Located just 45 minutes east of Toronto, Cullen Gardens
and Miniature Village is one of Ontario’s premiere family
attractions. Tourists of all ages travel across Ontario to
enjoy the magnificent 35 acres of gardens, miniature world
and special attractions yearly.
The founder, Len Cullen, and his wife, traveled
extensively, visiting show gardens and tourist attractions
worldwide, gleaning ideas for their dream of transforming
their property in Whitby into spectacular gardens and a
miniature world. After several years of research and
preparation, they accomplished their dream and in 1980
opened their property to the public. Since then, Cullen
Gardens has grown immensely, adding new attractions every
year for both the young and old.
The Spring Festival attracts visitors with its 100,000+
tulip bulbs, daffodils, irises, and rhododendron bushes.
There’s also a rose show in the summer and chrysanthemum
show during the fall. Winter brings the festival of lights,
where the entire village is brilliantly lit by bulbs and
Christmas lights to celebrate the festive season. There are
several other special events throughout the year as well.
The Main Street is lined with 180 miniature buildings
that depict southern Ontario homes, shops, churches and
landmarks. Cottage country features miniature cottages,
resorts, and campgrounds, all surrounding a lake filled with
motorboats, sailboats and a ferry. The display is a striking
resemblance to Ontario’s northern Muskokas. While walking
throughout the village and cottage country, tourists will
also see miniature cars and a train that meanders its way
from urban to rural territory.
Children will especially enjoy the fun in the splash and
sprinkler pools, water slide, and playground. At the
playground kids can ride bikes, tricycles, and try Mr.
Cullen’s barn slide. For the entire family, there’s a
rustic wagon ride that takes passengers on a journey back in
time and an 18-hole miniature golf course.
Several informal and formal eating establishments and
gift shops are available at the Gardens. Visitors should
plan on trying The Cullen Gardens Restaurant, where they’ll
dine overlooking the entire miniature village. The views are
spectacular during the festival of lights in winter.
To get here: travel north on Brock Street to Taunton
Road. Turn west on Taunton Road and follow the signs to the
entrance.
