The Funplex
A retro indoor amusement park nestled within the unique, nostalgic Woodbine Mall, offering classic rides and a blast from the past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ride time
The Funplex
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ride time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A retro indoor amusement park nestled within the unique, nostalgic Woodbine Mall, offering classic rides and a blast from the past.
"Still a stress-free go to outing for the family and kids, despite some rides not working."
🎟️ Ride Tickets
Tickets are often sold per person, so factor this into your budget. Consider if a day pass is available for more value.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the mall and potentially standing in lines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Indoor Rides
Fantasy Fair
Experience timeless amusement park rides like the Ferris wheel and bumper cars, perfect for creating new memories.
Giant Play Gym
Fantasy Fair
An expansive play area designed for younger adventurers, offering hours of active fun and exploration.
Nostalgic Mall Atmosphere
Woodbine Mall
Wander through a mall that feels frozen in time, with retro decor and a unique, almost liminal, ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Manage Expectations for Rides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ride Tickets
Tickets are often sold per person, so factor this into your budget. Consider if a day pass is available for more value.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the mall and potentially standing in lines.
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
The retro aesthetic and unique mall environment make for great photo opportunities.
🧸 Bring the Kids
Ideal for families with young children who will enjoy the rides and play areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ride Tickets
Tickets are often sold per person, so factor this into your budget. Consider if a day pass is available for more value.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the mall and potentially standing in lines.
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
The retro aesthetic and unique mall environment make for great photo opportunities.
🧸 Bring the Kids
Ideal for families with young children who will enjoy the rides and play areas.
🧐 Manage Expectations
Some rides may be out of order; focus on the fun and nostalgic experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fantasy Fair at Woodbine Mall offers a nostalgic indoor amusement park experience, particularly enjoyable for young children. While some visitors note that rides can be dated or out of order, the park's retro charm and unique atmosphere, set within a declining mall, create a memorable outing. It's a beloved spot for those seeking a trip down memory lane.
"Excellent place to get Santa photos. Just walk in. No line up. The photographer was friendly. After Santa photos the Fantasy Fair is a fun place for young kids. The rides were perfect for a 3 year old. The giant play gym is probably more appropriate for ages 4 and up. I will start coming here for my annual Santa photos."
Jen W
"A very strange mall. I am sure that this mall used to be amazing, but now all that’s left is a building that has some stores left with a few lights working and the ones that do are flashing. Several of the dinosaurs look like they had a chunk taken out of them. When I was there, there were few rides running. The fountain by the elevator was empty and the only water in it is from the roof leaking. There are interesting signs talking about future expansions and upgrades and then there are signs pointing towards Sears… most of the restaurants are closed which is sad."
Byron Harvey
"Still a stress free go to outing for the family and kids. Most of the popular rides, such as the spinner, and drop zone were not working, but kids made the best of it by riding repeatly the other rides. Staff was friendly and helpful."
C Graham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Funplex, also known as Fantasy Fair, is located at Woodbine Mall, 500 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke, ON. You can reach it by car via Highway 401 or 427, with ample parking available. Public transit options include various TTC bus routes that stop at the mall.
Yes, Woodbine Mall offers ample parking for visitors to Fantasy Fair. It's generally free, making it a convenient option for those driving.
Several TTC bus routes service Woodbine Mall, making it accessible via public transportation from various parts of Toronto. Check the TTC website for the most up-to-date route information.
As it's located within a mall, Fantasy Fair and Woodbine Mall are generally accessible for strollers. Elevators are available for multi-level access.
Yes, you can get to The Funplex (Fantasy Fair) from downtown Toronto using a combination of subway and bus routes, or by driving via the Gardiner Expressway and Highway 401.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Fantasy Fair can vary. Some sources indicate it's $10 per person for rides, while others suggest purchasing ride tickets individually. It's best to check their official website or inquire upon arrival for the most current pricing.
It's generally not necessary to buy tickets in advance for Fantasy Fair. You can typically purchase ride tickets upon arrival at the amusement center.
While specific deals and coupons for The Funplex (Fantasy Fair) aren't always advertised, it's worth checking deal websites or social media for potential promotions.
Fantasy Fair's hours typically align with Woodbine Mall's operating hours, but it's advisable to check their specific schedule online, especially for ride availability.
Entry into Fantasy Fair itself is usually free; however, you will need to purchase tickets or a wristband to go on the rides.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Fantasy Fair offers a variety of classic amusement park rides, including a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, a merry-go-round, and a drop zone. There's also a large indoor play gym suitable for younger children.
Yes, Fantasy Fair is particularly well-suited for young children, with rides and a play gym designed for their enjoyment. The rides are often perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
Reviews suggest that while the rides are fun, some may be out of order or show signs of wear and tear. Maintenance can be inconsistent, but many visitors still find them enjoyable.
Yes, Fantasy Fair typically features a selection of arcade and carnival-style games where visitors can try their luck and win prizes.
The atmosphere is often described as nostalgic and retro, with some visitors noting a 'liminal space' or 'dead mall' vibe due to the mall's current state. However, it can also feel festive, especially during holidays. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Within Fantasy Fair and Woodbine Mall, you can find various food options, including fast food, snacks, and some sit-down restaurants. The food court often has deals.
Generally, outside food is not permitted inside the amusement park area itself, but you can usually eat in the mall's food court before or after your visit.
While classic amusement park fare like fries and burgers are common, you might find some healthier options in the mall's food court, such as salads or grilled items.
Yes, a Baskin Robbins is often mentioned as being located within or near Fantasy Fair at Woodbine Mall, perfect for a sweet treat.
Woodbine Mall has a food court with various fast-food chains and some independent eateries. Many restaurants within the mall have closed over the years, but options still exist.
📸 📸 Photography
The retro rides, the unique mall architecture, and any themed decorations (like during holidays) offer great photo opportunities. The overall nostalgic ambiance is very photogenic. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Fantasy Fair and Woodbine Mall. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
There are usually no specific restrictions on personal photography, but professional shoots might require permission. Always be respectful of others' privacy.
The mall's 'dead mall' or 'liminal space' aesthetic, with its dated decor and sometimes sparse crowds, creates a unique and often eerie backdrop for photography. +2
Yes, the dinosaur decorations are a notable feature of Fantasy Fair and are popular subjects for photos, though some may show signs of wear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While some rides might be out of order, the available attractions, combined with the nostalgic atmosphere, usually ensure a good time. Parents often appreciate the manageable scale of the park, making it easier to keep an eye on little ones. It's a great option for a few hours of entertainment without the overwhelming scale of larger theme parks.
✨ Nostalgia Seekers & Urban Explorers
For those interested in 'dead malls' and 'liminal spaces,' Woodbine Mall and Fantasy Fair offer a unique urban exploration experience. The juxtaposition of a functioning amusement park within a largely vacant mall creates a surreal and intriguing atmosphere that has gained traction on platforms like TikTok. It's a photographer's dream for capturing unique, slightly eerie, and nostalgic scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nostalgic Charm of Fantasy Fair
While the mall surrounding Fantasy Fair has experienced decline, with many storefronts closed, this has contributed to a unique 'dead mall' or 'liminal space' aesthetic that some find intriguing. This atmosphere, combined with the vintage amusement park, creates a surreal and memorable experience. It's a stark contrast to modern, bustling malls, offering a different kind of exploration.
Despite the signs of age and occasional ride closures, the core appeal of Fantasy Fair remains its ability to transport visitors back in time. For families with young children, it offers a contained and accessible environment for fun, especially during colder months. The unique blend of a vintage amusement park within a somewhat deserted mall makes it a distinctive Toronto attraction.
Navigating Woodbine Mall and Its Ambiance
The mall's current state means that while Fantasy Fair remains operational, the surrounding retail landscape is sparse. Visitors might notice dated decor, flickering lights, and empty spaces where popular stores once stood. However, this also means fewer crowds in the mall itself, which can contribute to a more relaxed experience when heading to the amusement park.
Despite the mall's challenges, it still houses essential amenities like a food court and some retail outlets. The contrast between the lively (albeit vintage) Fantasy Fair and the quiet mall creates a peculiar but memorable juxtaposition. It's a place that sparks conversation and offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of retail spaces.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit