Your summer guide to the Gardiner Museum
Summer is here! Now’s the time to get reacquainted with your city and reconnect with family and friends. The Gardiner Museum is one of Toronto’s most beloved cultural gems and go-to spots for art lovers in the know, and we’ve got your perfect day at all mapped out.
Plan ahead and get your tickets online or buy them at the Front Desk when you arrive. Planning a visit on a weekend? Admission is free on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Mondays until Labour Day!
Photo: Eugen Sakhnenko for The New York Times
Explore art outdoors
Your art experience begins before you even step inside the building. Outside on the plaza, discover striking public sculptures by Canadian artist Shary Boyle and Japanese-American artist Jun Kaneko, as well as an exciting new work by artist Santee Smith that celebrates the ongoing Indigenous presence on Turtle Island.
Photo: Toni Hafkenschied
Discover Sharif Bey: Colonial Ruptures
In our lobby, admire recent work by African-American artist Sharif Bey, who draws inspiration from Central African power figures, ancient Andean ceramics, and popular culture. Nails and porcelain shards jutting from the figures give them a sense of wonder and ritual.
Capture the perfect shot
There’s art around every corner! As you move between the Museum’s three floors, you’ll encounter a show-stopping installation of vases and vessels displayed in the Gardiner’s soaring glass stairwell. You’ll definitely want to snap a pic of this stunning exhibition showcasing all areas of the collection, from Chinese porcelain to contemporary ceramics.
Get inspired in the galleries
Discover new works and visit beloved favourites in our permanent collection galleries on the Museum’s first and second floors. By the time you get to the eye-popping 18th-century dessert table in our European Porcelain Galleries, you’ll be ready for lunch!
Enjoy lunch with a view
Make your way to Clay Restaurant on the third floor for a first-class dining experience. Chef Bianca Azupardo’s fresh seasonal menu features shrimp ceviche with mango and candied peanuts, potato gnocchi with smoked ricotta and pesto rosso, yuzu lemon tart with miso white chocolate mousse, and more delectable summer dishes. Eat on the patio or in our light-filled Terrace Room. Pro tip: Make a reservation to avoid disappointment.
Create with clay
Take advantage of the summer weather and get hands-on at our outdoor clay tables. Every Wednesday to Saturday from 1 – 3 pm, visitors of all ages are invited to experiment with clay in a fun and collaborative environment. On Sundays from 11 am – 3 pm, join us for family art activities inspired by the objects in our collection. Click here to check the schedule of activities.
Photo: Toni Hafkenscheid
Treat yourself in the Shop
No visit to the Museum would be complete without a stop at the renowned Gardiner Shop. Take home one-of-a-kind ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, and more by top local artists. Our knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect keepsake, from a ceramic mug to a statement necklace.
Check out our website to see what’s on and plan your visit today. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Gardiner this summer!