Exhibition Place is a 192-acre event complex on Toronto’s waterfront, at 100 Princes’ Blvd. Its calendar ranges from trade shows and concerts to sporting events at BMO Field; the grounds also include historic buildings, gardens and the Princes’ Gates. The Canadian National Exhibition brings carnival rides, food vendors, live music and parades in late summer. Take the GO train to Exhibition Station for direct access, and leave time to explore: the site is spread across a large area, with different events using different buildings and spaces.
A waterfront site with a long history
Exhibition Place occupies 192 acres on Toronto’s waterfront. Its history as an exhibition ground dates to 1879, when it was called the Toronto Industrial Exhibition and promoted agriculture and technology. The site has since been used for a range of purposes, including during the Second World War.
Today, the grounds combine event spaces, gardens and historic buildings. The complex is large, so the best route depends on what is happening during your visit and which venue you need to reach.
Buildings, gates and grounds
The Princes’ Gates are a notable landmark and a popular spot for photographs. Across the grounds, older buildings sit alongside venues with current uses. The former Automotive Building is now the Beanfield Centre, a conference venue described as Canada’s first LEED Silver-certified conference centre. The historic Stanley Barracks is another part of the site’s past.
BMO Field hosts sporting events, while the Enercare Centre is used for trade shows. Hotel X is also located at Exhibition Place. If you are visiting for a specific event, check its venue before setting off: the complex covers a wide area, and the different buildings are not interchangeable destinations.
Events through the year
Exhibition Place hosts events across the calendar, including the Toronto Honda Indy in July and the Canadian National Exhibition in late August. The CNE brings rides, food vendors and entertainment to the grounds, with parades and live music among the attractions. Other events, from concerts to trade shows, use different parts of the site.
The scale and atmosphere depend on the event. A fair day can mean crowds, queues and extra spending on food, games or rides. For a quieter visit, choose a day when a large public event is not taking place, if your plans allow.
Getting there and planning your visit
Exhibition Station on the GO train provides direct access to the grounds. Public transport can be a useful choice on event days, when traffic and paid parking add time and cost. The site also has paid parking lots and a garage, but check the arrangements for your particular event before driving.
Buy event tickets in advance when the organizer recommends it. Ride access and ticket arrangements can be separate, so confirm what your ticket covers before joining a queue. Bring a refillable water bottle; refill stations are available, and bottled drinks can cost more than bringing your own. A few snacks can also help keep spending down during a long day.
Häufige Fragen
How do you get to Exhibition Place by train?
Take the GO train to Exhibition Station, which provides direct access to the grounds.
What can you see at Exhibition Place?
The grounds include the Princes’ Gates, gardens, historic buildings, BMO Field and the Enercare Centre. What is open to visit depends on the event schedule.
When is the Canadian National Exhibition held?
The Canadian National Exhibition takes place in late August.
How long should you spend at Exhibition Place?
Allow 2 to 4 hours to explore, with more time if you are attending an event or visiting the Canadian National Exhibition.
