Welcome back to our comprehensive guide to Toronto's best event venues. In Part 1, we explored some of the city's most established spaces, from the expansive Metro Toronto Convention Centre to hidden gems like Stackt Market. Now, we're diving deeper into Toronto's venue landscape with more great options that deserve a spot on every event planner's radar.

Whether you're planning an intimate corporate retreat, a mid-sized conference, or a spectacular gala, this second installment will introduce you to venues that combine distinctive character with practical functionality. From waterfront destinations to historic landmarks and contemporary event spaces, Toronto continues to prove why it's one of North America's premier event destinations.

Large-Scale Venues

Scotiabank Arena

Home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Raptors, Scotiabank Arena isn't just for sports fans. This world-class facility in the heart of downtown's entertainment district offers versatile event spaces for large-scale conferences, trade shows, concerts, and corporate events. With capacity for up to 19,000 attendees and state-of-the-art production capabilities, it's ideal for events that require serious scale and technical sophistication. The venue's premium suites and club spaces can also be configured for smaller VIP gatherings or breakout sessions.

👉 Book an event at Scotiabank Arena

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Barberian's Steakhouse – A Toronto institution since 1959, perfect for executive dinners
• Buca Osteria & Bar – Contemporary Italian dining in the King West area
• The Carbon Bar – Upscale steakhouse with an extensive whiskey selection
• Miku Toronto – Premium Japanese dining with waterfront views

Nearby, attendees can explore Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, the Hockey Hall of Fame, or take in a show at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre. The Harbourfront Centre offers beautiful waterfront walks and cultural programming.

Toronto Congress Centre

Located in the Etobicoke/Airport area, Toronto Congress Centre offers over 600,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space, making it ideal for large conferences and trade shows. Its proximity to Pearson International Airport (just 10 minutes away) makes it exceptionally convenient for international attendees. The venue features modern amenities, ample parking, and flexible space configurations that can accommodate everything from intimate board meetings to massive exhibitions.

👉 Book an event at Toronto Congress Centre

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Ginko Japanese Resturant – Japanese cuisine including sushi and teppanyaki
• Jack Astor's Bar & Grill – Contemporary casual dining
• The Keg Steakhouse + Bar Dixon Road – Classic steakhouse near the airport
• Symposium Cafe Restaurant – All-day dining with extensive menus

While the airport location is more business-focused, attendees can access downtown Toronto attractions via a short drive or transit, and Woodbine Racetrack offers entertainment options nearby.

Unique & Creative Spaces

The Symes

A stunning Victorian-era event space in the Junction Triangle, The Symes combines historic architecture with modern amenities across 5,000 square feet of versatile space. Originally built in 1891, this restored venue features soaring ceilings, original wood beams, exposed brick, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. Perfect for corporate events, conferences, galas, and product launches for up to 250 guests, The Symes offers both indoor elegance and an outdoor courtyard for cocktail receptions.

👉 Book an event at The Symes

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• The Butcher's BBQ – Fast Food Burgers, Wraps, Chicken Wings, Fries
• Wallace Espresso – Neighbourhood Coffee Shop
• Bairrada Churrasqueira Grill – Portuguese Cuisine
• Gaffney Park – Local Park and Trail

Located near the vibrant Dundas West area, attendees can explore independent boutiques, art galleries, and the West Toronto Railpath for urban walks between sessions.

The Eglinton Grand

A beautifully restored Art Deco theatre and event venue, The Eglinton Grand combines 1930s glamour with modern event capabilities. This versatile space features a grand ballroom with ornate details, a theatre-style main hall, and multiple breakout rooms across 20,000 square feet. Perfect for conferences, galas, product launches, and corporate celebrations for up to 750 guests, the venue's stunning architecture provides a memorable backdrop while offering state-of-the-art AV and production capabilities.

👉 Book an event at The Eglinton Grand

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• La Salumeria – Long-standing deli serving “Toronto’s best sandwich” for over 40 years
• Ki Karaoke by SAKE BAR KUSHI – Bar and Karaoke
• Dogleg Left Golf – Indoor Golf Sim
• Yonge Eglinton Centre – Shopping centre connected to Eglinton Subway Station

Located in the vibrant “Midtown” Yonge and Eglinton area, attendees have access to excellent shopping, the Eglinton subway station for easy transit, and numerous restaurants, cafés and shops along Yonge Street.

Steam Whistle Brewing

Located in John Street Roundhouse at the base of the CN Tower, Steam Whistle Brewing offers an industrial-chic setting with working brewery operations visible throughout. The venue's unique circular architecture and railway heritage create an engaging atmosphere for corporate events, team-building sessions, and networking receptions. The venue can accommodate up to 1,500 guests and includes multiple spaces that can be used independently or together.

👉 Book an event at Steam Whistle Brewing

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Biff's Bistro – French-inspired fine dining
• Toronto Railway Museum – Museum featuring the city’s local railway history
• The Rec Room – Entertainment complex with dining and gaming
• The Well – Shopping Mall

With the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Harbourfront all within a five-minute walk, attendees have no shortage of iconic Toronto experiences to explore.

Hotels with Built-In Conference Spaces

The Westin Harbour Castle

With unparalleled waterfront views and over 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, The Westin Harbour Castle is a premium choice for conferences and corporate events. Its location directly on Toronto's Inner Harbour provides stunning backdrop opportunities and easy access to the waterfront trail. The hotel's 1,368 guest rooms make it ideal for large conferences where most attendees need accommodation, and the dedicated conference floor ensures seamless event execution.

👉 Book an event at The Westin Harbour Castle

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Don Alfonso 1890 – Mediterranean restaurant with a cocktail and wine list
• Pearl Harbourfront Chinese Cuisine – Dim sum and Cantonese specialties
• Harbour Square Park – Park with several art installations
• Harbourfront Centre – Cultural Hub hosting art exhibits, performance spaces, a boardwalk, festivals, and lakeside views 

The Toronto Islands are accessible via nearby ferry terminals, and Sugar Beach offers a picturesque spot for outdoor breaks or team photos.

The Ritz-Carlton Toronto

For events requiring luxury and sophistication, The Ritz-Carlton delivers with over 10,000 square feet of elegant meeting space and impeccable service. The hotel's downtown location and refined atmosphere make it ideal for high-profile corporate meetings, executive retreats, and upscale conferences. With only 267 rooms, it offers an intimate, exclusive feel while maintaining world-class standards.

👉 Book an event at The Ritz-Carlton Toronto

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• TOCA – Contemporary Italian on-site with seasonal menus
• TIFF Lightbox – Centre of the Toronto International Film Festival
• David Pecaut Square – Public Square and a popular spot for local events
• Milagro Cantina – Traditional Mexican Cuisine with Classic Cocktails

The venue's location puts attendees steps from Roy Thomson Hall, the Financial District, and King Street's vibrant restaurant scene.

Hilton Toronto

With one of the largest hotel conference facilities in Canada, Hilton Toronto offers over 40,000 square feet of meeting space including a 12,000-square-foot pillarless ballroom. The hotel's 601 guest rooms and connection to the PATH system make it a practical choice for large-scale conferences and multi-day events. Its proximity to the business district and major attractions strikes an ideal balance for event planners.

👉 Book an event at Hilton Toronto

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts – Theatre built for Opera and Ballet, home to the Canadian Opera Company (COC) and the National Ballet of Canada
• Bar Maaya – Cocktail Lounge with an in-house menu
• Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club Toronto – Long standing comedy club with different specials throughout the week
• Hy's Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar – Premium New York steaks and wine listings

The Eaton Centre, Nathan Phillips Square, and the Art Gallery of Ontario are all within a short walk.

Hidden Gems

The Great Hall

A historic venue with ornate Victorian architecture, The Great Hall offers three distinct spaces perfect for conferences, concerts, and corporate events. The main hall features high ceilings, a mezzanine level, and a stage, while the upper-level event space provides a more intimate setting. Located on Queen Street West, this venue combines historic charm with a prime location in one of Toronto's most vibrant neighborhoods.

👉 Book an event at The Great Hall

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Oddseoul – Korean-inspired fried chicken and cocktails
• DaiLo – Creative Asian-fusion dining
• LOCAL Public Eatery Liberty Village – gastro-pub / restaurant located in Toronto’s Liberty Village, featuring 20 taps for beers and rotating pour options
• La Palette – Classic French bistro

Trinity Bellwoods Park offers green space for outdoor breaks, while Queen West's eclectic shops and galleries provide endless exploration opportunities.

The Broadview Hotel

A restored 1891 landmark in the heart of Riverside, The Broadview Hotel offers unique event spaces with breathtaking views of the Toronto skyline. The rooftop patio is particularly stunning for summer events, while the ground-floor spaces provide versatile options for meetings and receptions. With 58 boutique guest rooms, it's perfect for intimate conferences or corporate retreats that want a boutique experience.

👉 Book an event at The Broadview Hotel

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• The Rooftop – Restaurant and Bar located in The Broadview Hotel
• Avling  – Farm-focused restaurant and brewery
• Completo – Mexican street food and cocktails
• Jimmie Simpson Park – Local park with recreation centre

Explore the vibrant Riverside and Leslieville neighborhoods with their independent boutiques, cafés, and the scenic Lower Don Trail.

The Assembly Chef's Hall

A unique food hall and event space in the Financial District, The Assembly offers flexibility unlike traditional venues. With 17 chef-driven food counters, a full bar, and private event spaces, it's ideal for networking events, corporate mixers, and casual conferences where food variety is a priority. The venue's modern design and central location make it particularly attractive for tech companies and creative agencies.

👉 Book an event at The Assembly Chef's Hall

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Richmond Adelaide Square Courtyard – Nearby courtyard with parasols and seats for rest
• Bar Mordecai – Adjacent cocktail bar for more intimate gatherings
• Wynona – Modern Canadian fine dining nearby
• The Chase – Seafood and steakhouse with rooftop patio

Located in the heart of the Financial District, attendees have easy access to Union Station, the PATH network, and downtown's business core.

The Loft On King Street

A heritage-listed event space in the heart of King West, The Loft On King Street offers authentic industrial charm combined with modern sophistication. Originally built in 1844 as a carriage and luxury auto body manufacturing facility, this restored third-floor venue features 1,850 square feet of versatile space with exposed brick walls, original wooden roof beams, and polished concrete flooring. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for standing receptions or 120 for seated dinners, making it perfect for corporate events, product launches, and conferences seeking a unique downtown atmosphere with blank-canvas flexibility.

👉 Book an event at The Loft On King Street

Nearby Restaurants & Attractions:

• Baro – Latin American dining with rooftop patio in the same building
• Minami Toronto – Aburi-style Japanese cuisine and sushi
• Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse – Premium cuts and extensive wine list
• Patria – Spanish tapas and vibrant shared plates

The venue's King West location puts attendees in the centre of Toronto's Entertainment District, with Canada's Walk of Fame, TIFF Bell Lightbox, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and Princess of Wales Theatre all within walking distance. The 504 King streetcar provides easy transit access.

Making Your Venue Selection

When choosing from Toronto's incredible venue options, consider these key factors:

Accessibility: How easily can attendees reach the venue via public transit, ride-sharing, or car? Is parking available? Is the venue connected to the PATH system for inclement weather?

Technical Capabilities: Does the venue have the AV infrastructure your event requires? Are there reliable internet connections? What about staging and lighting capabilities?

Catering and F&B: What are the venue's catering policies? Can you bring in outside vendors, or must you use in-house services? Are there quality nearby dining options for attendees?

Attendee Experience: Beyond the meeting rooms, what's the overall vibe? Will the venue's character align with your event brand? What nearby attractions can attendees explore during downtime?

Flexibility: How adaptable is the space for different configurations? Can you create breakout areas? Is there outdoor space available?

Support Services: What level of event planning support does the venue provide? Are there dedicated event managers? What about technical support staff?

Seasonal Considerations

Toronto's four distinct seasons offer unique opportunities and considerations for event planning:

Winter (December-March): While cold weather can be challenging, Toronto's PATH system connects many downtown venues, allowing attendees to navigate underground. Winter venues with stunning indoor spaces like the ROM or Hart House shine during this season. Many hotels offer competitive rates during slower winter months.

Spring (April-May): As the city comes alive, venues with outdoor components like Evergreen Brick Works and The Broadview Hotel rooftop become increasingly attractive. This is conference season in Toronto, so book early.

Summer (June-August): Picturesque season for events, particularly those leveraging Toronto's beautiful waterfront. Venues near the lake, Exhibition Place, and spaces with patios command premium pricing but offer unbeatable experiences.

Fall (September-November): Many planners consider this the ideal time for Toronto events. Comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and the energy of the school year starting make it perfect for conferences. TIFF in September brings added excitement but also hotel price increases.

Emerging Trends in Toronto Event Venues

The Toronto venue landscape continues to evolve with several notable trends:

Sustainability Focus: More venues are prioritizing eco-friendly practices, from LEED-certified buildings to local food sourcing and waste reduction programs. Evergreen Brick Works leads this charge, but many traditional venues are following suit.

Hybrid Capabilities: Post-pandemic, venues increasingly offer robust virtual streaming capabilities, allowing for hybrid events that combine in-person and remote attendees seamlessly.

Flexible Spaces: Modern venues prioritize adaptability, offering modular furniture, movable walls, and multi-purpose spaces that can quickly transform for different programming needs.

Experiential Design: Venues are moving beyond basic meeting rooms to create immersive environments that enhance attendee engagement through unique architecture, interactive elements, and Instagram-worthy backdrops.

Wellness Integration: More venues offer quiet rooms, outdoor access, natural lighting, and healthy food options, recognizing that attendee wellbeing impacts event success.

Budget Considerations

Toronto venues span a wide price range, and understanding the factors that influence costs helps with realistic budgeting:

Peak vs. Off-Peak: Weekend rates often differ significantly from weekday pricing. Similarly, summer commands premiums at waterfront venues.

All-Inclusive vs. À La Carte: Hotel venues typically offer comprehensive packages, while independent spaces might require bringing in separate vendors for AV, catering, and other services.

Minimum Spends: Many unique venues have food and beverage minimums rather than rental fees. Understanding these requirements helps with accurate budgeting.

Hidden Costs: Factor in potential costs for parking, coat check, security, insurance, and technical support that might not be included in base venue fees.

Final Thoughts

Toronto's venue diversity is one of its greatest strengths as an event destination. From the waterfront views at Westin Harbour Castle to the modern sophistication of The Assembly Chef's Hall, there's truly a perfect space for every event type and budget.

The key to success lies in thoughtful matching between your event's needs and a venue's unique offerings. Consider not just the obvious factors like capacity and location, but also the intangible elements, atmosphere, character, and the overall experience you want to create for your attendees.

Toronto continues to invest in its event infrastructure, with new venues opening and established spaces renovating to meet evolving expectations. This ongoing evolution ensures that whether you're planning your first Toronto event or your fiftieth, you'll always find fresh options that can help create memorable experiences.

By leveraging the insights from both parts of our comprehensive venue guide, you're now equipped with an insider's perspective on Toronto's best event spaces. Remember that successful events come from aligning the right venue with strategic planning, thoughtful attendee experience design, and leveraging the city's remarkable attractions and dining scene to create a complete, compelling event experience.

Ready to plan your next Toronto event? These venues await, each offering unique opportunities to create something extraordinary.