Roy Thomson Hall Toronto
Iconic Toronto concert hall renowned for its stunning architecture and unparalleled acoustics, home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for performances
Roy Thomson Hall Toronto
Best Time
Best for performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Toronto concert hall renowned for its stunning architecture and unparalleled acoustics, home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
"Acoustics are phenomenal, and the architecture is breathtaking – a must-visit for any music lover in Toronto!"
🎯 Rush Tickets Available!
Score great deals on TSO performances with rush tickets starting at $26. :ticket:
🪑 No Bad Seats (Mostly)
Most seats offer great views and acoustics, avoid the choir loft for most shows.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Toronto Symphony Orchestra Performances
Main Hall
Experience world-class orchestral music in a venue renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
Diverse Event Calendar
Main Hall
From Broadway shows to film screenings with live orchestras, there's always something happening.
Architectural Marvel
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning modern architecture and unique circular design of this iconic Toronto landmark.
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code: Comfort is Key
Ticket Tips for Budget Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rush Tickets Available!
Score great deals on TSO performances with rush tickets starting at $26. :ticket:
🪑 No Bad Seats (Mostly)
Most seats offer great views and acoustics, avoid the choir loft for most shows. +1
👕 Dress Comfortably
Business casual or smart casual is fine. Jeans are acceptable for most events. +1 :shirt:
🎶 Sound is King
For piano performances, consider seats on the left side for optimal sound. :musical_score:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rush Tickets Available!
Score great deals on TSO performances with rush tickets starting at $26. :ticket:
🪑 No Bad Seats (Mostly)
Most seats offer great views and acoustics, avoid the choir loft for most shows. +1
👕 Dress Comfortably
Business casual or smart casual is fine. Jeans are acceptable for most events. +1 :shirt:
🎶 Sound is King
For piano performances, consider seats on the left side for optimal sound. :musical_score:
👀 Sightlines for Shorties
Venue staff can help move you if sightlines are an issue for shorter patrons. :eyes:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Roy Thomson Hall for its exceptional acoustics and the quality of performances, particularly from the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. The venue's modern architecture is also a draw. While most find the seating comfortable with good views, some note that the choir loft can be less ideal for certain shows. Overall, it's considered a top-tier venue for live music and events in Toronto.
"What a beautiful theatre!!!! Went to see the Star Wars movie with the Toronto Symphony and what an amazing experience it was - truly a must go see event.
The performance was absolutely incredible. Toronto's Symphony is second to none and the theatre is absolutely stunning. They have E.T., Home Alone and other productions I'm definitely going to look into going to in the near future!
The facility was clean, welcoming, warm and tidy. Couldn't have asked for more."
Daniel Garrett
"First time in attendance! We saw Beck with the symphony and the music and acoustics were the best. The finest sound of my life. Underground parking was easy. The building is spotlessly clean. Facilities are accommodating and staff is welcoming. Only one disappointment is they will not accept cash. Being a farmer that's all I had. Thankfully another patron helped me out and I paid him my cash. Seriously what gives? Other than that I would absolutely see another performance here."
Michael Dodd
"Roy Thomson Hall is distinguished as a premier concert venue admired for its superior acoustics and its role as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra's home. Nestled in downtown Toronto's thriving entertainment district, the venue enjoys a privileged location and effortless connectivity to public transportation, making it a treasured cultural landmark. Inaugurated in 1982, the hall's unique circular design is characterized by a sloping and curvilinear glass exterior, a testament to the creative vision of celebrated Canadian architects Arthur Erickson and Mathers and Haldenby.
Impressive is the Modern architectural style's incorporation of a circular footprint and glass curtain wall enclosure, particularly the precast concrete mansard roof, which embodies a minimalist aesthetic. The design respects Erickson's minimalist aesthetic through a thoughtful material palette, featuring acid-etched mirror, grey porcelain tile, white Corian, and white powder-coated metal. A notable feature of the wine bar is a series of pivoting panels crafted from twisted powder-coated vertical aluminum fins.
Accommodating 2,630 guests, the hall features a pipe organ built by celebrated Canadian organ builder Gabriel Kney. This space is thoughtfully designed to enhance the appreciation of orchestras and classical music. The acoustics are flawlessly executed, creating a captivating experience. The hall's design harmoniously balances aesthetics and functionality, providing panoramic views from every vantage point, including the balcony.
I recently attended an outstanding Japanese drum (taiko) show performed by Todo Company. The performance was incredibly spectacular and impressive. The drums were hypnotic, transporting the audience to a fantastical world. The entire two-hour show was thoroughly enjoyable. The sound quality was magnificent. Ample paid parking options were available around the hall, including underground parking. The venue was also easily accessible by TTC. The staff's courteous and friendly demeanor created a welcoming atmosphere for patrons."
C Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roy Thomson Hall is a short walk from Union Station. Head west on Front Street West, then turn right onto Simcoe Street. The venue will be on your left. +1
Yes, there are several parking garages near Roy Thomson Hall, including one directly beneath the hall. Rates can vary, so it's advisable to check in advance.
Roy Thomson Hall is easily accessible by TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Take the subway to St. Andrew or Osgoode stations, both of which are a short walk away.
Presto Cards are used for TTC fares to get to Roy Thomson Hall. You can load funds onto your card at stations or online.
Yes, streetcar routes run along King Street and Queen Street, both of which are within walking distance of Roy Thomson Hall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Roy Thomson Hall website, by phone, or in person at the box office.
Yes, for Toronto Symphony Orchestra performances, rush tickets starting at $26 are often available on the day of the show. Check the TSO website for details.
The box office hours typically vary, but they are generally open on performance days. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
For popular shows, it's recommended to book tickets in advance. Rush tickets may be available for TSO performances, but availability for other shows can vary.
Refund and exchange policies are set by the specific event promoter. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless an event is cancelled. Check your ticket purchase details.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
There is no strict dress code. Most attendees wear business casual or smart casual attire. Jeans and a nice top are perfectly acceptable. +1
Generally, there are no bad seats due to the hall's excellent acoustics and design. The choir loft is sometimes avoided for certain performances. +1
For piano performances, sitting on the left side of the hall is often recommended for the best sound experience.
If you have sightline issues, speak to a venue staff member. They are often able to assist with moving you to a better seat.
While it hosts film screenings, Roy Thomson Hall is primarily designed for live performances and its acoustics may not be ideal for all film viewing experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Roy Thomson Hall has a bar and lounge area where light refreshments and drinks are available before performances and during intermissions.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the hall. There are concessions available for purchase.
Yes, the area surrounding Roy Thomson Hall, particularly along King Street and Queen Street West, offers a wide variety of restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
If you plan to dine at a restaurant nearby, it's advisable to make a reservation and allow ample time to enjoy your meal before heading to the hall.
The bar typically offers snacks, desserts, and a selection of beverages. Specific offerings may vary depending on the event.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and other audience members.
Yes, you can take photos of the exterior and interior architecture of Roy Thomson Hall, especially before or after a performance.
The grand foyer and the unique circular design of the main hall offer excellent opportunities for architectural photography.
The main lobby and the seating areas within the concert hall itself provide great vantage points for capturing the venue's ambiance.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances and often discouraged even in public areas to preserve the atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending with children, consider opting for seats with good sightlines, and remember that the venue is generally accommodating. While there isn't a dedicated children's menu, the bar offers light snacks. For a more relaxed experience, look for matinee performances when crowds might be lighter.
💰 Budget Travelers
Public transit is an affordable way to reach Roy Thomson Hall, with subway stations like St. Andrew and Osgoode within walking distance.
🎶 Music Aficionados
For specific instruments like the piano, consider seating recommendations that optimize sound.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Acoustics of Roy Thomson Hall
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, as the resident ensemble, benefits immensely from this acoustic environment, delivering performances that are both powerful and delicate. Whether you're listening to a grand symphony or a solo piano concerto, the sound quality at Roy Thomson Hall is consistently praised.
For those seeking the best auditory experience, seating recommendations can vary by performance type. While many seats offer superb sound, some patrons suggest specific sections for certain instruments, like the left side for piano concerts, to further enhance the listening pleasure.
Navigating Roy Thomson Hall: Seating and Sightlines
For those concerned about being short, the hall's rake (the incline of the seating rows) is designed to help most patrons see over the heads of those in front. If you do encounter an issue with your view, the venue staff are often accommodating and can help find a more suitable seat.
Specific sections, like the choir loft, offer a unique perspective and can be enjoyable for certain shows, though they might not be ideal for all types of performances, especially those with prominent vocalists or where a direct view of the conductor is paramount.
Roy Thomson Hall's Diverse Programming
You can catch touring Broadway productions, special concert series featuring renowned soloists, film screenings accompanied by live orchestras, and various lectures and cultural events. This variety makes Roy Thomson Hall a dynamic hub for arts and culture in Toronto.
Keep an eye on the official schedule for upcoming events, as popular shows can sell out quickly. The venue also offers various ticket options, including rush tickets for TSO performances, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit