Doors Open Markham
Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
Location: Various locations across Markham. View the must-see attractions below.
What is Doors Open Markham?
Doors Open Markham returns with your chance to explore the buildings that tell our city’s stories, from heritage sites and art galleries to business hubs and community centres. Doors Open Markham is a free day-long community-wide celebration with unique access to 10+ exciting venues. Each site will provide unique experiences and engaging activities for the whole family.
Learn about Markham, its rich history, and how it has developed into a blossoming diverse community. Visit sites that interest you, and participate in tours, exhibits, and presentations that demonstrate our civic motto: Leading while Remembering.
Review the locations below to plan your adventure!
Doors Open Markham offers an insider's look into many historic and contemporary buildings. Since 2013, Doors Open Markham has brought thousands of people together from inside and outside Markham to our community's signature heritage city-wide event!
Doors Open Markham features locations that are often not open to the public and offers you the opportunity to explore Markham's unique and sometimes hidden architectural treasures.
Organized under the direction of a Council-appointed committee made up of City staff, municipal councilors, and community volunteers, this event is one of a series of events held across the province under the organizational umbrella of the Ontario Heritage Trust - Doors Open Ontario.
Free admission.
Must-See Attractions
Explore the list of Doors Open locations:
Heintzman House
- 135 Bay Thorne Drive, Thornhill. [map]
- Established: 1817
- Website
Heintzman House is one of the oldest buildings in Markham. Originally built as an adobe brick cottage dating from the early 19th century, the house was enlarged by Colonel George Crookshank in 1817. Charles T. Heintzman, grandson of the founder of Toronto’s Heintzman Piano Company, purchased the property in the 1930s and transformed the house into its present, elegant form.
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Stiver Mill
- 216 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1916
- Website
Unionville's restored Stiver Mill is a local landmark now serving as a community centre and farmers market. Originally built as a grain elevator, the western portion of the structure is one of the last of its kind in the region. A feed mill was added to the East end in the 1930's.
Please Note: The Stiver Mill will open at 11 AM
Back To Top
Unionville Train Station
- 7 Station Lane, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1916
- Website
Plan to visit one of Canada’s oldest remaining railway stations and one of the few 19th century stations still in its original trackside location. Constructed in 1870 for the Toronto & Nipissing Railway, this unique building was scaled to suite the modest-size community of Unionville. Explore the former passenger waiting room and baggage/freight shed which are separated by the previous office for the Station Agent. The station eventually became part of Canadian National Railways, but by the late 1970s, was showing its age and the owner considered removal after it was damaged by fire. Local residents opposed the demolition and successfully campaigned to save the station. The municipality restored the building as a community centre in 1989 and later purchased the land containing both the Unionville Train Station and the Stiver Mill.
Back To Top
Thornhill Village Library
This mid-19th century house in the classic revival style was converted to a public library in the 1970s under the direction of restoration architect Napier Simpson Jr., whose office was next door. It is a cherished local amenity that fits comfortably into the exceptional historic streetscape of Colborne Street, the highlight of old Thornhill. Recently, the library was featured in Deborah Kerbel’s ghost story, Lure, published by Dundurn Press in 2010. The ghost of Ellen Ramsden, the original owner, is said to make an appearance from time to time.
Activities: Guided tours and spooky stories.
Back To Top
Heritage Estates
One of Markham’s most innovative heritage conservation initiatives and Canada’s first heritage subdivision. This is a unique 44 lot ‘community of last resort’ for Markham’s threatened heritage dwellings which cannot under any circumstances be retained on their original site. Buildings are relocated and restored by private individuals with staff guidance, on lots obtained from the City at reduced market rates. Marvel at the “before and after” photographs of each building. The subdivision is a showpiece for the community, something of which both the City and residents are proud. Outdoor walking tours will be held at 10:15, 11:15, 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00. Prepare to be amazed!
Activities: Guided walking tour.
Note: There will be no access to any of the dwellings.
Back To Top
Varley Art Gallery
- 216 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1997
- Website
Situated at the top of Unionville’s historic village core, the Frederick Horsman Art Gallery of Markham is an excellent example of post-modern architecture that contrasts with the neighbouring heritage buildings. The gallery, named after Group of Seven artist Fred Varley who lived in Unionville in his later years, is home to a fine collection of the artist’s oils, watercolours and drawings, as well as the art of many other Canadian artists. The main gallery features changing exhibits to enhance the visitor experience.
Activities: Tours of the Gallery's current exhibitions and annual Visit the Vault tour.
Back To Top
McKay Art Gallery
- 197 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: c.1850
- Website
This distinctive example of Ontario vernacular architecture in board and batten features dramatic gothic revival and classic revival detailing. It was originally the home of Salem Eckardt, the local auctioneer in the Village of Unionville. Group of Seven artist Frederick Varley lived here in his later years as a guest of Kathy McKay, and had a studio in the basement. The space now showcases the work of local artists and provides a studio for art instruction in an environment that overlooks a landscaped garden and the Bruce Creek valley.
Please Note: The McKay art gallery will open at 11 AM
Back To Top
Markham Fire Station 97
- 209 Main Street North, Markham [map]
- Year built: 1985
- Website
The design of this building was inspired by late 19th century fire halls, and features a 60-foot tall replica of a hose drying tower, common to most fire halls back in the day. The fire hall was designed to fit into the context of historic Markham Village. Young and old are fascinated by fire trucks and fire-fighting technology. Fire prevention and firefighting are an important part of the City of Markham’s municipal administration.
Activities: Fire station tours and visit the Fire Safety house to learn more about fire prevention.
Back To Top
Markham Village Train Station
The restoration of this original Toronto & Nipissing Railway station was the first major project of the Markham Village Conservancy. The restoration of the building was completed in 2000. When the railway opened in 1871, the station and the area became a busy hub of commercial and industrial activity. The station continues to serve GO Transit commuters and functions as a local community centre for meetings and classes. The exterior paint colour scheme is reproduced from c.1910 when the rail line was part of the Grand Trunk Railway system.
Back To Top
Markham Museum
Located in the historical hamlet of Mount Joy, Markham Museum celebrated it’s 50th anniversary in 2021. Today the Museum is situated on a 25 acres property and operates from a mixture of historical and purpose built structures.
For Doors Open 2024 visitors may tour the John Lunau Centre, named for our founding curator, and enjoy three long term exhibitions:
- A Picture of Markham: the Art of Pat Wheeler;
- Markham Moves, an exhibition exploring local transportation history and Newton’s Laws of motion; and
- Markham Community Makers, our newest offering featuring 3-D maker culture and design models of some local structures of note.
The John Lunau Centre (2011), a LEED Gold certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, is also home to the Museum’s storage for small artifacts and community archives collections. As part of Doors Open 2024 we are offering pre-registered vault tours with members of the curatorial team. This is a rare opportunity to see how we care for items donated by the community.
Back To Top
Get Involved
Volunteers are Key!
Volunteers are key to making Doors Open Markham great!
Interested candidates who enjoy working with the public are needed for greeting and welcoming visitors, handing out event material, tracking the number of visitors arriving on site, managing lineups, and encouraging visitors to complete visitor surveys.
Application deadline: May 20, 2024
Mandatory Volunteer Training: June 5, 2024, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM.
Requirements to volunteer:
- 14 years or older
- Interview
- Police Vulnerable Sector Check
- General Orientation Workshop
- Learn more about volunteer requirements and how to get started.
Apply Now
Visit Markham.ca/Volunteering and explore the Volunteering Opportunities sections to fill out the volunteer application form and learn more about volunteering opportunities.
Getting Around
Parking and Public Transit
Parking
Each event site is unique and we encourage you to plan your trip accordingly by using our map available here.
Public Transit
Doors Open Markham sites are accessible by transit:
YRT/VIVA Trip Planner
GO Transit Trip Planner
Cycling
Bike racks will be available at many sites including City of Markham owned locations.
Doors Open Markham
Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
Location: Various locations across Markham. View the must-see attractions below.
What is Doors Open Markham?
Doors Open Markham returns with your chance to explore the buildings that tell our city’s stories, from heritage sites and art galleries to business hubs and community centres. Doors Open Markham is a free day-long community-wide celebration with unique access to 10+ exciting venues. Each site will provide unique experiences and engaging activities for the whole family.
Learn about Markham, its rich history, and how it has developed into a blossoming diverse community. Visit sites that interest you, and participate in tours, exhibits, and presentations that demonstrate our civic motto: Leading while Remembering.
Review the locations below to plan your adventure!
Doors Open Markham offers an insider's look into many historic and contemporary buildings. Since 2013, Doors Open Markham has brought thousands of people together from inside and outside Markham to our community's signature heritage city-wide event!
Doors Open Markham features locations that are often not open to the public and offers you the opportunity to explore Markham's unique and sometimes hidden architectural treasures.
Organized under the direction of a Council-appointed committee made up of City staff, municipal councilors, and community volunteers, this event is one of a series of events held across the province under the organizational umbrella of the Ontario Heritage Trust - Doors Open Ontario.
Free admission.
Must-See Attractions
Explore the list of Doors Open locations:
Heintzman House
- 135 Bay Thorne Drive, Thornhill. [map]
- Established: 1817
- Website
Heintzman House is one of the oldest buildings in Markham. Originally built as an adobe brick cottage dating from the early 19th century, the house was enlarged by Colonel George Crookshank in 1817. Charles T. Heintzman, grandson of the founder of Toronto’s Heintzman Piano Company, purchased the property in the 1930s and transformed the house into its present, elegant form.
Back To Top
Stiver Mill
- 216 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1916
- Website
Unionville's restored Stiver Mill is a local landmark now serving as a community centre and farmers market. Originally built as a grain elevator, the western portion of the structure is one of the last of its kind in the region. A feed mill was added to the East end in the 1930's.
Please Note: The Stiver Mill will open at 11 AM
Back To Top
Unionville Train Station
- 7 Station Lane, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1916
- Website
Plan to visit one of Canada’s oldest remaining railway stations and one of the few 19th century stations still in its original trackside location. Constructed in 1870 for the Toronto & Nipissing Railway, this unique building was scaled to suite the modest-size community of Unionville. Explore the former passenger waiting room and baggage/freight shed which are separated by the previous office for the Station Agent. The station eventually became part of Canadian National Railways, but by the late 1970s, was showing its age and the owner considered removal after it was damaged by fire. Local residents opposed the demolition and successfully campaigned to save the station. The municipality restored the building as a community centre in 1989 and later purchased the land containing both the Unionville Train Station and the Stiver Mill.
Back To Top
Thornhill Village Library
This mid-19th century house in the classic revival style was converted to a public library in the 1970s under the direction of restoration architect Napier Simpson Jr., whose office was next door. It is a cherished local amenity that fits comfortably into the exceptional historic streetscape of Colborne Street, the highlight of old Thornhill. Recently, the library was featured in Deborah Kerbel’s ghost story, Lure, published by Dundurn Press in 2010. The ghost of Ellen Ramsden, the original owner, is said to make an appearance from time to time.
Activities: Guided tours and spooky stories.
Back To Top
Heritage Estates
One of Markham’s most innovative heritage conservation initiatives and Canada’s first heritage subdivision. This is a unique 44 lot ‘community of last resort’ for Markham’s threatened heritage dwellings which cannot under any circumstances be retained on their original site. Buildings are relocated and restored by private individuals with staff guidance, on lots obtained from the City at reduced market rates. Marvel at the “before and after” photographs of each building. The subdivision is a showpiece for the community, something of which both the City and residents are proud. Outdoor walking tours will be held at 10:15, 11:15, 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00. Prepare to be amazed!
Activities: Guided walking tour.
Note: There will be no access to any of the dwellings.
Back To Top
Varley Art Gallery
- 216 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: 1997
- Website
Situated at the top of Unionville’s historic village core, the Frederick Horsman Art Gallery of Markham is an excellent example of post-modern architecture that contrasts with the neighbouring heritage buildings. The gallery, named after Group of Seven artist Fred Varley who lived in Unionville in his later years, is home to a fine collection of the artist’s oils, watercolours and drawings, as well as the art of many other Canadian artists. The main gallery features changing exhibits to enhance the visitor experience.
Activities: Tours of the Gallery's current exhibitions and annual Visit the Vault tour.
Back To Top
McKay Art Gallery
- 197 Main Street, Unionville [map]
- Year Built: c.1850
- Website
This distinctive example of Ontario vernacular architecture in board and batten features dramatic gothic revival and classic revival detailing. It was originally the home of Salem Eckardt, the local auctioneer in the Village of Unionville. Group of Seven artist Frederick Varley lived here in his later years as a guest of Kathy McKay, and had a studio in the basement. The space now showcases the work of local artists and provides a studio for art instruction in an environment that overlooks a landscaped garden and the Bruce Creek valley.
Please Note: The McKay art gallery will open at 11 AM
Back To Top
Markham Fire Station 97
- 209 Main Street North, Markham [map]
- Year built: 1985
- Website
The design of this building was inspired by late 19th century fire halls, and features a 60-foot tall replica of a hose drying tower, common to most fire halls back in the day. The fire hall was designed to fit into the context of historic Markham Village. Young and old are fascinated by fire trucks and fire-fighting technology. Fire prevention and firefighting are an important part of the City of Markham’s municipal administration.
Activities: Fire station tours and visit the Fire Safety house to learn more about fire prevention.
Back To Top
Markham Village Train Station
The restoration of this original Toronto & Nipissing Railway station was the first major project of the Markham Village Conservancy. The restoration of the building was completed in 2000. When the railway opened in 1871, the station and the area became a busy hub of commercial and industrial activity. The station continues to serve GO Transit commuters and functions as a local community centre for meetings and classes. The exterior paint colour scheme is reproduced from c.1910 when the rail line was part of the Grand Trunk Railway system.
Back To Top
Markham Museum
Located in the historical hamlet of Mount Joy, Markham Museum celebrated it’s 50th anniversary in 2021. Today the Museum is situated on a 25 acres property and operates from a mixture of historical and purpose built structures.
For Doors Open 2024 visitors may tour the John Lunau Centre, named for our founding curator, and enjoy three long term exhibitions:
- A Picture of Markham: the Art of Pat Wheeler;
- Markham Moves, an exhibition exploring local transportation history and Newton’s Laws of motion; and
- Markham Community Makers, our newest offering featuring 3-D maker culture and design models of some local structures of note.
The John Lunau Centre (2011), a LEED Gold certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, is also home to the Museum’s storage for small artifacts and community archives collections. As part of Doors Open 2024 we are offering pre-registered vault tours with members of the curatorial team. This is a rare opportunity to see how we care for items donated by the community.
Back To Top
Get Involved
Volunteers are Key!
Volunteers are key to making Doors Open Markham great!
Interested candidates who enjoy working with the public are needed for greeting and welcoming visitors, handing out event material, tracking the number of visitors arriving on site, managing lineups, and encouraging visitors to complete visitor surveys.
Application deadline: May 20, 2024
Mandatory Volunteer Training: June 5, 2024, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM.
Requirements to volunteer:
- 14 years or older
- Interview
- Police Vulnerable Sector Check
- General Orientation Workshop
- Learn more about volunteer requirements and how to get started.
Apply Now
Visit Markham.ca/Volunteering and explore the Volunteering Opportunities sections to fill out the volunteer application form and learn more about volunteering opportunities.
Getting Around
Parking and Public Transit
Parking
Each event site is unique and we encourage you to plan your trip accordingly by using our map available here.
Public Transit
Doors Open Markham sites are accessible by transit:
YRT/VIVA Trip Planner
GO Transit Trip Planner
Cycling
Bike racks will be available at many sites including City of Markham owned locations.
