CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto is enhancing its appeal to a broader audience with major updates. That includes a $4.5 million investment in infrastructure upgrades, the addition of new retailers, and the arrival of interactive exhibits from the Ontario Science Centre. As the holiday season approaches, CF Sherway Gardens is also set to offer visitors a shopping experience with festive attractions and curated events.
$4.5 Million Investment Revitalizes Sherway Gardens
CF Sherway Gardens recently completed a $4.5 million renovation aimed at enhancing the shopping experience. The upgrades include updated common area furnishings, revamped food court seating, improved lighting, and a new washroom near Entrance 3. These changes are designed to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for visitors.
“All the common area seating has been upgraded, and the customer feedback has been phenomenal,” said Liem Vu, General Manager of CF Sherway Gardens. “We’ve added 150 seats in the food court, ensuring everyone has a comfortable place to relax, especially during the busy holiday season.”
The mall has also focused on sustainability, sourcing new wooden benches from a Montreal supplier. “It was important for us to support Canadian products,” Vu added. “These benches are not only beautiful but also sustainable, reflecting our commitment to environmentally responsible choices.”
Beyond infrastructure, CF Sherway Gardens has been actively curating its retail mix. Uniqlo opened its doors on November 1, joining a roster of new and renovated stores, including a Miele showroom and Diptyque. Jeweller Birks recently unveiled a revamped concept store featuring a shop-in-shops for luxury watch brand Breitling and, soon, a shop for Longines.
“These brands choosing Sherway Gardens is a testament to our status as a premium shopping destination,” Vu noted. “We are creating a unique experience for shoppers, combining high-end luxury with accessibility for all.”
Ontario Science Centre Exhibits Bring Education and Fun to Sherway Gardens
A major addition to CF Sherway Gardens is the Ontario Science Centre’s new satellite location, which occupies the main floor of the former Nordstrom space. The Science Centre relocated to the mall after its original facility in Don Mills was closed supposedly due to structural issues.
“We’re thrilled to have this space where we can continue to inspire curiosity and creativity,” said Donna Francis, a researcher-programmer at the Ontario Science Centre.
The location currently features two interactive exhibitions:
- Circus! Science Under the Big Top, open until March 16, 2025, offers an immersive look at the physics and mechanics behind circus acts. Visitors can try their hand at tightrope walking, launch plastic cannonballs, and explore circus costumes.
- Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks, running until January 19, 2025, showcases 20 iconic skyscrapers, including the CN Tower and Shanghai Tower, built entirely from LEGO bricks. Visitors can also construct their own creations in a hands-on play area.
“These exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages,” Francis said. “Whether it’s exploring the science of a circus or marveling at the architectural detail of LEGO skyscrapers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Tickets are priced at $15 per person, with free admission for children under two. The exhibits are open daily, making them a convenient attraction for families, particularly during the holiday break.
“This collaboration with the Ontario Science Centre is a win for everyone,” Vu said. “It’s a family-friendly attraction that draws more visitors to the mall, enhancing our role as a community hub.”
Holiday Festivities Take Centre Stage at Sherway Gardens
CF Sherway Gardens is pulling out all the stops for the holiday season, transforming the mall into a festive wonderland. The centrepiece of its seasonal offerings is the North American debut of National Geographic’s “Spectacle: Rare and Astonishing Photographs” exhibit. Located across from Eataly, the gallery features 61 large-scale images that capture extraordinary moments from around the globe.
“This exhibition offers visitors something unique and awe-inspiring,” Vu said. “It’s a perfect addition to our holiday programming.”
The mall’s popular Holiday Market returns from November 28 to December 23 in Centre Court, featuring 16 curated vendors. Shoppers can browse for one-of-a-kind gifts, seasonal treats, and artisanal products while enjoying vibrant décor and live entertainment.
“We want to create a magical experience for everyone who visits CF Sherway Gardens during the holidays,” Vu said. “The Holiday Market is a highlight, offering a variety of unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.”
CF should return communal benches to the Toronto Eaton Centre. It’s beyond silly that they were removed.