Don Valley Brick Works Park

Don Valley Brick Works Park review

Don Valley Brick Works Park is one of the most important geological sites in North America: the layers of sedimentary rock found in the quarry walls help scientists study the Ice Age, the environment and climate change. The area was used centuries ago by indigenous communities as a source of clay, and between 1889 and 1984 the Don Valley Pressed Brick Works Company, one of Canada's biggest brickyards, operated here. It produced bricks that were used for some of the city's best-known buildings (Hart House, Casa Loma, Osgoode Hall and Old City Hall, among others).

It was only in 1995 that the park became a public space, and restoration of the site began. The old quarry has been transformed into a nature park featuring a wild-flower meadow and wetlands, paths and boardwalks - all ripe for exploring. Work is underway to convert the massive industrial buildings into a greenhouse and restaurant from the ubiquitous Jamie Kennedy.