Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto

Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is a landmark of entertainment, luxury, and cultural vibrancy in Canada’s largest city. Officially opening in June 2023 after a CA$1 billion investment, this 33-acre integrated resort is the largest casino complex in Canada. It boasts an expansive gaming floor, a 400-room upscale hotel, diverse dining venues, a 5,000-seat entertainment center in partnership with Live Nation, and innovative architectural and sustainability features. Conveniently located in Etobicoke near Toronto Pearson International Airport and major highways, the resort is easily accessible for both local and international travelers. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accommodations, travel tips, accessibility, nearby attractions, special events, and practical tips for making the most of your visit (Great Canadian Entertainment).

Introduction
History and Development
Visiting Hours & Admission
Accessibility Features
Travel Tips & Parking
Nearby Attractions
Special Events & Tours
Dining & Accommodations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Final Tips
References

History and Development

Origins & Vision

The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is the flagship property of Great Canadian Entertainment, a company that began in 1982 managing charity casinos and major entertainment venues. The vision was to create a world-class, integrated destination, blending gaming, hospitality, dining, and live events—mirroring global trends seen in cities like Las Vegas and Macau (OntarioGambling.ca).

Planning & Construction

Planning involved extensive collaboration between Great Canadian Entertainment, city officials, and industry partners. Construction began after rigorous approvals, spanning five years and culminating in Canada’s largest gaming destination. The project’s scale was unprecedented, comprising 328,000 square feet of gaming space and a $1 billion investment (Ottawa Life).

Milestones & Expansion

The resort opened in phases, with the casino and initial amenities launched on June 20, 2023. Features included 4,800 slot machines, 145 table games, multiple dining options, and a 3,800-space parking structure. The dedicated poker room and 400-room hotel (opening August 1, 2024) further diversify the resort’s appeal, with the entertainment venue and additional dining/retail options expanding its status as a comprehensive entertainment district (Stay Magazine).

Visiting Hours & Admission

Casino and Amenities

Casino Floor: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Dining & Retail: Typically open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM; hours may vary by venue and event.
Entertainment Venue: Hours depend on the event schedule.

Admission & Tickets

General Admission: Free for guests 19+ with valid government-issued photo ID.
Special Events/Shows: Tickets are required for concerts, comedy, and select events, available via the resort’s website or authorized ticket partners.
Poker Room: Check for tournament schedules and membership requirements.

Accessibility Features

The resort is fully committed to inclusivity:

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, elevators, and hotel rooms.
Assistive listening devices for live events.
Designated accessible parking near main entrances.
PlaySmart Centre offers resources for responsible gaming.

For specific needs, contact the guest services team in advance.

Travel Tips & Parking

Getting There

By Car: Near highways 401 and 427, just minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Public Transit: Current options include buses and nearby subway stations; future expansion of GO Transit, UP Express, and LRT is planned.
Taxi/Rideshare: Widely available.

Parking

On-site 3,800-space parking structure.
Accessible parking available.
Fees may apply; check online for updated rates.

Nearby Attractions & Toronto Landmarks

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Distillery Historic District: Heritage architecture, artisan shops, restaurants.
CN Tower: Panoramic city views.
Royal Ontario Museum: Canada’s largest world culture and natural history museum.
Woodbine Centre & Racetrack: Shopping and horse racing.
Toronto Islands, Fort York, Casa Loma: Ideal for day trips and cultural exploration.

Special Events & Guided Tours

Live Entertainment: Regular concerts, comedy shows, and special events in the 5,000-seat venue.
Gaming Events: Themed nights, major poker tournaments.
Culinary Festivals: Rotating lineup of food and beverage events.
Guided Tours: Explore the resort’s architecture, gaming floor, and sustainability features; book via guest services.

Dining & Accommodations

On-Site Dining

Casual: Buffets, quick-service counters, bars near the gaming floor.
Upscale: Signature steakhouse, high-end Cantonese cuisine.
Bars & Lounges: Craft cocktails, local beers, live entertainment.

Accommodations

The Hotel at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto: 400 rooms, luxury amenities, wellness center, business facilities, and accessible suites.
Nearby Hotels: Multiple options within a short drive, including major brands (Marriott, Hilton, Sheraton) with airport shuttles.

Rewards Programs

Great Canadian Rewards/Encore Rewards: Earn points on gaming, dining, and hotel stays for discounts and exclusive offers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the casino’s visiting hours?
A: The casino floor is open 24/7. Dining and entertainment venue hours vary by schedule.

Q: Do I need tickets to enter the casino?
A: No, entry is free for guests 19+. Tickets are required for concerts and special events.

Q: Is the resort accessible?
A: Yes, with comprehensive accessibility features for guests with disabilities.

Q: Are children allowed?
A: The casino is restricted to guests 19 and older. Family-friendly amenities are available in the hotel and restaurants.

Q: How can I get to the resort from the airport?
A: The resort is a 10-minute drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport by taxi, shuttle, or public transit.

Q: Are there nearby historical sites?
A: Yes, including the CN Tower, Distillery District, Fort York, and Casa Loma.

Summary & Final Tips

The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is a premier destination for gaming, luxury accommodations, dining, and entertainment, all in one vibrant location. Its 24/7 casino, top-tier concerts, and diverse amenities make it ideal for travelers, locals, and business visitors. Strategically located near Toronto Pearson International Airport and key city landmarks, the resort blends modern luxury with cultural discovery.