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Things to do in Toronto, Canada: The Best Art Museums
We've heard Toronto described as "New York City run by the Swiss," and it's true—you can find world-class theater, shopping and restaurants here, but the sidewalks are clean and the people are friendly. The best place to start is literally at the top—the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere.
Restaurants in Toronto
1. The AGO, Art Gallery of Ontario
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,265 reviews
With a collection of more than 90,000 works of art, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is among the largest and most distinguished art museums in North America. An international landmark, the AGO is also one of Canada’s most innovative cultural destinations. Highlights of the Gallery’s world-class collection include iconic Canadian and Inuit works, along with European and contemporary art – all on view in a spectacular building transformed by renowned Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry. After spending time with the AGO’s vast collection, be sure to enjoy a meal or glass of wine at the Gallery’s award-winning restaurant FRANK. Visit shopAGO for a unique collection of artful gifts, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and beautiful art books.
Reviewed By H8962UYericb - Toronto, Canada
This fine gallery has interesting permanent collections including a wonderful room of sculptures by Henry Moore and regular fantastic visiting shows - most recently on the influence of industrialism of the Impressionists - I will look at Gare St. Lazare with new eyes.
2. Gallery Arcturus
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
This free public art exhibit and education centre features rotating shows of mixed media, paint, collage and sculpture. Exhibits may feature work from the gallery's permanent collection as well as new works created on site. Gallery Arcturus is dedicated to exploring the nature and necessity of visual art in human endeavour. In our view, art is the attempt to perceive and communicate what is seen. Supported by The Foundation for the Study of Objective Art.
3. Bau-Xi Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Bau-Xi Gallery is one of Canada's most established galleries representing artists from across Canada. Established in 1965, we operate three gallery spaces in Toronto and Vancouver. In Toronto, the galleries are located across the street from the Art Gallery of Ontario and in Vancouver on South Granville gallery row.
Reviewed By barbarae623 - Toronto, Canada
Bau-Xi Galleries has two locations a couple doors apart, both directly across from the Art Gallery of Ontario on Dundas Street West. I loved both galleries. They have an exhibit of Eric Louie, who does really interesting, rather metallic looking paintings in their Contemporary Art Gallery, and then in their Photography Gallery they are showing featuring some wonderful works by George Byrne, which look like they were shot somewhere bright and hot (Miami? Vegas?).
4. Gardiner Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 278 reviews
Discover one of the world's most universal and dynamic art forms. Explore the Gardiner Museum's internationally-renowned collections of pottery from the Ancient Americas, Europe, China, and Japan, as well as contemporary ceramics. Visit the Museum's special exhibitions, sign up for a clay class, take part in weekly family art activities, dine at Clay Restaurant, and find the perfect gift at the Gardiner Shop.
Reviewed By 1francophile - Kitchener, Canada
Had a brief, but edifying experience at this wonderful museum because of its unusual and focused exhibits, not found elsewhere. There is porcelain, ceramics and clay from ancient to modern times from many parts of the world, including, Europe, Asia and South American. In addition the special exhibit focal point was dining in earlier century with a replication of a table setting. Their collection best typifies how form and function works perfectly through the shapes, designs, facade and their usefulness in every day life. My short visit provided me with a overview of what this fine Museum has to offer, so I will return soon to be part of a guided tour to further enrich my appreciation and understanding. The staff are personable and professional and the tariff is quite reasonable for all the Gardiner Museum provides to the discerning visitor. Also, don’t forget to patronize their fine quality restaurant- Clay! Very Highly Recommended!
5. Textile Museum of Canada
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 134 reviews
During our reopening phase, visitors well have access to three galleries of exhibitions and the Museum Shop. Admission to the Museum will be on a timed ticketing system to ensure social distancing protocols. The Textile Museum of Canada is the only national museum in Canada that explores ideas and builds cultural understanding through the universally relevant media of textiles. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Museum’s permanent collection spans nearly 2,000 years and consists of more than 15,000 artifacts. A leader in the digitization of collections and interactive environments, the Museum has been recognized the world over for innovation in the development of landmark educational, research and creative initiatives.
Reviewed By Closwaldo - Detroit, United States
Be sure to go check out the hands on weaving machines, very fun to use. Gift shop was full of fun items, great for unique gifts.
6. Design Exchange
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 39 reviews
Located in one of Canada's Art Deco landmarks featuring the original Toronto Stock Exchange, Experience Design and be inspired by ever-changing exhibits, lectures, workshops, tours, screenings and camps from architecture to fashion design.
7. The Academy Of Spherical Arts
Overall Ratings
2.5 based on 3 reviews
