Engineering Science Bahen Building at University of Toronto

Bahen Centre For Information Technology

Bahen Centre for Information Technology Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The Bahen Centre for Information Technology, located at the heart of the University of Toronto’s St. George campus, is a striking example of how academic innovation and heritage preservation can coexist. Since its opening in 2002, the Centre has provided state-of-the-art facilities for research and teaching, while carefully preserving historic architecture. For visitors—from architecture enthusiasts and history buffs to students and tourists—the Bahen Centre stands as a testament to Toronto’s rich academic legacy and progressive design ethos.

This comprehensive visitor guide details everything you need to know about exploring the Bahen Centre: its history, architectural highlights, practical visitor information, accessibility, events, nearby attractions, and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re planning a campus tour or seeking a unique Toronto landmark, the Bahen Centre offers a free, accessible, and engaging experience.

IWOCL 2017 conference attendees in a large auditorium

Bahen building at the University of Toronto

Bahen building at University of Toronto with architectural details

Historical Background
Architectural Significance & Heritage Integration
Visitor Information
Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
Events & Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Encouragement to Visit
References & Official Links

Historical Background

The Bahen Centre was conceived to support the growing fields of computer science and engineering at the University of Toronto. The project was made possible through significant funding from engineer John Bahen and philanthropist Jeffrey Skoll (U of T Planning, Design & Construction). Opened officially in October 2002, the Centre consolidated several departments, including Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Engineering Science, and Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (U of T Engineering Buildings Exhibit).

A defining aspect of the Bahen Centre’s history is its sensitive integration of local heritage. The Victorian-era E.M. Chadwick House, built in 1878, was restored and incorporated into the Centre’s design after advocacy from Heritage Toronto, preserving both its exterior and interior (U of T Engineering Buildings Exhibit – Historical Snapshot). The Mendel Granatstein residence portico, designed by Benjamin Brown, was also salvaged and now stands in the Bahen Centre’s lobby, serving as a tangible link to Toronto’s architectural legacy (U of T Planning, Design & Construction).

Architectural Significance & Heritage Integration

Designed by Diamond + Schmitt Architects, the Bahen Centre embodies modernist principles while honoring Toronto’s historical fabric. Its 20,000-square-meter structure is celebrated for its innovative use of concrete, glass, and light, winning multiple awards for architectural merit and sustainability:

Toronto Architecture and Urban Design Award of Excellence (2003)
OAA Award of Excellence (2003)
Ontario Concrete Design Award for Architectural Merit (2003)
National Post Design Exchange Awards – Environments Bronze (2003)
IESNA International Illumination Design Award of Merit (2003) (U of T Planning, Design & Construction)

The building’s careful restoration of the Chadwick House—now home to the Dean of Applied Science & Engineering—sets a benchmark for heritage preservation in urban development. The seamless physical and visual connection between old and new offers visitors a unique journey through nearly 150 years of architectural evolution.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Admission

Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Weekends: Typically 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (hours may vary; check official sources)
Admission: Free; no tickets or reservations are required for general access.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment or during special events; advance booking is recommended for groups.

(University of Toronto Visitor Information)

Accessibility

The Bahen Centre is fully accessible, complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Features include:

Elevators and ramps
Automatic doors
Accessible washrooms
Tactile signage

Visitors requiring additional support should contact university accessibility services ahead of time.

Guided Tours & Special Events

Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable staff, tours showcase architectural highlights, heritage elements (such as the Chadwick House and Granatstein portico), and interactive technology displays. Tours typically last 45 minutes.
Events: The Bahen Centre hosts lectures, workshops, open houses, and technology exhibitions. These are open to the public, with some requiring advance registration (AllEvents.in).

Photography & Visitor Etiquette

Photography: Permitted in public areas. Please respect privacy and avoid photographing inside offices or classrooms without permission.
Etiquette: As an active academic space, visitors should minimize disruptions, especially during class times and research activities.

Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions

Getting There

Address: 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON
Public Transit: Easily accessible via TTC subway (St. George Station) and bus routes (TTC)
Parking: Limited paid parking on campus; public lots nearby. Biking encouraged—racks are available.

(Moovit Transit Guide)

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Royal Ontario Museum
Hart House
Convocation Hall
Soldiers’ Tower
Kensington Market
Chinatown
The Annex

The Bahen Centre is a convenient starting point for discovering Toronto’s cultural and historical districts.

Events & Community Engagement

The Bahen Centre thrives as a venue for academic, public, and community-focused events, including:

Academic Conferences & Workshops: Covering AI, engineering, and computer science (University of Toronto Magazine)
Public Lectures & Open Houses: Interactive exhibits, research showcases, and family-friendly activities
Student Outreach: Coding and digital literacy programs for Toronto’s youth, promoting inclusivity and STEM education
Hackathons & Innovation Challenges: Open to students and community members
Art-Science Exhibitions: Exploring creative intersections between technology and culture

Check the latest schedules and opportunities on the University of Toronto Events Calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Bahen Centre’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; weekends 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (verify for special events).

Q: Is there an admission fee or tickets required?
A: No, general admission is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment or during special events; advance booking recommended.

Q: Is the Bahen Centre wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible throughout the building.

Q: Can I attend events if I am not a university member?
A: Most events are open to the public; check event listings for details.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, in public areas. Please be considerate of privacy and restricted zones.

Q: Are there food or beverage options?
A: A café and lounges are available within the building.

Summary & Encouragement to Visit

The Bahen Centre for Information Technology is a model of heritage-sensitive design, academic excellence, and community engagement. With free admission, full accessibility, and a prime location near major Toronto attractions, the Centre offers visitors a vibrant experience bridging the city’s past and future. Whether you’re drawn by its architecture, its academic contributions, or its diverse events, the Bahen Centre is a must-visit landmark.

Before your visit, check the official University of Toronto visitor page for up-to-date schedules, and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and campus navigation. Follow the Centre on social media for news and event updates.