CF Sherway Gardens
Book Field Trip
Explore, play and learn at CF Sherway Gardens
Open Daily
CF Sherway Gardens, 25 The West Mall, Etobicoke
Visit us at CF Sherway Gardens to explore Circus! Science Under the Big Top and our Innovation Station. Students can try classic circus tricks and prototype original inventions using a variety of tools and materials.
School groups are eligible for a special rate of $120 per class (up to 30 students). This special rate is available during the regular school calendar year, not including weekends and holidays.
To qualify, your class must represent:
- A full-time elementary or secondary school in Canada that is registered with your province’s Ministry of Education,
OR - A childcare centre licensed by Ontario’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
To receive this discount at the time of your visit, please book your field trip in advance online. If your class is not eligible for a school group discount, please visit our Group Visits page.
Circus! Science Under the Big Top
Curious adventurers, step right up! Everyone’s favourite circus exhibition has come to town. After delighting visitors around the world, this classic exhibition crafted by Science Centre scientists has returned!
Learn how things move, how bodies work and how humans think and use their senses with hands-on exhibits. Fly through the air like an acrobat*, walk a tightrope*, study circus smells, see a sideshow and much more as you explore the science and artistry of traditional circus acts.
*Capacity for the acrobat and tightrope activities are limited, and availability may vary daily based on operational requirements.
Innovation Station
Are you ready to create and innovate? Bring your brainstorming and problem-solving skills to our Innovation Station! Kids of all ages can explore, experiment and prototype original inventions using a variety of tools and materials. Build a cardboard suspension bridge, design a paper airplane using aerodynamics, or propel a wind racer along a magnetic track.
Work independently or make a team with others to solve a new challenge!
School Field Trip FAQs
How long should I plan my school trip for?
The overall experience at CF Sherway Gardens takes approximately 2 hours. We recommend school groups plan for up to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and participate in activities at a comfortable pace.
Is bus parking available?
No, there is no designated parking for school buses. Please ask your driver to drop your group off near Entrance 7 of the mall.
Where is Entrance 7?
Entrance 7 is located close to Honestly Good Chicken Fingers. If you have booked a school field trip, please use this entrance and then walk a short distance through the mall toward the main entrance of Ontario Science Centre Experiences.
How many adults can accompany a school group for free?
For groups with students 3-12 years of age, one adult for every 10 students is required. For groups with students 13-17 years of age, one adult for every 15 students is required.
A maximum of one adult for every two students can accompany a school group for free. If you have more than the above ratio, you will need to pay the regular admission fee for any additional adult.
Are there lockers?
There are no lockers available, but there are coat racks and storage bins available for bags.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes, there is a dedicated lunch area for school groups that includes tables, chairs, garbage/recycling/green bins as well as coat racks and bins for bags.
How is payment facilitated?
Please check your confirmation email and bring payment for the full amount on the day of your visit. Accepted methods of payment include credit card, P-card, valid PO (TDSB only), or cash.
What’s the cancellation and booking modification policy?
Once your booking is confirmed, you must notify us of any cancellations or changes by 4 p.m. on the Wednesday one week before your visit date. School rates are based on a flat rate of $120 for up to 30 students. Increases in student numbers may incur an additional cost and will be subject to availability.
What are the restrictions for the High Wire activity?
To perform on the high wire, you must:
- Be over 117 cm (46 in.) high
- Safely fit into the harness
- Not be pregnant
- Not have neck or spinal problems, heart or respiratory problems, epilepsy or other seizures
- Understand and follow all instructions from hosts
Adhering to written/oral instructions and proper use of this experience is the participant's responsibility. Science Centre staff reserve the right to refuse visitors admission to this exhibit.
What are the restrictions for the Elastic Acrobats activity?
To perform elastic acrobatics, you must:
- Weigh between 23 kg (50 lb.) and 112 kg (250 lb.)
- Not be pregnant
- Not have neck or spinal problems, heart or respiratory problems, epilepsy or other seizures
- Remove loose jewelry and accessories, empty pockets
- Tie back long hair
- Understand and follow all instructions from hosts
This activity takes physical effort and upper body strength. You may experience disorientation, nausea, weakness, and minor bruising. Adhering to written/oral instructions and proper use of this exhibit is the participant's responsibility. Science Centre staff reserve the right to refuse visitors admission to this exhibit.
Is the exhibition space wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the exhibition space, including washrooms, is wheelchair accessible.
Are field trips self-guided?
Yes, school field trips are self-guided. We recommend approximately 2 hours to explore the exhibits and participate in activities.
Contact Information:
School Bookings
416-696-3140
schoolbookings@osc.on.ca