Art Gallery of Ontario

Note: The gallery closed its doors on October 7, 2007 in preparation for the final phase of its renovation.By the time this guidebook gets into your hands, the AGO will be in the midst of renovation mania, which will stretch into 2008. Toronto son Frank Gehry is reinventing the city's best art gallery, and his spectacular design will increase viewing space by 40%. Until the redesign is complete, however, only 30% to 50% of the usual viewing space will be available, and galleries will be opened and shuttered at different times.But there are still plenty of reasons to visit the AGO before its makeover is complete. The curators have come up with some excellent ideas, such as creating a special exhibit of popular favorites (let's face it, there's nothing more infuriating than visiting a gallery and not seeing its most famous faces). Works such as John William Waterhouse's The Lady of Shalott, Tom Thomson's The West Wind, and Renoir's Claude are gathered in a special viewing area.Another reason to go: The Henry Moore Sculpture Centre is still open. Containing more than 800 pieces (original plasters, bronzes, maquettes, woodcuts, lithographs, etchings, and drawings), this is the largest public collection of his works. The artist gave them to Toronto because he was so moved by the citizens' enthusiasm for his art -- public donations bought his sculpture The Archer to decorate Nathan Phillips Square at City Hall after politicians refused to free up money for it. Moore's large works stand like silent prehistoric rock formations, making an unforgettable impression.The gallery's restaurant has morphed as well, and it's well worth a visit despite its reduced quarters. Formerly called Agora, the Café AGO boasts the same chef and brunch-friendly menu (think niçoise tuna, or scrambled eggs with truffles). Other options include a gallery shop and an ambitious program of special exhibits, films, concerts, and lectures. One final draw: The price of general admission will be reduced throughout the renovations. Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Price

Admission C$8 (US$6.40) adults, C$5 (US$4) seniors and students and children age 6 and up, free for children 5 and under

Credit Cards Accepted

visa,mastercard,amex

Directions

Subway: St. Patrick

Area

Between McCaul and Beverley sts (temporary entrance is on McCaul St)

Hours

Wed-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-5:30pm

Information by Frommers