Casa Loma, or Hill House, is a historic house museum and Gothic Revival-style mansion and garden in Toronto. The house is an architectural icon of the city and a popular choice for special-occasion events and film, television, and photo shoots. Originally built as a residence for financier Sir Henry Pellatt, Casa Loma was designed by architect E. J. Lennox, who designed over 70 of Toronto’s other buildings.
Sir Henry’s importing of European artisans to design the majority of his Victorian castle and its surroundings led to the estate's increased appeal, showcasing intricate wood carvings in the Oak Room, rare orchids and chrysanthemums in the Conservatory, the circle-curving of doors and windows in the Round Room, and so forth. Casa Loma’s prime location in the middle of the city also heightens its tourist and hospitality appeal, providing an ornate, upscale environment in which to truly see the majesty and experience the heart of Toronto.
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What are the highlights of Casa Loma in Toronto?
The most notable area on the ground floor in Casa Loma is the Great Hall, which is the rallying and meeting point of the residence. On the second floor, you'll find the Girl Guides Exhibit displaying artefacts related to the scouting organisation of which Lady Pellatt was the first chief commissioner.
Casa Loma's third floor holds the Regimental Museum, which is also known as the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada. Sir Henry’s heavy involvement in Canada’s infantry units and his eventual achievement of the rank of Major General led to the establishment of this museum. The basement includes the Castle Cafe, a gift shop, a wine cellar, and a path to the Hunting Lodge and Stables. In the stables, vintage cars are featured in the garage and carriage rooms.
Where to eat and drink in the Casa Loma in Toronto?
The Blueblood Steakhouse is a fine-dining restaurant within Casa Loma that offers cuts of Toronto’s best beef and fresh seafood in a refined, elegant atmosphere. The restaurant’s vast selection of wines and spirits mix with classic antiques and modern art to create a diverse sophistication.
In Casa Loma’s Conservatory with its beautiful McCausland stained glass ceiling, Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto serves unique cuisines from the Amalfi Coast, supplying Mediterranean dishes reinvented for the modern era. The restaurant was the first location opened by Michelin-star chefs Alfonso and Ernesto Laccarino in North America. The casual Liberty Caffe and Cibo Wine Bar offer more drink options. In addition, the Liberty Caffe offers gelato, pressed sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta by its charming, homely market. The Liberty Caffe Market sells not only prepared meals but also fresh produce, dry goods, and household essentials.
What else is good to know about Casa Loma in Toronto?
Casa Loma is located on Davenport Hill near Toronto's midtown area. The easiest ways to reach the site are by St. Clair West Station or Dupont Station on the Yonge-University metro line. The exhibits and decor change according to the season, and you'll find events like concerts in the summer and haunted houses in the fall.
Casa Loma is near other popular attractions you may want to check out while you're in the area, such as the CN Tower, a communications tower that reaches a stunning height of 1,815 feet at the heart of Toronto. You'll also be near the Ontario Science Centre and Royal Ontario Museum, which feature large collections of historical artefacts, and the Art Gallery of Toronto and Graffiti Alley, where you'll find culturally significant pieces.
Casa Loma in Toronto
Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 416-923-1171
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