Ontario Science Centre to Temporarily Relocate to Harbourfront

The Ontario Science Centre will temporarily relocate to Harbourfront Centre in Toronto next summer while a permanent facility is developed at Ontario Place, set to open by 2029. The provincial Ministry of Tourism announced this move as a way to ensure ongoing programming, job support, and tourism engagement during the transition.

Originally opened in 1969 on Don Mills Road, the Ontario Science Centre was closed in June 2024 following an engineering assessment that indicated a severe risk of roof collapse. This closure sparked significant public outcry. Since then, the centre has operated a small display space in Sherway Gardens mall, which will remain open until January 4, 2026.

In a statement regarding the announcement, Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of the 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 said.

Harbourfront Centre has a legacy as a family-friendly destination for arts, culture, and learning. Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “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 stated. “Creating a place where kids and families can explore, play, and discover together aligns perfectly with our mission.”

The Ontario Science Centre will expand its footprint at Harbourfront Centre by summer 2026, covering approximately 86,000 square feet. The new space will feature dedicated areas for exhibitions and workshops, as well as shared spaces for community events and programs. This expansion aims to enhance the educational experience, offering classrooms and outdoor areas designed for interactive learning.

The KidSpark learning space, which opened at Harbourfront Centre in December 2024, has already established a strong presence, and the upcoming expansion promises to further enrich the offerings available to families on Toronto’s waterfront.

As the Ontario Science Centre prepares for its new chapter at Harbourfront, it remains committed to inspiring a love of science in the community while contributing to the vibrancy and appeal of Toronto’s waterfront.