The Ultimate Guide to CNE Toronto 2025: What to Eat, See & Do at the Canadian National Exhibition

Planning a trip to Toronto this August or early September? If you’ve already Googled “things to do in Toronto,” you’ve probably come across the CNE – short for the Canadian National Exhibition, or what locals lovingly call The Ex.

But here’s the thing: when there are a million summer events, endless foodie festivals, and enough day trips to fill your entire calendar, it can be tough to know what’s actually worth it.

I totally get it. I’ve lived in Toronto for over six years, and every summer, I find myself re-evaluating what’s a must-do and what’s better skipped. But the CNE? Still on the list – and for good reason.

This isn’t just a fairground. It’s a wild, nostalgic, weird-in-the-best-way tradition packed with everything from deep-fried butter and vintage rides to cultural shows, late-night concerts, and one of the best air shows in the country.

Whether it’s your first visit or your first time back in years, this guide will help you plan the perfect CNE day – from what to expect and what to eat, to when to go and how to skip the lines.

Table of Contents

What Is the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition)?

If you’ve never been, the CNE – short for the Canadian National Exhibition – is one of Toronto’s biggest and most beloved summer traditions. Locals call it “The Ex”, and it’s been running since 1879. Yep, this isn’t just another pop-up food fest or weekend fair – it’s a full-on event that’s been entertaining generations for over 140 years.

Every year in late August, the CNE takes over Exhibition Place by the waterfront, transforming 192 acres into a buzzing hub of carnival rides, concerts, food stalls, shopping pavilions, animal shows, art exhibits, and one of the best Air Shows in North America.

At its heart, the CNE is about celebrating the end of summer in true Canadian style – with fried food, glowing ferris wheels, live music, and crowds of families, teens, and nostalgic grown-ups soaking it all in.

📅 When Is the CNE in 2025?

In 2025, the CNE runs from Friday, August 15 to Monday, September 1 (Labour Day).

That gives you 18 days to catch all the action – but heads up: the busiest times are typically:

Opening weekend (Aug 15–17)
Final weekend/Labour Day (Aug 29–Sept 1)
Evenings (especially Fridays + Saturdays)

If you’re looking to avoid the biggest crowds, weekday mornings or early afternoons are your best bet.

What to Expect at the CNE

Here’s what makes the CNE such a fun (and slightly overwhelming) adventure:

Food Building

A must-do. This giant hall is packed with food stalls from around the world. Expect long lines – but also outrageous eats, like:

Pickle lemonade
Cotton candy burritos
Mac & cheese soft serve
And the iconic Tiny Tom’s Donuts (fresh, warm, and a rite of passage)

There’s also a curated “Gourmet Bazaar” section and a beer garden to rest your feet.

Rides & Midway

The Midway is where the thrill-seekers head. You’ll find:

The classic Ferris wheel (great sunset views)
Zipper, Polar Express, and co.
Kiddie rides in a separate family zone
Fun carnival games (be warned: addictive AND pricey)

🎟️ TIP: Ride passes can be bundled with your admission – more on that below.

Shopping Pavilion

From international goods and quirky gadgets to handmade art, the International Pavilion and Arts, Crafts & Hobbies Pavilion are a goldmine for unique finds.

Great spot for early holiday gifts or random things you didn’t know you needed.

Air Show + Nightly Shows

The Canadian International Air Show wraps up the CNE with a bang over Labour Day weekend (Aug 30 – Sept 1). Expect jaw-dropping aerobatics from the Snowbirds and international teams.

Throughout the 18 days, expect:

Free concerts by local + major artists
Dance + cultural performances
Parades, buskers, and live-action stunt shows

Family & Kids Zones

There’s a dedicated Kids’ World, with puppet shows, magic, mini-rides, and character meet-and-greets. Plus: interactive exhibits, farm animals, and activities that don’t feel like a big-city fair.

Cultural Events & Music

From Caribbean Carnival showcases to K-Pop dance battles, you’ll find stages with multicultural programming all day long.

Keep an eye out for:

International cuisine demos
Art installations
Pop-up music and fashion events

Essential Info for Visiting the CNE (2025)

Planning your first visit (or your first in a while)? Here’s everything you need to know before you go – from hours to transit tips to where to park without losing your mind (or your money).

Where Is the CNE?

Location: Exhibition Place, Toronto
Right by Lake Ontario, west of downtown, and just south of Liberty Village

This massive fairground is hard to miss – it’s where Toronto hosts the Royal Winter Fair and other major events throughout the year. When the CNE is on, you’ll know by the energy (and the smell of Tiny Tom’s Donuts wafting down the street).

CNE Hours (2025)

🗓 Dates: August 15 – September 1, 2025
🕙 General Hours: Most buildings and attractions run from 10 AM to 10 PM

🎡 Midway Rides: Stay open later – usually past 11 PM
✈️ Air Show: Takes place Labour Day Weekend (Aug 30 – Sept 1) with exact flight times posted closer to the date.

How to Get to the CNE

Trust me – transit is your friend here. Driving is doable, but traffic and parking can be a hassle, especially on weekends.

TTC (Toronto Transit Commission)

Subway: Take Line 1 to Union Station, then transfer to:
- 509 Harbourfront Streetcar (from Union)
- 511 Bathurst Streetcar (from Bathurst Station)

🛑 Both lines stop directly at Exhibition Loop, right at the CNE gates.

Walking: If you’re staying nearby (e.g., Liberty Village), it’s a 20–25 minute walk to the fairgrounds.

GO Transit

Coming from Mississauga, Barrie, or beyond? The GO Train is the most convenient way in.

Take the Lakeshore West Line
Get off at Exhibition GO Station
You’ll be right at the edge of the CNE entrance

Pro tip: GO sometimes offers combo fare + CNE admission passes – worth checking for 2025!

Driving & Parking Tips

Yes, there’s parking at Exhibition Place, but:
- It’s expensive (expect to pay $20+)
- It fills up fast – especially weekends or Air Show days

Alternatives:

Park north of King Street and walk down (about 10–15 mins)
Use Green P lots in Liberty Village
Consider riding your bike – there’s usually supervised bike parking

💡 Parking Hack: Some visitors swear by parking farther out and hopping on a streetcar in – cheaper, less stressful, and avoids gridlock near the grounds.

Hotels Near the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition)

If you’re coming from out of town (or just want to treat yourself to a staycation), staying close to the CNE grounds can make your visit so much easier – no need to battle traffic or commute after a long day of food and fireworks.

Here are some great hotel options, sorted by walking distance and easy transit access:

Easiest Walking Distance to CNE

These hotels are within a 5–10 min walk of Exhibition Place – ideal if you want to roll out of bed and straight into the CNE!

Hotel X Toronto

📍 Located inside Exhibition Place – you can’t get closer!
Luxury stay with lake views, rooftop pool, fitness center
Best for: convenience + premium amenities

Longer Walking Distance (~20–30 minutes)

These hotels aren’t next door, but are walkable (or a short Uber ride) if you don’t mind a bit of a stroll.

1 Hotel Toronto

📍 King West area (~25-minute walk)
Eco-conscious luxury, rooftop bar, beautiful interiors
Best for: couples, wellness lovers, stylish stays

Gladstone House

📍 Queen Street West (~25-minute walk)
Artsy, historic boutique hotel with local flair
Best for: creative vibes + walkable to Queen West scene

The Drake Hotel

📍 Also on Queen Street West (~30-minute walk)
Music, nightlife, and a cool crowd
Best for: night owls and artsy travelers

Easy Transit Access (TTC or GO Train)

These hotels are further out, but super accessible by TTC streetcar or GO Train – no car needed.Chelsea Hotel Toronto

📍 Downtown core, steps from Yonge Street
Family-friendly with an indoor waterslide
Best for: families, budget-conscious travelers

Hyatt Regency Toronto

📍 King West, close to restaurants + theatres
Modern, great for couples or business travelers
Best for: foodies, business/leisure mix

Marriott City Centre Hotel

📍 Inside Rogers Centre (CN Tower views!)
Fun for Blue Jays fans or anyone wanting a unique stay
Best for: sports lovers, central location

💡 Tip: If you're visiting for the Air Show or on a long weekend, book early — nearby hotels fill up fast. You might also want to check Airbnb options in Liberty Village or Parkdale for more flexibility.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're trying to balance location and cost, stay slightly farther out with easy transit access - the 509 & 511 streetcars and GO Train make getting to the CNE a breeze.

You can also use this hotel map to easily browse available accommodations around Exhibition Place and downtown Toronto

💡 Want more Toronto hotel options beyond the CNE?
Check out my detailed guide on Where to Stay in Toronto – with neighbourhood breakdowns, hotel picks by budget, and local tips to help you choose the right spot. You can also use this hotel map

Tips for Visiting the CNE

To make the most of your time at the Ex (and avoid rookie mistakes), here are some smart tips to know before you go:

Best Days & Times to Visit

Weekdays (esp. early in the week) tend to be less crowded than weekends
Go early in the day if you want to explore the Food Building and Midway without the long lines
Late afternoon to evening is great for rides, sunset views, concerts, and the nighttime vibe

🎟️ Bonus Tip: If you can, avoid the last weekend - it gets very busy, especially during the Air Show.

What to Wear & Bring

Comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking a lot!
Sunscreen & water (you can bring a reusable bottle)
Light backpack or crossbody bag
Cash/card (most places are cashless but some pop-up vendors might not be)
Portable phone charger – between photos, maps, and mobile tickets, your battery will drain

What Not to Bring

Outside food isn’t allowed – and security may check your bag
Large bags/strollers may slow you down in busy pavilions
Pets are not permitted, except service animals

How to Skip the Lines

Arrive right when gates open to breeze through security
Purchase tickets + ride passes online in advance – you’ll save money and time
Try less popular food stalls or dine earlier/later than peak lunch/dinner rush

How to Save Money at the CNE

Buy a Ride All Day Pass combo with your admission
Bring your own water bottle to refill (there are stations!)
Set a budget for food/games – it’s easy to overspend at the Midway
Consider a weekday admission deal or after 5 PM ticket if just going for evening shows

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bring my own food to the CNE?

Outside food is generally discouraged, especially in the Food Building and designated dining areas. That said, small snacks or packed lunches may be allowed if you’re traveling with young kids or have dietary restrictions — but expect your bags to be checked. There are plenty of food options available on-site.

Is the CNE cashless?

Most vendors accept both cash and cards, but some food and game stalls are cash-only, especially in the Midway. It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for backup. ATMs are available throughout the grounds, though they can have long lines and high fees.

Is there free Wi-Fi at the CNE?

There’s limited public Wi-Fi around certain buildings and stages, but it can be spotty due to crowds. If you rely on internet access (e.g., for mobile tickets or meetups), it’s best to download what you need ahead of time.

Is the CNE family-friendly?

Absolutely! Between Kids’ World, the petting zoo, and mini-rides, it’s a solid day out for families. Many attractions are stroller-friendly, and there are family washrooms and baby changing stations on-site.

What should I wear or bring?

It’s summer in Toronto, so dress for the heat – but bring:

A refillable water bottle
Sunscreen + hat
Portable charger
Light layers for the evening or air-conditioned buildings

🐾 Can I bring my dog?

Only service animals are permitted on the grounds. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed.

Suggested CNE Day Trip Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary that blends fun, food, and a little chill time – whether you’re going solo, with friends, or as a family.

Morning (Arrive ~10 AM)

Enter through Princes’ Gate and take some photos – it’s iconic.
Head straight to Kids’ World or Pavilions before crowds pick up.
Visit the Shopping Pavilion early to browse cool international finds and handmade goods.

Midday (12 – 2 PM)

Hit the Food Building for lunch – this is prime time, so expect lines.
Try 2–3 small bites (split with friends if possible) to maximize variety.
Grab a drink at the beer garden or find shaded seating to relax.

Afternoon (2 – 5 PM)

Time for the Midway! Try:
- Ferris wheel for epic skyline views
- Zipper or Crazy Mouse if you like thrills
- Play a few games (budget alert: they add up fast!)
Chill out at Farm Building or watch a live demo or show

Evening (5 PM onward)

Grab dinner (yes, more food – try something outrageous)
Catch a free concert or busker performance
If it’s Labour Day weekend: stake out a spot for the Air Show
Stay late for nighttime rides and light displays

Save & Share This Guide

Found this helpful? Don’t forget to share this post with fellow Toronto explorers, weekend planners, or anyone visiting the CNE in 2025.

Free Download: CNE One-Day Itinerary (PDF)
Want a quick-reference version of this guide to take with you? I’ve created a printable CNE One-Day Itinerary PDF that walks you through everything – from what to eat to when to ride.

👉 Click here to download your CNE itinerary

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