pure directory, so here’s how I get the most out of it.
Check out the editorial lists first: Start with their articles like "Toronto Wedding Venues With a View." These give you a quick, visual overview of top-tier venues and can help you build an initial shortlist of styles you love (like waterfront vs. urban garden).
Read the reviews (seriously!): Once a venue catches your eye, go straight to the user reviews. Past couples often share super specific details about everything from the food quality to how the coordinator handled a rainy day. This is invaluable inside info!
Use the Q&A feature: Many listings have a questions section. See what other couples have asked, as you might find answers to things you haven't even thought of yet.
My Pro Tip: Pay attention to the photos couples have uploaded in their reviews. These often show the venue in different lighting, seasons, and decor styles, giving you a much more authentic look at the space than just the professional marketing shots. This is also great inspiration when you're thinking about your own photos; I've found that some of the best engagement session spots are actually hidden corners of wedding venues!
Pros & Cons
Pros
Broad, recognizable platform: It's super easy to navigate and a great starting point for research.
Good for inspiration: The editorial roundups are perfect for discovering different venue styles.
User reviews are gold: Getting feedback from real couples is incredibly helpful.
Cons
Pricing is often missing: You'll almost always need to inquire directly to get any cost details.
Lighter on details: Some Toronto profiles can be less comprehensive compared to other platforms.
I think WeddingWire.ca is a fantastic tool for gathering inspiration and building a list of contenders. Its user-driven content adds a layer of trust that makes shortlisting potential outdoor wedding venues Toronto offers a much more confident process.
Check it out here: https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-ideas/toronto-wedding-venues-with-a-view--c1081
3. Peerspace
Okay, if traditional venues feel a bit too cookie-cutter for you, let's talk about Peerspace. Think of it as the Airbnb for event spaces, where you can find some of the most unique and unexpected outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. It's perfect for intimate ceremonies, elopements, or creative couples who want a backdrop that’s totally different from the norm. We're talking hidden downtown courtyards, stunning private backyards, and chic rooftops you'd never find otherwise.
What I absolutely love is the transparency. You see the hourly rate, any cleaning fees, and the host's rules right on the listing. This is amazing for couples who want to build their wedding from the ground up and have total control over the vibe and vendors.
How to Use Peerspace Effectively
The real beauty of Peerspace is in finding a spot that truly feels like you.
Filter creatively: Start with the "Outdoor Wedding Venue" filter, but don't stop there. Try searching for "gardens," "rooftops," or "patios" and see what pops up. You might find a gem that isn't explicitly listed for weddings but would be perfect.
Read the rules carefully: Every host has different rules about noise levels, number of guests, and what's allowed. Read the "Host Rules" section on each listing to make sure your wedding plans align with their policies. This is super important!
Message the host directly: The in-platform messaging is your best friend. Use it to ask specific questions about vendor access, power outlets for your DJ, or restroom facilities before you even book.
My Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the photos and reviews from other event planners. These will give you the best sense of the space's real-life scale and potential. Some hosts are also "Power Hosts," which is usually a good sign of a reliable and responsive person to work with.
Pros & Cons
Pros
ConsUnique & Stylish Spaces: You'll find venues with tons of character that aren't on typical lists.
Transparent Hourly Pricing: Budgeting is easier when you see the costs upfront.
Direct Communication: Easy to chat with hosts directly to iron out details before booking.
Cons
BYO Everything: Most spaces are just the venue, so you'll need to coordinate all vendors and logistics.
Variable Host Rules: Restrictions on noise, hours, and vendors can vary significantly between listings.
In terms of unique spots, Peerspace is for the couple who wants a truly personalized and distinctive setting. It puts you in the driver's seat, allowing you to craft an experience around one of the most unique outdoor wedding venues Toronto has to offer.
Check it out here: https://www.peerspace.com/ca/venues/ca/toronto--on/outdoor-wedding-venue
4. Giggster
So, if you're the kind of couple who wants something truly unique and maybe a little unconventional for your outdoor wedding venues in Toronto, you need to check out Giggster. Think of it like Airbnb, but for event and production spaces. It’s perfect for finding those hidden-gem backyards, stunning private estates, or cool industrial rooftops that aren't on the traditional wedding venue circuit.
What I love about Giggster is its transparency. Most listings show hourly pricing right up front, which is amazing for couples working with a specific budget or planning a more intimate, shorter celebration. It’s a fantastic platform for finding a design-forward space that feels more personal and less like a typical wedding factory.
How to Use Giggster Effectively
The key to Giggster is embracing the creative, DIY spirit. You’re often booking just the space, so you get to bring your own vision to life.
Filter creatively: Use their filters for "garden," "patio," or "rooftop" to narrow things down. Don't forget to filter by guest capacity to make sure the space can comfortably fit your crew.
Read the rules carefully: Every listing has its own set of rules about noise, vendors, and setup/teardown times. Make sure you understand these before you book to avoid any surprises.
Communicate with the host: Use the platform's messaging system to ask tons of questions. Ask about power access for your DJ, restroom facilities, and parking. The hosts are usually super helpful and can give you the inside scoop on what works best in their space.
My Pro Tip: Look beyond the "wedding" category. Some of the most incredible outdoor spaces are listed for film shoots or corporate events. As long as the host allows weddings (just ask!), you could score an epic location that no one else has used for their "I dos."
Pros & Cons
Pros
Unique & Photo-Friendly Spaces: Access to non-traditional venues with incredible backdrops.
Transparent Hourly Pricing: Great for budgeting and shorter, more intimate events.
Flexible for Creative Events: You have the freedom to bring in your own vendors and decor ideas.
Cons
Very DIY-Heavy: You'll likely need to coordinate all your own rentals, from tables to toilets.
Extra Logistics: You may need to handle permits and event insurance yourself, adding to your to-do list.
Not an All-Inclusive Solution: It's just the space, not the full-service experience of a traditional venue.
Giggster is an amazing resource for creative couples who want full control over their wedding day aesthetic and are excited to build their celebration from the ground up. It’s your ticket to finding one of the most unique outdoor wedding venues Toronto has to offer.
Check it out here: https://giggster.com/find/toronto--on/outdoor-wedding
5. City of Toronto (official parks, gardens and conservatories pages)
Okay, now let's talk about going straight to the source. If you're dreaming of an outdoor wedding venue in Toronto that feels iconic, public, and a little less conventional, the City of Toronto's official website is where you need to look. This isn't a third-party directory; it's the direct portal for booking the city’s stunning parks, gardens, and conservatories for your ceremony.
What I love about this option is its transparency and accessibility. You're dealing directly with the city, which means clear rules, published fees, and access to some of the most beautiful public green spaces, like the Toronto Music Garden or Allan Gardens Conservatory, for a fraction of the cost of a private venue.
How to Use the City of Toronto Website Effectively
Navigating a government website can feel a bit daunting, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know what you’re looking for.
Understand the permits: There are different permits for wedding ceremonies and wedding photography. You need to apply for the correct one. The site outlines the application process, timelines (book early!), and what's allowed at each location.
Review the location list: The website lists all the designated parks and gardens available for ceremonies. Each one has different capacity limits and rules, so read the details carefully to find one that fits your vision.
Plan for a separate reception: Most of these locations are ceremony-only. This is perfect for couples who want a beautiful, nature-filled vow exchange before heading to a restaurant, private room, or different venue for the party. The website is purely for booking the public space itself.
My Pro Tip: Don't underestimate the beauty of these public spaces for your photos and video. Even if you don't have your ceremony here, securing a photography permit for a place like Rosetta McClain Gardens can give you an epic backdrop. You can see how these stunning outdoor settings translate on film in our video gallery.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Budget-Friendly: Significantly more affordable for a ceremony compared to all-inclusive venues.
Iconic Locations: Access to some of Toronto's most scenic and well-known public gardens.
Clear Process: The city has a defined application process with published fees and timelines.
Cons
Ceremony/Photo Only: Most locations don't accommodate receptions, so you'll need a second venue.
Strict Rules: There are tight restrictions on things like amplified sound, alcohol, decorations, and tents.
Public Space: These are public parks, so you may not have total privacy from onlookers.
You're right, dealing with permits can seem like a hassle, but using the City of Toronto's official resources is a fantastic option for couples who want a beautiful, simple, and budget-conscious ceremony in the heart of nature, right within the city.
Check it out here: https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/venues-facilities-bookings/getting-married/step-3-getting-married/
6. Evergreen Brick Works (evergreen.ca)
Okay, if you’re dreaming of a venue that feels both completely natural and industrial-chic, Evergreen Brick Works is the iconic Toronto spot. It’s not just a website but the online portal to one of the most sought-after outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. This place masterfully blends reclaimed heritage buildings with lush gardens and quarry ponds, creating a backdrop that is honestly unforgettable. It’s where city style meets raw nature.
What I love about their website is how it clearly lays out the different spaces. You can immediately see the vibe of the Koerner Gardens versus the more intimate Frances & Tim Price Terrace. They’re all about sustainability too, which is a huge plus for eco-conscious couples.
How to Use Evergreen Brick Works (evergreen.ca) Effectively
The site is your direct line to envisioning and planning a wedding here. It’s straightforward, but there are a few things to focus on.
Explore the Spaces: Spend time on their "Weddings" page. They have gorgeous photo galleries and descriptions for each area. This helps you visualize whether you want a grand reception under a covered pavilion or a quiet ceremony by the water.
Review the FAQs: Their FAQ section is super helpful for understanding the logistics, like their preferred vendor list for catering and AV, parking details, and their sustainability policies. This saves you an email!
Take a Virtual Tour: Before you even book a site visit, check out the virtual tours. It gives you a much better sense of the scale and flow of the spaces than photos alone. You can truly appreciate the blend of nature and industrial architecture from all angles, as you can see in some of the stunning galleries online.
My Pro Tip: Pay close attention to their preferred vendor list. Because they have specific partners, you'll need to work within that framework. The upside? These vendors know the venue inside and out and do incredible work there, making your planning process way smoother.
Pros & Cons
Pros
High-Impact Setting: The quarry ponds, heritage brick, and pavilions create a stunning backdrop.
Scalable Spaces: Perfect for intimate terrace weddings or large-format receptions of up to 2500.
Credible Rain Plans: Amazing covered outdoor spaces mean you're protected no matter the weather.
Cons
Vendor Restrictions: You must use their approved catering and AV partners, limiting some flexibility.
Books Far in Advance: As one of Toronto’s top venues, popular dates get booked up very quickly.
Limited Ceremony-Only: It can be difficult to book a ceremony-only event, especially on a prime date.
Evergreen Brick Works truly offers one of the most unique settings in the city. Its website is the perfect starting point for planning a wedding that’s both beautiful and meaningful.
Check it out here: https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/host-your-event/weddings/
7. Casa Loma (casaloma.ca)
For a wedding that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale, Casa Loma is the place. This isn’t just any venue; it’s an iconic Toronto landmark that offers a truly regal setting. If you’re dreaming of a grand, elegant celebration with jaw-dropping architecture, this is where you look. It's one of the most sought-after outdoor wedding venues in Toronto for a reason. Cue the royalty vibes.
What I love most is how seamless they make the experience. The five-acre estate gardens are perfect for an unforgettable ceremony, and then you have the beautiful seasonal Glass Pavilion for a reception that feels both outdoors and protected from the elements. It’s the best of both worlds, and your guests will be completely wowed.
How to Use Casa Loma's Website Effectively
The Casa Loma website is your first step into planning a storybook wedding. It’s designed to showcase the grandeur of the space and give you all the initial details you need.
Explore the venue spaces: The site has detailed descriptions and galleries for the Gardens, the Glass Pavilion, and the castle interiors. Spend time here to visualise how your day could flow from ceremony to cocktails to reception.
Check the capacity charts: They provide clear numbers for different setups (seated dinner, reception-style). This is super helpful for seeing if the space is a practical fit for your guest list right from the start.
Use the inquiry form: The online form is the best way to get in touch. Be as detailed as possible with your preferred dates, guest count, and vision to get the most accurate information back from their events team.
My Pro Tip: Don’t just look at the wedding section! The "Visit" and "History" pages on their site give you a deeper appreciation for the venue's story. Knowing these little details can add a really special touch to your wedding day and even inspire your decor or theme.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Iconic and dramatic setting: The backdrops for photos are truly unparalleled in the city.
All-in-one location: You can host your ceremony, portraits, and reception all on the same property.
Seasonal Glass Pavilion: A stunning covered outdoor option that protects you from unpredictable weather.
Cons
Premium Pricing: This is one of Toronto's most exclusive venues, and the price reflects that.
Stricter Policies: As a historic site, there are more rules around sound and end times.
High Demand: Availability, especially for Saturday dates in peak season, can be very limited.
Ultimately, choosing Casa Loma means choosing a venue that makes a statement. It provides a cohesive and breathtaking experience, ensuring your wedding is as magical as the location itself.
Check it out here: https://casaloma.ca/weddings-socialevents/
7-Point Comparison: Outdoor Wedding Venues in Toronto
EventSource.ca is a solid low-to-medium complexity option that works through curated searches and contact forms. It requires a moderate time investment to compare listings and request quotes, but the payoff is a strong shortlist of GTA outdoor venues complete with photos and pricing signals. It’s ideal for Toronto couples who already know they want outdoor features and specific capacities. Its biggest strength is strong local coverage, though it’s smart to double-check older editorial details directly with venues.
WeddingWire.ca is very easy to use and geared more toward browsing and discovery. Couples can explore editorial lists, venue profiles, and reviews with little effort, though pricing usually requires sending an inquiry. It’s best suited for early-stage research when couples are gathering inspiration for garden, rooftop, or waterfront venues. The main advantage is its wide reach and user reviews, with the caveat that detailed pricing isn’t always upfront.
Peerspace offers low complexity when it comes to booking, but planning the actual event can be more involved. While hourly pricing is transparent and affordable upfront, couples should expect to handle more coordination around vendors and logistics. The platform works especially well for intimate ceremonies, elopements, or creative receptions that need flexibility. Its standout benefit is clear pricing and availability, but it’s important to carefully review host rules and minimums.
Giggster sits at a medium level of complexity, combining platform booking with mostly DIY logistics. It often provides lower-cost, visually unique spaces, but couples should plan for additional expenses such as permits, insurance, and external vendors. This option is best for budget-friendly or design-forward outdoor weddings that don’t fit the traditional venue mold. The key advantage is access to distinctive backdrops, with the reminder to budget for administrative requirements.
City of Toronto parks and gardens involve a moderate level of complexity due to the permit application process. While costs are relatively low, couples should be prepared to spend time navigating restrictions around sound, alcohol, and tents. These locations are ideal for ceremony-only events or couples who want iconic public green spaces for photos. Clear permitting rules are a major advantage, but applying early and reviewing limitations is essential.
Evergreen Brick Works comes with medium-to-high complexity because of venue policies and the use of preferred or approved vendors. Resource needs are higher due to parking coordination, logistics, and scalable event setups. In return, couples get a distinctive industrial-meets-nature venue with strong rain-plan options. It’s best suited for medium-to-large weddings seeking a sustainable, modern aesthetic. Booking far in advance and confirming vendor requirements early is highly recommended.
Casa Loma is one of the most complex options, with formal estate logistics, strict policies, and premium pricing. It requires a higher budget and careful planning but delivers a seamless ceremony and reception experience on one iconic property. This venue is ideal for elevated garden-style weddings that prioritize historic drama and visual impact. Its main advantage is its unmistakable prestige, with the expectation of strict timing and premium rates.Okay, Your Turn! What’s the Vibe?
So, there you have it! A deep dive into some of the best tools and specific spots to find amazing outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. Phew, that was a lot, I know. But hopefully, seeing everything laid out like this makes the whole process feel way less daunting and a lot more exciting. We’ve covered everything from comprehensive directories like WeddingWire.ca and EventSource.ca, which are perfect for casting a wide net, to more niche platforms like Peerspace and Giggster for finding those truly unique, off-the-beaten-path gems.
We also looked at iconic, standalone venues that offer a complete, curated experience. Think about the rustic-industrial magic of Evergreen Brick Works or the literal fairytale setting of Casa Loma. And let's not forget the simple, natural beauty offered by the City of Toronto’s own parks and gardens, a fantastic option for a more intimate or budget-conscious celebration. Each one has its own distinct personality, just like you two.
Okay, Your Turn! What’s the Vibe?
So, there you have it! A deep dive into some of the best tools and specific spots to find amazing outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. Phew, that was a lot, I know. But hopefully, seeing everything laid out like this makes the whole process feel way less daunting and a lot more exciting. We’ve covered everything from comprehensive directories like WeddingWire.ca and EventSource.ca, which are perfect for casting a wide net, to more niche platforms like Peerspace and Giggster for finding those truly unique, off-the-beaten-path gems.
We also looked at iconic, standalone venues that offer a complete, curated experience. Think about the rustic-industrial magic of Evergreen Brick Works or the literal fairytale setting of Casa Loma. And let's not forget the simple, natural beauty offered by the City of Toronto’s own parks and gardens, a fantastic option for a more intimate or budget-conscious celebration. Each one has its own distinct personality, just like you two.
So, What's Next? Your Venue-Hunting Action Plan
Feeling a little analysis paralysis? Totally normal. The best way to move forward is to get super clear on your vision first. Pour a glass of wine (or your beverage of choice!), sit down together, and really talk about the feeling you want your day to have.
Define Your Vibe: Are you dreaming of a sophisticated garden party, a chic urban oasis, or a relaxed, bohemian gathering? Write down 3-5 words that describe your ideal atmosphere. This will be your North Star.
Get Real About Your Guest List: Your guest count is the single biggest factor that will narrow down your venue options. Be realistic about this number before you start falling in love with a space that’s too small (or way too big!).
Set a Budget Baseline: Decide on a comfortable budget range for your venue, which typically accounts for about 40-50% of your total wedding budget. Knowing this number will help you filter your searches on sites like WeddingWire and save you from heartbreak later.
Create a Shortlist: Based on your vibe, guest count, and budget, pick your top 3-5 venues from this list to explore further. Don't overwhelm yourselves with too many choices at once.
Once you have your shortlist, it’s time for the fun part: outreach and site visits! This is when the vision really starts to feel real. When you visit, pay attention to how the space makes you feel. Can you picture your favourite people there, celebrating with you? Does the flow from the ceremony spot to the reception area make sense? What’s the backup plan for rain? (An absolute must-ask for any outdoor wedding venue in Toronto!).
Think about the entire guest experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. How will they get there? Is there ample parking, or is it easily accessible by transit or ride-share? On that note, planning the logistics of how your wedding party and key family members will travel can add a really seamless, elevated touch to the day. For a detailed breakdown of options, from classic limos to modern luxury cars, this is a great guide to finding the right luxury car rental for weddings. Getting these details sorted early on reduces stress and ensures everyone arrives in style and on time.
Ultimately, the most important thing is choosing a place that feels like you. This is the backdrop for one of the most memorable days of your lives, so it should resonate with your story and style. Trust your gut. If a venue gives you that "this is it!" feeling, it probably is. You've got this. ☺️
Now that you’re on your way to finding the perfect setting, the next step is finding a photographer who can capture the true vibe and energy of your day. At Eight Two Four, we’re all about documenting the real, unscripted moments against the beautiful backdrop you’ve so carefully chosen. If you’re looking for natural, candid imagery that feels authentic to you, I'd love to chat.