1949 Yonge Street subway construction in Toronto with Eaton's department store and Loew's cinema

Elgin And Winter Garden Theatre Centre

Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Essential Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre is an architectural and cultural jewel in downtown Toronto. Located at 189 Yonge Street, it stands as the world’s last operating Edwardian double-decker theatre. Designed by Thomas W. Lamb in 1913, the Centre offers an immersive experience for history buffs, theatre lovers, and travelers seeking the best of Toronto’s heritage. Its two stacked theatres—the ornate Elgin and the enchanting Winter Garden—invite visitors to step back in time while enjoying a diverse range of contemporary performances. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from hours and ticketing to accessibility, nearby attractions, and tour details.

For authoritative event details, tickets, and up-to-date schedules, always consult the official theatre sources (Elgin Theatre Information, Canadian Stage, Doors Open Ontario).

Box office of Elgin and Winter Gardens theatres on Yonge Street Toronto

Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres illuminated at night in Toronto

Front facade of Elgin and Winter Gardens theatres on Yonge Street in Toronto

Front facade of the historic Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres on Yonge Street, Toronto

Front facade of Elgin and Winter Gardens theaters on Yonge Street, Toronto

Front facade of Elgin and Winter Gardens theatres on Yonge Street, Toronto

Front facade of the Elgin and Winter Gardens theatres on Yonge Street in Toronto

Introduction
Origins and Architectural Significance
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Special Events, Tours, and Programming
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Next Steps
Sources

Origins and Architectural Significance

History

Commissioned as the Canadian flagship for Marcus Loew’s theatre chain, the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre opened in 1913. Its unique “double-decker” design—Elgin Theatre at street level, Winter Garden Theatre seven stories above—was conceived to maximize urban space while offering distinct experiences for different audiences. The Elgin, with its Beaux-Arts and French Renaissance styling, originally seated over 2,100 guests and remains a testament to early 20th-century opulence. The Winter Garden, with its atmospheric indoor woodland, fairy lights, and real beech branches, was reserved for more exclusive vaudeville performances.

Restoration

After decades of decline and closure, an ambitious restoration by the Ontario Heritage Trust between 1987 and 1989 revived the theatres’ original grandeur. This project preserved historic features, restored architectural details, and ensured the complex’s continued cultural relevance (Doors Open Ontario).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Guided Tours

Schedule: Public tours are typically offered Mondays at 5 p.m. (advance booking required), Thursdays at 5 p.m., and Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Duration: Tours last approximately 90 minutes (Attractions Ontario).
Tickets: Adults $12, seniors and students $10 (cash only for tours; prices subject to change) (Fortwoplz).
Group Tours: Available for groups of 15+ with advance booking.

Performance Schedule

Box Office Hours: Generally open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday to Saturday; hours may vary for special events.
Showtimes: Vary by event; check the official website for the current calendar.
Ticket Purchase: Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office. Early booking is advised, especially during festivals such as TIFF (Elgin Theatre).

Seating and Entry

Elgin Theatre: Seats 1,561 guests; main auditorium.
Winter Garden Theatre: Seats 992 guests; located above the Elgin.
Side-by-Side Seating: Guaranteed when tickets are purchased together.
E-Tickets: Most events use electronic tickets; ensure your phone is charged for entry.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Wheelchair Access: Both theatres are fully accessible, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and seating (Canadian Stage).
Assistive Listening: Devices are available upon request at the box office.
Restrooms & Amenities: Multiple restrooms and seasonal coat check; concessions available during events.
Bag Policy: Large bags may be restricted; travel light for convenience.

For specific needs, contact the box office ahead of your visit.

Special Events, Tours, and Programming

Performances: Theatres host musicals, concerts, operas, comedies, and film premieres, including major events like the Toronto International Film Festival (Attractions Ontario).
Guided Tours: Include backstage access, historic dressing rooms, and displays of original vaudeville scenery—the largest such collection in the world (Fortwoplz).
Educational Programs: Year-round initiatives support community engagement and heritage education.
Venue Rentals: The theatres can be booked for private and corporate events (Elgin Theatre Information).

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Location

Address: 189 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1M4

By Public Transit

Subway: Queen and Dundas stations (Line 1) are a short walk away.
Streetcar/Bus: Several TTC lines serve the area.
Note: Queen Street is closed to vehicles between Bay and Victoria due to Metrolinx construction; pedestrian access is unaffected (Canadian Stage).

By Car

Multiple public parking lots nearby; rates and availability vary by event.

Nearby Attractions

Eaton Centre: Directly across the street for shopping and dining.
Yonge-Dundas Square: Just north, hosting frequent events.
Massey Hall, Old City Hall, Hockey Hall of Fame: All within walking distance.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive Early: 10–15 minutes before tours or performances.
Photography: Permitted during tours (no flash/tripods); event policies may vary.
Dress Code: Smart casual is recommended, especially for evening events.
Refreshments: Available at concession stands.
Group Visits: Book in advance by calling +1 416-314-2874 (Attractions Ontario).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre visiting hours?
A: Tours are typically Mondays at 5 p.m. (advance booking), Thursdays at 5 p.m., and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Performance times vary; check the official site for updated hours.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Tour tickets are sold onsite (cash only); performance tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes, both theatres are fully accessible. Contact the box office for specific accommodations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, with regular public tours and advance-booked group tours.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is allowed during tours (no flash/tripods); confirm event-specific policies with staff.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Eaton Centre, Yonge-Dundas Square, and several historic landmarks are within walking distance.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre is both a living museum and a vibrant performance venue—a must-see for anyone interested in Toronto’s cultural legacy. From its unparalleled architecture to its dynamic programming, the Centre offers something for everyone. Plan ahead by checking visiting hours, booking tickets, and exploring the theatre’s online resources. For the best experience, consider joining a guided tour, and don’t miss the nearby downtown attractions.

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