Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art

The Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art is world renowned for its collection of artifacts representing world cultures and natural history

Modernist Architecture of the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art
Modernist Architecture of the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art cc licensed photo by Aviad2001

The Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art was first opened in 1984 by founders George and Helen Gardiner to showcase their growing collection of of pottery and porcelain and ceramic artifacts from Europe, China and Ancient America. The collection now consists of over 3,000 historical as well as contemporary pieces from around the world. Temporary exhibitions showcase new works of art, so there is always something new to see here as well.

You can visit the Gardiner Museum between 4 and 9pm on the third Friday of every month for free. You can also visit during the same time period for half-price on any other Friday.

The museum is located directly across from the Royal Ontario Museum and is housed in a building featuring modernist architecture. The museum also has a retail shop, a restaurant and 'clay classes' (additional charge).

If you have and interest in ceramic collectables and art you will definitely enjoy the Gardiner Museum. For additional information about the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art see their official website above.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes - Special Rates available on Fridays (see article)

Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: 111 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C7, Canada

Phone: (416) 586-8080

Official Website: Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art

Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art Reviews

Rated 4.4 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating I had the pleasure of creating a flower installation for a wedding client with my business The Moody Blooms last summer. The operations staff were super helpful and loading in was relatively easy. The spaces available for a private function are filled with natural light and the decor/ furniture has a contemporary feel. This was my favorite venue to flower in the city. Thanks for having us! There is a elevator to access the restaurant space on the second floor. I also had a vendor meal during this lovely wedding and it was delicious.
Katie Flohr - 2 weeks ago

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4 Star Rating I enjoyed the second floor more than the first floor. The exhibits on the first floor was a bit all over the place. The exhibits in the middle of the room had all the items' description on the left hand side, so you'd be breaking your neck looking back and forth to see the item being described. Some displays are placed waaaay too low on the bottom. The second floor was better organized, better lit, and more interesting (imo). Their website wouldn't let me buy a ticket (clicking on I agree to the terms wouldn't register), so had to go and buy it in person but at least I can get a Presto discount. The floors could've been cleaner and I saw the occasional fingerprints on the glass displays (this was during a working day so not much foot traffic). All that said, it was fun and informative to take in the historical tidbits about Chinese/Japanese/European ceramics/porcelains. You can easily spend above 2 hours if you take your time reading.
Prince Kabab - a week ago

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5 Star Rating Been wanting to visit the Gardiner Museum because it is right opposite the ROM. Finally visited today, and I was not disappointed. The museum specializes in clay and ceramic works . It has beautiful displays from all over the world both contemporary and ancient. If you want a quiet place to look at art without being overwhelmed then this is the place to visit. Was so lucky to even meet one of the local Canadian artists Silvana Michetti. She took time to explain to me how she makes her pieces. Her art is exquisite! Tickets are $15 for adults but admission is free on Wednesday afternoons from 4pm. And presto card holders get 20% off. Pro-tip: You can get in for free if you have a reservation at the Clay Restaurant but note that the restaurant is only open from 11am-3pm.
Kemi Chima - 5 months ago

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5 Star Rating Had a great afternoon at the Gardiner Museum! The collection is impressive and worth exploring. Just a heads up, parking can be a bit tricky, but you can find spots within a 5-10 minute walk.
Andrea - a month ago

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5 Star Rating my favorite museum in toronto so far! the ceramic pieces were very delicate with fine details, accompanied by thoughtful explanations / captions. the hallway / staircase featured an exhibition on queer body, with plants, paintings and ceramics, a great addition to the experience. museums cafe and outdoor patio were also delightful.
M - 4 months ago

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Directions

TTC Subway Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Yonge-University-SpadinaMuseum Station2 Minutes

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