Explore Casa Loma: Toronto's Majestic Castle

Step into a real-life fairy tale at Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival castle offering panoramic city views and a journey through history.

Perched atop a hill in midtown Toronto, Casa Loma stands as a testament to early 20th-century grandeur. This architectural marvel invites visitors to explore its opulent rooms, secret passages and beautifully maintained gardens, making it a must-see attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

ON THIS PAGE:

• Why visit Casa Loma?
• Top things to do at Casa Loma
• Plan your visit
• Fun facts & history
• What’s nearby

Why visit Casa Loma?

Casa Loma offers a unique glimpse into Toronto's past, combining rich history with stunning architecture. As one of the city's most visited landmarks, and North America's only castle, it provides an immersive experience through its lavish interiors, secret tunnels and expansive gardens. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Casa Loma promises an unforgettable journey through time.

Top things to do at Casa Loma

Explore the Castle's Interiors

Wander through the castle's grand halls, furnished suites and hidden passageways. Each room tells a story of early 20th-century elegance and the vision of its original owner.

Discover the Stables and Carriage House

Connected by an 800-foot tunnel, the stables and carriage house showcase vintage vehicles and offer insights into the estate's operational history.

Stroll Through the Gardens

During the warmer months, the castle's five acres of gardens bloom with vibrant flora, providing a serene backdrop and panoramic views of Toronto's skyline.

Attend Seasonal Events

From summer concerts in the Glass Pavilion to the festive "Christmas at the Castle" and the spooky "Legends of Horror" in October, Casa Loma hosts events for all ages and interests.

Plan your visit

• Location & Directions: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON. Easily accessible via TTC public transit.
• Hours of Operation: Open daily; hours may vary by season.
• Tickets & Admission: Admission fees apply; purchase tickets online for the best prices.
• Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
• Accessibility: While the castle has multiple levels, accessibility features are in place to assist visitors.
• Family-Friendliness: Casa Loma offers family-friendly activities and events throughout the year.

Fun facts about Casa Loma

Built between 1911 and 1914, Casa Loma was the dream home of financier Sir Henry Pellatt. The name "Casa Loma" translates to "House on the Hill" in Spanish, aptly describing its elevated position in Toronto. The castle has been a popular filming location, featured in numerous movies and TV shows due to its distinctive architecture.

• The castle has a whopping 98 rooms, including a bathroom equipped with a full-body shower—revolutionary when it was built
• Inspired by European castles, the owner Henry Pellatt employed actual stonemasons from Scotland and 400 tradesmen to build Casa Loma. The entire building took three years to finish
• After the Pellatts moved out, Casa Loma became a hotel and nightclub that became popular among wealthy Americans looking to consume alcohol legally during the Prohibition Era
• During the second world war, Casa Loma concealed a sonar research and construction facility in its stables
• Casa Loma has suites built to accommodate visiting royals from England
• A royally cheeky surprise awaits visitors in the Great Hall: on one wall hangs the portrait of young Queen Elizabeth II and on the opposite side of the hall over the fireplace hangs a portrait of Prince, the king of Purple Rain himself
• The 800-ft underground tunnel is said to house a naughty ghost, who is rumoured to make strange noises and even pull at people’s hair!
• Casa Loma’s imposing appearance has attracted many a film and television production crew so that visitors may have seen it many times on the silver screen. Notable examples include X-Men, RoboCop, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, La Femme Nikita and MasterChef Canada
• Casa Loma held a Hogwarts-themed party for the premiere Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

What’s nearby

Located in midtown Toronto, Casa Loma is surrounded by a variety of attractions:

• Spadina Museum: Explore another historic home offering insights into Toronto's past.
• Bloor Street: A bustling avenue filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): One of Canada's premier museums, showcasing art, culture, and nature from around the world.

With its central location, Casa Loma serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the diverse offerings of Toronto.