Ontario Science Centre to Relocate Temporarily to Harbourfront

The Ontario Science Centre will temporarily relocate to the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto next summer, providing a crucial space for its programming until its new permanent home at Ontario Place is completed by 2029. This announcement was made by the provincial Tourism Ministry, emphasizing that the interim location will support job retention and contribute to local tourism.

Originally opened in 1969 on Don Mills Road, the Ontario Science Centre was closed in June 2024 following an engineering report that revealed a significant risk of roof collapse. The closure faced public backlash, prompting the need for a new space to serve the community. Currently, a smaller display area operates in the Sherway Gardens mall, which is set to remain open until January 4, 2026.

Stan Cho, the Minister of Tourism, expressed the importance of this interim location. “By establishing the Ontario Science Centre’s interim location at the Harbourfront Centre, we’re helping Ontario families access world-class science programming even as we continue building a new, expanded and state-of-the-art Ontario Science Centre just steps away at Ontario Place,” he stated. Cho highlighted the move’s potential to create lasting memories for families while enhancing the vibrancy of Toronto’s waterfront.

Expansion Plans at Harbourfront Centre

The Ontario Science Centre has already made its mark at the Harbourfront Centre with the opening of its popular KidSpark learning space in December 2024. Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre, welcomed the Science Centre’s expansion on their campus, noting, “Harbourfront Centre has long been a trusted destination for families, and we are pleased to welcome the Ontario Science Centre’s expansion on our campus.” She emphasized that the Harbourfront Centre is an ideal fit for the Science Centre’s interim location, fostering exploration and discovery for families.

Plans for the expanded space at Harbourfront Centre include dedicated areas for exhibitions and workshops, as well as shared spaces for community programs and events. Covering approximately 86,000 square feet, the updated facility will also feature classrooms and outdoor program areas, further enhancing the educational experience.

As the Ontario Science Centre prepares for its interim move, the initiative reflects a commitment to maintaining educational opportunities in science for families across Ontario. The partnership with Harbourfront Centre aims to ensure continued engagement with science while paving the way for the future of the Science Centre at Ontario Place.