Enjoy playful family-friendly activities and behind-the-scenes access to City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square. Take in the inspiring views from the rarely open 27th floor Observation Deck and find out how municipal government works.
All visitors to City Hall must go through a security screening, which includes a walk-through metal detector. Pack light for speed of entry. Objects that could compromise safety and security are prohibited.
Enjoy a remarkable view of downtown from the 27th Floor Observation Deck of Toronto City Hall. The observation deck is only open to the public during Doors Open. Volunteers are available to answer questions and guide you through the space.
Access to this space is limited, so be aware that lining up is required. Take an elevator to the 25th floor and then climb an additional 15 stairs to reach the observation deck. Strollers are discouraged. Stroller parking is on the main floor before entering the elevators.
Those who cannot climb stairs and require accommodation may ask volunteers or event staff for access to a separate elevator that goes directly to the 27th floor.
10 a.m. to 4: 30 p.m.
Test your architectural creativity by building a piece of 2025 Paper City, a community art project led by the Toronto Society of Architects. Cut, colour and fold together to create your own unique structures. From soaring skyscrapers to domed libraries, the only limit is one’s imagination. Once crafted, volunteers will add your masterpiece into the growing, folded metropolis.
Discover what happens inside the round dome of City Hall. See the unique space where Toronto City Council gathers to make decisions on the issues of the day. Find out more about Council’s role in our local democracy through an interactive exhibit showcasing little-known stories about elected officials, community leaders, public figures and residents over the past 60 years. The exhibition features information about the Council Chamber, a photo booth and more.
If you have ever wondered who your City Councillor is, what City Council does and how local elections work, visit the east side of the Rotunda. See how a vote tabulator works, learn about the connection between your neighbourhood and your local government and add your mark to the visitor map.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Immerse yourself in Toronto’s amazing indie gaming culture by trying your hand at Torontrons, classic-style arcade games, developed by Toronto not-for-profit Hand Eye Society.
View the insignia of military units that have been based in Toronto and two new panels recognizing the historic and ongoing service of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit who defended Canada and upheld peace around the world.
Then, head up to the second floor to see the office of Toronto’s Mayor and explore the original furniture and art.
Saturday, May 24 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 25 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Drop into the City Hall Toronto Public Library branch for some origami fun. Experience the art of Japanese paper folding. This activity is suits school-age children and caregivers.
The Spirit Garden is a contemplative landscape dedicated to the Survivors of the Residential Schools. Go on a scheduled tour, register to attend an Indigenous storytelling workshop, or drop by and meet members of Toronto Council Fire Culture Centre.
Noon, 1 p.m. & 2 p.m.
Experience the installations of First Nations, Inuit and Métis artists at Toronto’s Spirit Garden, and learn about the Indigenous symbolism and storytelling that influenced the site’s design. The Spirit Garden is a contemplative landscape dedicated to the Survivors of the Residential Schools. 30-minute tours are led by Gow Hastings Architects.
11 a.m., noon & 1 p.m.
Join a storytelling workshop about the rich cultural knowledge and symbolism in the sacred Teaching Lodge. 45 minute tours are led by John Keeshig Mayawaasige, an Anishnaabe Knowledge Keeper. Registration is required.
Step back in time and discover the captivating history of Nathan Phillips Square and its surrounding neighbourhoods. Viewers will be transported to the bustling streets of 1900s Toronto through photographs from the Toronto Star archives and have a rare glimpse into a hidden history where every image tells a tale of resilience, urban evolution and the enduring spirit of Toronto.
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Explore your connections to nature, parks and wildlife in Toronto’s Green Playground. This interactive pop-up installation by the Museum of Toronto considers different ways Torontonians appreciate, experience and play in the city’s varied ecosystems. From beaches to dog parks and ravines, this city truly provides a natural playground for everyone.
Enjoy live performance by Toronto-based artists as part of City Hall Live.
11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
Chris Oday: Rousing music that blends soulful vocals and infectious beats.
2 & 3 p.m.
KaiTheeViolinist: Soulful contemporary violin music that uplifts.
11:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
Matias Recharte: Latin drum-set percussion and Afro-Peruvian music.
2 & 3 p.m.
THE Chmst: Alternative hip-hop and R&B trumpet music.
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Try sports activities with the Play Mobile, a brightly decorated van designed by Toronto artist Vivian Rosas. It’s stocked with sports equipment and accompanied knowledgeable staff who can show you how to play.
Visit the outdoor information booth where knowledgeable staff and volunteers are available to answer all Doors Open Toronto-related questions. Physical maps are available for you to begin your journey across the city.
