Toronto's Old City Hall: A Romanesque Revival Masterpiece
Explore Toronto's Old City Hall: A historic landmark with stunning architecture, rich history, and iconic clock tower in the heart of downtown.
The Old City Hall in Toronto, a National Historic Site, is a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Built in 1899 by E.J. Lennox, it served as Toronto's City Hall until 1965 and later as a courthouse until April 2025. Its iconic clock tower and intricate carvings make it a must-see landmark across from Nathan Phillips Square.
A brief summary to Toronto Old City Hall
- 60 Queen St W, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2M3, CA
Local tips
- Look up at the clock tower to see the gargoyles, which were removed in 1938 due to weathering but re-added in 2002 with lightweight materials.
- Visit the Cenotaph on the front lawn, which hosts one of Toronto's longest-running Remembrance Day ceremonies every November 11th.
- Explore the interior to see the grand staircase, stained-glass window, and original murals.
Getting There
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Walking
From Nathan Phillips Square, cross Bay Street to the east side. Old City Hall is directly across from the square, at the corner of Queen Street West and Bay Street. The main entrance is accessible from Queen Street West. No costs are associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
Take the subway to Queen Station on the Yonge-University line. Exit the station and walk west along Queen Street West. Old City Hall will be on your right, at the corner of Queen and Bay Streets. The cost for a single adult fare is approximately CAD 3.35.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Union Station, a taxi or ride-share to Old City Hall will typically cost between CAD 10-20, depending on traffic. The ride is approximately 2-3 kilometers and should take about 5-10 minutes. Ask your driver to drop you off at the main entrance on Queen Street West.
Discover more about Toronto Old City Hall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
100 Queen St W
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Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
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Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada Plaque: Sir Ernest MacMillan (1893 - 1973)
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Churchill Memorial
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A Toronto landmark honoring Sir Winston Churchill's legacy of courage and leadership during World War II, located near City Hall.
Sculpture: Freedom of Expression
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Birkbeck Building National Historic Site of Canada
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Toronto Heritage Plaque: Site of Toronto's First Moving Picture Show
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Metropolitan United Church
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Ontario Heritage Plaque: Toronto Dominion Centre
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Canada Life Building
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Toronto DownTown
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200 Bay Street
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Mary Pickford Historical Plaque
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Nathan Phillips Square
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Toronto Sign
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Cafe On The Square
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Elgin & Winter Garden Theatres
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Cloud Gardens
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Toronto City Hall
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CF Toronto Eaton Centre
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Church of the Holy Trinity
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Massey Hall
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Osgoode Hall
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CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre
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Essential places to dine
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The Chase
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The Senator
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Canada Gifts
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CHIC Store
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Sparetime Store
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