Casa Loma

A genuine 1914 Gothic-revival castle on the hill above midtown, complete with towers, secret passages and formal gardens. Worth it if you love grand architecture or have kids; skip if you expect a furnished, story-rich historic home. Adult admission runs about $45 plus tax, timed entry.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Casa Loma without a car?

Take Line 1 to Dupont Station and walk about 10 minutes, but be warned, the last stretch up Spadina Road is a genuine hill and there's a long public staircase (the Baldwin Steps). Wear decent shoes.

Is there parking at Casa Loma?

There's a paid lot across the street on Walmer Road, but it's small and fills fast on weekends. Given the transit access, I'd skip driving unless you're coming with mobility needs or little kids.

Is Casa Loma worth visiting?

If you love architecture, castles, or you're entertaining kids, yes, it's a real early-20th-century mansion with genuine wow factor. If you want a deeply furnished, storied historic home, you may find it a bit empty and staged.

How long should I spend at Casa Loma?

Give yourself 2 to 3 hours to see the main rooms, climb the towers, walk the tunnel to the stables, and stroll the gardens in season. Rushing it in under 90 minutes is doable but you'll miss the best bits.

Can I visit Casa Loma at Halloween or Christmas?

Yes, Casa Loma runs big seasonal events, Legends of Horror in October and a decorated experience over the holidays, usually as separate ticketed evening events. They're popular and priced higher than daytime admission, so book early.

Are the gardens included in the ticket?

Yes, the terraced gardens are included and are open seasonally, roughly May through October. They're genuinely lovely in early summer and honestly one of the better reasons to go.

Is Casa Loma good for kids?

Very. The towers, tunnels, stables and secret passages basically function as a real castle to explore, which most kids love. Strollers are trickier on the stairs and tower climbs, so plan for some carrying.

How much does Casa Loma cost?

Adult general admission is around $45 plus tax (roughly $52 all-in), with seniors near $40 and youth around $35. Kids 3 and under are free, and tickets are timed-entry, so book your slot online ahead of a weekend visit.

Nearby in Ask Toronto

• Spadina Museum: Historic House & GardensMuseum0.15 km · 2 min walk
• Scaramouche RestaurantRestaurant0.86 km · 11 min walk
• The AnnexNeighborhood1.33 km · 17 min walk
• Bata Shoe MuseumMuseum1.41 km · 18 min walk
• Proof Vodka BarBar1.48 km · 19 min walk