Station de traitement des eaux de RC Harris - Scarborough, Ontario

Zubair M. I.

The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant is one of Toronto’s most underrated gems. Despite being a functioning facility, the surrounding grounds are incredibly scenic, peaceful, and family-friendly. The area is filled with lush greenery, wide open lawns, and mature trees perfect for a picnic, an afternoon walk, or just relaxing with a good view of Lake Ontario.

What makes it even more special is the stunning Art Deco architecture of the plant itself. It adds character and history to the space, making it feel like more than just a park it’s part of the city’s heritage. There’s plenty of room for kids to play, and the whole environment feels clean, open, and safe.

One of my favorite parts was the small beach access. It’s not a large sandy beach, but it’s peaceful and quiet a great place to sit by the water, skip stones, or enjoy the view. It’s the kind of place where you can really slow down and enjoy nature without the crowds.

Overall, this spot is perfect for a laid-back weekend outing. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want a peaceful place to unwind with family or friends, the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant is absolutely worth the visit.

Jaivik T.

Surprisingly scenic for a utility site! The RC Water Treatment Plant offers a peaceful and refreshing environment surrounded by nature. It’s a great spot to sit, relax, and soak in the calmness — perfect for a quiet solo escape or a chill hangout with friends and family.

There’s plenty of roadside parking, and you can even find free spots if you’re willing to park along the nearby streets. Another bonus: a few cozy cafes are just around the corner, making it easy to grab a drink or a bite after your visit.

Definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area and looking for a serene place to unwind.

Kiran P.

The water treatment plant in Toronto is located in an incredibly beautiful area—open, spacious, and perfect for taking in the scenic views. On the day I visited, the weather was lovely: clear skies, the sun was out, and a refreshing breeze made it a great spot to chill and relax. However, one major downside was the overwhelming number of mosquitoes. There were swarms—huge ones—and it definitely made the experience uncomfortable. I’m not sure if it's always like that, but it was intense during my visit. Still, the peaceful surroundings and vast open space make it worth visiting—just come prepared with bug spray!

Neelam R.

The architecture is absolutely stunning, with its grand Art Deco design and historic charm. The location by the lake makes it even more picturesque, offering breathtaking views of the water. It’s a great spot for photography, a peaceful walk, or just admiring one of the city’s most beautiful and essential landmarks.

Definitely worth a visit!

Apple H.

This place is really relaxing, perfect for enjoying the breeze and the famous views of Lake Ontario.

It’s also great for taking photos and social media posts. There’s also a small beach nearby, which is nice for taking photos.

The area isn’t very big, and there’s no dedicated parking lot, so you’ll need to find street parking, which can be limited.

On the day we visited, we couldn’t go indoors, and there weren’t any restrooms nearby. It’s a good idea to use the restroom before you arrive.

Manish S.

“The area around RC Harris has peaceful walking trails, the soft sounds of waves, and open grassy spots perfect for a quiet sit or a cute picnic. From the upper level, you get panoramic lake views that look magical during sunrise or golden hour. The bold, elegant architecture and the contrast between stone and water make it pure photo heaven.
Tip: There are no public restrooms at RC Harris, so it’s smart to go before you leave home! If needed, cozy cafés along Queen Street East are just a short walk away.”
Ig - @touring_heart

Aditi N.

I loved doing our pre-wedding shoot here but the water quality of the lake is concerning. We saw lots of fishes dying, and these were not Salmons or fishes that naturally die off. Watching the amount of dead fish there was very alarming. I hope the residents are staying safe keeping dogs and kids away from water.

When it comes to photography though! What a GEM of a place, love the European fountains as well!

Ajitha Y.

Peaceful place and most appropriate place for biking, walking, retrospect life. Visitors, please don’t make this place noisy and help to maintain the peace this place holds.