A beloved landmark, the Ontario Science Centre, will rise again – but not without a temporary journey. Forced to close its doors on Don Mills Road in June 2024 following a critical engineering report revealing a dangerous risk of roof collapse, the future of this iconic institution was uncertain.
But the story doesn’t end there. Next summer, a new chapter begins at Harbourfront Centre, offering a vital interim home for the Science Centre while a state-of-the-art permanent location takes shape at Ontario Place, slated for completion by 2029.
This isn’t simply about preserving a building; it’s about safeguarding a legacy of sparking curiosity and fostering a love of science in generations of Ontarians. The temporary Harbourfront location will allow essential programming to continue, supporting jobs and drawing visitors to Toronto’s vibrant waterfront.
A small preview of what’s to come arrived in December 2024 with the opening of the popular KidSpark learning space at Harbourfront Centre. This initial offering proved the potential for a thriving presence on the waterfront, a testament to the Science Centre’s enduring appeal.
By the summer of 2026, the Harbourfront Centre will dramatically expand its dedicated space for the Science Centre, growing to approximately 86,000 square feet. This expansion will include dedicated exhibition areas, hands-on workshops, classrooms, and even outdoor program spaces.
Harbourfront Centre, already a cherished destination for families, is a natural partner in this endeavor. The collaboration promises a dynamic environment where children and families can explore, play, and discover the wonders of science together.
The move represents more than just a change of address; it’s a commitment to ensuring that the Ontario Science Centre’s mission – to create lasting memories and nurture a lifelong passion for learning – continues uninterrupted. It’s a story of resilience, adaptation, and a bright future for science education in Ontario.
