Cloud Gardens & Graffiti Alley

Living in the middle of the concrete jungle of Manhattan, I frequently feel like I need to see some greenery and immerse myself in nature to recoup from the restlessness that is the busiest city in the world. In New York, quick escapes exist in the form of the various parks, smaller public outdoor areas, and your balcony (if you're lucky enough to have one) if you just want some empty alone space. 

In Toronto, I grew up uptown, which meant I had a backyard, and ravines and parks to walk and run in. I never thought about what green spaces were available in the downtown core - on this most recent visit back to the city however, I discovered a green oasis in the heart of downtown Toronto that's a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by more people. 

The 'Cloud Gardens' at Yonge and Richmond included an outdoor park as well as a greenhouse/conservatory that's more hidden from pedestrians' sight. There are several entrances and stairs to climb to get inside. Once side, you meet an eclectic collection of flora with a ramp wrapped around so you can walk through the dense Amazon-like greenery. 

Hover over image to shop the look

We walked around and examined some exotic plants and got some interior decorating ideas including ways to hang plants differently. Also involved was a spontaneous photoshoot amidst the greenery -- you can hover over the above photo to shop the items that I'm wearing. 

If you're looking for another place to avoid commerce and explore some 'raw' art, check out the famed Graffiti Alley, which hosts a wide variety of graffiti made by professional artists as well as passers-by. We thought it was grundgy yet inspirational. 

This ivy-covered house that has an alley underneath is one of the coolest buildings I've seen downtown. 

One of my favorite pieces of graffiti - fish playing poker. If I could, I would make this my wallpaper in my playroom (if I had a playroom). Such a whimsical piece of art! 

If you have any other ideas for green escapes in the city (whether Toronto or New York) please leave a comment below!