This popular entertainment complex situated on Lake Ontario has its sights set on the future.
Ontario Place is currently the focus of ambitious refurbishment plans to coincide with Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations in 2017. As a result, some of its facilities and attractions are temporarily closed, including the Cinesphere, the water park and restaurant area. However, the remaining attractions are still well worth the journey.This popular entertainment complex first opened in 1971 on three man-made islands on Lake Ontario. The marina and beaches quickly became favourites for weekend sporting and leisure trips, while Echo Beach has established itself as a hugely successful and much-loved live music venue. These facilities are all still open, along with the amphitheatre, the Atlantis Pavilion – the well-appointed banqueting and convention centre which hosts plentiful private events – and the on-site car parks.Echo Beach is one of the most popular outdoor venues in Canada, with a packed line-up of international superstars like Ed Sheeran and Marina and the Diamonds. The atmosphere is enhanced by the stunning backdrop of the Toronto skyline, made even more impressive at night when the twinkling lights of the high-rise buildings add a touch of magic. The 16,000-seat amphitheatre also hosts top bands and artists with huge followings, including Bryan Adams and Il Volo. Check the official Echo Beach website for full event details concerts in the amphitheatre are published on the Live Nation website.From May until mid-October the marina is packed with hundreds of craft ranging from sleek megayachts to simple day boats. Moorings are available for long or short stays, so there’s usually plenty of activity going on.Ontario Place is off the north shore of Lake Ontario around 10 minutes’ drive west of the city centre. For the best public transport option, catch the light rail to Exhibition Place followed by a short stroll, or follow the Waterfront Trail from the harbour. The Waterfront Trail will take you around an hour, so be sure to leave enough time if you’re going to an event.The revitalisation plans will see Ontario Place restored to its full capacity in good time for the anniversary celebrations.
