Visit the Toronto City Hall

Claim to Fame

Toronto City Hall is one of the city's most iconic architectural landmarks, instantly recognizable by its twin curved towers embracing a central dome and the adjacent Nathan Phillips Square.

📌 Navigating Toronto City Hall : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Accessible washroom facilities are available inside City Hall for visitors and staff.
Hours of Operation: City Hall is open to the public during regular business hours, typically from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays, but public access areas may have different hours.
Important Information: Toronto City Hall, with its iconic modernist architecture, is a landmark of the city, hosting various cultural events and offering a public space for residents and visitors alike.
Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to enter City Hall or Nathan Phillips Square, but some events hosted at the square may have fees.
How Long to Visit: The time spent at City Hall can vary, from a quick visit to view the architecture to several hours if attending an event or exploring the square.
Parking: Parking is available at Toronto City Hall in the underground lot, with additional parking nearby. Given its central location, public transportation is highly recommended.
Family Friendly: The building and its surroundings are family-friendly, with open public spaces and events that cater to all ages.
Photography: Photography is permitted in public areas of City Hall and at Nathan Phillips Square, but restrictions may apply in certain areas or during specific events.
WIFI: Public WIFI is available in the square and public areas within City Hall.
Picnic Area: Picnic areas are not designated, but the square provides ample space for outdoor seating and eating, especially during warmer months.
Handicap Accessible: City Hall is accessible, offering wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible washrooms to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Pets: Pets are allowed in the outdoor public areas but are not permitted inside the building, except for service animals.
Guided Tours: Guided tours of City Hall are available, offering insights into the architecture, history, and functions of the municipal government.
Restaurant or Cafe: While there are no dining facilities inside City Hall, numerous restaurants and food trucks are typically available around Nathan Phillips Square.
Gift Shop: City Hall does not have a gift shop, but Toronto-themed souvenirs can be found in nearby shops.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Toronto City Hall

Toronto City Hall stands as a bold symbol of civic pride and futuristic design. Completed in 1965, it replaced the Old City Hall and quickly became a modernist icon in the heart of the city. Visitors come not only for its striking architecture but also to enjoy events, public art, and the ever-popular Nathan Phillips Square — a year-round gathering place that transforms with the seasons.

Whether it's catching a protest, skating in winter, or relaxing by the reflecting pool in summer, the space around City Hall is as much a part of the attraction as the building itself.

What to Expect

The two towers of City Hall curve around a central council chamber, creating one of the most recognizable skylines in Canada. The site includes a publicly accessible podium, rooftop gardens, and a spacious plaza for concerts, art installations, and festivals. Inside, you’ll find council chambers, offices, and art displays that reflect Toronto’s diversity and civic history.

Nathan Phillips Square, directly in front, features the iconic TORONTO sign — one of the most photographed landmarks in the city — as well as the Peace Garden, fountains, and a skating rink during the winter months.

Background and Cultural Context

Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, Toronto City Hall was a departure from classical civic architecture. Its innovative, curving towers and UFO-like council chamber drew praise from around the world and signaled Toronto’s ambitions as a modern metropolis.

The surrounding square was named after former mayor Nathan Phillips, a progressive leader and advocate for multiculturalism in the mid-20th century. Together, the building and square embody both design innovation and civic inclusivity.

Best Time to Visit

Visit during the day for tours and architectural views, or come at night to see the TORONTO sign lit up. Winter brings the outdoor skating rink to life, while summer features festivals, concerts, and public markets.

How to Get There

Toronto City Hall is located at 100 Queen Street West. It’s easily accessible by subway — Queen Station and Osgoode Station are both a short walk away. Multiple streetcar lines also stop nearby.

Photo Opportunities

The curved twin towers from the square below
The TORONTO sign in front of the reflecting pool
Nighttime shots of the square when illuminated
Winter ice skating scenes or summer event crowds

Travel Tips

Free tours of the City Hall interior are occasionally available — check the official site for dates.
The Peace Garden is a quiet spot for reflection amid the urban energy.
Great food trucks and vendors often line the square during events and weekends.

FAQs

Is Toronto City Hall open to the public?
Yes — while some areas are for staff only, public areas, exhibitions, and council sessions are generally open during business hours.

Is Nathan Phillips Square wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the square and surrounding areas are fully accessible.

Can I skate at the rink in winter?
Yes — the rink is free and open to the public, with skate rentals available on-site.

Final Thoughts

Toronto City Hall is more than just a government building — it’s a symbol of the city's spirit and a lively center for public life. Whether you're admiring its design, attending a civic event, or snapping a selfie at the TORONTO sign, it’s a memorable part of any visit to the city.

Things To Do near Toronto City Hall

Art Gallery of Ontario

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Art Gallery of Ontario is 1.1 Kilometer(s) / 0.7 Mile(s)

Entertainment District

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Entertainment District is 1.4 Kilometer(s) / 0.9 Mile(s)

St. Lawrence Market

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to St. Lawrence Market is 1.8 Kilometer(s) / 1.1 Mile(s)

CN Tower

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to CN Tower is 1.9 Kilometer(s) / 1.2 Mile(s)

Royal Ontario Museum

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Royal Ontario Museum is 2.9 Kilometer(s) / 1.8 Mile(s)

Distillery Historic District

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Distillery Historic District is 3.2 Kilometer(s) / 2 Mile(s)

Toronto Islands

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Toronto Islands is 4.5 Kilometer(s) / 2.8 Mile(s)

Casa Loma

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Casa Loma is 5.5 Kilometer(s) / 3.4 Mile(s)

Ontario Science Centre

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Ontario Science Centre is 12.7 Kilometer(s) / 7.9 Mile(s)

Toronto Zoo

The Distance from Toronto City Hall to Toronto Zoo is 39.8 Kilometer(s) / 24.7 Mile(s)

📘 Toronto Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Toronto operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC -5. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), UTC -4.

Weather: Toronto has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Winter temperatures often fall below -5°C (23°F), with snowfall common from December to March. Summers can reach 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with occasional heatwaves.

Population: Toronto has a population of approximately 3 million people, making it the largest city in Canada. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is home to over 6 million residents. It is one of the most multicultural cities in the world.

Size: Toronto covers about 630 square kilometers (243 square miles) and lies along the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. It is part of the Golden Horseshoe, a densely populated region in southern Ontario.

Language: English is the primary language spoken in Toronto. However, over 160 languages are spoken due to the city’s diversity, with significant communities speaking Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi, Italian, and Tagalog.

Currency: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are commonly used in shops, restaurants, and public transit.

Safety: Toronto is considered one of the safest large cities in North America. Violent crime rates are low, though petty theft and occasional transit-related incidents may occur. Normal safety precautions are advised.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in Toronto. A 15–20% tip is expected in restaurants. It is also standard to tip taxi drivers, hotel staff, and service workers.

Electricity and Plugs: Canada uses 120V electricity at 60Hz. Plug types A and B are standard. Travelers from countries with different voltage standards should check compatibility and bring appropriate adapters.

Water: Tap water in Toronto is safe to drink and meets high-quality standards. The city’s water is sourced from Lake Ontario and undergoes strict treatment and testing.

Annual Visitors: Toronto receives over 27 million visitors annually. Popular attractions include the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Distillery District, Toronto Islands, and major sports and cultural events.

Visa Requirements: Visitors from the U.S., EU, UK, and many other countries can enter Canada visa-free for short stays, though most require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when flying in. A valid passport is required.

Health & Vaccinations: No vaccinations are required for entry into Canada. It’s recommended to be up to date on standard vaccines such as measles, flu, and tetanus. Toronto has excellent healthcare facilities.

Transportation: Toronto has an extensive public transit system, including subways, buses, and streetcars operated by the TTC. Taxis, rideshares, and bike-share services are widely available. Traffic can be congested during rush hours.

Food: Toronto’s food scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from global street food to high-end dining. Local favorites include peameal bacon sandwiches, butter tarts, and an array of ethnic cuisines from across the world.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Toronto is known for its politeness, multiculturalism, and inclusiveness. Queueing is expected, and casual greetings are common. Visitors should be respectful of cultural diversity and personal space.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, public libraries, and transit stations. Mobile coverage is strong, and local SIM cards or eSIM plans are available from Canadian carriers.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is recommended for visitors to Canada. While emergency healthcare is available, costs can be high for non-residents. Insurance can also cover delays, cancellations, and lost baggage.

Did You Know? - Facts About Toronto City Hall

Beneath Nathan Phillips Square lies one of the world's largest underground parking garages, which was an innovative solution to the challenge of providing adequate parking while preserving valuable surface space for public use. This feature is a testament to the forward-thinking design of the City Hall complex.

The structure is often referred to as "The Eye of the Government" because the council chamber, viewed from above, resembles an eye. This distinctive design has made Toronto City Hall one of the most recognizable buildings in Canada, frequently appearing in film and television as a symbol of the future.

Toronto City Hall is an architectural icon of the city, designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell and opened in 1965. The building's modernist design, featuring two curved towers surrounding a saucer-like council chamber, was selected through an international competition that attracted over 500 entries from 42 countries, showcasing its global appeal and innovative concept.

Toronto City Hall is not just a center for municipal governance; it also hosts a variety of cultural and public events throughout the year. Nathan Phillips Square, the large public space in front of City Hall, is home to concerts, art exhibits, a weekly farmers' market, and the popular winter ice-skating rink, making it a vibrant hub of activity in downtown Toronto.

The City Hall observation deck, located on the 27th floor of the East Tower, offers one of the best panoramic views of Toronto. Although access is limited and generally available only during Doors Open Toronto or special events, it provides a unique perspective on the city's skyline and architecture.