Torontonians will be able to explore over 160 of the city’s architectural, historical and cultural buildings this weekend during Doors Open Toronto.
Doors Open Toronto is organized by the city and is a free celebration from May 25 to 26 that offers exclusive access to the city’s most unique architecture and public spaces. This year, the theme is “hidden histories” and encourages visitors to learn the untold stories across the city.
To help narrow down the list for you, we’ve compiled five hidden gems in the city that you can check out during this year’s Doors Open.
Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory, York University
Located on York University’s Keele Campus, the Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory is perfect for those interested in astronomy and discovering the extraterrestrial. Here, visitors will find two massive telescopes, one being the largest telescope at a university in Canada, a whopping one-metre (39-inch) custom-built telescope. Visitors will learn about current research projects, speak with astronomy students, take guided tours and have the chance to make their own discoveries. The observatory is open from 10 to 5 p.m.
Women’s Art Association of Canada
The Women’s Art Association of Canada is a dainty and charming 19th-century house that is celebrating its 136th anniversary. The house includes the Dignam Art Gallery which is a space for gatherings, exhibits, lectures and concerts, as well as a beautiful formal garden for parties and weddings. Visitors can also go to the second floor to find a huge library with more than 2,000 fine-art books. The house is open from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.
R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant
The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant is both an acclaimed historic building named after Roland Caldwell Harris and acts as a peaceful walking ground with views of Lake Ontario. The plant is the largest of the city’s four water treatment plants and provides a daily average of 400 million litres of safe drinking water to residents in the city. The plant is open from 10 a.m to 4 p.m.
RCLUB Motoring Club
The RCLUB is known as the city’s social club for car enthusiasts, however it offers more than that. The club is full of activity and offers opportunities to connect with friends and new members. Visitors are invited to take photos of the cars, observe the wash and maintenance bays, and enjoy snacks and drinks. There’s over 120 events happening at the club every year from track days to Formula 1 screenings. On Sunday, the RCLUB will be screening the Monaco Grand Prix. The club is open from 10 a.m to 5 p.m on Saturday and 11 a.m to 5 p.m on Sunday.
The Kite Research Institute
The Kite Research Institute is one of the city’s newest additions to Doors Open this year. The Challenging Environment Assessment Lab (CEAL), part of the University Health Network’s KITE Research Institute, is an underground space that is doing some of the most advanced research to date, such as developing pharmaceuticals, assistive devices and so much more. Visitors will be able to tour the facility and its five labs and see how each lab was made to test how people interact with everyday environmental challenges. The lab is open from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
For a full list of buildings and sites available during Doors Open Toronto, click here.
