Ontario Science Centre Secures Interim Home at Harbourfront Centre

The Ontario Science Centre will temporarily relocate to the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto next summer as it awaits the construction of its new permanent facility at Ontario Place, set to be completed by 2029. The provincial Ministry of Tourism announced this move, stating that the interim location will allow the Science Centre to maintain its programming, support jobs, and enhance tourism efforts in the region.

Originally opened in 1969 on Don Mills Road, the Ontario Science Centre faced closure in June 2024 after an engineering report revealed a significant risk of roof collapse. This decision sparked public backlash. As of 2025, the museum has operated a smaller exhibit space within the Sherway Gardens mall, which will remain functional until January 4, 2026.

Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of the new interim location: “By establishing the Ontario Science Centre’s interim location at the Harbourfront Centre, we’re helping Ontario families access world-class science programming even as we continue building a new, expanded and state-of-the-art Ontario Science Centre just steps away at Ontario Place.” He added that this initiative aims to create lasting memories for families and nurture a love for science while contributing to the vibrancy of Toronto’s waterfront.

Expanding Opportunities at Harbourfront Centre

The Ontario Science Centre’s KidSpark learning space has already established a presence at Harbourfront Centre, opening in December 2024. Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Harbourfront Centre has long been a trusted destination for families, and we are pleased to welcome the Ontario Science Centre’s expansion on our campus.” She highlighted that this partnership aligns with Harbourfront Centre’s mission as a hub for arts, culture, learning, and recreation.

Plans for the interim location include expanding the space at Harbourfront Centre by summer 2026. The new site will encompass approximately 86,000 square feet dedicated to Science Centre exhibitions and workshops, along with shared areas for community programs and events. This expansion will feature classrooms and outdoor program areas, further enriching the educational experience for visitors.

The move to Harbourfront Centre represents a vital step in ensuring that the Ontario Science Centre continues to engage with the community and foster curiosity about science. This interim arrangement not only preserves the Centre’s programming during a critical transition period but also reinforces its commitment to being an accessible and innovative educational resource for families in Toronto and beyond.