Toronto is a city of gardens, but this one along Toronto’s waterfront is a favorite of many locals. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma and landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy created the Toronto Music Garden to invoke Bach’s “The First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello.” The prelude is represented by the undulating curves of a riverscape; the allemande by a forest grove that’s filled with wandering trails; the courante by a swirling path through wildflowers; the menuett by a pavilion of formally arranged flowerbeds; and finally the gigue, with giant grass steps that lead you back to the real world. It’s tough to translate the experience into words, but the music garden is a don’t-miss spot if you visit Toronto in warm weather.

Music Alfresco—The Toronto Music Garden hosts some of the city's best summer concerts. From late June to mid-September, you can count on listening to live music here every Thursday at 7pm and on Sunday at 4pm. Sometimes, you'll hear classical music -- especially by the baroque composers -- but the programs are rather eclectic. Recent offerings have included Spanish flamenco music and traditional Chinese melodies. All performances are free.