Announcing… A LITTLE Northern Magic
By Lorie Steiner
Winter has arrived early at Little Canada and it’s creating quite a stir! It’s true, the magical miniature destination at Toronto’s Sankofa Square has welcomed ‘Little North’ – and everyone is invited to come and discover this very cool showpiece.
If you’ve ever wanted to explore Canada’s vast northern territories without leaving downtown Toronto, this is your chance. Little Canada is bringing the North closer than ever with its newest mini masterpiece: Little North. This tiny yet breathtaking replica of Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon lets visitors step into the beauty, culture, and stories of Canada’s Arctic.
A Journey of Discovery
Feel the spirit of the North, as you’re transported into this wonderfully intricate world. More than a collection of miniature models, Little North is a fully immersive experience. Wander around glowing igloos, watch polar bears roam and follow active railroads winding through tiny northern towns. Feel the chill of the Arctic in the temperature-controlled room, always a crisp 15°C, and experience the polar night twilight with a unique day-night cycle against the backdrop of a colourful Northern Lights projection. You’ll even see a sunrise and sunset.
From bustling Iqaluit and the Northwest Passage to the reindeer herds of the Mackenzie Delta and the eroding coastline of Tuktoyaktuk, each scene tells a story; some whimsical, some rooted in real northern life.
The ambitious project was a labour of love by a dedicated team of more than 30 Little Canada artists, engineers and storytellers who spent over a year (60,000 hours) creating Little North. Each tiny building, railroad and reindeer is crafted with meticulous detail, blending stunning artistry with educational storytelling.
Take Time to Reflect
Don’t expect a quick walkthrough – this exquisite northern experience will draw you in and captivate your mind. Little North was developed with extensive Indigenous involvement, guided by cultural consultants Jacquelyn and Hunter Cardinal from Naheyawin to ensure authentic and respectful representation. The exhibit also encourages reflection on pressing issues, like climate change, through storytelling and environmental details, making it both enchanting and thought-provoking.
Little Canada continues to grow…
Little Canada is an award-winning attraction in the heart of Toronto that visually tells Canada’s unique and fascinating stories and showcases the country’s cities & landscapes through the art of miniature. Little North is the eighth chapter in Little Canada’s evolving miniature story of the nation, joining beloved destinations such as Little Niagara Falls, Little Toronto, Little Golden Horseshoe, Little Ottawa, Petit Québec, Little East Coast and Little West Coast.
While the word miniature is often used in describing the experience, Little Canada is definitely not small. It spans 45,000 sq. ft – that’s two hockey rinks! It’s an eye-popping place where the CN Tower stands 3.6 metres tall, the Bay of Fundy simulates the highest tides in the world with its 400L basin, and over 40,000 little figures call it home.
Little Canada is on a mission to bring the country’s incredible diversity, beauty and stories closer to visitors of all ages from around the world, through a lens of wonder and imagination. This latest addition, Little North, brings to life the culture, landscapes and adventures of beauty and resilience in Canada’s northern realm. From the iconic scenes of the high north to the dramatic Northwest Passage, be prepared to enjoy a playful and profound journey across the Canadian Arctic.
Whether you’re a lifelong Torontonian, a visitor to the city, or just someone who loves exploring tiny worlds, Little North is a must-go adventure destination. Plan your great little Canadian journey today at little-canada.ca.
