Casa Loma
Casa Loma is the only full sized castle in North America and Toronto's premier historic attraction
Casa Loma which means Hill House in Spanish, is an architectural marvel which was constructed by over 300 workers between 1911 and 1914.
Overlooking what is now Downtown Toronto, this European style castle was originally built for financier Sir Henry Mill Pellat and his wife. They only lived there for 10 years before financial troubles forced them to leave. After this Casa Loma operated briefly as a luxury hotel. By late in the 1920s it had become a popular night spot, however, in 1933 Casa Loma was taken over by the City of Toronto to pay for unpaid taxes due. At this time it was very run down and the City was considering demolition, however, it was saved and has since been undergoing years of restoration.
This popular landmark and museum, now operated by Liberty Entertainment Group, is one of Toronto's top attractions with over 400,000 visitors each year. Casa Loma is situated on 5 acres of land with lovely gardens meticulously maintained by full-time master gardeners, a wooded hillside carpeted with decorative grasses, beautiful wildflowers, ornate sculptures and fountains.
An 800 foot tunnel runs underground connecting the main castle with the carriage house and stables. While walking through the tunnel you will see the Toronto's Dark Side exhibit with large photographs on the walls that archive earlier times including Prohibition, The Great Depression, The Plague, The Great Toronto Fire and the city's first plane crash. Inside the carriage house you will find the Automotive Exhibit which features antique cars from the early 1900s.
If you get hungry during your visit, Casa Loma also has the newly opened Liberty Café and there is also a gift shop on site.
When visiting Casa Loma you should also consider visiting the outstanding Spadina House Museum located right next door. Operated by the city of Toronto, it too is well worth your time.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes; Castle admission includes multimedia audio guide and viewing of the Sir Henry Pellatt documentaryCasa Loma Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Phone: (416) 923-1171
Official Website: Casa Loma
Casa Loma Reviews
Rated
out of 5 Absolutely gorgeous building, and an excellent museum! I really enjoyed the audio tour, I kept stopping my friends to share little tidbits about the history of the castle. I highly recommend bringing headphones to listen as you walk through.
I would love to come back in the winter or spring, as some of the castle is currently being redecorated for the Halloween event and was a little too spooky for me. I'd also recommend coming on a weekday as several weddings were going on while we were there.
Fran O'Donnell - a month ago
Nice castle to visit one time with family. Well maintained property and the audio and amp is good for navigating around the castle . The antique collection is good here. They are also giving a horror show in Halloween good effort in. They have good restaurants downside. Loved the food there. Overall really well maintained and staff is good here
abhilash kr - a month ago
This was definitely a magical night! First time visiting Toronto and this restaurant was such a sight. We had dinner outside and the view was remarkable. The food was so delicious! I had the pink drink was amazing as well. I highly recommend this place and book your reservation. You will not be disappointed.
You can’t even plan your wedding here.
LivEissa Guzmán - a week ago
Directions
TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Yonge-University-Spadina | Dupont Station | 8-10 MInutes |
How to get to Casa Loma by TTC Subway
No bus needed. From Dupont Station walk 2 blocks north on Spadina Road to Davenport Road then follow the Baldwin stairs (110 steps) up the hill directly ahead of you.
If you prefer not to use the stairs you can proceed west on Davenport Road; right on Wallace Road and right again on Austin Terrace.
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