Toronto Old City Hall (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Toronto Old City Hall?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Kids can spot gargoyles, roam courtyard Fridays, and hear lively guide tales, yet many stairs, few hands-on displays, and only basic washrooms may bore or tire under-12s quickly.
Positives:
- Free entry and tours: No admission fee and complimentary audio guide and self-guided materials.
- Central location: Steps from Eaton Centre and Nathan Phillips Square for easy transit and quick snacks.
- Outdoor courtyard: Stroller-friendly open space for kids to run and parents to relax under the clock tower.
Challenges:
- Limited indoor space: Small elevators fit only one stroller; many interior areas have no benches.
- Basic washrooms: No family or accessible restrooms inside; plan to use a portable mat or nearby facilities.
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 kids?
- Search building gargoyles and sculptures for a playful scavenger hunt.
- Listen to free audio tour for fun stories about the clock tower and stained glass.
- Follow a self-guided map to explore historic downtown landmarks with the kids.
- Enjoy summer Friday courtyard programs with picnics under the restored clock tower.
- Use stroller-friendly ramps and open areas to keep younger children comfortable.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to explore exterior details, take an audio tour, and enjoy the courtyard at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Toronto Old City Hall
Gargoyle scavenger hunt:
Search for carved gargoyles around the façade of Old City Hall.
Tip: Give each child a sketchpad and count how many unique gargoyles you find.
Audio-guided tour:
Stream the free City of Toronto audio tour to learn about the clock tower, stained-glass windows, and murals.
Tip: Download the MP3 files before your visit to use offline and save mobile data.
Self-guided architecture walk:
Follow the 'A Hundred Years of Architecture' map to see historic landmarks near Old City Hall.
Tip: Print or screenshot the map so you can explore without needing internet.
Summer Courtyard Open Days:
Join free Friday summer events under the clock tower with rotating exhibits and expert talks.
Tip: Pack a small picnic and arrive early for seating under the gargoyles.
Family-friendly walking tour:
Book a small-group history tour like Tour Guys or Black Lab for engaging stories on local heritage.
Tip: Reserve spots online in advance and choose a 90–120 minute option that fits your kids’ attention spans.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Toronto Old City Hall
- Download tours offline: Save audio guide files and maps on your phone before arrival to avoid connectivity issues.
- Arrive early on Fridays: Get a prime spot in the courtyard for summer events and take photos before crowds form.
- Combine nearby attractions: Walk to New City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square for a half-day family adventure.
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)?
Visit on summer Fridays for free courtyard events and check Doors Open Toronto in May for special guided tours.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Audio tour | CAD 0 |
| Self-guided map | CAD 0 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 0 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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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