Learn Something New This Fall with our Top Art & Culture Picks!
Published: Sep 19, 2025
Welcome to the vibrant world of Art, Music, and Culture accessible through GO Transit! This Fall, a wealth of experiences awaits everyone looking to expand their horizons beyond the classroom. To make the most of your adventures, consider our fantastic travel options, including the Weekday Group Pass, Weekend One-Day Pass, GO+WEGO Combo Tickets in Niagara Falls, and the Kids GO Free program.
As a curious student or a lifelong learner, you’ll find many events, galleries, and performances across Ontario that promise something new for everyone. With GO Transit as your gateway, you can explore our region's rich tapestry of creativity.
So, this season, step aboard and discover how art, music, and culture come alive in unexpected places—because with GO Transit, students aren’t the only ones soaking up knowledge and inspiration this Fall! Don't forget to check out our travel options to make your journey even more enjoyable.
Best Museums in Ontario:
Niagara Parks Power Station and The Tunnel
Niagara Parks Power Station and The Tunnel
The Niagara Parks Power Station and The Tunnel are fascinating attractions in Niagara Falls, Ontario, that delve into the region's history of hydroelectric power production. The power plant, which began operations in 1905, showcases the incredible engineering feats of the past and highlights the importance of renewable energy.
To get to the Niagara Parks Power Station using GO Transit, you can take the GO train from Toronto to Niagara Falls GO. This convenient and relaxing journey offers views of Lake Ontario, the wine region, and entertainment on board with GO Wi-Fi Plus as you travel past the traffic.
Once you arrive at Niagara Falls GO station, you can catch a local WEGO transit that takes you towards Table Rock Centre, which is only a short distance away. Take advantage of the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket for incredible savings on joint travel!
Dundurn National Historic Site
Dundurn National Historic Site
If you’re in Hamilton, Ontario, visit the Dundurn National Historic Site. This beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, once home to influential politician Sir Allan MacNab, offers a captivating look into Canada’s past.
As you tour the grand rooms filled with period furnishings and artwork, you'll gain insight into life in the 1850s. The extensive gardens add to the charm, making it a lovely spot for a stroll—great for kids, families, and adults alike!
Reaching Dundurn is convenient with GO Transit. Regular GO train and bus services connect you from the Greater Toronto Area to West Harbour GO, allowing you t relax and enjoy the ride without the hassle of parking. Once in Hamilton, it’s a walk, bike (or bike rentals), or transit ride to the site.
Visiting Dundurn National Historic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into history and is easily accessible via public transit. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in Canada's rich heritage!
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is a remarkable experience, especially when you take advantage of GO Transit to get there. Located next to John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, this museum is home to an impressive collection of operational military aircraft, showcasing the rich history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Getting there from West Harbour GO is as simple as grabbing the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) #20 bus from West Harbour GO.
Don’t forget your PRESTO Card! Show your PRESTO Card at admission and save 15% off general tickets.
As you journey to the museum, you’re treating yourself to a fascinating day out and engaging in a significant occasion leading to Remembrance Day. The museum provides an opportunity to honour our military members and reflect on the sacrifices many brave airmen and women's sacrifices.
Upon arriving, explore vintage aircraft up close, many of which played vital roles in significant conflicts. The museum's knowledgeable staff often share personal stories and historical insights that deepen your understanding of Canada’s aviation heritage.
Best Art Galleries:
Art Gallery of Burlington
Art Gallery of Burlington
The Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB) is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors. Showcasing the creative talents of Canadian artists, the AGB features a diverse collection, including ceramics, paintings, and photography that reflect unique cultural narratives.
What makes the Art Gallery of Burlington special is its commitment to fostering creativity through workshops and events. It invites everyone to explore their artistic side, making it a great pit-stop in Burlington along the waterfront.
Getting there is a breeze with GO Transit. Enjoy a comfortable, scenic ride to Burlington GO then take Burlington Transit, leaving the urban hustle behind as you anticipate a day of inspiration and Canadian insight. Support local artists and experience the vibrant world of Canadian art. It's an opportunity to ignite your imagination and create lasting memories.
MacLaren Art Centre
MacLaren Art Centre
Visiting the MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie is a fantastic day trip, particularly if you’re going via GO Transit. The journey is convenient and relaxing, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery that unfolds outside your window as you travel.
What makes the MacLaren truly unique is its commitment to showcasing contemporary Canadian artists and its beautiful, modern architecture. The building is a piece of art, featuring spacious galleries perfect for immersing yourself in various exhibitions. You can explore a diverse range of artwork, from thought-provoking installations to stunning paintings, reflecting the rich tapestry of Canadian culture.
Once you disembark from the GO train at Allandale Waterfront GO then take Barrie Transit to the centre. Don’t forget to check out their schedule for workshops and programming, which often include interactive experiences that engage visitors of all ages.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
If you're in Toronto and looking for a cultural experience that will enrich your day, Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is the perfect destination. Conveniently located just a short ride from Toronto Union Station, accessing ROM is a breeze thanks to the TTC Subway Line 1. Hop on the subway at Union Station after disembarking your GO Transit journey, and in just a few minutes, you’ll find yourself steps away from one of the largest museums in North America.
ROM boasts an impressive collection that showcases art, culture, and nature from around the globe. With its striking architecture and engaging exhibitions, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From ancient civilizations, dinosaurs, to contemporary art, the museum offers diverse experiences that captivate visitors of all ages.
And if you're a PRESTO Cardholder, you're in for a bonus! Your PRESTO card offers you a 15% discount on regular admission. This is a fantastic way to experience everything the museum offers while saving some money.
Unique theatres to see a show:
The Second City
The Second City
Visiting The Second City Comedy Club in Toronto is a must for anyone who loves comedy. This iconic venue has been the starting point for many legendary comedians, such as John Candy, Dan Aykroyd, and Mike Myers. Their journeys began at their former Danforth location, steeped in history and good laughs.
Because of their success, The Second City has a fantastic new location in downtown Toronto. Located at 1 York Street, it is conveniently located within walking distance through the PATH from Union Station, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a night of laughter even in Toronto’s fall weather.
If you plan to catch a show, with PRESTO Perks, you can save 20% on general admission from Sunday to Thursday using the code PRESTO20 at checkout. For those who want to try comedy, The Second City offers improv classes, where you can learn the art of being funny. You can save 15% on these classes with the code PRESTO15.
Young People’s Theatre
A visit to Young People's Theatre promises an enriching experience filled with laughter, drama, and a touch of magic—just a short walk from Union Station! Save 15% on select shows when you show your PRESTO card in person or use code PRESTO15 online.
Experiencing live theatre at Young People's Theatre (YPT) is a delightful adventure that captures the imaginations of audiences of all ages. Nestled conveniently near Union Station, it offers an accessible escape into a vibrant performance world within walking distance of GO Transit connections all over Southern Ontario.
Young People's Theatre boasts a varied playbill that showcases an array of productions, from classic tales reimagined to contemporary stories that reflect our world. Taking a child to their first theatrical experience or indulging in the artistry yourself, each show presents a unique opportunity to witness storytelling at its finest. The theatre's commitment to engaging young minds through diverse narratives entertains and educates, making it a cornerstone of Toronto's cultural landscape.
Theatre Aquarius
Theatre Aquarius
Visiting Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton is an exciting experience, and getting there using GO Transit makes it even easier. With all-day service to Hamilton GO Centre Station, you can catch a train at your convenience and enjoy a seamless journey to the heart of Hamilton.
Once you arrive at Hamilton GO Centre, Theatre Aquarius is just a short walk away, allowing you to take in the scenic waterfront on your way. You can relax knowing your ride home is as convenient after the curtains close. With frequent train service throughout the day, you won’t have to worry about missing your return trip.
Why not make your show a full day with stops at other museums, a street festival, or even some tasty bites at Hamilton’s best eateries? Check out GO Transit’s perfect Fall Day blog for inspiration to create the ideal day in the Hammer!
The entire region is a living museum with GO Transit!
As Fall unfolds in the Greater Golden Horseshoe – from Barrie and Toronto, to Burlington, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls- the region bursts with arts, culture, and music. In addition to a wealth of incredible museums and captivating shows, this season also shines through various free and limited-run events.
Don't miss the chance to explore historic Fort York and the Distillery District—open-air museums that truly allow you to experience history. Gather your friends and family to uncover the vibrant experiences awaiting you, from outdoor concerts to thought-provoking art exhibits.
This Fall, there's an adventure around every corner with GO Transit!
Land Acknowledgement
Metrolinx acknowledges that we connect communities by building and operating transit within the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee and the Huron-Wendat peoples, for whom these lands continue to have great importance.
Treaties between First Nations and governments cover these lands, and the promises contained in these Treaties remain relevant to this day.
Metrolinx and its employees are committed to understanding the history of these lands and the continued impacts of colonization and take responsibility for actions to advance reconciliation.
Metrolinx will continue to seek the knowledge, expertise and experience of Indigenous partners and commits to doing business in a manner that is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and collaboration.