Indoor gardens in and around Toronto are a welcome respite from the cold weather. These foliage filled havens offer a much needed contrast to the snowy streets of the city in the winter, but can still be enjoyed when the temperature rises above zero.

Here are my picks for the top indoor gardens in and around Toronto.

Allan Gardens
Built in 1910, Allan Gardens has established itself as a landmark in the city. Inside are six greenhouses, each suited to the plants within - from tropical flowers to cacti. Open 365 days a year, this conservatory allows you to experience the joys of greenery even on the dreariest days. It also hosts flower shows every season, if you're looking to discover flowers outside the permanent collection.

Cloud Gardens
Cloud Gardens Conservatory, located in the heart of the Financial District, offers a much needed retreat from office towers and traffic-filled streets of downtown Toronto. Its lone greenhouse mimics the cool, moist conditions of a rainforest and houses tree ferns, palms, cacti and a waterfall.

Centennial Park Conservatory
This Etobicoke conservatory is an expansive 12,000 foot green space. Separated into two greenhouses - a tropical house and an arid house - it's fit to house everything from agave to orchids. The flora and fauna is in good company, as the conservatory is also home to turtles, birds, fish and more.

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
If you want to see more than just plants, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is where to go. While the almost 11,000 square foot tropical greenhouse is home to dragon wing begonias, starfruit, arabian jasmine, and more, it's also home to a huge population of butterflies roaming the grounds along with a birds and insects.

Royal Botanical Gardens
These gardens in Burlington are definitely worth the trip to Halton. The protected area takes up 2,400 acres of land, making it exponentially larger than any Toronto conservatory. The indoor gardens house papyrus, olive trees, cork oaks, and more. If the weather isn't bad, explore the expansive scenic grounds, with plenty of fountains, paths, and plants.

What did I miss? Add your favourite indoor gardens in and around Toronto to the comments?