Is the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto Worth Visiting?

If you’re planning a trip to Toronto — especially as a sports fan — the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto is probably already on your list.

But is it actually worth your time?

With so many iconic attractions nearby from the CN Tower to St. Lawrence Market it’s fair to wonder whether this downtown museum lives up to the hype, or if it’s just for die-hard hockey fans.

We found ourselves asking the same question on a freezing Saturday in February. We were wandering downtown looking for something warm and interesting to do, fully expecting to pop in for an hour at most.

Three hours later, we were still inside.

Located right near Union Station, the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto spans more than 65,000 square feet dedicated to the sport’s greatest players, historic moments, and — yes — the Stanley Cup itself. But what surprised us most wasn’t just the memorabilia. It was how interactive, immersive, and unexpectedly engaging the experience turned out to be.

In this review, I’ll break down what stood out, what’s worth your time, what could be better, and who should (and shouldn’t) add it to their Toronto itinerary.

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Quick Verdict: Is the Hockey Hall of Fame Worth It?

Yes — especially for sports fans, families, and first-time visitors staying downtown.

If you love hockey, it’s an absolute must. There are so many artifacts, trophies, and historic moments preserved here that it feels like stepping into the heart of the sport.

If you’re traveling with kids, the interactive elements alone make it worth the visit. It’s one of the few museums where kids can move, play, and actively participate instead of just reading displays.

And if you’re not a die-hard hockey fan? I wasn’t either and I still genuinely enjoyed it. The storytelling, memorabilia, and immersive exhibits make it engaging even for more casual visitors.

That said, most people spend about 2–3 hours here. It’s not necessarily a full-day attraction, but it’s a very solid half-day activity as you’ll become deeply immersed in hockey history.

🏒 Planning to visit the Hockey Hall of Fame? Grab your mobile tickets in advance so you can walk straight in and start exploring instead of lining up at the entrance.

What Makes the Hockey Hall of Fame So Special?

The Hockey Hall of Fame isn’t a traditional museum. Yes, there are galleries showcasing the history of the game, artifacts from across the world, and detailed timelines but many spaces are designed to bring the sport to life.

You’re not just learning about hockey, you’re standing in recreated spaces, watching historic moments unfold on screen, and physically engaging with the game.

What stood out to us was the sheer volume of memorabilia. There are endless displays of historic game-used gear. You’ll see skates, jerseys, sticks, goalie pads from the earliest days of hockey right up to the current season. You can see how equipment evolved, how teams changed over time, and how the sport grew beyond Canada into an international phenomenon.

There are also thoughtfully curated exhibits celebrating women’s hockey, international competition, and minority players who helped shape the game. It’s not just NHL-focused — it genuinely tells the broader story of hockey worldwide.

I personally loved the Women in Hockey display. Seeing Hailey Wickenheiser and Marie-Philip Poulin’s jerseys up close — and learning more about the roles they played in shaping modern hockey — was genuinely a proud moment for me as a Canadian.

Even if you don’t know every stat or player, it’s hard not to get swept up in the energy.

Best Things To Do at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto

If you’re wondering what you’ll actually do inside there’s a lot more than just reading plaques. Here’s a list of some of the things you can expect.

Interactive Games & Skills Challenges

This is where the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto really shines.

You can use a real stick and puck to shoot against life-sized virtual NHL goaltenders. You can test your reflexes as a goalie. You can step into a broadcast booth and call plays behind the microphone like you’re on TSN.

Kids and teens were in absolute heaven. We saw plenty of adults lining up to test their skills too.

You can even download video clips of your experience using a personalized code, which is a fun bonus.

See the Stanley Cup (And Take a Photo)

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to see both the original and current Stanley Cups.

You’re allowed to touch and examine the current Stanley cup. I have to admit, it was a pretty cool experience. 

You can also take your own photos with the current cup for free — selfies included — or pay $10 for a professional print and digital copy later at the gift shop. For such an iconic trophy, that price felt very reasonable.

☞ Seeing the Stanley Cup up close is a must for sports fans — secure your Hockey Hall of Fame mobile tickets in advance so nothing stands between you and that photo. 📸

Watch Hockey Highlights & Historic Moments

There are dedicated theatres inside where you can watch classic playoff moments, Stanley Cup celebrations, historic interviews, and induction speeches.

The TSN Theatre and Tim Hortons Theatre showcase archival footage and dramatic highlights that really bring hockey history to life.

You’ll also find QR codes throughout the exhibits that link to additional video content making it easy to dive deeper into specific moments.

Online Self-Guided Tours

If you’re visiting with kids, or want a unique way to explore the hall, the scavenger-style online guides add even more information and engagement to an already fantastic experience. 

From finding hockey heroes, to hockey treasures, and even women’s hockey moments, the hunts turn the museum into a bit of a game, encouraging visitors to explore each gallery instead of rushing through. The mobile experience adds another element of interest to this already impressive museum.

One thing I would have appreciated, though, is an optional audio-guided tour — similar to what you find in many European museums. With so much to see, I occasionally felt like I was walking back and forth trying not to miss anything. A structured guide highlighting the must-see exhibits would make the experience feel more cohesive, especially for first-time visitors.

Shopping for Souvenirs

The Spirit of Hockey gift shop carries exclusive Hockey Hall of Fame merchandise along with licensed NHL items.

If you’re shopping for a hockey fan, this is the place to find a unique souvenir.

Must-See Hockey Hall of Fame Exhibits

Beyond the interactive elements, there are several standout exhibits that deserve extra time.

The Esso Great Hall and NHL Trophies

The Esso Great Hall is the emotional centrepiece of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

The incredible stained-glass dome overhead, the portraits of inductees lining the walls, and the historic architecture create a ceremonial atmosphere.

This is where you’ll find all the major NHL trophies — not just the Stanley Cup. Seeing them displayed together gives you a true sense of the league’s history and prestige.

Seeing the Original Stanley Cup in Lord Stanley’s Vault

The Stanley Cup is housed inside a specially refurbished bank vault known as Lord Stanley’s Vault.

Inside the vault, you’ll find:

• The original Stanley Cup
• Retired championship bands
• An extensive collection of NHL championship rings

The rings were definitely an exhibit that caught my eye. I had no opulent and intricate these rings would be. And where else could you get this close to so many diamonds?

90 Goalie Masks on Display

One of the most fascinating exhibits chronicles the evolution of the hockey goalie mask.

More than 90 masks are on display, including those worn by legends like Jacques Plante, Ken Dryden, and Johnny Bower.

I was shocked to see how minimal protection used to be — especially as recently as the 1980s. I also loved some of the mask designs – although I would have liked to learn a bit more about the stories behind some of the more modern masks.

There’s also a short film explaining the meaning behind various mask designs, adding depth and storytelling to the exhibit.

Collector’s Corner

Collector’s Corner explores hockey memorabilia beyond the rink.

You’ll find hockey cards, books, games, toys, artwork, and even the famous Bobby Orr pinball machine. It’s a nostalgic look at how hockey intersects with pop culture and everyday life.

I could have easily spent an hour in this section alone looking at the range of artifacts.

Montreal Canadiens Dressing Room

Here you can step inside a full-scale replica of the Montreal Canadiens’ former dressing room — one of the most storied franchises in NHL history.

The space is built to scale and allows guests to handle equipment from different eras. It’s surprisingly immersive and gives you a sense of what players might have felt preparing for a big game.

Even visitors who weren’t Canadiens fans seemed impressed by the attention to detail.

Here are a few additional hidden treasures for you to find during your visit:

• the first Zamboni Ice Resurfacer used in the NHL in 1954
• Sidney Crosby’s 2010 “Golden Goal” puck, stick and net
• Paul Henderson’s ‘72 summit series winning goal stick
• 2002 Lucky Loonie and Olympic Torch
• Artefacts from the original six arenas

Hockey Hall of Fame Tickets and Visitor Information

Before you head to the Hockey Hall of Fame, here are a few logistics to help with your planning.

Hockey Hall of Fame tickets currently cost:

• $25 CAD for adults
• $20 for seniors (65+)
• $15 for youth (4–13)
• Free for children 3 and under

Hockey Hall of Fame tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance.

The entrance can be a little tricky to find. It is located on the lower level of Brookfield Place and you’ll need to take the escalator down to find it.

Tours are self-guided, and there are no lockers or coat check services available.

There’s also a “special edition” Tim Hortons café next to the shop if you need a quick break or want just a taste of  some memorabilia.

☞ Visiting downtown Toronto? Make your sports-themed day seamless by booking your Hockey Hall of Fame tickets in advance and keeping everything in one easy plan.

Hockey Hall of Fame Hours

The Hockey Hall of Fame hours vary slightly by season, so it’s worth checking their official website before visiting. During peak travel months, extended hours may apply.

Where Is the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto?

The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in the heart of downtown Toronto at the corner of Yonge and Front.

It’s:

• Less than a 5-minute walk from Union Station
• Minutes from St. Lawrence Market
• About 15 minutes on foot to the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium

It’s easily accessible by TTC or GO Train making it easy to get to by public transportation.

How Long Do You Need to Visit?

We thought we’d only stay an hour.

We were so wrong.

We spent almost three hours there and didn’t even watch every movie or try every interactive station.

I recommend budgeting at least two hours, but three if you want to explore properly.

You can also leave and re-enter the same day (just get a stamp on your hand), which makes it easy to break up your visit.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

We visited around 1 p.m. on a Saturday afternoon in February — which felt like prime time for an indoor attraction — but it was surprisingly quiet. We had actually just come from Ripley’s Aquarium and left early because it was so packed. By comparison, the Hockey Hall of Fame felt calm and easy to explore. There were almost no lines to try the shootout challenge or test our reflexes as goalie.

That said, I’ve read online reviews mentioning that it can get very busy during school visits and peak tourist seasons. If you’re visiting Toronto in summer or over March Break, longer lines for the interactive games and Stanley Cup photos could definitely impact your experience.

If you prefer fewer crowds, go early on the weekend, or visit in the afternoon on weekdays to avoid school visits.

Is It Good for Kids and Teens?

Yes! We saw lots of kids here having a great time and enjoying the exhibits. The interactive zone is designed for movement and participation, making it one of the more engaging museum experiences in Toronto.

However, if you want to deeply explore the historical exhibits, you may want to split up with another adult while someone stays in the interactive section with younger kids.

There were lots of teenagers during our visit who were genuinely engaged. They were taking photos, discussing historic plays, and clearly enjoying the experience.

☞ Looking for even more family-friendly activities? Read my guide to the best things to do with kids in Toronto for lots of great ideas!

Parking Near the Hockey Hall of Fame

Parking in downtown Toronto can be challenging but there are two convenient Green P parking options nearby:

• St. Lawrence Market North building garage (modern and usually has space)
• Church Street Green P lot (we once paid just $1/hour on a Saturday)

There is also some metered parking in the area if you’re lucky enough to find a spot. 

Hotels Near the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto

If you’re staying nearby, these hotels are within walking distance:

• Le Germain Hotel Maple Leaf Square – In the heart of downtown beside the Scotiabank Area and Rogers Centre. If you’re here for the sports, this hotel will have you close to all the action.
• Fairmont Royal York – This historic hotel is right beside the Hockey Hall of Fame and Union Station. If you want a luxury stay, this is your spot.
• Novotel Toronto Centre – An excellent value hotel just 2 minutes from the museum. Perfect spot in the heart of downtown, without the higher price tag.

Staying downtown makes it easy to combine your visit with other attractions and is where I recommend first-time visitors stay. 

Other Things To Do in Toronto for Sports Fans

If you’re building a sports-focused Toronto itinerary, consider:

• Catching a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game at Rogers Centre
• Watching the Toronto Maple Leafs or perhaps the Marlies if you’re looking for more affordable hockey tickets.
• Buying tickets to watch the Toronto Sceptres from the Professional Women’s Hockey League is also an excellent option.
• Catching a Toronto Raptors basketball or Toronto Argonauts football game
• Grabbing drinks at the incredible Real Sports Bar – This is a bar for sports-lovers. It’s 39 foot big screen TV puts you in the heart of the action Local Tip: make a reservation if you want to watch a game here at Toronto’s top sports bar.
• Visit the SPORT Gallery located in the Distillery District – a small Canadian business who specializes in reviving vintage logos blending sport, art and nostalgia.

Our Honest Review of the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto

So, is the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto worth visiting?

After spending nearly three hours inside (far longer than we expected) our honest answer is yes, with a few caveats.

If you’re even mildly interested in hockey, this is one of the most engaging indoor attractions in downtown Toronto. Seeing the Stanley Cup up close, exploring decades of memorabilia, and testing your skills against virtual NHL goalies makes the experience far more interactive than a traditional museum.

That said, it may not be a must-do for everyone. If you have very limited time in Toronto and no interest in hockey, attractions like the CN Tower or the Toronto Islands might take priority (especially in summer).

Overall, though, we walked in planning to stay an hour and left impressed nearly three hours later. If you’re planning your Toronto itinerary, I’d pair this with a visit to the Distillery District in the afternoon and a game at Scotiabank Arena or the Rogers Centre in the evening for the ultimate sports-themed day downtown.

Still finalizing your plans to visit Toronto?

You might find these travel guides helpful:

• First-Time Visitors Guide to Toronto
• Best Time to Visit Toronto – A Seasonal Guide
• Best Hotels In Toronto with a Pool
• Things to do in Toronto for First Time Visitors
• Is the Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Worth it?
• Perfect 4 Day Toronto and Niagara Travel Itinerary

☞ Join my Facebook Group: Toronto, Ontario, and Niagara Falls Canada Travel Tips and Planning to ask your questions and get personalized travel help from a local.