Partake in family-friendly activities and go behind-the-scenes at City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square.
Gain rare access to the Mayor’s Office, find out what happens inside the Council Chamber, explore the Hall of Memory and enjoy remarkable views from the 27th floor Observation Deck. Please note that some locations require attendees to line up prior to entry.
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.
One of the most popular spaces at City Hall, the observation deck is only open to the public during Doors Open. 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 not permitted and must be parked 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.
Explore where Toronto City Council gathers to discuss and pass by-laws. 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 a mock voting activity, photo booth and more.
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 complete with original furniture and art.
Times: 10 & 11 a.m., noon, 1, 2, 3 & 4 p.m. (rain or shine)
Embark on a 45-minute tour around Toronto City Hall, exploring the city’s architectural and cultural evolution while delving into the art that adorns the site.
Tourgoers will be transported back in time to uncover the hidden history of “The Ward,” a bustling, diverse neighbourhood that existed at the site prior to the construction of Nathan Phillips Square. Take a unique glimpse into the transformation of this Toronto locale and the poignant stories of its former inhabitants.
Ignite a spark to fall in love with Toronto for the first time, or all over again.
What are the key ingredients of a great city? How do we foster love for a place we call home?
Reflect on your connection to the city’s parks, green spaces and natural environments with this series of 36 participatory prompts. Get deep, have fun and be brutally honest about what you love or hate about Toronto and everything in between.
Inspired by the New York Times article “36 Questions That Lead to Love,” this interactive installation, developed by the Museum of Toronto.
Gaze upon nine portraits by Toronto Photo Laureate Nadya Kwandibens at this striking exhibition.
Nadya is an award-winning Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) portrait and events photographer from the Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation in northwestern Ontario.
The Red Chair Sessions is a portraiture series that places importance on the acknowledgement and reclamation of Indigenous lands and the revitalization of Indigenous languages. This series ultimately disrupts colonial narratives, centres Indigenous Peoples who have been here since time immemorial, and reminds viewers that we are all guests on Indigenous land.
Snap a photo with the iconic Scarborough Sign in the downtown core as a symbol of the more than 25 years since the amalgamation of greater Toronto. The life-sized Scarborough sign, created by Scarborough Arts, travels to neighbourhoods across Scarborough, but this is its first-time visiting Nathan Phillips Square. At each stop, it displays art works by local artists, collectives and residents.
The Scarborough Sign currently features artwork titled “Things that Go Bump in the Night”, which embraces the horror genre to celebrate Scarborough’s 2SLGBTQ+ community. It was painted by 2SLGBTQ+ EAST H.E.A.R.T. youth participants, and developed and facilitated by artist Jared Oslever.
