"What’s this place all about? This isn’t your typical look-don’t-touch museum. This celebration of Canada’s favorite sport is immersive, interactive, and thoroughly for the fans. Spread out over 65,000 square feet, the Hall of Fame has a few traditional galleries showcasing the history of the game, artifacts, and trophies from all over the world, but most spaces bring the sport to life by putting you in the middle of the action. Step into a replica of an NHL dressing room, call a play-by-play, host your own Sports Center spot, play simulations, view a 3D film, and take a stab at shooting against animated versions of top players in a model rink. At the end, make sure to pick up the Stanley Cup for a photo op. What did you make of the crowd? In addition to a fair number of locals, the Hall of Fame draws visitors from all over the world, as well as student groups (who often participate in the educational programs). The center offers extended hours during the peak seasons (summer, December holidays, and Spring Break), so try to come early in the day if visiting during those times. Upon entry you’ll receive a handstamp allowing you unlimited re-entry for the day, so many guests tend to spend the day around the area, pairing a visit to the Hall of Fame with lunch, a sporting event, or a visit to another nearby attraction. Any guided tours worth trying? Tours are self-guided. Use the map located in the souvenir program, or download the Hockey Hall of Fame Personalized Tour app, which lets you choose from over 50 tours that can be customized based on themes like countries, NHL teams, and women’s hockey, or that can lead you on scavenger hunts or games. The app also lets you capture your favorite moments of the visit and share them on social media. Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it? Pick up a wide array of themed merch in the extensive Spirit of Hockey shop, from authentic NHL and Hall of Fame apparel to souvenirs, novelty items, and all manner of presents for the hockey fans in your life. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere? Next to the shop is a "special edition" Tim Hortons café, where you can enjoy the brand's standard fare (coffees, doughnuts, soups and sandwiches) while surrounded by paraphernalia from Canada's seven NHL teams. There's also the neighboring Bottom Line sports bar, owned by hockey player Wayne Cowley, which serves classic pub grub. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? How much time you spend here depends on your level of interest, so it's no problem to do it at a quicker pace. And you can always come back later in the day if you feel like continuing a game or watching a video of another historic game." - Sandra Ramani
