Province Taking Next Steps to Build Ontario Place

June 25, 2025

Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford, the Ontario government has reached a major milestone in the revitalization of Ontario Place, unveiling the final designs that will transform this iconic waterfront site into a world-class destination for residents and tourists alike.

For decades, Ontario Place served as a symbol of innovation, community, and culture. However, years of underinvestment left it in disrepair. Today, that narrative is changing.

The new Ontario Place will boast over 50 acres of free public trails, expanded green spaces, interactive playgrounds, urban beaches, waterfront boardwalks, and an updated marina – all thoughtfully designed to welcome up to six million visitors each year. With convenient access via car, GO Transit, and the future Ontario Line’s Exhibition Station, this redevelopment project will reconnect Ontarians with their waterfront.

🌿 A Vision for the Future: Key Features of the New Ontario Place

The final designs, shaped through extensive public and Indigenous consultation, are organized into five main zones:

The Forum – A central gathering space featuring a one-acre splash fountain in the shape of Ontario’s trillium, ideal for outdoor markets and festivals.
The Mainland – Home to interactive treehouse playgrounds, turtle-shaped structures, and natural play spaces for children and families.
The Marina – A vibrant hub with open-air pavilions, future programming space, and modern boating facilities.
The Water’s Edge – Scenic lookout points, canoe and kayak launch sites, and sunset-facing stone platforms along Lake Ontario.
Brigantine Cove – A reimagined urban beach and boardwalk offering a relaxed retreat with amenities for all ages.

In addition, the East Island will host a 3,400 sq. ft. Indigenous Cultural Pavilion, a space designed in collaboration with Indigenous communities for workshops, learning programs, and community events – honoring Ontario Place’s history and traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

💼 Economic Impact: Jobs, Tourism, and Growth

This transformative project will support 5,000 jobs in construction and tourism, while strengthening Ontario’s economic recovery in the face of global uncertainty. A newly announced revenue-generating parking structure—with space for up to 3,500 vehicles—is expected to generate $60 million annually, ensuring the site remains accessible and financially sustainable.

“The investments we’re making will help keep 5,000 workers on the job and help grow Toronto and Ontario’s tourism sector for decades to come,” said Premier Ford.

🤝 A Place for Everyone

What sets this vision apart is its emphasis on accessibility, culture, and community. Final designs reflect deep engagement with over 9,300 Ontarians, the City of Toronto, and Indigenous groups, ensuring Ontario Place remains a shared space for generations to come.

From concerts at Live Nation’s revitalized amphitheatre to family-friendly wellness experiences at Therme Canada, and the return of the Ontario Science Centre, the reimagined Ontario Place will be a landmark where leisure, culture, and innovation meet.

📍A Rebirth of Ontario’s Waterfront

As Minister Kinga Surma remarked, “Now, 54 years after welcoming its first visitors, our government is returning this iconic park to the people of Ontario.”

Ontario Place is not just being rebuilt—it’s being reimagined. As a model of inclusive design, cultural respect, and sustainable growth, this revitalization effort signals a new era for Toronto’s waterfront, anchored in pride, progress, and public benefit.

Stay connected for updates on construction timelines, future amenities, and grand opening details as Ontario Place takes shape.