Toronto is a renowned destination for culture, food, sightseeing, and of course - great events. From the Toronto International Film Festival to Fan Expo to countless professional conferences and tradeshows, “the 6ix” is a formidable metropolis with legendary event venues of all sizes and no shortage of attractions nearby - wherever you are in the city. With so many incredible options for your next corporate meeting, flagship conference, festival or fair, choosing your next event venue in Toronto might feel overwhelming without an inside scoop. Fortunately, this is our home turf - we’re thrilled to present part one of our series on recommendations around the city - from event venues to the sights nearby that your attendees won’t want to miss.

Large-Scale Venues

Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC)

It’s challenging to find an alternative to the vast space and ease of access that the MTCC provides for conferences, trade shows, and international events. Its downtown location makes it highly accessible via public transit, and the facility's modern infrastructure can handle even the most complex technical requirements. With over 600,000 square feet of exhibition space and state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities, MTCC remains the go-to choice for association conferences and corporate gatherings that demand capacity and seamless execution.

👉 Book an event at the MTCC

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Canoe – Fine dining with panoramic views from the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, perfect for executive dinners with a grandiose view of Toronto.
• Alo – Ranked among Canada’s best restaurants, offering contemporary tasting menus ideal for VIP groups.
• The Keg Mansion – A Toronto classic, blending steakhouse dining with historic architecture.
• Richmond Station – Chef-driven farm-to-table meals, great for casual business dinners or group outings.

Attendees can also explore the CN Tower (a five-minute walk), catch a major league baseball, basketball or hockey game at the Rogers Centre or Scotiabank Arena, or browse artisanal foods and goods at the St. Lawrence Market. The walkability makes it easy for out-of-town guests to experience Toronto’s highlights between sessions.

Enercare Centre & Exhibition Place

Offering a different appeal for massive exhibitions, festivals, or events tied to Toronto's beautiful lakefront is Enercare Centre. The venue's proximity to Lake Ontario creates stunning backdrop opportunities, and its wide spaces can accommodate trade shows and cultural festivals. The outdoor components make it particularly attractive for summer events that want to blend indoor presentations with outdoor networking.

👉 Book an event at the Enercare Centre

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Amsterdam BrewHouse – A lively lakeside brewery with group-friendly seating and local craft beers.
• Against the Grain Urban Tavern – Casual waterfront dining with stunning harbour views.
  Hotel X Toronto – Multiple on-site restaurants offering upscale dining and cocktails, convenient for overnight guests.

Just steps away are Trillium Park and the Martin Goodman Trail for outdoor strolls. Catch a Toronto FC or Argos game at BMO Field, a medieval tournament and show at Medieval Times, or travel to Centre Island by ferry for unbeatable views of the Toronto skyline from across lake Ontario. 

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

A world-class natural history museum in the heart of Toronto, the ROM also serves as a dramatic event venue. With soaring architecture, iconic exhibits, and a central location at Bloor and University, it provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for galas, receptions, and cultural events. The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal is especially striking for high-profile gatherings that want a “wow” factor.

👉 Book an event at the ROM

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Museum Tavern – Stylish gastropub right across the street.
• Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria – Cozy spot for pizza and wine.
• Planta Yorkville – Upscale plant-based dining option nearby.

Best attractions: Yorkville Village for luxury shopping, the Bata Shoe Museum, and Philosopher’s Walk for a scenic stroll.

Unique & Creative Spaces

Toronto's creative venue scene continues to evolve, offering planners distinctive spaces that leave lasting impressions on attendees.

Evergreen Brick Works

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s lush ravines and surrounded by beautiful heritage buildings, this venue features a uniquely rustic and industrial vibe that offers both indoor and outdoor options for everything from large scale conferences and corporate meetings to intimate weddings. 

👉 Book an event at Evergreen Brick Works

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Café Belong (on-site) – Known for its locally sourced menus, making it a sustainable dining choice.
• Milestones Grill + Bar – A relaxed option for groups just minutes away.
• The Keg Don Mills – Reliable steakhouse dining popular with corporate guests.

Attendees can explore the Don Valley trails for a breath of fresh air, a 100+ year old gothic revival castle with unique galleries and escape rooms at Casa Loma, or visit Toronto’s “Greektown” to the east for souvlaki, baklava and more. 

The Globe and Mail Centre

Offering a beautiful skyline of Toronto’s downtown core, this venue works exceptionally well for galas, upscale corporate events, or intimate conferences where the setting needs to match the caliber of content being presented. 

👉 Book an event at the Globe and Mail Centre

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Scaramouche – Elegant fine dining with sweeping city views.
• Sassafraz – A Yorkville staple, perfect for networking over modern Canadian cuisine.
• Café Boulud – French-inspired menus at the Four Seasons, a sophisticated pick for business gatherings.
• The One Eighty – Rooftop dining and cocktails with unbeatable skyline views.

With the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), Yorkville boutiques, and Rosedale ravine trails nearby, planners can blend cultural and recreational experiences into their event itinerary.

Space on King

A stylish, modern and intimate event venue in Toronto’s Fashion District, Space on King offers a versatile blank canvas for corporate events, product launches, and creative showcases. Multiple venue configuration options plus open-concept loft-style design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and central downtown location make it a favorite for planners who want flexibility and a chic, urban vibe.

👉 Book an event at Space on King

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Wilbur Mexicana – Quick, modern Mexican eats nearby.
• Cibo Wine Bar King West – Italian dining with a great wine list.
• Patria – Stylish tapas restaurant, perfect for groups.
  

Attendees can explore the lively King West nightlife after the event, visit the renowned Distillery District for boutique shops and foods in a historic industrial setting, or take a stroll through the Evergreen Brick Works nestled in the heart of Toronto’s lush ravines.

Hotels with Built-In Conference Spaces

For multi-day events or conferences drawing attendees from out of town, hotel venues offer unmatched convenience and comprehensive service packages.

Fairmont Royal York

Located near Union Station, the Fairmont Royal York is perfectly positioned for conferences with attendees flying into the city. Its proximity to Union Station makes it incredibly accessible, while the hotel's historic elegance and modern amenities create an impressive setting for both formal presentations and networking receptions.

👉 Book an event at Fairmont Royal York

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• EPIC Restaurant (on-site) – Convenient for upscale dining without leaving the venue.
• Benihana – Engaging teppanyaki-style meals, ideal for team outings.
• Hy’s Steakhouse – Some of the city’s best steaks a short walk away.
• Rosewater Supper Club – A stylish choice for receptions or private dinners.

Guests can enjoy the PATH underground walkway for shopping, catch a major league sports game at the Rogers Centre or Scotiabank Arena, or visit landmarks like Union Station and the CN Tower just minutes away.

Sheraton Centre Toronto

Another option located near Union Station, the venue's multiple meeting rooms and breakout spaces allow for complex programming, while its downtown location puts attendees within walking distance of Toronto's business district and major attractions.

👉 Book an event at Sheraton Centre Toronto

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Iwami – Modern Japanese dining within walking distance.
• Marché – A market-style eatery great for groups with diverse tastes.
• Khao San Road – Popular Thai spot, perfect for casual dinners.

The Eaton Centre, Queen Street shopping, and the Theatre District provide plenty of attractions to fill attendees’ free time.

The Drake Hotel

For a boutique experience, The Drake Hotel offers an eclectic mix of art, culture, and hospitality. Its modern event spaces are perfect for corporate meetings up to 120 attendees, product launches, and intimate gatherings. Located on Queen Street West, it also immerses attendees in one of Toronto’s trendiest neighborhoods, full of galleries, restaurants, and nightlife.

👉 Book an event at The Drake Hotel

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Dandylion – Contemporary fine dining with seasonal menus.
• Bar Poet – Casual, lively pizza and cocktails spot.
• Tilt Arcade Bar - A unique arcade and bar featuring vintage arcade games alongside food and cocktails.

Attendees can explore the vibrant Queen Street West shopping district, enjoy artsy photo ops in Graffiti Alley, or visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) for a cultural experience.

Hidden Gems

Toronto's emerging venue scene offers exciting opportunities for planners looking to create truly memorable experiences that stand out from traditional conference settings.

Stackt Market

Built from repurposed shipping containers, this trendy space offers 14 unique spaces for incredible flexibility for experiential marketing events, pop-up conferences, and interactive showcases. The venue's modular nature allows for creative customization that can be tailored to specific brand experiences or event themes, making it particularly attractive for tech companies and startups looking to make bold statements.

👉 Book an event at Stackt Market

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• The Morning After - Renowned brunch spot with upbeat vibes, cocktails, and unique twists on breakfast classics
• Hunters Landing - Roomy sports bar with patio & mezzanine seating serving a menu of hearty Canadian fare & drinks
• La Select Bistro - Classic French food with an expansive wine list of over 1000 bottles

Find community events and winter skating at the Bentway underneath the Gardiner Expressway, walk a historic battle site at Fort York National Historic Site or catch live music nightly at the legendary Horseshoe Tavern.

Reid’s Distillery

Offering an industrial atmosphere in Toronto’s Distillery District, Reid’s Distillery combines historic charm with modern event capabilities. This venue is great for conferences, brand activations, and networking sessions while creating a memorable experience. The distillery's unique character, complete with working production facilities and artisanal spirits, provides an engaging backdrop that sparks conversation and creates lasting impressions.

👉 Book an event at Reid's Distillery

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• El Catrin and Cluny Bistro (both walkable in the Distillery District).
• Pure Spirits Oyster House – Great for cocktails and seafood pairings.
• Archeo – A cozy Italian option nearby.

The historic cobblestone streets of the Distillery District feature boutique shops and artisan markets — a perfect backdrop for pre- or post-event networking.

Hart House (University of Toronto)

A historic venue on UofT’s downtown campus, Hart House offers Gothic-style architecture with versatile event spaces for conferences, performances, and receptions. Its mix of tradition and academia makes it ideal for academic/scientific gatherings, professional associations, alumni gatherings, or cultural events under grand stonework, expansive oak timbers, and expert craftsmanship.

👉 Book an event at Hart House

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• By The Way Café – Mediterranean-inspired eats in the nearby Annex.
• Insomnia Restaurant & Lounge – Popular brunch and late-night spot.
• Famous Last Words – Literary-themed cocktail bar in the Junction.

In addition to the gorgeous UofT campus, nearby neighbourhoods of character include Toronto’s famous Kensington Market and Chinatown. Art enthusiasts will love the world-class Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) just a short walk away.

Making the Most of Toronto's Venue Landscape

When selecting from Toronto's diverse venue options, consider factors beyond just capacity and location. Think about your attendees' experience journey from arrival to departure, nearby attractions, the technical requirements for your programming, and how the venue's character aligns with your event's brand and objectives.

Toronto's venues each offer distinct advantages: the MTCC provides reliability and scale, creative spaces like Brick Works offer memorable experiences, hotels deliver convenience and service, while emerging venues create buzz and differentiation. The key lies in matching your event's specific needs with the venue's unique strengths.

Conclusion

Toronto has no shortage of incredible venues for planners looking to impress their attendees in 2025 and beyond. Whether you're hosting a global conference at the MTCC, an intimate gathering at Evergreen Brick Works, or a creative networking night at Reid’s Distillery, the right space can transform an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience.

The city's venue landscape continues to evolve, offering everything from tried-and-true convention centers to innovative pop-up spaces that push creative boundaries. Success comes from understanding not just what each venue offers, but how to leverage the right event technology and planning strategies to maximize each space's potential.

With careful venue selection and the right logistical support, Toronto provides event planners with endless opportunities to create impactful, memorable experiences that keep attendees engaged and coming back for more.