David Dunlap Observatory

When exploring the nooks and crannies of the bustling town of Richmond Hill, many folks overlook this small wooded park near the town's outskirts that houses a historic observatory.

This massive white dome used to be the second-largest telescope in the world when it was built in 1935, and remains the largest in Canada. 

From 1935 to 2007, the observatory was at the forefront of astronomical discoveries, notably Thomas Bolton's 1972 work confirming the existence of a black hole in the Cygnus X-1 system.

Since then, its been designated a National Historic Site by the federal government and hosts yearly astronomy programs and events, offering visitors public astronomy nights, educational programs, and hands-on activities, including a viewing through the observatory's 74-inch telescope. 

The complex is made up of two incredible buildings, the observatory and the administration building. Both structures are worth exploring, but the admin building is the real eye-catcher with its beautiful stonework and triple-domed roof.

Overall, this location is a pleasure to visit, not only for its incredible history, but also for its beautiful architecture.