I’ve never explored the CNE as thoroughly as I did this year. Now I’m coming away with some tips I’ll be drawing on every summer from now on. If you’re not a CNE expert, you may find them useful as well:
- Take Transit
Of course there’s the environmental concern. But when I looked at the parking lots on the busy days, it made me especially glad we’d taken the TTC. - Use the Online Schedules
Handy for making sure you get there on the right days and in time for the special shows you really want to see! - Take Water, Buy Food
Having a bottle of water is indispensible, but if you’re going to be at the CNE you’re really missing out if you don’t indulge in what the Food Building and the midway have to offer. - For Quiet Places to Rest…
Try a curb on the periphery, the lawn inside the kids’ zone or for an extended break head south to the Rose Garden. We plan on going and visiting the Rose Garden again in the early summer next year, to properly admire the blooms, pool and statue. - Go Early, Go Often
Obviously the Labour Day Weekend is the big blowout for the Ex and the energy, crowds and special events are well-worth a visit. But also going much earlier in the run — the first weekend or especially on a weekday — gives you a great chance to check everything out with fewer lines and at a leisurely pace. Two very different but equally worthwhile versions of the CNE!
