10+ Historic Mansions in Toronto You Can Actually Visit

Katherine Garciano
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Historic house featured image

Toronto is a city with a vibrant history, and one of the best ways to step back in time is by visiting its historic mansions. These grand homes, once belonging to the city’s elite, offer a fascinating glimpse into different architectural styles, lavish lifestyles, and significant moments in Toronto’s past. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a unique day out, these historic mansions are well worth a visit.

What Makes These Mansions Special?

Each of these mansions tells a unique story about Toronto’s development, from its early industrial boom to its role as a cultural hub. Many of these homes have been preserved and transformed into museums, cultural sites, or event spaces, making them accessible to the public. Expect to find stunning period furniture, intricate woodwork, lush gardens, and guided tours that reveal the secrets behind these architectural masterpieces.

10+ Toronto’s Must-Visit Historic Mansions

1. Casa Loma – Toronto’s Castle

As one of Toronto’s most famous landmarks, Casa Loma is an extraordinary castle-like mansion built in the early 20th century. Once the home of Sir Henry Pellatt, a wealthy financier, it boasts secret tunnels, grand ballrooms, and stunning gardens. The mansion has been featured in many films and TV shows and even hosts immersive experiences like escape rooms and seasonal events.

  • Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
  • Contact:  (416) 923-1171
  • Admission:  Adult : $40 | Youth : 35$ | Seniors: $35 | Children (4-13): $25
  • Website: https://casaloma.ca

2. Spadina Museum– A Step into the 1920’s

Situated near Casa Loma, Spadina Museum offers an intimate look at life in the 1920s and 30s. This beautifully restored house features original furnishings, lush gardens, and themed exhibits reflecting Toronto’s social history. Guided tours help visitors understand the evolution of the city and the family that once lived there.

  • Location: 285 Spadina Rd, Toronto
  • Contact: (416) 392-6910
  • Admission: General admission is free. Visiting the historic house is by guided tour only.
  • Website: www.toronto.ca

3. Campbell House Museum – Legal History Meets Elegance

Originally the home of Chief Justice William Campbell, this Georgian-era house now serves as a museum and event space. Located in downtown Toronto, it offers exhibits on legal history, historical cooking demonstrations, and a fascinating look into 19th-century life.

  • Location: 160 Queen St W, Toronto
  • Contact: (416) 597-0227
  • Admission: Adult: $10 |Senior: $6 |Youth (13-18 years): $6 | Children (12 years and under): Free
  • Website: www.campbellhousemuseum.ca

4. Colborne Lodge – Early Toronto History

Situated in High Park, Colborne Lodge was built in 1837 by John Howard, one of Toronto’s first architects. The home is an excellent example of Regency-style architecture and contains many of Howard’s personal artifacts, paintings, and architectural designs. It’s also surrounded by beautiful parkland, making it a great visit any time of year.

  • Location: 11 Colborne Lodge Dr, Toronto
  • Contact: 416-392-6916
  • Admission: General admission is free. Visiting the historic house is by guided tour only
  • Website: www.toronto.ca

5. Gibson House Museum – 19th Century Toronto

This museum brings visitors back to the 1850s, showcasing the lifestyle of Scottish settlers. The house features authentic period furnishings, costumed interpreters, and interactive programs such as bread-making in the historic kitchen.

  • Location: 5172 Yonge St., Toronto
  • Contact: 416-395-7432
  • Admission: General admission is free. Some exhibitions and events may carry a separate charge were noted
  • Website: www.toronto.ca

6.  Euclid Hall (Keg Mansion)

Step into history at the Keg Mansion, a former 19th-century estate with a past as rich as its steaks. From its days as a grand residence to whispers of ghostly encounters, this iconic spot blends historic character with a laid-back dining experience.

  • Location: 515 Jarvis St, Toronto
  • Contact: 416 964 6609 
  • Hours: Daily 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  • Website: www.thekeg.com

7. Village At Black Creek

Village At Black Creek | historic mansions
Photo via Trip advisor

Step back into the 1860s at Black Creek Pioneer Village, where historic buildings, heritage animals, and interactive programs bring Ontario’s past to life. Meet costumed educators, try hands-on activities, and enjoy the sights and sounds of a re-created country village.

  • Location: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto
  • Contact: 416.736.1733
  • Admission: $37.28
  • Website: https://blackcreek.ca/

8. George Brown House – A Journalist’s Legacy

George brown house | historic mansion
Photo via Wikipedia

This 19th-century mansion was the home of George Brown, a Father of Confederation and founder of The Globe newspaper. Today, it serves as an event venue, but its historic rooms and stunning architectural details can be explored on select occasions.

  • Location: 186 Beverley Street
  • Contact: 416-455-4812
  • Admission: This site is only partially accessible | for bookings please contact the number above
  • Website: www.heritagetrust.on.ca

9. Osgoode Hall – More Than Just a Courthouse

While primarily a judicial building, Osgoode Hall boasts stunning architecture, historic courtrooms, and a beautiful Great Library. Parts of the building are open to the public, allowing visitors to step into one of Canada’s most significant legal landmarks.

  • Location: 130 Queen Street West, Toronto
  • Admission: No reservation required | Enter the building through the centre doors, facing Queen Street West
  • Website: https://lso.ca/
  • Notice: Please note that as Osgoode Hall is a busy office building and a courthouse, tour locations may be subject to change without notice.

10. Loring-Wyle Parkette

Loring-Wyle Studio | Historic mansion
Photo via acotoronto

This hidden gem was the former home and studio of sculptors Frances Loring and Florence Wyle. While not a traditional mansion, it holds immense historical and artistic significance, showcasing early 20th-century Canadian sculpture and creativity.

  • Location: 110 Glenrose Avenue
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: https://acotoronto.ca/
  • Notice: While you can visit the Loring-Wyle Parkette to appreciate their public sculptures, access to their historic studio is not available.

11. Adamson Estate

adamson state | historic mansion
Photo via historicplacesdays

The Adamson Estate, a historic waterfront property near Port Credit, dates back to the early 1800s and features Flemish-inspired architecture influenced by World War I. Now a public park, it offers visitors a glimpse into its rich past with preserved structures and scenic lakefront views.

Toronto’s historic mansions offer a captivating mix of history, architecture, and culture. Whether you want to explore a grand castle, step into the daily life of 19th-century settlers, or admire the elegance of Georgian-era homes, these sites provide a deep dive into the city’s fascinating past. Next time you’re looking for an enriching experience, consider visiting one (or more) of these beautiful historic homes.

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