Toronto Dispatch

No. 4 · Friday, October 23, 2026

Museum of Toronto gets a permanent home on Queen Street

The Museum of Toronto, a charity devoted to the city’s history, will move into a former Bank of Montreal branch at 2 Queen Street East, UrbanToronto reported. A $35 million gift from philanthropists Diane Blake and Stephen Smith supports the project, with opening planned for spring 2027.

The conversion covers 7,000 square feet for galleries, staff workspaces and back-of-house functions. Pat Tobin, general manager of the City’s Economic Development and Culture Division, described it as a free space for residents and visitors.

The museum initially operated without a permanent venue. After its 2015 launch it reached audiences through pop-up exhibitions (short-run displays), talks and tours across the city. Ms Blake and Mr Smith have given more than $50 million since the museum’s founding in 2014.

The museum is seeking more partnerships with individuals, foundations, businesses and all levels of government.

Sources: UrbanToronto

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