Nathan Phillips Square
Toronto, Canada
Nathan Phillips Square is Toronto’s central civic plaza situated before City Hall, featuring the illuminated Toronto sign and a reflecting pool. It draws locals and visitors alike for photo ops, seasonal skating, and a range of public events without any admission cost.
Why choose Nathan Phillips Square
You’ll feel the city’s pulse as you join locals around the iconic sign and glide on the winter rink, experiences that most indoor attractions can’t match. The open layout also lets you soak up spontaneous performances and community gatherings in the heart of downtown.
Best for: Photography · Architecture · First-timers · Couples
Start your downtown Toronto morning here
Begin at Nathan Phillips Square, then walk to nearby cultural sites for a relaxed half‑day of sights and photo opportunities.
- Morning — Nathan Phillips Square
- 11:00 — Art Gallery of Ontario
- Afternoon — CN Tower
Visit tips
- Arrive before 9 a.m. for soft light on the Toronto sign and fewer crowds.
- If you bring skates, the rink opens on the hour; otherwise watch the seasonal shows from the plaza.
- Visit early morning for the best light on the Toronto sign.
- Skating is free; bring your own skates for a quick glide.
Plan your visit
- Recommended duration: 1–2 hours
- Best time of day: Early morning, before 9:00
- Entry: Free to visit
- Category: attraction
- Rated 4.2 by 1140 reviewers
- Tags: photo opportunities, free skating, city center, public events
Nearby attractions
- CN Tower — attraction, 15 min walk
- Ripley's Aquarium of Canada — aquarium, 15 min walk
- Art Gallery of Ontario — attraction, 9 min walk
- Hockey Hall of Fame — attraction, 10 min walk
- CF Toronto Eaton Centre — attraction, 4 min walk
- Kensington Market BIA — attraction, 17 min walk
More things to do in Toronto
- CN Tower
- Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
- St. Lawrence Market
- Royal Ontario Museum
- The Distillery Historic District
- Casa Loma
See all things to do in Toronto or plan a full Toronto itinerary with Next Getaway.