About Toronto Grand Bizarre
Grand Bizarre is a flagship supper-club nightclub in Toronto, housed in the historic Horticulture Building at Exhibition Place (15 Saskatchewan Road). Built in 1907 by architect G.W. Gouinlock for the CNE, this Beaux-Arts pavilion features a red-brick façade, Baroque white-stone trim and a signature 60-foot-high crystal dome (www.torontoeventcentre.com ) (www.opentable.ca ). After decades of decline the building was restored (circa 2005) and reconfigured as the “Toronto Event Centre.” In late 2018 it reopened as Grand Bizarre Supper Club, replacing the old Muzik nightclub and reimagining the space as an over-the-top dining-and-entertainment destination (foodism.ca ). The venue spans about 41,000 square feet (foodism.ca ), making it one of the largest event spaces in the city. In fact, its marketing boasts that it is “the largest supper club and poolside beach patio in the City of Toronto” (www.opentable.ca ). Signature features include a massive open dance floor and stage under the dome, a huge central chandelier, and an indoor/outdoor layout with multiple infinity pools on the patio. In short, Grand Bizarre is a unique hybrid of restaurant, nightclub and performance hall – part Las Vegas-sized showroom, part late-night club – all set inside a landmark heritage building (foodism.ca ) (foodism.ca ).
Events and Programming
Grand Bizarre specializes in live DJ and electronic music events, often on weekend nights. Its calendar regularly features local and international house/techno DJs and themed parties. For example, recent listings include “Identity Presents: Bedouin” (May 3, 2024) and “Asher Swissa” (June 7, 2024) at Grand Bizarre (grandbizarre.com ) (grandbizarre.com ), reflecting a focus on underground EDM. Major concert series also pop up in summer – for instance, the “Mystical Toronto 2024 Summer Series” had Day 1 on May 31, 2024 and similar outdoor-day festival events at this venue (www.torontoclubs.com ). Outdoor pool parties are a specialty in warm weather: e.g. a “Daylight 8 Carnival” pool party (Aug 2, 2024) was advertised on the outdoor “Grand Bizarre Pools” patio (www.torontolime.com ) (www.clubcrawlers.com ). The venue also runs seasonal themed nights: one example is the “Sunset Series,” a summer evening series featuring signature cocktails and sushi on the patio (www.opentable.ca ). In general, weekly events fill Friday/Saturday late-night hours, while daytime/evening festivals or special dinners can occur year-round. Ticket prices vary by show (headliner DJs often cost around $40–$60 (ra.co ), while smaller events may be less). In 2019, a Foodism review noted that Grand Bizarre is “only open on Saturdays with live entertainment and music on tap” (foodism.ca ), and in practice most big events are Friday/Saturday evenings (with occasional special day-part events). Recurring parties include warehouse and travel-themed nights, multi-day EDM fests in summer, and even Caribbean-style pool carnivals. Opening acts often include costumed performers (Brazilian dancers, aerialists, etc.) who put on spectacles around 10 pm each night (foodism.ca ) (foodism.ca ). Whether it’s a late-night DJ set or a daytime pool bash, each event emphasizes high energy production, with top-tier sound, lighting and stage shows.
Tickets and Booking
All event tickets are sold in advance online – either through Grand Bizarre’s official website or affiliated ticketing partners. There is no standard street-level box office, so plan to buy tickets ahead of time. Popular shows do sell out, so the best strategy is to purchase early. (For example, a Resident Advisor listing for a May 2024 Joseph Capriati show shows a ticket price of $50 (ra.co ).) Many events allow walk-in purchase if space permits, but reservations are advised. Critics note that “walk-ins are welcome” but large groups should “reserve a table… at one of the four time slots” to guarantee entry (foodism.ca ). Grand Bizarre uses a simple “get tickets” link on its site to forward buyers to the ticket vendor, but the venue itself recommends purchasing as soon as on-sale. Presales or guestlists may exist for certain promoters, but otherwise check the official Grand Bizarre calendar for each event’s on-sale date. If you want a VIP table or bottle service, book those well in advance – the site warns that “premium VIP tables closest to the DJ booth and under the 60-foot Crystal Dome go the fastest” (grandbizarre.com ). VIP bookings include private seating, early entry, and perks like personalized bottle displays with flashing lights and sparklers (grandbizarre.com ). Some patrons wait to buy at the door if an event isn’t sold out, but this can mean long lines on big nights. In short: buy online first, try for a VIP package if you want guaranteed entry and perks, and keep an eye on announcements (some parties sell tickets very quickly).
Seating and Layout
Grand Bizarre is essentially a giant open-plan club. The main indoor space is a flat, rectangular hall under the 60-foot domed ceiling, with a large central dance floor facing the stage/DJ booth. Seating is mostly lounge-style: party tables and sofas line the perimeter, and a handful of booths or high-top tables are tucked around the edges. There are no fixed rows of theater seats – it’s largely general admission. VIP tables (often elevated) sit near the stage and under the chandelier for the best views (grandbizarre.com ). In practice, the prime viewing areas are right in front of the stage or under the dome (where sound and lighting concentrate); farther corners can have slightly worse sightlines or quieter acoustics. Outdoors, the patio (called “Grand Bizarre Pools”) has multiple infinity-edge swimming pools, cabanas and lounge seating around them (www.clubcrawlers.com ). That pool area opens in summer and can be configured for stage performances or chill lounging. Acoustically, the high ceiling means sound is big and reverberant – the club uses powerful line-array speakers hung near the stage, along with dynamic lighting rigs throughout. In short, the venue favors standing-room dance experiences. For a calmer spot, the perimeter lounges or the outdoor cabanas are the places to sit with a drink. But for best immersion (and photos under the chandelier), aim to be near the stage or on the dance floor – those vantage points are what VIPs pay extra for (grandbizarre.com ).
Getting There and Parking
Grand Bizarre sits within Exhibition Place at 15 Saskatchewan Road, near the Ontario Place waterfront and just southwest of downtown Toronto (www.opentable.ca ) (www.torontoclubs.com ). By car, the quickest access is via the Gardiner Expressway to the SYMPT correct exit (coming from downtown exit at Bathurst or Strachan, from west exit at Dowling), then south on Bathurst Street and a loop onto Princes’ Blvd or Ontario Drive to Saskatchewan Road. On-site parking is ample but paid: Exhibition Place has several lots (names like Lot 1, 2, 4, 5 around the Horticulture building). For example, Parkopedia shows “Exhibition Place – Lot 851” (115 Princes’ Blvd) right across the street (en.parkopedia.ca ). Typical lot fees are about C$10–$15 for a few hours. Note that during major events (CNE, fairs) pricing and availability may vary. Rideshare drop-offs are also convenient at Saskatchewan Road/Giants Gate #2 entrance. Public transit: the venue is one stop west of downtown. The closest subway is at Dufferin or Osgoode station (Line 2), then a short northbound bus (29 Dufferin) or a westbound streetcar (511 Bathurst) to Exhibition Place. The 511 Bathurst streetcar runs along Queens Quay and connects to downtown Bathurst, stopping near Princes’ Blvd. Also, the Exhibition GO Train station (on the Lakeshore West line) is within walking distance, and buses like the 80 Queen from Parkdale can connect to the area. Check TTC schedules – evening service exists but may be limited late at night. If staying late, taxis or ride-hailing home are recommended, since streetcars usually end by midnight. In any case, the landmark 15 Saskatchewan address makes it easy to find using GPS: it’s right at the heart of the Exhibition grounds, with clear on-site signage.
Inside the Venue
Entering Grand Bizarre, you’ll feel a thrill of scale and spectacle. Dress up (many people favor smart party attire) and be ready for a nightclub vibe. Security checks ensure 21+ ID is required. Once inside, you’ll find high-energy lighting and booming music. The polished Horticulture hall has concrete floors and minimal décor aside from the giant chandelier. The bars are located along the walls – expect multiple full bars serving cocktails, beer and liquor. Notably, cash isn’t used; instead the club employs a token system. Patrons buy “Bizarre Chips” (each worth roughly $3.75) for all food and drink purchases (foodism.ca ). The bars and food stations (often themed pop-ups) take these chips instead of cash to simplify large-group tabs. Speaking of food, there are upscale options: a menu of gourmet appetizers, sushi and grilled steaks is available. For example, celebrity chef Rob Rainford is noted for a 45-day-aged 50oz tomahawk steak on the menu (www.opentable.ca ). If you’re dining, note that tables are booked in set time slots (roughly 1–2 hours per seating) to accommodate the show schedule (foodism.ca ). The staff is nightclub-trained – they’ll bring bottle service to your table with a light-up display and even sparklers (grandbizarre.com ). Restrooms are split male/female on the main floor, and will often have lines during big events (arrive early if possible). The vibe is very much that of a nightclub: dancers fill the floor, people cheer at the DJ, and aerial performers (dressed as characters or acrobats) may swing from the ceiling during peak hours (foodism.ca ). For convenience there’s coat check (pay small fee) and lockers for valuables. Wi-Fi isn’t advertised (cell service is typically used). Photography is common for personal snapshots, but professional cameras/disruption may be restricted. Overall expect a nightlife party atmosphere: friends clustered in booths with drinks, DJs mixing live in the middle, pulsing lights, and food/drink orders arriving as table service. It’s loud and sensory – earplugs might be handy if you’re close to the speakers.
Nearby Amenities
Being just outside downtown, Grand Bizarre is near several dining and lodging options. For pre-show meals, Liberty Village (a 5–10 minute drive north) offers casual restaurants and pubs (e.g. The Carbon Bar, La Carnita, Mean Bao) for groups. The Queens Quay lakeside area also has eateries like Amsterdam BrewHouse or Rideau; these are roughly a 5–10 minute walk west along Bathurst. Directly adjacent, Exhibition Place itself has a few snack kiosks and the perennial Corus Quay terrace, though for a full dinner you’ll likely go a bit farther. Late-night transportation is plentiful: taxi stands and Uber pickup spots are blocks away on the main drive. Hotel choices right at the venue are limited, but walking 10 minutes east brings you to the Ontario Place hotels (limited) and across the bridge is the Westin Harbour Castle. A couple of nearby hotel recommendations are the Novotel Toronto Centre (Maple Leaf Gardens area, about 2.5 km north) or Chrome Hotel (Liberty Village) if you want to stay close. Downtown King/Queen & Spadina has many full-service hotels (Fairmont Royal York, Sheraton Centre, etc.), a short subway or Uber ride away. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime (especially on weekends) to account for finding parking or passing through security. After the event, note that TTC streetcars and buses may wrap up service around midnight, so check schedules — many guests end up hailing a cab or Uber for the late-night trip home. There’s always a police presence and shuttles during large festivals, but for ordinary club nights paying for a rideshare is safest if you stay late into the night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Grand Bizarre’s uniqueness stems from its blend of history, scale and spectacle. Architecturally, it preserves a rare historic showcase – the year-1907 Horticulture Building – and overlays it with ultra-modern club design (www.torontoeventcentre.com ) (www.opentable.ca ). The result is visually striking: the ornate Baroque dome and classical exterior are a sharp contrast to the LED dancefloor and gimmicky performances inside. Culturally, it revived an unused landmark into a high-profile nightlife destination, carrying on Exhibition Place’s tradition of public events (it’s literally on the old CNE grounds once used for flower shows (www.torontojourney416.com )). The venue has hosted Toronto’s most elaborate club nights – think circus acts, choreographed dancers in elaborate costumes, and even aerialists dangling from the ceiling during peak hours (foodism.ca ) (foodism.ca ). This Vegas-style extravagance (a review likened it to “Las Vegas, part night at the circus” (foodism.ca )) sets it apart from typical Toronto nightclubs. Moreover, it’s the only place in the city combining a fine-steak dining experience (with celebrity chef menus) and a full-blown EDM show in one roof (often called a “supper club”) (foodism.ca ) (www.opentable.ca ). The use of poker-chip currency is another quirky detail that guests remember (foodism.ca ). Locals love it for hosting community-tailored events (from wedding receptions to raves) in an iconic setting. Many Toronto artists and DJs appreciate performing here because of the venue’s ambitious scale and lighting (it really feels like a mini-arena under a glass dome). In short, Grand Bizarre earns its name by being weird and wonderful: a lavish, high-energy gathering spot that could only exist in Toronto’s largest event centre (www.opentable.ca ) (foodism.ca ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and Dress Code: This is strictly a 21+ venue (valid photo ID required) with an upscale party atmosphere. Casual elegant is the norm – think club attire (no athletic wear or flip-flops typically). What to Bring: Pack your ID and some form of payment. (Note: all purchases are via prepaid “chips,” but you need cash/credit at the entrance to buy chips inside.) A light jacket for coat check may be useful, and earplugs are smart if you’re on the dance floor. Phones and small cameras are okay – just be mindful of others. Arrival: Get there early (30–45 minutes before showtime) to beat lines. The main entrance is on Saskatchewan Rd/Princes Blvd. Security will check IDs and bags. Large backpacks or professional camera gear are not allowed. Smaller purses and wallets are fine. Accessibility: The building has ramps and an accessible entrance (the north-side entrance). There are wheelchair-accessible washrooms. The main floor is flat and open. For any special accessibility needs, call ahead (the venue site has a contact form). Parking: Allow extra time for parking through the Exhibition Place gate. The closest lots fill up fast on event nights; Lot 851 (115 Princes’ Blvd) and Lot 852 (inside the north entrance) are nearest (en.parkopedia.ca ). On some summer events, consider transit instead. Inside Tips: Tables have limited surfaces, so space is at a premium if you have food or bottles. The staff uses “Bizarre chips” system (foodism.ca ); it’s polite to carry small bills or cards to buy chip bundles. Tipping bottleservice (if used) is good practice. Bars accept cards for chips. If you reserve a table, confirm in advance how the seating rotation works. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume there’s traditional seating – it’s mainly a standing/dance venue. Walk-in tickets might not be available on sold-out nights, so don’t risk coming last-minute for a popular show. The coat check fee is a few dollars – bring loose change. Also, the summer patio can be chilly at night despite pools, so bring a wrap. Safety: With large crowds and bright lights, stay aware of exits. Enjoy responsibly. The music is loud and bass-heavy, so protect your hearing if sensitive. Eye for drinks – bartenders will serve anything from beer to $50 cocktails.
How much does it cost to attend events at Grand Bizarre?
Ticket prices vary by event and night. Headliner DJ nights typically cost around $40–$60 per person in advance (ra.co ). Smaller club events or local DJs may charge less or even offer free entry for early guests. Keep an eye on the official Grand Bizarre site and promoters for exact prices. (VIP tables with bottle service cost much more and include reserved seating.)
What are the best seats or areas in Grand Bizarre?
Grand Bizarre is mostly standing-room, but the closest spots to the stage under the central dome are prime. VIP tables are positioned right in front of the DJ booth and under the 60-ft chandelier (grandbizarre.com ) – these go quickly. For a view of the outdoor action, the poolside patio offers lounges and cabanas next to the pools (www.clubcrawlers.com ). In general, for dancing you’ll want to be near the stage; for lounging with friends, the perimeter seating or poolside areas are best.
What is the dress code at Grand Bizarre?
Dress codes are upscale-casual. Most patrons wear stylish club attire (no sneakers, shorts or athletic gear). Think cocktail dresses for women and dress shirts or fashionable tops for men. Since the space blends fine dining with a nightclub vibe, smart looks are recommended. Service staff interpret “dress to impress” – you’ll fit in if you look polished and ready for a night out.
How do I get tickets and do they sell at the door?
Tickets must usually be bought online in advance. Check the Grand Bizarre website for links to authorized sellers (they often redirect to TicketWeb). Popular nights often sell out early, so advance purchase is wise. Some events do allow walk-up entry if space permits, but this is not guaranteed. There is no regular street-level box office; virtually all sales are done via the online “Get Tickets” link on the venue’s event listings.
What is the parking situation at Grand Bizarre?
Grand Bizarre is inside Exhibition Place, which has several paid public lots. The closest is Lot 851 at 115 Princes' Blvd (walking distance) (en.parkopedia.ca ). On event nights, expect to pay around C$10–$15 for a few hours. Other lots (1, 2, etc.) serve ExPlace. Street parking is limited. There are also private lots and SpotHero options nearby. Since lots can fill up on big nights, many visitors prefer to take transit or rideshare (TTC streetcars run nearby and Toronto’s Go Exhibition Station is a short walk). Once parked, follow ExPlace signage to Gate 2 (Princes’ Blvd) or Saskatchewan Rd to find the Horticulture building.
Is Grand Bizarre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Horticulture Building has accessible entrances and restrooms. There are ramps at the main door and elevators for any level changes. The dance floor is on one level with wide open space. Staff are used to accommodating guests with mobility needs – you may wish to call ahead (via the site’s booking inquiry) for any special assistance. Overall, the venue is more accessible than many older clubs, but keep in mind it is a historic building so a little extra planning (like notifying your party or the venue) can ensure a smooth visit.
What forms of payment are accepted inside the venue?
All purchases inside Grand Bizarre (drinks, food, merchandise) are made with the venue’s token system. You buy “Bizarre Chips” (casino-style tokens) at the bar for roughly C$3.75 each (foodism.ca ), and then use those tokens to pay for items. Bars and kiosks do not take cash or credit directly for orders – instead, get cash or card in foyer to convert to chips. (Credit cards are accepted for chip purchases.) It’s an old-school supper-club tradition to use chips, so have some cash on hand to avoid lineups at the token booth.
Does Grand Bizarre have age restrictions?
Yes – entry is strictly 21+ at all events (No ID, No Entry). This is enforced at the door. Even if someone is on the guest list, they must present a valid government photo ID showing their age. The rule is non-negotiable, so plan accordingly. (This policy comes from the venue’s liquor licence and focus on adult nightlife.)
Is smoking allowed inside Grand Bizarre?
No, smoking is not permitted inside the building. Grand Bizarre is a fully non-smoking venue. You must step outside (to the designated smoking area, typically by the exit doors or on the patio) if you want to smoke. Vaping is usually also disallowed indoors. Ontario law prohibits indoor smoking in public venues, so dress for the weather when you exit.
Does Grand Bizarre offer coat check or lockers?
Yes, a coat check is available near the entrance (usually for a small fee). It’s recommended to check coats and large bags there to move freely on the dance floor. Availability can vary by event, but typically during big winter shows they run a staffed coat-check counter. While not advertised, there are sometimes small lockers or storage cubbies as well. Still, always keep valuables with you; if you check a coat or bag, do so at your own risk.
Is there food served at Grand Bizarre?
Yes – Grand Bizarre has a full supper-club menu. During evening events they operate restaurant-style pop-ups. You’ll find a variety of gourmet bar-fare: sushi, appetizers, and large steaks (for example, their aged tomahawk steak by Chef Rob Rainford (www.opentable.ca )). Food is usually ordered and paid in chips like drinks. The emphasis is on small plates and shareable items – people often snack while dancing. In summer, the outdoor patio might offer grill or poke-bowl stands alongside the bar. You can eat seated or standing. Remember, tables are assigned for dining slots if you reserve; otherwise food can be ordered anytime and brought to your standing spot.
What transportation options are there late at night?
After a late show, TTC service becomes sparse. On weekends, the 511 Bathurst streetcar runs until about 2 AM and the 29 Dufferin bus until around 1 AM. However, best options after midnight are rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxi. Grand Bizarre/Exhibition Place is well-serviced by multiple taxi companies. If you drive, ensure your parking slip allows late retrieval (some lots close by midnight during off-season). Otherwise, plan to ride share or grab a cab from the main entrance. The venue’s staff and security can usually help flag a cab or direct drop-offs safely.
