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
If you are looking for a castle experience in North American this is a great option. Built in the early 1900s, but it has the feel of a medieval castle. From the beautiful exterior architecture and towers to the chandeliers, marble and dark wood walls and floors inside. This was an excellent place to explore. Be sure not to miss the secret passages. The movie about the owner is projected on the wall of the indoor swimming pool, the history of the castle was a great experience. Light food and refreshments are available on the patio or in the lower level.
Todd Underwood - 3 weeks ago
Back in 2018, my best friend from Australia, Michelle, and I were touring Toronto, and one of the places we decided to check out was Casa Loma, and damn, it was wicked. Stepping into this large and gorgeous mansion felt like stepping into a piece of history with so much beauty and elegance to see. One thing I liked seeing were many signatures of those who've visited the mansion and left their marks on a piece of history. It was well-preserved, and since we visited near Halloween, we saw some horror displays. Casa Loma is a stunning and enjoyable experience for any occasion, and I would very much like to return someday.
Mike - a month ago
I booked this place on city pass. And honestly I was gonna skip it. I'm glad I didn't. It was the best part of city pass. Each part of this giant museum was like a hidden door way.
Go on Sunday to see a live band playing in the garage. This place is phenomenal and I swear I saw people doing a yoga class in the garden, I'm not sure how but it was cool. Highly recommend this place.
Joseph Martinez - 3 weeks ago
Absolutely a one of a kind gigantic mansion, complete with a very long tunnel connecting to the stable (not to miss!). I enjoyed the additional content like costumes from downtown abbey, and I praise management for innovative use of the space as escape games. 2nd visit and I'm still finding new things. A must-do in Toronto.
Philippe - 4 weeks ago
I will be honest with you. I don't think this will be a fun place for kids. HOWEVER, if you're a history and museum person boy oh boy his will tickle your fancy!
An amazingly preserved castle, all exhibitions carefully placed and such a pleasure to discover.
Make sure you don't miss the UNDERGROUND TUNNEL that connects the main building to the stables because that'll be a whole new experience in itself. AND! There's a bonus wax sculpture expo that you'll be particularly interested in catching 😉
Liz L - a month 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.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Casa Loma:
Photo Gallery
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Guest Suite Inside Casa Loma cc licensed photo by Steven V. Rose -
Lady Pellatt's Suite at Casa Loma cc licensed photo by Steven V. Rose -
Casa Loma Fountain and Grounds -
Underground Passage containing the Toronto's Dark Side exhibit -
Vintage 1910 Maxwell Model Q2 at the Casa Loma Automotive Exhibit -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lucas T Photo - cc license via Flickr
