Toronto Old City Hall (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Toronto Old City Hall?
What makes it 40% Baby-Friendly: Ramp admits strollers but lifts are narrow, interior stairs common, and no change tables or nursing room; parents must walk to mall toilets, so visits stay short and inconvenient.
Positives:
- Stroller Access: There is a ramp on Albert Street and small elevators, but narrow space may require folding larger strollers
- Quiet Outdoor Space: The courtyard offers a calm area with fresh air and seating, ideal for baby breaks
Challenges:
- No Family Washrooms: Only standard restrooms without changing tables are available on ground and second floors
- Limited Elevator Space: Elevators fit one stroller at a time, which may slow down mobility inside
What is Toronto Old City Hall?
- A late 19th-century Richardsonian Romanesque civic building designed by architect Edward James Lennox
- Municipal headquarters of the City of Toronto from 1899 to 1965, anchored by a soaring clock tower
- Constructed of red sandstone with ornamental gargoyles and intricate carvings, designated a National Historic Site
What is so special about Toronto Old City Hall for with baby?
- Free, self-guided audio tour offers historic context with baby-friendly pacing
- Open-air courtyard under the clock tower is stroller-friendly and offers seating
- Ramp entry on Albert Street ensures easier access for strollers
- Seasonal Friday events and May Doors Open weekend add extra free programming
- Bring own baby gear since no family washrooms or change facilities are on-site
Note: Toronto Old City Hall is 40% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Toronto for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Short visit suits a baby’s schedule and covers key outdoor highlights
Baby-Friendly Activities in Toronto Old City Hall
Courtyard Open Days:
Relax under the clock tower gargoyles in the open-air courtyard
Tip: Best on summer Fridays when exhibits and seating are set up; paths are stroller-friendly
Self-Guided Audio Tour:
Listen to narrated chapters on the clock tower, stained-glass and gargoyles as you walk
Tip: Download the free MP3 in advance and bring headphones for easy listening
Exterior Architecture Walk:
Stroll around the building to see the Richardsonian Romanesque details and gargoyles
Tip: Enter via the Albert Street ramp for stroller access; fold larger strollers for narrow elevators
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Toronto Old City Hall
- Pack a Changing Mat: Bring a fold-up mat and sanitiser as there are no baby change stations on-site
- Visit Early or Late Morning: Arrive before midday crowds for quieter spaces and easier stroller navigation
- Pre-Download Audio: Download the audio tour before arrival to avoid relying on venue Wi-Fi
Reviews of Toronto Old City Hall
Marie
Stunning historic building right next to Nathan Phillips Square! The clock tower is iconic, and the Romanesque architecture is beautiful. A perfect spot for photos, especially with the modern City Hall towers in the background. A must-see for history and architecture lovers!
Art Brave
Really nice and huge building. It needs more exhibitions or more things to do in it. A small garden in the courtyard will give you a very European feel, instead of that horrible parking lot.
Dhruva Kumar
Old City Hall – Toronto’s Timeless Landmark 🏛️ 💡 Quick Highlights Built 1889–1899 Style Richardsonian Romanesque Architect E.J. Lennox Clock Tower 103.6 m, tallest in Canada (until 1917) Heritage Status National Historic Site (1984) Former Uses City Hall (1899–1966), Courthouse (1966–2023) Future Possibilities Civic museum, cultural venue, legislative space 🏛️ Rich History & Architecture Arc...
JC Le
Amazing historical building. You can see it from the from Front St straight down Bay St. What a Gem in the modern city. Very well maintained. Clock still rings quarterly. Sounds wonderful. Great place for pictures and some reflecting at the war memorial. Open for tours inside on certain days.
Graham Tranter
A grand historic building situated next to the new city hall (much more modern and sadly much less pretty). The old buildings in Canada from the 1800's have such a majestic quality. The turrets, the gargoyles, clock faces, arches, and stonework.
When is the best time to visit Toronto Old City Hall (Toronto, Canada)?
July–August Fridays feature free exhibits and talks in the courtyard. In May, Doors Open Toronto opens the interior for one weekend.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Audio tour | CAD 0 |
| Courtyard Open Days | CAD 0 |
| Optional walking tour fee (2 adults) | CAD 12 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 12 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Toronto Old City Hall
Address: 60 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2M3, Canada
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About Toronto Old City Hall
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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