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Bring compact personal bags only: small backpacks, handbags or slim messenger bags under 40 x 30 x 20 cm (16 x 12 x 8 in) are permitted; rolling suitcases, large duffels and cargo backpacks will be refused at entry.
Typical venue policy sets maximum bag size at 40 x 30 x 20 cm for exhibit areas; oversized items must be stored at coatroom or left at accommodation. Prohibited items include weapons, aerosols, large tripods, folding bicycles and open alcohol containers.
Expect security screening with X-ray and manual inspection; allow 10–15 minutes extra during peak hours. Bag-check desks are usually located near main entrance; fees commonly CAD 5–10 or USD 4–8 per item, with card payments accepted at most locations.
Practical tips: arrive 30 minutes early for general admission or 45 minutes early for special events; photograph bag contents and keep receipts after drop-off. Confirm current restrictions via venue’s official website or by calling guest services, especially for tournament days, private functions and autograph sessions.
Medical devices, prescription medications and infant supplies are allowed after inspection; staff may offer temporary storage for fragile items. For group visits with more than 10 attendees, contact guest services ahead to arrange bulk storage or accessible entry.
Bag policy for Toronto ice-sports museum
Bring only one small personal bag no larger than 16 x 12 x 6 in (40 x 30 x 15 cm); larger suitcases and rolling trunks will be refused at entry and should be left with off-site storage or hotel services.
Before arrival
Measure bags before travel. If dimensions exceed limits, arrange hotel storage, app-based short-term lockers near transit hubs, or parcel shipping to final address. Allow an extra 10–15 minutes for security screening when carrying backpacks or parcels.
On-site handling and security
Coat check may accept coats and small bags; ask guest services on arrival. Security staff perform inspections; prohibited items (sharp objects, weapons, large unshielded batteries) will be retained or returned to owner outside facility. Accessibility bags and medical supplies are accommodated with staff assistance.
| Item type | Max dims | Admission status | If denied – recommended action | Typical off-site fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small personal bag (purse, small crossbody) | 16 x 12 x 6 in / 40 x 30 x 15 cm | Allowed | Carry as personal item | Free |
| Daypack / regular backpack | Up to 18 x 14 x 8 in / 45 x 35 x 20 cm | May be inspected; carry in front if requested | Use coat check or short-term locker | 3–8 |
| Large suitcase / rolling trunk | Over 18 x 14 x 8 in / 45 x 35 x 20 cm | Not admitted | Arrange hotel storage, station lockers, or same-day storage app | 6–15/day |
Confirm policy via official website or phone before arrival when traveling with bulky items or specialized equipment.
Permitted bag dimensions and types (backpacks, suitcases, totes)
Recommendation: limit to one compact bag per person with maximum external dimensions of 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm) for standard soft bags; small rolling carry-ons may be accepted if soft-sided and no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
Backpacks: choose soft, slimline models without external metal frames or oversized hydration reservoirs. Ideal size: fits under a standard seat or within 16 x 12 x 8 inches. Use internal organizers to keep electronics and loose items visible for quick screening. Empty pockets of bottled liquids and sharp objects prior to arrival.
Suitcases: small, soft-sided carry-ons that meet 22 x 14 x 9 inch limits are preferable; hard-shell wheeled cases larger than those dimensions are not permitted inside venue space and should be left at coat check or at offsite storage. If a roller bag is used, ensure wheels and handles collapse or lock to avoid obstruction.
Totes and purses: open-top or zippered totes up to 16 x 12 x 8 inches acceptable. Transparent totes sized 12 x 6 x 12 inches (30 x 15 x 30 cm) speed screening and reduce secondary checks. Avoid oversized shopper bags, duffels, or any carry container that protrudes or cannot sit flat.
Screening and storage tips: expect visual and manual inspection of all containers. Place electronics larger than a smartphone and any liquid containers over 100 ml near top for easy removal. Use simple locks that staff can open or remove; bulky locks or tamper-resistant seals may be cut at entry. Oversized bags should be routed to coat check or left at nearby storage facilities prior to arrival.
Prohibited items and staff handling procedures
Do not bring weapons, sharp tools with blades longer than 2.5 in (6 cm), pyrotechnics, flammable liquids, compressed gas cylinders, drones, glass bottles, large folding chairs, commercial-grade tripods, hoverboards, or power tools.
Security staff perform bag checks and handheld metal-detector screening at entry. If a banned item is found, staff present clear options: surrender item for secure short-term storage with claim ticket, escort guest to vehicle to leave item, or deny admission when storage or removal is not possible.
Unlicensed firearms and controlled substances are treated as illegal contraband: items are confiscated, law enforcement notified, and an incident report filed. Returned status for such items is not permitted.
Hazardous materials (aerosolized fuels, corrosives, large lithium batteries above manufacturer limits) are isolated and removed by trained personnel and disposed of under local hazardous-waste regulations. Guests involved may receive formal notification and, when necessary, must provide identification for incident records.
Prescription medications, medical devices, and mobility aids are permitted with supporting documentation; sharps must be in a protective case and declared at screening. If uncertainty arises, staff will request brief verification from a medical officer or supervisor before refusing relief items.
Collapsible umbrellas are allowed; large golf-style umbrellas may be held at coat check to avoid dripping on floors. For guidance on constructing a stable umbrella stand for home or office, see best cement for casting umbrella stand.
Surrendered items are retrievable only with photo ID and matching claim ticket during posted retrieval hours; storage fees may apply (typical range $5–15). Perishable or hazardous items will not be returned and will be destroyed per venue policy after applicable retention period. For lost-property inquiries, contact venue lost-property via official website.
What to Expect During Bag Screening and Peak-Time Waits
Arrive 45–60 minutes before scheduled entry on high-traffic days and use timed-entry tickets when available to reduce queue time.
Security procedure: staff direct visitors to X-ray conveyor for item scan; conveyor processes one container every 20–30 seconds. Walk-through metal detector or hand-held wand sweep follows; average clearance 10–20 seconds if no alarm. Manual inspection for flagged items adds 2–5 minutes per check; thorough inspections for complex cases may take up to 10 minutes.
Peak periods include weekends, event nights, special ceremonies, school breaks, and new-exhibit openings. Expected waits: off-peak 2–8 minutes, moderate 10–25 minutes, heavy 30–90 minutes, major-event 60–120+ minutes. Factor in an extra 15–30 minutes when cloakroom or coat-check service is used.
Speed up screening: consolidate small electronics and loose items into one bin, remove bulky outerwear and large belts before arrival, use a small clear tote or slim crossbody pouch for faster X-ray throughput, keep tickets and identification accessible. Choose early-morning or late-afternoon entry slots to avoid peak lines.
Flagged-item resolution usually adds 3–8 minutes to individual processing time; complex cases may add 10–20 minutes and create localized slowdowns. During heavy demand, additional lanes often open and digital wait-time notices appear near entrances; follow staff direction for fastest lane assignment.
On-site storage, cloakroom services, fees and locker locations
Use staffed cloakroom at south entrance (Level 1) for oversized items; retain passports, phones and wallets on person.
Fees and payment
Cloakroom hours: 10:00–18:00 daily; closes 30 minutes before site closing. Standard fee: $5 per oversized item; seasonal/event surcharge $3. Coat check for outerwear: complimentary. Payment methods: chip-and-pin cards accepted at desk; cash accepted (exact change preferred). Lost claim ticket replacement: $25. Liability cap for stored items: $200 per item; no coverage for cash, jewellery or irreplaceable documents. Items reclaimed within 24 hours qualify for full deposit refund; items left beyond 72 hours may be treated as abandoned according to site policy.
Locker locations and specifications
Coin-operated lockers at three points: main entrance corridor (row A), mezzanine near exhibits (row B), lower concourse beside elevator bank (row C). Small internal size: 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 in) – fits small daypack or tablet. Medium: 45 × 45 × 45 cm (18 × 18 × 18 in). Large: 75 × 45 × 50 cm (30 × 18 × 20 in). Fees: small $2 (coin refundable), medium $4, large $6. Card-enabled kiosks at entrance allow extended rentals up to 24 hours. Accessible lockers with wider doors and lower controls located adjacent to elevator bank; staff assistance available on request.
For long-stay storage or oversized sports equipment, use external left-luggage at Union Station luggage office (2-minute walk) or hotel bell desk; keep receipts and allow 48–72 hours for retrieval logistics during major events.
Bringing medical devices, strollers or oversized sports equipment
Notify venue medical staff at least 48 hours ahead for powered medical devices and bulky sporting gear; arrive 30–45 minutes early on event day to allow extra screening and handling.
Powered medical devices
- Documentation: carry physician letter on letterhead stating device model, medical necessity, expected runtime, contact phone, and emergency plan.
- Battery rules: label must show watt‑hours (Wh). Typical acceptance: ≤100 Wh usually OK; 100–160 Wh requires prior approval; >160 Wh generally declined. Tape terminals and place spare batteries in individual plastic bags.
- Portable oxygen: powered concentrators usually accepted with paperwork; compressed oxygen cylinders commonly prohibited–confirm with medical staff before arrival.
- CPAP and ventilators: bring power cord, battery specifications, and any adapter for venue outlets; pack quick‑release mask connectors separately for fast removal during screening.
- Mobility devices: note battery chemistry (lithium vs lead‑acid). Cover terminals, bring charger, record serial number, and identify accessible recharge points with staff on arrival.
Strollers and oversized sports equipment
- Stroller sizing: recommend compact folding models with folded footprint ≤35″ x 24″ x 12″ (88 x 61 x 30 cm). Bulky or tandem strollers require prior approval from guest services.
- Child seats and attachments: remove infant carrier if possible and carry separately; fold harnesses to prevent aisle obstruction.
- Long or rigid sports gear: skis, snowboards, full‑length sticks and long poles typically need hard case and prearranged handling; contact guest services 72 hours ahead for options like off‑site check or special gate access.
- Packing tips: use padded cases for lengthy items, label owner info and phone on each case, lockable zippers recommended for unattended storage options.
- Entry flow: expect additional screening for bulky items; staff may request removal from stroller or opening of cases for inspection.
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