Dreaming of Castle Days in Toronto? Casa Loma is a must see!

Casa Loma is open weekdays from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM), but even if you’re just passing by, the castle’s stunning exterior is fair game for photos any time of day. We’re planning a return visit soon to capture the magic inside—especially the richly detailed rooms that tell stories of grandeur and heartbreak.

Before you go, be sure to check their website—ongoing renovations over the next few months mean some sections may be temporarily closed.

Some of my favorite spots? The atmospheric wine cellar, the hauntingly beautiful empty swimming pool, and the majestic riding stables. I can't wait to revisit these hidden corners of the castle.

Casa Loma isn't just a backdrop—it's a bittersweet chapter in Toronto’s past. Built as a romantic gift by Sir Henry Pellatt for his wife, the castle’s tale ends in tragedy, as riches faded and dreams slipped away. It’s a place where beauty and history collide.

I especially love the wine cellar, the swimming pool and the riding stables so much looking forward to revisiting soon!  There is a tragic history of Sir Henry Pellatt and the gift of the castle to his wife and the riches to rags story.  

 

What are your favorite spots?  Write in the comments I would love to know! 

for a free quieter alternative, visit the Spadina House Museum just steps away!

f You Go: Travel Tips for Visiting Casa Loma

• Location: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, just north of downtown near Spadina Road and Davenport.

• Hours: Open daily, typically 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (last entry around 4:30). Evening hours may apply for special events like escape rooms or seasonal light shows.

• Tickets: Available online or at the door; online purchase is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Combo passes with the Royal Ontario Museum or CityPASS can save money.

• Parking: Paid parking is available on-site, but spaces are limited. Street parking and nearby Green P lots are good backups. Public transit (TTC subway to Dupont Station, then a short uphill walk) is another option.

• Best Views/Photo Spots:

  • The exterior gardens and fountains in summer are stunning.

  • The tower lookout offers sweeping views of Toronto’s skyline.

  • Inside, don’t miss the grand staircase and conservatory with its stained-glass dome for gorgeous photo backdrops.

• Accessibility: Some areas are challenging due to the historic design, but elevators and ramps provide access to most key sections.

• Extras: Casa Loma frequently hosts themed events—like Halloween haunted nights or holiday lights—worth timing your visit around.

Greenwood Conservation Area

Greenwood Conservation Area located in Ajax has several trail points (White Pine walk, BirdWalk, The Orchard, Meadow Walk, Duffin's Lookout, and Oliver's Rest)

The most popular trail is the  Greenwood Conservation Loop.  It was pretty easy even though it spans 14.5 km and typically takes around 3 hours to complete. 

I've blogged Duffin's earlier so we've been here before so I didn't spend a lot of time taking pictures as the sun was setting the air was getting chillier as twilight came.

You will love this trail which is perfect for bird watching, hiking as well as road biking.  You'll most likely meet other enthusiasts along the way!

 The Duffin's trail is a 2.9 km loop trail that starts at he Greenwood Discovery Pavilion and loops around near a Leach Free dog walk area. 

Most of our time was spent on the "Greenwalk" where the high and ominous forests of Jack Pines lined the forest bed as far as the eye could see.