Art Gallery of Ontario (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Art Gallery of Ontario?
What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: The Hands-On Centre, roaming Art Cart, activity bags, and Family Sundays keep ages 5–12 creating art, though guardians must enforce no-touch rules and some galleries feel hushed and formal.
Positives:
- Family Amenities: Free stroller rental, baby changing stations, and seating areas make it easy to navigate with young children.
- Budget-friendly Options: Kids under 5 enter free and every Wednesday 6–9 pm is free general admission for all ages.
Challenges:
- Crowded Weekends: Hands-On Centre and Art Cart fill up early on weekends and holidays.
- Limited Seating: Benches are scarce in galleries; plan snack breaks in Galleria Italia or Walker Court.
What is Art Gallery of Ontario?
- A museum in downtown Toronto that houses more than 80,000 artworks spanning from 100 BC to the present.
- A collection showcasing Canadian and Indigenous art alongside European masterworks by artists such as Rubens, Monet and van Dyck.
- An architectural synthesis combining a Beaux-Arts structure with Frank Gehry’s wood-and-glass Galleria Italia and sculptural staircases.
What is so special about Art Gallery of Ontario for with kids?
- Interactive art areas keep kids engaged.
- Monthly Family Sundays and extra drop-in programs add seasonal fun.
- Frank Gehry’s architecture includes a sculptural staircase and skyline views.
- Free stroller rental and kid-friendly amenities simplify family visits.
- Reserve Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room for a memorable shared moment.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to enjoy hands-on activities and explore key galleries without tiring out younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Art Gallery of Ontario
Dr. Mariano Elia Hands-On Centre:
Let kids create art with paints, clay, and building materials.
Tip: Open Wed–Fri 10:30–3 pm and Sat–Sun 10:30–4 pm. Drop in with general admission.
AGO Art Cart in Walker Court:
Join guided, drop-in art activities with museum educators.
Tip: Runs on weekends and holiday Mondays 11:30 am–2:30 pm. Look for the colorful cart in Walker Court.
Frank Gehry Spiral Staircase & Toronto View:
Climb the sculptural staircase to the top floor for city skyline vistas.
Tip: Head to the 5th floor and bring a camera for views over Grange Park.
Yayoi Kusama Infinity Mirror Room:
Immerse in a mirrored light installation that changes with every angle.
Tip: Reserve a free 60-second timeslot online before your visit; book early for weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Art Gallery of Ontario
- Arrive Early: Start at 10:30 am to access hands-on zones before peak crowds.
- Use Coat Check: Drop off bags and rent a stroller to move freely through galleries.
- Plan Your Route: Download the gallery map or app to loop between your kids’ favorite sections without backtracking.
Reviews of Art Gallery of Ontario
Susie Scott
My biggest note: this is not a gallery you can easily see completely in one visit! You could easily spend one visit on a single level alone. And a map is recommended - this place is a wanderer’s dream, without a single obvious path to follow. The variety and quality of artwork is fantastic. There is special attention paid to Canadian artists and Indigenous artists, which I enjoyed. And the buildi...
Deepak Yeshwanth Saibaba
The Art Gallery of Ontario is such a unique experience. It’s not like the Louvre or the big “standard” museums it has its own vibe and character. Alongside world-famous pieces from Renoir, Monet, and Rembrandt, the gallery also shines a spotlight on Canadian artists, which makes it stand out. I especially enjoyed the miniature portraits and the ancient gold and ivory pieces they give such an insi...
sarah c.
They make it accessible especially with the free admission on the first Wednesday of each month! However you can also enjoy it with less people or on your own time with paid admission which is quite reasonable. I have to say the volunteers and staff are very knowledgeable and helpful. One in particular gave amazing hints on finding a particular artwork and even taught us how to view the and enjo...
Kavitha R.
There is an under 25 free pass available on the AGO website. I utilized it today which was lots of fun but have an ID on you because they will check. I loved AGO!!! I studied Canadian art in my undergraduate course so when I saw the group of seven paintings I was really happy. They are a MUST. Canadian landscape paintings on the second floor are a delight for the eyes. The nature and day-to-day li...
KH
This is a fantastic art gallery. Everything was very well laid out in the year was just very calming and pleasant. Give yourself at least two hours to tour the whole place. There was plenty of space in each area has a different thing. There’s even a cafeteria and a bistro. Lots of chairs to sit on the rest your weary feet. Water fountains are also available. The staff are friendly, helpful and kn...
When is the best time to visit Art Gallery of Ontario (Toronto, Canada)?
From November to April, join monthly Family Sundays (Sundays 1–4 pm) for themed art projects. During March Break and winter break, the Hands-On Centre offers extra drop-in sessions.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult general admission | CAD 50 |
| 2 Child (5–12) general admission | CAD 22 |
| Snacks and drinks at Café AGO | CAD 40 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 112 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Art Gallery of Ontario
Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4, Canada
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About Art Gallery of Ontario
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 416-979-6648Explore Popular Things to Do
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