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Art that generates light bulb moments

For 36 years, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery has been immersing visitors in transformative visual works that offer dynamic perspectives and spark thought-provoking conversations. The CN Tower isn’t the only iconic structure rising into…

For 36 years, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery has been immersing visitors in transformative visual works that offer dynamic perspectives and spark thought-provoking conversations.

The CN Tower isn’t the only iconic structure rising into the skies over Toronto’s downtown. At the Harbourfront Centre — the 10-acre waterfront campus that offers cultural experiences year-round — that honour belongs to The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery’s recognizable smokestack. While the restored smokestack and the gallery’s eye-catching red brick façade are nods to its history and past, The Power Plant’s interior tells a forward-thinking story. Since it opened in 1987, the gallery has been on a mission to present revolutionary contemporary art. 

To inspire visitors, The Power Plant goes beyond displaying diverse works by local, national, and international artists. Taking inspiration from its seasonal exhibits, the gallery curates talks, workshops, kid-friendly activities, and much more. This immersive approach has firmly established The Power Plan as a platform that connects audiences of all ages to art and ideas. 

At The Power Plant, there is plenty to discover each time you visit. Access to the gallery and its programming is always free. The Power Plant’s Harbourfront Centre location also makes it easy to enjoy various Toronto arts and culture experiences in one convenient vicinity. For ideas on incorporating the Harbourfront Centre into your next family day, check out our Family Fun Itinerary blog. 

Now You Know: The Power Plant


Adelina Vlas is The Power Plant’s Head of Curatorial Affairs. Walk the gallery with Adelina as she shares why it’s an integral part of Toronto’s arts story.

Before You Go

Heading to The Power Plant to check out what’s on display? Here’s what you need to know.

The Power Plant’s gallery and programs are always free.

231 Queens Quay W. (at the Harbourfront Centre).

There are three paid parking lots at Harbourfront Centre: Lot P2 (York Quay), Lot P3 (Rees Street), and Lot P6 (Spadina Pier).

You can reach the Harbourfront Centre by heading southbound on the Yonge-University Toronto Public Transit Commission (TTC) line to Union Station. From Union, hop on the 509 Harbourfront or 510 Spadina streetcar. Exit at the Harbourfront Centre stop. Before heading out, always check ttc.ca for service disruptions.

The Power Plant is currently upgrading the campus to be accessible and welcoming to all. Excuse our appearance as parts of the building will be under construction over the next few weeks. Starting from February 28 and until further notice, The Power Plant will reduce its opening hours and move our main entrance to the south doors facing the lake.

Access to the public bathrooms on the first floor of the building will also be temporarily unavailable. There will be two bathrooms on the second floor of the gallery, which can be reached via the stairwell and also an elevator.

The nearest wheelchair-accessible washroom on campus are situated at 207 Queens Quay West. Please see CAMPUS MAP for detailed instructions on how to find these offsite bathrooms. We sincerely apologize for this inconvenience.

If you have any questions in advance of your visit, please call (416)-973-4949. If you require assistance during your visit, please ask at the reception.

View the campus map here.

Toronto in less than 90 seconds 

Ever wonder what makes Toronto’s arts and culture scene so unique? Looking to discover hidden gems? Want to know the best way to experience Toronto in 12 hours? We put Adelina in the hot seat, so you can get inspired to explore everything the city has to offer.

The Power Plant inside scoop

Before you take in The Power Plant’s exhibits and programming, interim director, Carolyn Vesely, gives you the inside scoop. Find out what may surprise you about The Power Plant, what the winter exhibitions have in store, and why you’ll leave the gallery eager to talk art. 

 

Interview by: Meghan Yuri Young
Video by: Kelvin Omori 
Photography by: Max Power
Words by: Izabela Shubair