How can I buy tickets for shows and events at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre?
You must purchase tickets through each event’s official seller – MTCC itself does not sell tickets. Concerts and theatre performances (at the Bassett Theatre) have their own ticket outlets, and major expos/conventions (like Fan Expo or the Auto Show) sell tickets on their websites or apps. Watch the event’s announcements for on-sale dates and register early (they often offer presale codes to newsletters or fan clubs) (www.mtccc.com).
Does the Metro Toronto Convention Centre have an on-site box office for same-day ticket sales?
There is no general box office at MTCC for public ticket sales. For theatre shows, an on-site box office may open on the day of the event (usually at the Bassett Theatre lobby), but most tickets must be bought in advance through the organizer. All ticketing is handled by the event promoters or their ticketing partners – MTCC staff do not directly sell or distribute tickets (www.mtccc.com).
What is the address of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North and South buildings)?
The MTCC covers two downtown buildings. The North Building’s main address is 255 Front Street West (between Spadina and John St), and the South Building is at 222 Bremner Boulevard (behind Redpath Sugar). Both buildings are connected. You can enter the North side off Front Street or via the SkyWalk from Union Station, and the South side off Bremner or from Union via the indoor walkway (www.mtccc.com) (www.mtccc.com).
What parking options are available at the MTCC and what are the costs?
MTCC has two attached parking garages – one under the North Building (entrance off Simcoe St., south of Front St) and one under the South Building (off Lower Simcoe/Bremner). Rates (including tax) are about $6 for 30 minutes and rise to a maximum of $32 for daily parking (7 a.m.–7 p.m.) (www.mtccc.com). Evening (5 p.m.–7 a.m.) rates are similar up to $32, with a 24-hour cap of $37 (www.mtccc.com). Monthly parking ($310/month) is limited to the North Garage (www.mtccc.com). There are also thousands of nearby private or city lots within a short walk if these fill up (www.mtccc.com).
How do I get to MTCC by public transit?
The easiest way is to take the TTC subway to Union Station (Line 1 Yonge–University). From Union, you can walk west along Front St (about 5 minutes) to the North Building, or take the enclosed SkyWalk over the tracks to either building (www.mtccc.com) (www.mtccc.com). Streetcar routes (510 Spadina, 509 Harbourfront) also serve nearby Union. Regional trains and buses (GO/VIA) all terminate at Union. If flying in, the UP Express train goes to Union every 15 minutes (25 min ride from Pearson Airport), and then you walk via the SkyWalk directly to MTCC (pdac.ca).
Is the Metro Toronto Convention Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes. MTCC is fully AODA-compliant with elevators to every level, accessible washrooms, ramps at entrances, and reserved seating. Courtesy wheelchairs are available free-of-charge (first-come) at Guest Services (Level 200 North Bldg, Level 500 South Bldg) (www.mtccc.com). Each entrance (Front St., Bremner Blvd., and even from the PATH tunnel) is step-free (www.mtccc.com). In the Bassett Theatre, there are two wheelchair positions behind Row T and additional transfer seats with removable armrests (www.mtccc.com). Visitors needing assistance (e.g. evacuation help) can alert security on arrival (call 416-585-8360) (www.mtccc.com).
Are there food and drink outlets inside the venue?
Yes – there is at least one cafe and snack bar on-site. Notably, a Second Cup coffee shop is located near the theatre entrance on Level 100 of the North Building (www.mtccc.com). During big events you’ll also find concession stands and food carts set up in the lobbies or exhibit halls (offering coffee, soft drinks, snacks or even meals). However, the full-service restaurants of the neighborhood are mostly just outside the building (see Nearby Amenities).
Can I bring my own food or drinks into the MTCC?
It depends on the event area. In exhibit halls and meeting rooms, bringing snacks or water is usually fine (many visitors carry bottles or lunch for a long conference). However, in the Bassett Theatre or ballroom seating areas, outside food and drinks are **not** allowed unless explicitly arranged by the event organizers (www.mtccc.com). Always check the specific event’s policies – for concerts or shows, food/beverage (and sometimes cameras) are commonly prohibited in the seating area.
How many seats are in the John W.H. Bassett Theatre?
The Bassett Theatre has 1,232 fixed, numbered seats (www.cvent.com). It features excellent acoustics and wide sightlines – every seat has an unobstructed view of the stage (www.cvent.com). The seating is arranged on one level (no balconies), with a broad center aisle. In general, the middle orchestra sections (rows in the middle, near center) provide the most evenly balanced view, but the design ensures a good experience from every location.
What is the Turtle Pond design on the convention centre floor?
The Turtle Pond is an artistic floor installation at the South Building entrance. It is a terrazzo mosaic featuring turtle-shell patterns and silhouettes of frogs, tadpoles and a softshell turtle – a tribute to the aquatic ecosystem that existed on this land before Toronto Harbour was filled in the 20th century (www.mtccc.com). The elegant design (three large turtle shells and other motifs) adds a special local heritage touch to the venue.
What is the Woodpecker Column sculpture at MTCC?
The Woodpecker Column is a 100-foot-tall art installation in the MTCC lobby, created by local artists “Fastwurms” (Kim Kozzi and Dai Skuse). It features carved Pileated and Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers and glowing colored glass elements. The illuminated sculpture is inspired by enchanted “sacred groves” and is meant to surprise and inspire visitors. It’s visible from the South Building’s main entrance area (www.mtccc.com).
Is there an ATM on site?
Yes. A public ATM machine is located on Level 200 of the North Building, at the top of the escalator near the Bassett Theatre entrance (www.mtccc.com). It’s convenient to use the ATM for cash if needed during your visit.
Is a coat check available?
MTCC does not provide a general coat check service. If a particular show or conference wants a coat check, they must arrange it with the venue. In practice, this means a coat check (often set up just for an event) might appear in the theatre lobby or foyer, but you should ask the event organizer directly if that service will be offered (www.mtccc.com). Otherwise, plan to keep coats and bags with you (or store them in your vehicle).
What is the dress code at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre?
There is no strict dress code enforced by the venue – wear whatever is comfortable for the event. For expos and casual conferences, business casual or casual attire is typical. For evening theatre performances or galas, smart casual is common. In all cases, wear comfortable shoes: the MTCC is very large and you should expect a fair amount of walking. Also remember halls are air-conditioned, so bring a light sweater in cooler seasons.
Are pets allowed inside the venue?
Only service animals are permitted inside MTCC, in compliance with accessibility laws. Normal pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are not allowed in the convention centre itself. If you need a service animal, it is welcome anywhere in the facility.
Is smoking allowed at the MTCC?
No. Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside the convention centre (in any building or enclosed area). There may be designated smoking areas outside at the street level entrances, but once inside you must remain smoke-free. Please look for signage or ask venue staff if you need a designated spot.
