These helpful tips and explanations will allow you to make the most of your visit to the AGO.
Protecting the Art
Please do not touch the artwork. Keep a safe distance of 1 m (39 in.) between you and the works of art. Please do not run in the Gallery.
Bags and Knapsacks
Visitors may carry one bag plus a personal item, such as a purse or diaper bag. The combined size of these bags cannot exceed 45 x 40 x 15 cm (18 x 16 x 6 in.). Bags cannot be carried on your back.
Bags, knapsacks, briefcases and parcels larger than 45 x 40 x 15 cm (18 x 16 x 6 in.) are not permitted in the galleries. All umbrellas longer than 45 cm (18 in.) must be left at coat check. A fee of $5 will be charged to check oversized items (e.g. Folding bikes, skateboard, Luggage). Checking of small bags and umbrellas is complimentary.
To avoid long queues on AGO Free Wednesday nights, please arrive after 6 pm and refrain from bringing backpacks.
Photography
The AGO allows photography for personal use only, except where indicated. We ask that you respect the rights of artists and their representatives under Canadian copyright law. For more information on Canadian copyright law, visit http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-42/. Selfie sticks are not permitted.
Food and Drink
Food and drink are not permitted in the galleries. Please visit the AGO Bistro, the Espresso Bar in Galleria Italia or our family-friendly caféAGO. Sealed water bottles and baby bottles are allowed into gallery spaces but must be consumed in non-art spaces or in Walker Court or Galleria Italia.
Cell Phones
Please turn your cell phone to the vibrate setting and be respectful of other visitors when using your cell phone.
Sketching
Sketching is permitted in the Gallery except where indicated. Sketchpads must be 35 x 25 cm (14 x 10 in.) or smaller. Please use pencil only (no pens or charcoal).
On Wheels
Strollers are welcome in gallery spaces. Children’s wagons or buggies that are pulled behind the visitor are not permitted in gallery spaces.
Bikes, helmets, skateboards, skate shoes, Rollerblades and scooters are not permitted.
Video Surveillance
For the protection of visitors, staff and works of art, the Gallery is monitored by video surveillance.
Exceptions for Prohibited Items
Visitors to the AGO are now allowed to carry certain prohibited items into the galleries for specific medical conditions in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). These items may include water bottles, oversize bags with medical supplies, liquid medicines or other items.
The Protection Services Officer (PSO) at the front desk will approve visitors’ requests and will affix a visible sticker to the prohibited item(s) so that other staff throughout the Gallery will know permission has been given.