Situated on the southern slope of High Park, this Regency-style cottage is one of Toronto’s most picturesque historical venues. Built in 1837, it was originally the country home of Jemima and John Howard (one of Toronto’s first architects) and stood on a 165-acre plot of land that stretched from Bloor Street to the lakeshore. In 1873, Howard deeded a fraction of his land to the city, on the condition that it become a public park, and High Park was born. Today, tour guides in period costume lead you through the house. The main floor is filled with original mahogany furniture. A modern dwelling by 19th-century standards, its summer kitchen was equipped with an icebox, and it features a bathroom with an indoor shower and toilet. In the basement, you can check out the servants’ quarters.