7 Unique Hotels In Toronto Every Local Needs To Experience At Least Once
Be a tourist in your own city.
Do you live in Toronto but still feel like there's so much you haven't seen? From world-class restaurants and trendy shops to hidden gems that give the 6ix its character, the city has so much to offer that it can almost feel impossible to fully discover and appreciate it all.
There are so many ways locals can play tourist in Toronto, and (as a bonus) you'll get the satisfaction of travel without having to go far. One of the best ways to see the city with a fresh set of eyes is to pay a visit to one of Toronto's unique hotels.
From century-old stays to small luxury-boutique inns full of European charm, the city's hotels are full of history, culture and one-of-a-kind experiences you'll only find in Toronto — and they make a great starting point for all of your TO adventures.
To help locals rediscover Toronto with a fresh perspective, Destination Toronto is challenging them to a massive game of Never Have I Ever. If you can say you've never stayed in loft-style boutique accommodations or taken a "rainforest shower" in a hotel room, it might be time to change that.
Ask yourself what you haven't done yet and aim to turn that "never have I ever" into "been there, done that." Plan your stay at one of Toronto's many one-of-a-kind hotels, and embrace the tourist life in your own backyard.
The Anndore House
Address: 15 Charles St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This is no ordinary hotel room. At The Anndore House, you won't find the standard bed, TV and side table. Instead, you'll discover that every room has its own character, making each stay stand out from the last.
The Anndore House offers exclusive amenities like a fitness centre and traditional barber services. In your room, expect top-notch touches like an iPod-compatible vinyl record player and a rainforest shower that you can control through a mobile app on your phone.
Never have I ever ... stayed at a hotel with a barbershop.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
The Westlake Hotel
Address: 2847 Lake Shore Blvd., Etobicoke, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you prefer the AirBnB approach over conventional hotels, The Westlake will be right up your alley. Built in a beautifully restored 1920s building, the hotel offers 11 eccentrically designed rooms, many with full kitchens and living spaces. The place is kitted out with keyless entry and more smart tech to make your stay convenient and simple.
Never have I ever ... stayed in a forest-themed boutique loft.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
The Broadview Hotel
Address: 106 Broadview Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Broadview Hotel has been an icon of Toronto's East End for 130 years. These days, this boutique hotel is filled with in-room extravagances, like private terraces with stunning city views. If you're looking for a luxurious staycation, this is it.
From Google Chromecast on a flatscreen to Italian linens and blackout blinds, every room comes with sophisticated touches to make your stay special. Even if you don't stay overnight, make a reservation at The Rooftop restaurant to get a taste of this amazing location.
Never have I ever ... slept in a piece of Toronto's history.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
Hotel Ocho
Address: 195 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This loft-style hotel is your home away from home in Toronto. Ocho features a bar, restaurant and lounge all on the main floor where you can mingle with the locals who love to gather there. The hotel is also smack dab in the middle of downtown, putting you just minutes away from trendy Kensington Market, the lively energy of Queen Street West and so much more.
You can use the My Toronto Pass to discover different attractions and experiences near the hotel (or any Toronto hotel, for that matter).
Never have I ever ... stayed in a hotel this trendy.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
The Annex
Address: 296 Brunswick Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Whether you're a local or not, The Annex is designed to make you live like one. You don't need to worry about front-desk encounters because you'll receive a code to unlock your room (which may feature a gorgeous view of the Toronto skyline).
All rooms are air conditioned, pet friendly and feature record players and several records. You'll also have access to Netflix and an iPad Pro to binge your favourite series in bed. Plus, you can reach the staff via text message if you need anything — because it truly is 2021.
Never have I ever ... had an iPad included in a hotel room.
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Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
Gladstone House
Address: 1214 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: What better way to discover more of this iconic Toronto neighbourhood than to stay in the heart of it? The Gladstone House is all about culture, art and diversity. The walls are laden with curated art from Toronto artists, which is fitting for a hotel that's passionate about where it's rooted.
The Gladstone is Toronto's oldest continually operating hotel, having opened its doors in 1889. It honours that history with interior design that's both classic and modern, from the exposed brick feature walls to innovative lighting that transforms the hotel from day to night.
Never have I ever... stayed in a hotel so historic yet so modern.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
The Ivy At Verity
Address: 111 Queen St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Meet The Ivy at Verity — small and quaint, yet large in luxury. It isn't Paris, but it's the closest thing you'll get to a European-inspired stay in the city. If you fancy an old-fashioned experience, book your stay here.
Embrace your decadent side with the private 19th-century courtyard, continental breakfast delivered to your room, heated floors, Italian linens and the award-winning GEORGE Restaurant (how posh!).
Never have I ever... taken a European holiday in the heart of Toronto.
Terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time.
Though vacations have been on hold for quite some time now, life is finding its way back to normalcy. Why not get back into the groove of travelling by starting with your own city? Reconnect with Toronto and discover it from a fresh perspective.
If you're stuck choosing which of these hotels to check out first, try this fun quiz that decides your next staycay destination based on your zodiac, and let the stars be your guide!
Never have I ever... explored my city like a tourist. If you can second that, then make a plan to see what sort of local getaways Toronto has to offer.