Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art museums in North America
The Art Gallery of Ontario or AGO contains in excess of 80,000 works of art, some from as far back as the year 100 AD.
Originally founded in the year 1900, the Art Gallery of Ontario became somewhat 'disjointed' after numerous expansions and major renovations over many years. Finally in 2008 the gallery reopened after an expansion project, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, that masterfully brought all of the existing spaces together. This expansion increased the space available for viewing art by nearly one-half. The overall facility is an impressive 583,000 square feet.
Canadian art makes up more that half of the gallery's collection. The AGO also features a large collection of European art, with a very significant collection of Medieval and Renaissance decorative arts. The gallery exhibits major works of art by many renowned artists, including Rembrandt van Rijn, Emile Antoine Bourdelle, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Tintoretto, Frans Hals, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, Thomas Gainsborough, Auguste Rodin, and Edgar Degas.
Your admission to the gallery includes a 60 minute highlights tour that explores not only the art, but also the architecture of the AGO. This tour runs daily at 11am, 12 noon, 1pm and 3pm and also on Wednesday evening at 7pm.
On Wednesday evenings after 6 pm you can visit the gallery for free! The AGO is baby friendly and fun for the whole family. They also have a restaurant, cafe, bar and Gift shop. For additional information about the AGO see the official site below.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes Free on Wednesday evenings after 6pmArt Gallery of Ontario Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4, Canada
Phone: (416) 979-6648
Official Website: Art Gallery of Ontario
Art Gallery of Ontario Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
I absolutely loved the special exhibition of Jesse Mockrin‘s work! Incredible! But even the rest of the museum was very well curated, such a great range. From African contemporary art, Picasso and Monet, European paintings, modern and some small classic sculptures and carvings, some weirder modern pieces (which I liked least), a mirror room, and more. A little pricey for a one time visit ($30), but very cheap as an annual pass ($40). Spent 3.5 hours here but could have taken longer. Also go up the wooden staircase for a great view of the CN tower and the city.
Romina B. - 2 weeks ago
We visited the Art Gallery of Ontario and had an amazing experience! The gallery is huge and beautifully curated, with a fantastic collection of Canadian and international art. Walking through the exhibits, we were inspired by the creativity and talent on display. The building itself is stunning, with modern architecture and well-designed spaces that make exploring the art even more enjoyable. The staff are friendly and helpful, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the pieces and artists. A must-visit for anyone who loves art and culture!
Лилия Унегова - 2 weeks ago
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 enjoy the painting. It was educational and adventurous!
Great place for young and old and we are so lucky to have the AGO!
sarah c. - 3 months ago
Love the collections at the AGO. I waited in line for the infinity mirror exhibition for over 40 minutes. I didn't find it was worth it for the amount of time they give you to take photos (1 minute per 4 people). The room isnt large enough to be able to appreciate it as much as I would have hoped.
Nat - a week ago
The museum features a modest selection of classical works and early paintings by Claude Monet and Picasso. However, its true allure lies in the architectural experience—most notably the wooden spiral staircase, which evokes the fluidity of water, reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic designs. Equally captivating is the expansive collection of Henry Moore’s sculptures, which anchor the museum’s identity. Beyond these highlights, much of the collection can be browsed quickly. Still, the visit is well worth 1–2 hours.
Jake Chen - 3 months ago
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Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina Line | St. Patrick Station | 5 MInutes |
How to get to Art Gallery of Ontario by TTC Subway
No bus needed. Exit the station and walk west along Dundas Street West for 3½ blocks or 5 minutes. The AGO is on your left.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Art Gallery of Ontario :
Photo Gallery
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Back face of the Art Gallery of Ontario cc licensed photo by Ian Muttoo -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daryl_mitchell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Timothy Neesam (GumshoePhotos) - cc license via Flickr

