Allan Gardens -- George William Allan gave the city these gardens. He was born in 1822 into a wealthy merchant-banking family, and part of his vast estate was the land stretching from Carlton Street to Bloor Street between Jarvis and Sherbourne in downtown. A lawyer by training, he became a city councilor, mayor, senator, and philanthropist. The stunning glass-domed conservatory dates back to 1910 and contains six greenhouses that cover 1,486 sq. m (16,000 sq. ft.). They are filled with colorful flora from around the world. The outdoor park is rather seedy and should be avoided after sunset.