Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a grand Gothic Revival mansion built between 1911 and 1914 for financier Sir Henry Pellatt and now functions as a historic house museum and event venue in midtown Toronto. Positioned atop Davenport Hill, the castle offers panoramic views over the city and Lake Ontario.

Visitors can explore 98 rooms, including the ornate Oak Room, the Conservatory, underground tunnels, stables, the Hunting Lodge and formal gardens. The site houses changing exhibits, vintage car displays, and supports self-guided or guided tours. The second-floor Girl Guide exhibit, operational since 1973, links to Lady Pellatt’s connection with the organization.

The City of Toronto owns Casa Loma and in 2013 created Casa Loma Corporation to oversee the site; in 2014 a 20‑year lease was granted to Liberty Entertainment Group to operate the castle, manage tourism and host private events, weddings and public programming. Each year over 650,000 visitors tour the mansion and grounds, supported by dining options like BlueBlood Steakhouse and seasonal events under Liberty’s management.

Casa Loma operates daily from ~9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission around 4:30 p.m.); tickets are sold online or on-site, with special programs like “Escape Casa Loma” offering timed experiences in tower spaces. Gardens may close at 4:30 p.m. early in the week, and the Scottish Tower has variable closing times on select days.

Because of its architecture, gardens and production history, Casa Loma is popular for film shoots, weddings and cultural events. Given its private management under a public lease, some locals note the higher admission pricing despite municipal ownership. Visiting midweek or early in the day is recommended to avoid crowds.