The One Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Toronto’s Iconic Landmark
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Soaring above the intersection of Yonge and Bloor Streets, The One Toronto redefines the city’s skyline as Canada’s tallest residential skyscraper. This architectural marvel, developed by Mizrahi Developments and designed by Foster + Partners with Core Architects, seamlessly blends luxury living, retail, dining, and panoramic observation decks in one destination. The One not only stands as a testament to Toronto’s urban ambition and innovation but also offers a multifaceted visitor experience that puts you at the heart of the city’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of urban experiences, or a tourist looking to explore Toronto’s historic and cultural attractions, this comprehensive guide details The One’s visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, surrounding attractions, and practical travel tips. (The One Toronto Skyscraper Visitor’s Guide, Foster + Partners, UrbanToronto)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Development Overview
- Visiting The One Toronto: Essential Information
- Architectural and Cultural Significance
- Visitor Experience: What to Expect
- Nearby Attractions and Experiences
- Sustainability Initiatives
- Practical Tips for Visitors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Plan Your Visit: Resources & Links
- Key Facts and Figures
- Conclusion
History and Development Overview
Origins and Vision
The One was envisioned as a transformative project to bridge Toronto’s bustling downtown and its chic Yorkville neighbourhood. Spearheaded by Sam Mizrahi of Mizrahi Developments and designed by Foster + Partners with Core Architects, the project aimed to create a new urban icon—Toronto’s answer to global landmarks like the Empire State Building. (Foster + Partners, CORE Architects)
Architectural Innovation
A defining feature of The One is its hybrid exoskeleton—a striking lattice of metallic trusses wrapping the building’s perimeter. This innovative structural system eliminates the need for interior columns, resulting in soaring, open spaces for both retail and residences. The elegant champagne-bronze finish and preservation of heritage façades at the podium further set The One apart. (World Construction Network)
Development Timeline
- 2015: Project announced
- 2017: Construction begins
- 2025: Projected completion
Despite facing budget challenges and management changes, The One is poised to become the country’s tallest tower upon completion. (Financial Post, UrbanToronto)
Visiting The One Toronto: Essential Information
Visiting Hours
- Retail & Dining Podium: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (hours may vary by venue)
- Observation Deck: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (subject to seasonal changes and special events)
- Special Events: Extended hours during holidays and festivals—check the official website for updates.
Tickets & Admission
- Retail & Dining: Free entry
- Observation Deck: CAD $25–$40 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and families
- Guided Tours: Additional fees may apply; advance booking recommended
Tickets can be purchased online via The One’s official website or at the on-site box office.
Accessibility
The One is fully accessible throughout, with elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and trained staff to assist visitors with mobility or sensory needs. Service animals are welcome.
Getting There & Travel Tips
- Public Transit: Located above Bloor-Yonge Station (Lines 1 & 2), with multiple TTC bus and streetcar routes nearby.
- Parking: Public garages available nearby; public transit is recommended due to limited and costly parking.
- Cycling: Bike racks and Toronto Bike Share stations are in the vicinity.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture both the building’s design and stunning city views.
Architectural and Cultural Significance
The One is more than a skyscraper—it is a symbol of Toronto’s evolution into a global city. Its exoskeleton frame and glass façade are a bold departure from conventional towers, while its integration of preserved heritage elements at street level pays homage to Toronto’s history. The building is targeting LEED Gold certification, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability. (Skyscrapers World, Architecture Art Designs, Skygrid)
Visitor Experience: What to Expect
Arrival and Access
- Location: Yonge & Bloor, a major transit and cultural hub in downtown Toronto
- Entrance: Grand lobby with 24/7 security and concierge; bag checks and registration may be required for restricted areas
Observation Deck
- Features: Panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows, interactive digital displays, and telescopes
- Best times: Early morning or sunset for optimal light and lighter crowds
- Accessibility: Elevators and accessible viewing areas
Retail & Dining
- Podium Levels: Multi-level luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and gourmet dining
- Dining tip: Reserve ahead for upscale restaurants; note 13% HST on all purchases (TripSavvy)
Special Events
Regular art installations, seasonal festivals, rooftop parties, and public gatherings take place on-site. Many are free or included with admission to the observation deck.
Nearby Attractions and Experiences
The One’s central location makes it ideal for exploring:
- Royal Ontario Museum: Art, culture, and natural history (Xixerone)
- Yorkville: Upscale shopping and dining
- Bata Shoe Museum: Unique footwear history
- Eaton Centre: Major downtown shopping
- CN Tower: Iconic city views
Annual events like the Toronto International Film Festival and various cultural celebrations are also within easy reach.
Sustainability Initiatives
The One incorporates green building technologies such as energy-efficient systems, operable windows, and sky gardens. Recycling and waste sorting stations are available throughout. The building’s LEED Gold target demonstrates a significant commitment to environmental responsibility.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June–September) for lively events; early fall for fewer crowds and beautiful foliage (Travellers Worldwide, Lonely Planet)
- Dress Code: Smart casual for fine dining; comfortable attire for exploring
- Language: English is primary, but staff may assist in other languages (Penguin and Pia)
- Payment: Canadian dollars; major credit cards/contactless payments accepted
- Wi-Fi & Amenities: Free high-speed Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout
- Family-Friendly: Stroller access, family restrooms, and group tour options available
- Photography: Allowed in public spaces; tripods may require approval
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are The One Toronto’s visiting hours?
A: Retail and dining: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM; observation deck: 9:00 AM–11:00 PM. Check online for seasonal updates.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Observation deck: CAD $25–$40 (adult), with discounts for children, seniors, and families.
Q: Is The One accessible via public transit?
A: Yes, directly above Bloor-Yonge subway station.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, with a focus on architecture and engineering; book online in advance.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only service animals are permitted.
Q: Is The One family-friendly?
A: Yes, with amenities for children and families.
Q: Where is parking available?
A: Public garages nearby, but spaces are limited; public transit is advised.
Plan Your Visit: Resources & Links
- The One Toronto Official Website
- Foster + Partners Project Page
- Toronto Tourism
- TTC Transit Planner
- Nearby Attractions
- Best Time to Visit Toronto
- Travel Tips for Canada
Key Facts and Figures
- Height: 306.3 meters (1,005 feet)
- Storeys: 85
- Architects: Foster + Partners, Core Architects
- Developer: Mizrahi Developments (original), Tridel (current construction manager)
- Uses: 416 condos, 175 hotel rooms, retail, restaurants
- Construction Start: 2017
- Projected Completion: 2025
- Estimated Cost: $2 billion
- Sustainability: Targeting LEED Gold certification
Conclusion
The One Toronto is more than just a skyscraper—it is a transformative landmark combining architectural innovation, sustainability, and vibrant urban life. As it opens its doors in 2025, The One invites you to experience Toronto’s future from its spectacular heights, while being steps away from the city’s renowned cultural and historical attractions.
Plan your visit today: For the latest updates on visiting hours, tickets, events, and guided tours, consult The One’s official website and download the Audiala app for digital resources and travel tips.
References
- The One Toronto Skyscraper: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Tourist Guide, 2025, Mizrahi Developments
- The One by Foster + Partners, 2025, Foster + Partners
- The One Nears Supertall Height, 2025, UrbanToronto
- The One Tallest Condominium Canada, 2024, CORE Architects
- The One Toronto: Architectural Marvel, 2025, Architecture Art Designs
- The One Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Urban Impact, 2025, Skygrid
- Supertall Skyscrapers Transform Toronto’s Skyline, 2024, Urbanize Toronto
- Best Time to Visit Toronto, 2024, Travellers Worldwide
- What You Should Know Before Visiting Canada, 2024, TripSavvy
- Penguin and Pia: Travelling to Canada for the First Time
- Xixerone: Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto