The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) is known for its grand event spaces, but some of its history and features may amaze you, making it a unique spot for meeting planners and event-goers alike. Royalty origin stories? Celebrity sightings? Yes, the MTCC has a few surprises up their sleeves.
1. It was opened in 1984 by Queen Elizabeth II herself
The MTCC has over a 40-year legacy. The North Building was opened in October 1984 by Queen Elizabeth II herself. The South Building was opened 13 years later in June 1997 by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh. And what’s even more impressive? Nine current MTCC employees have worked there for 40 years.
2. It has hosted over 22,000 events
In the heart of Canada’s largest city, the MTCC is surrounded by the city’s most iconic attractions: CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium and more. Since 1984, it has welcomed over 69 million visitors, hosted over 22,000 events—like PDAC, Fan Expo and AWS Summit—generating a staggering $9.2 billion for Toronto’s economy. With over 11,000 hotel rooms and nearly 200 restaurants within walking distance, it’s no wonder this location has stood the test of time.
3. They truly care about the local Ontario community
MTCC is well-known as a sustainability pioneer, so it might not come as a surprise that 100 per cent of the wine and beer they serve is Ontario made. And two-thirds of the food on attendees’ plates is from local farms and suppliers, too. Plus, they divert the majority of their waste through recycling, composting and donating materials to schools and charities. In fact, they've donated over 500,000 meals to local communities.
4. It has hosted several celebrities
What do Margaret Atwood, Elizabeth Gilbert and Kevin O’Leary all have in common? They’ve all hit the stage of the MTCC’s John Bassett Theatre. With over 1,200 seats and an orchestra pit, this theatre has hosted some of the most prestigious names in the world and has hosted many exciting events including the NHL draft, Canadian Country Music Awards and Canadian Idol. Furthermore, the MTCC has been a backdrop for many movies and TV shows such as Total Recall, Suits, Rick Mercer Report, The Handmaid’s Tale and The Boys.
5. It has access to over 30 kilometres of underground tunnels
Whether it’s the heat of summer or a chilly Canadian winter, the MTCC's underground tunnels connects you to over 30 kilometres of a pedestrian walkway network called the PATH, as well as direct access to Union Station and the UP Express, which makes getting to Pearson Airport a breeze. Plus, the tunnels ensure seamless event execution—rain, snow, or shine!
6. It has a hidden rooftop garden and beehive
On the roof of the MTCC, there’s a green oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle a.k.a. the chef’s rooftop garden and beehive. The rooftop garden supplies the MTCC kitchen with fresh, hyper-local ingredients—including hot pepper plants, strawberries, eggplants, herbs and over 50 types of tomatoes (which is used to make their famous tomato jam!).
The beehive and ‘bee hotel’ not only provide fresh honey for the kitchen, but they’re part of a larger pollinator pathway, offering a pesticide-free sanctuary for bees and birds alike.
