Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre
The beautiful Elgin and Wintergarden Theatres are the only double-decker theatre still operating in the world
Elgin Theatre and the Wintergarden Theatre are one of the world's most elegant and ornate theatre complexes. They are a National Historic Site and are the only remaining double-decker theatre complex still operating in the world.
The double theatre was built in 1913 as the flagship of the Marcus Loew chain of theatres. At that time the theatres hosted plays and vaudeville productions. In 1928 the upper theatre was closed for several decades and the lower theatre eventually became a cinema. The theatres were sold to Famous Players in 1969. In 1981 the theatres were acquired by the Ontario Heritage Foundation at which time and plans for a complete restoration began to take shape. The theatres were completely, painstakingly and beautifully restored between 1987 and 1989.
The upper level Wintergarden Theatre boasts a unique design in which the ceiling is blanketed with 5000 hanging beech tree branches interspersed with Chinese lanterns. The effect is really quite unusual.
The theatres are now at the centre of Toronto's theatre scene and they serve premier venue to the Toronto International Film Festival. For a nominal fee the theatres offer a public tour every Thursday at 5 pm and Saturday at 11 am. For additional information about the Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre and upcoming concerts and events see their official website above.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesAddress: 189 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 1M4, Canada
Phone: (416) 314-2901
Official Website: Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre
Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
I visited the Elgin & Winter Garden Theatre Centre recently, and it honestly felt like stepping into another era. This historic double-decker theatre is truly one of a kind — the only remaining stacked theatre in the world.
The lower level, Elgin Theatre, is classic, golden, and grand, while the upper level, Winter Garden, feels like a secret dream — the ceiling covered with real dried leaves, like you’re sitting inside a forest under warm lights. It’s breathtaking.
I attended A Night Under The Stars and it was an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere, the details, the acoustics — everything felt thoughtful and magical.
There’s also a detailed architectural scale model inside the building that shows how the two theatres are built on top of each other. I loved this part — it helps you understand how rare and special this place is.
Just a heads up:
I parked at the Eaton Centre parking, and it came to around $30, which was definitely pricey. So if you’re going, maybe look for a different parking option.
Overall, this theatre is not just a venue — it’s a piece of art, history, and memory.
If you live in Toronto or are visiting, this is something you should experience at least once.
Alpha Creation - 3 months ago
Amazing vibe. The staff were super nice, treated so well. Loved the vintage vibe. The best of all was the lady in the elevator doing some manual thing to run the elevator which was so nice and vintage. Loved the vibe. So clean and nice
Harmandeep Kour - 4 weeks ago
Went there for a play years ago without knowing much about the place.
Went again at Door Open Toronto and learned a lot more of the history and the great design of tihs 2-in-1 theatres. This is a true gems in the city
Samson Luke - a month ago
Went to experience The Magic Flute (Mozart) performed by Opera Atelier. Terrific performance (and performances!). [The aria of The Queen of the Night was mesmerizing.]This old theatre has it all: history, class, acoustics, an orchestra pit, grand interior architecture, design and decoration (think neo-baroque). What it lacks in convenient amenities like adjacent washrooms it makes up for with classical style. And hope there aren’t a bunch of police sirens nearby; they tried (without success) to interrupt the program.
Randall Friesen - 2 months ago
Came for a tour and was absolutely delighted! This theatre is gorgeous and its history is really unique and interesting. I highly recommend stopping by if you want to visit the last operating stacked theatre in the world and to see some truly impressive architecture and decor!
Maria - 6 months ago
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Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina | Queen Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre by TTC Subway
No buses needed. From Queen Station walk ½ block north on Yonge Street.
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Accommodations near Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre:
Photo Gallery
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Interior of the lower Elgin Theatre cc licensed photo by go ask alice . . . -
Facade of the double-decker Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre cc licensed photo by SimonP -
Photo Credit: dtstuff9 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr

