It’s that time of the year folks, the time when we can access several buildings and spaces in our beloved city for free. Places that are either not usually open to the public or would otherwise charge an entry fee. Yes, Doors Open Toronto 2023 is almost here!
ICYMI, The Ontario Heritage Trust’s popular annual event, Doors Open Ontario is currently underway. And its Toronto leg, aka Doors Open Toronto, is taking place this May 27 & 28.
The theme of the event this year is City of Sound. And Torontonians are invited to examine the role that music and sound play within Toronto’s public spaces. There is a ton of special programming for the event including talks, guided neighborhood tours and programs that feature music and sound. All for FREE!
Given that Doors Open Toronto 2023 boasts over 140 Toronto buildings, we decided to round up our top 10 picks from the list. While it is our goal to check off as many of the buildings from the list as we can, we curated this top 10 guide for those who deem it impossible to get through the whole list.
Below are 10 culture and history-loaded Toronto buildings you absolutely have to check out this year—
City of Toronto Archives
History enthusiasts, get ready to step back in time at the City of Toronto Archives and dive into the rich history of the city. Explore captivating exhibits, rare photographs, and historical documents that tell the story of Toronto’s vibrant past. And you get to do this with original archival documents. Plus, you can also enjoy their feature exhibition, Black Women in Leadership.
Fire Stations
This one is fun for the whole fam. Bring your little ones to the Fire Stations and let them experience the excitement of being a firefighter. You’ll have a blast exploring fire trucks, learning about fire safety, snapping a few selfies in the firetruck and maybe even trying on a firefighter’s helmet. There are four different fire stations open for Doors Open Toronto 2023 including Fire Station 131, 231, 334 and 415. Be sure to hit, at least, one of them.
Buddies in Bad Times Theatre
This historic building has taken on several different roles before becoming the largest and longest-running queer theatre in Canada. And you can celebrate diversity and creativity with LGBTQIA+ arts and culture. Explore the primary performance areas. Snap a selfie in the iconic poster-adorned dressing rooms. And engage in meaningful discussions on queer topics with the Youth/Elder Podcast.
Aga Khan Museum
TBH, the Aga Khan Museum (as pictured at the top of this article) is a great trip any day of the year, courtesy of its ginormous permanent collections of manuscripts, paintings, ceramics and textiles from the 9th to the 21st century. But for Doors Open Toronto 2023, the museum is hosting special tours, activities and programs throughout the building and its stunning park. Marvel at the contemporary art exhibitions and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding parkland, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere. Don’t forget to also check out the Ismaili Centre right next door.
Toronto Humane Society
Visit the Toronto Humane Society and make a furry friend or two. Discover heartwarming stories of rescue and rehabilitation and learn what goes on behind the scenes at Ontario’s largest animal shelter by way of their guided tours. And click as many adorable pics as you want. Who knows, you might even find your perfect companion to bring home.
Centre of Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Given that May is mental health awareness month, CAMH seems like the perfect addition to Doors Open Toronto 2023’s list. But there’s more to this trip than just exploring the resources and programs. Living up to this year’s City of Sound theme, the centre has organized a unique tour that lets you “experience the sounds of healing within their 170+ years-old historic walls.” You can register for free and tour the natural, park-like settings, attend musical performances and learn about the healing nature of music.
TTC Danforth Carhouse and Garage
Go behind the scenes of Toronto’s transit system at the TTC Danforth Carhouse and Garage. Despite the barn not being in service since 2005, it still holds its rich 87-year history. And you can explore the place with a self-guided tour, take a few good selfies in a vintage GM New Look bus and enjoy a BBQ lunch.
Meridian Arts Centre
This gorgeous theatre continues to maintain its unique and diverse community with its innovative-meets-traditional spirit. And for this year’s Doors Open event, they are happily opening doors to spaces that are not usually accessible to the public including their backstage spaces. There are also fun performances and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Scadding Cabin
Not many know but this is Toronto’s oldest surviving and first-ever architecturally preserved building. And you get a chance to transport yourself to the early days of the city and experience a piece of history firsthand for free. The cabin is furnished with furniture and artifacts from the 1790s to the 1850s. And there are costumed interpreters from the York Pioneer and Historical Society that help you learn about the early settlers and their way of life.
Photo by Andrew Williamson
Clark Centre for the Arts
This one is a true gem and practically hidden. This beautiful modern building is nestled within the scenic nature of Guild Park at the Scarbrough Bluffs. You can explore their latest photo exhibition, Weeping Willow and immerse yourself in the creative ambience of this newly established arts center. Their manicured grounds and sculpture garden are just as brilliant as the exhibits they display. So, be sure to spend some time there and sign up for a Guild Park tour.
There you have it, our top 10 picks from this year’s Doors Open event that are unmissable. Enjoy exploring these remarkable places!
DOORS OPEN TORONTO
When: Saturday, May 27 & Sunday, May 28, 2023
Where: click here for the full list of 140 sites to visit
Cost: FREE!
