Arts & CultureMayMarquee Event
Doors Open Toronto
The one weekend a year you can peek inside Toronto's most fascinating buildings.
When
2026: May 23–24, 2026
2027: TBD
2025: May 24–25, 2025
Where
150+ participating buildings city-wide
Area
Downtown
Cost
Free
Format
Indoor & Outdoor
Attendance
200K+ visitors
Running Since
2000 (26 years)
Family Friendly
Yes
VT Insider Tip
Skip the mega-popular spots (Casa Loma, City Hall) unless you arrive at opening time. The best experiences are at smaller sites with no lines — old churches, private clubs, and industrial buildings that never open otherwise.
About
Doors Open is genuinely one of Toronto's best events. For one weekend in May, 100+ architecturally and historically significant buildings open their doors for free. You can visit the inside of City Hall's council chamber, peek at Art Deco bank lobbies, explore old industrial sites, and wander through spaces normally locked to the public.
What to Expect
150+ buildings open for free across the city. Major sites will have lines (30-60 min). Smaller sites are walk-in. Most run 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday.
Pro Tips
Plan a neighbourhood cluster — pick 5-6 buildings within walking distance. The Doors Open app/map is essential. Bring water and snacks since you'll be on your feet all day.
Getting There
Sites are across the entire city. Plan by subway line or streetcar route. Drive only if you're hitting suburban sites. Downtown clusters are best done on foot from subway stations.