Why was Ontario Place built?


Why was Ontario Place built? Creating a new urban amenity was envisioned as a celebration of Ontario's cultural and economic achievement, in the spirit of civic competition, after Expo 67 captured the world's attention on behalf of Toronto's rival city of Montréal.


Can you walk through Ontario Place?

There is no admission to walk through Ontario Place. We are a public park with year round activities (some rental fees may apply) and events. For more information on how to get here, please check our Visit Us page.


What was Ontario Place built for?

Creating a new urban amenity was envisioned as a celebration of Ontario's cultural and economic achievement, in the spirit of civic competition, after Expo 67 captured the world's attention on behalf of Toronto's rival city of Montréal.


Why is it called Ontario?

The word “Ontario” comes from the Iroquois word “kanadario”, meaning “sparkling” water. The province is well named, since lakes and rivers make up one-fifth of its area. In 1641, “Ontario” described the land along the north shore of the easternmost part of the Great Lakes.


What is the history of Ontario Place?

It opened on May 22, 1971, and operated as a theme park centered around Ontario themes and family attractions until 2012 when the Government of Ontario announced that it would close for redevelopment. It has since reopened as a park without admission but without several of the old attractions.


Why is the Ontario Place important?

Designed originally to promote the Province of Ontario through exhibits and entertainment, its focus changed over time to be that of a theme park for families with a water park, a children's play area, and amusement rides. Exhibits in the pods were discontinued and the pods became a venue for private events.


When did Ontario Place shut down?

Ontario Place is an entertainment venue, event venue, and park in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The venue is located on three artificial landscaped islands just off-shore in Lake Ontario, south of Exhibition Place, and southwest of Downtown Toronto.


Why was Ontario Place shut down?

The whole point is to bring the masses back to Ontario Place, which the government closed in 2012 after years of decay and declining attendance.


Who created Ontario Place?

The design was entrusted to architect Eberhard Zeidler and landscape architect Michael Hough, who envisioned an expansive park on artificial islands rising out of Lake Ontario.


What is going to happen to Ontario Place?

Ontario Place to have 43 acres of public space Surma said the reimagined Ontario Place, which was decommissioned in 2012, will feature more than 40 acres of public space, with new trails, parkland, picnic areas, lookout points, event spaces, and better access to beaches and swimming areas.


What is Ontario Place?

Ontario Place is an entertainment venue, event venue, and park in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The venue is located on three artificial landscaped islands just off-shore in Lake Ontario, south of Exhibition Place, and southwest of Downtown Toronto.