Engagement Locations

At Indigo Love Studios, your love story deserves a setting as unique and breathtaking as your bond. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or a soulful elopement, Ontario offers no shortage of photo-worthy backdrops—some grand and iconic, others quiet and hidden in plain sight. After years behind the lens, we’ve gathered our favorite spots across the province, free and paid, to help you choose a place that speaks to your heart (and looks like magic on camera).

CNE Exhibitions

Style: Vibrant, Nostalgic

Permit: Not required

Area: Exhibition Place, Toronto

Brief Description: Best during the fair season for colorful and lively backdrops.

A couple dances together under a grand stone archway with ornate architectural details on a bright sunny day.

A couple dances together on a tiled patio, with her white dress flowing as they spin in black and white photography.

A woman in a cream colored slip dress poses against a textured stone wall while wearing strappy heeled sandals.

Financial District

Style: Modern, Urban

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Towering skyscrapers and sleek city architecture. Best during early mornings or weekends.

A romantic couple dances intimately in a dip pose at night against an illuminated office building backdrop.

A couple in formal wedding attire walks together outside city buildings during golden hour.

Couple in wedding attire embrace on city street as red streetcar passes in urban setting.

Union Station

Style: Historic, Elegant

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Iconic grand architecture, perfect for timeless photos.

A wedding couple stands dramatically between large stone columns at dusk with a warm glowing lantern above.

A romantic couple embraces in front of urban architecture, wearing white clothing in a tender moment together.

Romantic couple embracing in downtown Toronto with the iconic CN Tower and modern skyscrapers in the background.

ROYAL FAIRMONT

Style: Historic, Elegant

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Intricate architecture

A couple poses together outside a historic building with arched windows and Canadian flags hanging from the facade.

A romantic couple in formal attire embraces on a city street with historic architecture in the background.

Black and white photo of a couple holding hands in front of an elegant building facade with American flags and ornate details.

Osgoode Hall

Style: Neoclassical, Elegant

Permit: Not required (restricted areas apply)

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Stunning gardens and classic architecture.

Grand neoclassical building with ornate columns and arched windows frames a couple standing in the elegant entrance doorway.

Black and white architectural photograph of two figures standing against a classical building with columns and arched windows.

A romantic couple embraces against a backdrop of blooming white flowers in a dreamy spring garden setting.

The Esplanade

Style: Urban, Historic

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: A lively street with unique backdrops, close to St. Lawrence Market.

A couple poses together on a city sidewalk, with her wearing a flowing white dress and him in business casual attire.

Elegant colonnade with stone arches and hanging lanterns creates a romantic architectural walkway.

Black and white portrait of someone wearing heart-shaped sunglasses peeking above white fluffy fabric.

Kensington Market

Style: Bohemian, Colorful

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Vibrant murals, vintage shops, and an artsy atmosphere.

St. Lawrence Market & Flat Iron Building

Style: Historic, Urban

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: A mix of old-world charm and city life.

A romantic scene in front of the historic Flatiron style building in Boston with pedestrians walking by in black and white.

Historic brick building with arched windows on Lower Jarvis Street in downtown Toronto with modern skyscrapers in background.

A couple in wedding attire share a romantic moment on a city street with a red brick building and fire escape in background.

James Gardens

Style: Scenic, Romantic

Permit: Not required

Area: Etobicoke

Brief Description: Beautiful gardens, bridges, and a pond for outdoor shoots.

Two people sharing a romantic moment under a Spanish moss-draped tree on an autumn day in an urban park setting.

Couple sits on stone fountain ledge in park during autumn with lantern post and fall foliage in background.

Two people stand beneath a golden autumn tree in front of a Gothic-style church with fallen leaves scattered on the ground.

Harbourfront & Waterfront

Style: Scenic, Modern

Permit: Not required

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Lakeside skyline views, best at sunset.

A couple embraces on a wooden dock overlooking a misty lake with boats in the distance on an overcast day.

A couple stands by the waterfront in black and white, with a woman in white dress and a man in a white shirt.

A romantic black and white photo of a couple embracing on a dock with city buildings in the background.

Humber Bay Arch Bridge

Style: Modern, Scenic

Permit: Not required

Area: Etobicoke

Brief Description: A contemporary bridge with stunning waterfront views.

Black and white photo of a joyful couple playing around near a lake, with one person lifting the other on the shore.

A romantic couple embraces under a cloudy sky as a lone bird soars above them.

A couple sharing a romantic moment while leaning against the railing of a modern bridge with geometric architectural details.

R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant

Style: Industrial, Architectural

Permit: Not required

Area: The Beaches, Toronto

Brief Description: Art Deco-style architecture with a unique backdrop.

A couple holding hands walks along a sunlit path during golden hour casting long shadows on the concrete.

A romantic couple embraces in front of a grand arched stone monument with cream-colored walls and architectural details.

A couple shares a romantic moment on rocky beach during sunset, both barefoot with waves lapping at their feet.

Toronto Carpet Factory

Style: Industrial, Vintage

Permit: Not required

Area: Liberty Village

Brief Description: Rustic red brick buildings with charming alleyways.

A couple poses together on their wedding day, wearing a classic navy suit and an elegant lace wedding gown with train.

A bride in a flowing white dress and groom in dark suit walk hand in hand through brick lined urban streets.

A romantic wedding photo of a couple embracing against a brick wall with vintage Toronto Carpet Factory signage.

Peterborough Rogue Beach

Style: Beachfront, Serene

Permit: Not required

Area: Peterborough

Brief Description: A quiet waterfront with beautiful sandy shores.

A romantic coastal embrace under pine branches as couple in contrasting black dress and light suit share an intimate moment.

Two people stand near a green and white lighthouse tower along a concrete pier on a sunny day by the ocean.

Two silhouettes holding hands while standing at the ocean's edge in a black and white photograph.

Scarborough Bluffs

Style: Dramatic, Scenic

Permit: Not required

Area: Scarborough

Brief Description: Towering cliffs and breathtaking lake views.

Couple embraces on a misty beach during sunset with a seabird flying overhead and shoreline visible in background.

A romantic silhouette of a couple embracing in warm sunlight, with lens flare creating a dreamy atmosphere.

A couple in white clothing walking along a beach shore in black and white photography.

Kortright Conservation Area(Secret Free Spot!)

Style: Nature, Forest

Permit: Not required (if accessed via secret spot)

Area: Vaughan

Brief Description: Wooded trails and lush greenery.

A couple sits together in tall autumn grass wearing casual clothing while relaxing in a dreamy outdoor setting.

An intimate black and white moment showing two people embracing in a tender close-up.

A couple walking and laughing together on a path during autumn with fall foliage in the background.

Elora Downtown

Style: Historic, Charming

Permit: Not required

Area: Elora

Brief Description: Stone buildings, cozy cafés, and picturesque streets.

A black and white photograph of a couple walking in front of a historic stone building with "Brick House" text above.

A couple leans on a white stone balustrade in front of Victorian houses and power lines on a residential street.

A couple in formal attire walks along a bridge railing with vintage street lamps on a sunny day, captured in black and white.

Scottsdale Farm

Style: Rustic, Countryside

Permit: Not required

Area: Halton Hills

Brief Description: Historic barns, open fields, and serene rural landscapes.

A couple in white sits together on a lush green hillside during a romantic summer photoshoot in a rural setting.

A couple dances together in a sunlit meadow, with the person in white twirling under their partner's arm.

Two people sit in a blooming meadow with a black and white dog against a backdrop of evergreen trees.

300 Randall Street, OAKVILLE

Style: Architectural, Urban

Permit: Not required

Area: Burlington

Brief Description: Beautiful street with unique building designs.

A couple poses with a vintage black car in front of an elegant building at 300 Randall Street.

A happy couple in wedding attire joyfully poses while walking down a city street in black and white photography.

Two stylishly dressed individuals stand on a city sidewalk in front of a white building with archways.

Paletta Mansion

Style: Romantic, Historic

Permit: Not required

Area: Burlington

Brief Description: A stunning lakeside mansion with picturesque gardens

A blurry black and white photo of two people dancing together on a beach at sunset.

Silhouette of two people dancing on a rocky cliff overlooking a serene body of water at sunset.

A couple stands hand in hand on the steps of an elegant stone mansion with arched doorway and decorative architecture.

University of Guelph

Style: Historic, Collegiate, Architectural

Permit Fee: Free

Area, Guelph, On

Brief Description: A mix of historic stone buildings, tree-lined pathways, and lush gardens. Plus, it's one of the few free university locations in Ontario!

A vintage-style romantic embrace on stone church steps in front of an ornate gothic archway and wooden door.

Two people run playfully across a grassy field on an autumn day with evergreen trees in the background.

A couple stands together on a curved concrete staircase leading to a stone church entrance with wooden doors.

Dundurn Castle

Style: Grand, Historic, European-Inspired

Permit Fee: Free if under 10 people

Area: Hamilton, ON

Brief Description: Dundurn Castle offers a majestic backdrop with its grand pillars, historic charm, and beautiful gardens. This 19th-century estate has an old-world European feel, making it an excellent choice for couples who love classic, regal settings.

Couple embraces on an elegant porch with classical columns and French doors of a historic building.

Black and white wedding photo of a couple holding hands outside a church with a white bell tower.

A couple poses elegantly against a grand stone tower with tall glass windows in an architectural styled photoshoot.

Spencer Smith Trail

Style: Waterfront, Nature, Urban Mix

Permit Fee: Free

Area: Burlington, ON

Brief Description: Located along Burlington’s waterfront, the Spencer Smith Trail offers scenic views of Lake Ontario, a charming boardwalk, and beautiful gardens. It’s perfect for couples looking for a mix of urban and natural elements with a relaxed, outdoor feel.

A couple walks along a waterfront path with high-rise buildings and bare trees visible in the black and white cityscape.

A romantic black and white photo of a couple embracing on rocky shoreline with ocean waves in the background.

A black and white photo of a couple walking hand in hand on a paved plaza with high-rise buildings in the background.

David Dunlap Observatory

Style: Unique, Celestial, Historic

Permit Fee: Free

Area: Richmond Hill, ON

Brief Description: One of the most unique engagement shoot locations, the David Dunlap Observatory features a massive telescope dome, open fields, and a vintage observatory building. If you're looking for a location with a celestial touch, this is the perfect spot!

Cherry Beach

Style: Beach, Natural, Romantic

Permit Fee: Free

Location: Toronto, ON

Brief Description: A quiet lakeside escape just minutes from downtown Toronto, Cherry Beach offers soft sandy shores, lush greenery, and stunning sunset views. It’s an ideal spot for couples who want a laid-back, romantic beach session without leaving the city.

A couple embraces on a beach at sunset, with one wearing a red polka dot dress as her hair flows in the wind.

A couple embraces in front of a rustic house with a bright red jacket hanging on the wall.

A sailboat glides across the lake while two people wade in the water, with one wearing a vibrant red gown.

Fort Mississauga (Niagara-on-the-Lake)

Style: Historic, Rustic, Scenic

Permit Fee: Free

Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Brief Description: Fort Mississauga offers a unique blend of historic architecture and beautiful lake views. The stone fort, wooden doors, and open green space provide a rustic yet romantic setting for engagement photos.

A couple embraces and laughs together while wearing cozy sweaters outdoors on an autumn day.

A romantic black and white photo of a couple sharing an intimate embrace outdoors with wind-blown hair.

Two people spending intimate time together on a sandy lakeshore during autumn with bare trees and water in background.

Music Gardens

Style: Urban Garden, Romantic, Natural

Permit Fee: Free

Location: Toronto, ON

Brief Description: Inspired by Bach’s classical music, the Toronto Music Gardens is a beautifully landscaped park with winding paths, lush gardens, and a waterfront view. It’s a wonderful choice for couples who want a soft, romantic outdoor setting in the heart of the city.

A romantic couple sits together on a large rock beneath a cascading willow tree in a dreamy garden setting.

A couple sits on outdoor steps in Toronto with the CN Tower visible in the background on a cloudy day.

A couple in floral outfits sits on a stone pathway in a garden setting with drooping willow trees and grass.

Aga Khan Museum

Style: Modern, Architectural

Permit: $325 (weekdays), $425 (weekends)

Area: North York

Brief Description: Stunning minimalist architecture with a peaceful ambiance.

An elegant South Asian outfit in beige with intricate embroidery photographed in front of a modern glass pyramid structure.

Modern glass pyramid structure reflects in still water pond surrounded by blooming purple flowers against blue sky.

Black and white portrait of a bride in traditional South Asian bridal attire with ornate jewelry and veil by a reflective pond.

Casa Loma

Style: Fairytale, Historic

Permit: $1000 for 2 hours (varies by time)

Area: Midtown Toronto

Brief Description: A grand castle with elegant gardens and gothic interiors

Two figures in black outfits pose beside an ornate fireplace with crystal chandelier in a luxurious historic room.

A romantic black and white moment between two people on a balcony with a castle turret in the background.

Two silhouettes stand at a large gridded window in black and white, with light streaming through the panes.

University of Toronto

Style: Historic, Academic

Permit: $65/hr (alumni), $130/hr (non-alumni) for indoor shoots

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: Historic campus buildings with ivy-covered walls.

A stone building covered in autumn ivy with someone in a red dress sitting on outdoor steps.

A couple embraces on stone steps in front of an ornate door with autumn ivy framing the romantic architectural scene.

Three people stand beneath a snowy Gothic stone archway on a winter day, framed by falling snow and historic architecture.

Parkwood Estates

Style: Vintage, Luxurious

Permit: $400 (indoor & outdoor), $300 (outdoor only)

Area: Oshawa

Brief Description: A grand estate with manicured gardens and elegant interiors

Two people walking hand-in-hand across a manicured garden lawn with stone architecture and landscaped hedges.

A couple embraces on a concrete terrace surrounded by trees and architecture on a cloudy day.

A bride and groom pose elegantly by a reflective pool at an elegant outdoor garden venue with manicured landscaping.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Style: Botanical, Romantic

Permit: ~$275

Area: Burlington

Brief Description: Lush gardens with vibrant floral backdrops

A romantic moment shared between a couple near lush tropical foliage with banana leaves in the background.

A couple stands together holding skateboards against a colorful mural wall featuring vintage roses and decorative designs.

Elegant white off-shoulder gown photographed in a lush garden setting with stone pathway and tropical foliage.

Knox College

Style: Gothic, Historic

Permit: $450 for 2 hours

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: A stunning medieval-style corridor and courtyard.

Two people in formal attire stand in an elegant arched corridor with vaulted ceilings and hanging greenery decor.

Two people walk along a stone pathway wearing contrasting formal outfits of black and white near a historic building.

Elegant gothic architecture with vaulted ceilings and stone staircase in a historic building interior.

Niagara Botanical Gardens

Style: Scenic, Floral

Permit: Check with Niagara Parks

Area: Niagara Falls

Brief Description: Expansive gardens with seasonal blooms.

HART HOUSE

Style: Historic, Architectural

Permit: $400 for 2 hours

Area: Downtown Toronto

Brief Description: A stunning medieval-style corridor and historic ambiance

Two people stand in a dramatic black and white portrait near large windows in a historic interior hallway.

A couple stands in a dimly lit stairwell with exposed brick walls and wooden beams overhead.

A romantic black and white photograph showing a couple embracing on elegant stone stairs beneath a Gothic arched ceiling.

Konzelmann Estate Winery

Style: Vineyard, Elegant, Romantic

Permit Fee: $199 for 1.5 hours, $299 for 3 hours

Area: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Brief Description: Rolling vineyards and stunning lake views, rustic stone buildings, and breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for a warm, intimate shoot.

Elegant couple in formal attire poses in front of an arched stone doorway with autumn leaves overhead.

A romantic couple in an intimate embrace share a tender moment, with soft lighting creating a dreamy atmosphere.

Romantic couple embraces during golden hour sunset on grassy hillside in intimate silhouette against warm sky.

Ruthven Park

Style: Historic Estate, Countryside, Elegant

Permit Fee: $100 per hour (Regular Business Hours), $150 per hour (After Hours)

Area: Cayuga, ON

Brief Description: Stunning 19th-century mansion, open fields, and historic architecture. The estate offers a beautiful blend of nature and history, making it a perfect location for couples looking for a timeless and elegant engagement session.

An ornate stone garden statue stands in foreground while a couple in white outfits strolls on a grassy lawn among trees.

Historic mansion with neoclassical columns and portico features flowering gardens and a large oak tree against a cloudy sky.

Couple sitting on grass in front of a grand neoclassical building with towering white columns and stone facade at dusk.

Sunnyside Pavilion

Style: Elegant, Waterfront, Historic

Permit Fee: $169.95 for 2 hours

Location: Toronto, ON

Brief Description: This historic lakeside pavilion exudes European charm with its white columns, elegant archways, and breathtaking waterfront views. It’s an excellent choice for couples who want a sophisticated yet relaxed engagement shoot by the water.