I've been coming to the McMichael for years and am shocked I have yet to offer up my thoughts on the place. To define the showcase for Canadian Art as a gallery or museum just doesn't seem to do the place justice, as the setting mirrors the artists intent of capturing Canadian vistas/landscapes in all its beauty. Nestled on a hill above the Humber River and offering gorgeous views at every turn, the buildings are themselves works of art.
I grew up having the Group of Seven and Emily Carr instilled as masters of Canadian Art...and their paintings are unbelievable to behold...they magically capture the beauty of our country in ways that will inspire and move every visitor.
The grounds are immaculately maintained and on my last visit a children's art camp was being conducted outside in a small clearing made in the woods. WOW...how inspiring is that ?
One of the other joys of the site is that it accesses the Humber Trail...thus allowing visitors who are inclined to witness nature up close, an opportunity to walk trails through either woods or along the Humber River. The trails are easy to walk, however the slope back up the gallery can get steep and is gravel....so it may present an issue for people with mobility issues.
Go and enjoy the artwork, one of the many workshops happening or explore the grounds...you won't be disappointed. They even conduct outdoor weddings on one of the hills overlooking the valley below (which in the fall paints its own art with strokes of red, orange, yellow, brown and greens).
Can't say enough about this place.