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 went on a Sunday. There was a great deal of people but not jam-packed as the whole area is large and boasts numerous exhibits so not one room is entirely full.
It's an endless collection from variety of artists and an immersive-type of experience where in a few locations they encourage you to touch and smell (yes, smell) to get the full meaning of the item being showcased.
Our brothers and sisters' art from the First Nation are also featured making it an ideal place to learn and appreciate their culture.
Amenities include washrooms, a cafe, a souvenir shop and a checkroom ($3 fee or check their official website) .
Sensory overload but undeniably a great experience. I would definitely go back.
Paula Jeanne - 3 months ago
I enjoy this place and even began taking adult art classes here on Fridays. Never been to the restaurant so can’t comment on that but the gift shop is delightful. I like the new exhibits they offer and mostly like their permanent collection. Lots of interesting programming and a great atmosphere for some reflective artistic solo time or even a cultured date!
Shadowpath - 2 months ago
We recently went to the AGO for KAWS, which was a spectacular exhibition. But we also visited several other exhibitions, both visiting and permanent. The gallery is spacious and doesn’t feel overwhelmingly crowded, even when busy. The building itself is beautiful. It makes sense to become a member if you see yourself visiting more than once per year. Pricing is super reasonable. There’s always something cool happening.
If you’re planning to eat there the AGO Bistro is top notch. We had lunch there and everything was seasoned perfectly, extremely delicious and the service was quick, friendly and attentive. AGO is a must for visitors and anyone who appreciates art.
Selina Jane Eckersall - 2 months ago
Great place to decompress and take in some world-class art. It's one of my favourite place to just wander and get some creative inspiration. Highly recommend getting a membership and enjoying the full Gallery over multiple visits (hard to do in just one trip). Also it's a good place to grab a coffee or drink if you're in the neighborhood.
Puru Sara - 3 months ago
It was wonderful. Kids got in for free so it was affordable for the family. Thank you AGO. Extremely fascinating and educational. Will be definitely returning. There was do much to see it felt like a day wasn't enough. Absolutely loved it! 💯💯 recommended 👌
shay Dass - 2 months ago
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.
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