As controversial plans are in the works to redevelop Ontario Place, people are reminiscing about the amusement park online.
The controversy follows the provincial government’s announcement of a multi-million-dollar revitalization plan led by Therme Group, an Austrian company granted a 95-year-long lease to transform a section of the site into a wellness and destination spa.
“The lease with Therme Canada provides financial, recreational and economic benefits to the people of Ontario,” Michael Lindsay, Therme president and chief executive officer, said in an Oct. 3, 2024 provincial news release.
While the redevelopment plan promises to generate millions in revenue and boost tourism, some fear it will erode the public’s access to the land and erase the historic charm that made Ontario Place special.
In addition, a New York Times investigation released last month alleges that Therme may have falsely presented itself as a developer that runs multiple spas, however the outlet only found it currently operates one in Romania. In response to the allegations, Premier Doug Ford said his government is launching a review of the mega spa contract.
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However, the plan has done more than spark lengthy, contentious debates. Former visitors are sharing their fondest memories of the park online, adding a warm and sentimental touch to a controversial discussion.
“Did you over-ride the bumper boats? See shows at the old forum? My parents would take us to wonderland, but Ontario Place had a more immersive kids area,” one Reddit user posted.
“I freaking loved that place. Someone always got injured but it was still so fun and zero parents lol,” another user said.
“The Wilderness Adventure Ride! My sister and I used to just stay on the thing if there was nobody in line for a log and ride around and around and around as many times as we could,” another user added.
From secret childhood adventures in the Children’s Village to summers spent at the marina, users are gushing about Ontario Place ‘firsts’ and its unique sense of community.
“I saw my first IMAX film at Ontario Place. At the time it was amazing. The huge screen and quality was something I had never seen before,” a Reddit user said.
“The children’s village was so much fun! We moved to Toronto in 1970, and we went so often. It was a sad day when I got too old for it. 30 years later, I went with my son to the waterpark,” another user shared.
Despite mounting tensions over the project, the provincial government remains committed to moving forward with the redevelopment.
Still, for many Ontarians, Ontario Place is more than a lucrative construction site – it is a cherished landmark filled with personal history.
“It was a peaceful oasis for me during the pandemic, and I miss it terribly.”
