This weekend (May 25th and 26th), Doors Open Toronto gives you the chance to visit and explore some of the city’s most interesting buildings in ways that normally wouldn’t be possible. Every year, architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings are opened to the public for guided and self-guided tours. This year, more than 150 buildings will be open during the day on both Saturday and Sunday – find more details here.
Here are some highlights:
Old Favourites
- 401 Richmond – check out the amazing rooftop patio and gardens
- Wychwood Barns – Art and Farmer’s Market on Saturday
- Canada Life – special entrance to historic 17th floor observation room
- Rogers Studios – see the broadcast studios for City and OMNI Television
- Corus Quay – they have an indoor three story slide!
- Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre – the last remaining “double-decker” Edwardian theatre in the world
- Enoch Turner Schoolhouse – the oldest school in Toronto, built 1848
- MaRS Discovery District – get a sneak peek at Phase 2 tower at SE corner of College and University
- Old City Hall – see the original Council Chamber – now Courtroom 121
- Osgoode Hall – visit the beautiful Great Library and get your picture taken in a judge’s robe at the bench
- R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant – check out the Art Deco building that produces almost 1 billion litres of water per day
- City Hall – visit the Mayor’s Office, Council Chambers, and the 27th floor observation deck
- Lower Bay Subway Station – see the de-commissioned station where Total Recall and Resident Evil were filmed
New This Year
- Architect’s Studio Visits – visit the studios of 10 leading architecture firms in Toronto for some insight into the where and how of urban design
- Bridgepoint Hospital – check out the new Bridgepoint building with the incorporated historic Don Jail, preserved jail cells and gallows included
- Dineen Building – see the recently renewed Renaissance Revival building at Yonge and Temperance
- Mattamy Athletic Centre at the Gardens – sit in the bleachers at the arena where the Leafs won 11 Stanley Cups
- Munk School of Global Affairs – scout out U of T’s newest opening for cushy lounges for future use
- Queen’s Quay Construction Tour – venture behind the construction fence to glimpse some of the work underway for the waterfront’s revitalization
- Regent Park Aquatic Centre – bring your bathing suit for a tour of Toronto’s newest public pool, a beautiful addition to the Regent Park community
- Toronto Carpet Factory – check out this 114-year-old, formerly industrial loft building that now houses innovative new businesses in Liberty Village
- Toronto Police Marine Unit – see the police boats at one of the largest Marine Units in North America
Doors Open Toronto is an amazing opportunity to see some of the most beautiful (and usually inaccessible) buildings in the city. Enjoy and have a great weekend!
Kara
URSSU 