Fairmont Royal York Toronto: Luxury Hotel in Downtown Toronto

August 16, 2021 / Toronto
Fairmont Royal York Toronto Hotel - Niagara Falls Tours from Fairmont Royal York Toronto

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel, known often as the Royal York or Fairmont Toronto, is a famous hotel located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, Canada. It is a 2-minute walk from Union Station. It has been an iconic symbol and staple of the city since it opened back in 1929. Aside from being known as one of Canada’s most luxurious hotels, the Fairmont Royal York is popular for its architecture and “old school” feel. To this day, it is one of the biggest hotels in North America. It has over 1,363 rooms as well as a multitude of restaurants and banquet halls. Click here to scroll down the page if you want to book a Niagara Falls Tour from Fairmont Toronto.

Fairmont Royal York Toronto Hotel - Niagara Falls Tours from Fairmont Royal York Toronto

Niagara Falls Tours From Fairmont Royal York Toronto

Looking for a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto? If you’re hoping to experience the natural wonder of Niagara Falls, then Queen Tour Niagara Falls Tours is your best bet. The Niagara Falls tours from Fairmont Royal York Toronto included pickup at the hotel. These are tours from the Canadian side of this natural wonder. You will get up close and personal with the Horseshoe Falls (North America’s largest waterfalls). You can also enjoy an optional boat tour that will give you up-close views of Niagara Falls. Other popular stops include the Niagara Whirlpool, the world’s smallest chapel and more.

Take in the sights and sounds of one of North America’s most beautiful destinations! Join our tours from the Fairmont Royal York Toronto. Our guides are happy to answer any questions and share interesting facts about this natural phenomenon. It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny, raining or snowing outside. We’ll make sure that your day at Niagara falls is unforgettable!

Seeing Niagara Falls will be a highlight to your trip to Toronto and is the most popular activity to do in Toronto. The good news is that a Niagara Falls tour will cover the most important sights and have an expert-curated itinerary.

Queen Tour Niagara Falls Tours picks up from the Fairmont Royal York Toronto. This makes it easy and convenient to visit Niagara Falls with round-trip transportation.

If you are looking to visit Niagara Falls from Downtown Toronto for more than one day, you should rent a car or explore public transit. There will be a lot of planning involved to make the most of your trip. The Sheraton and Hilton being great options for staying overnight at the falls.

Book your Niagara Falls Tour from Fairmont Royal York Toronto

Book a tour with Queen Tour Niagara Falls Tours below! We will take care of your transportation from the Fairmont Royal York hotel.

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Where is the Fairmont Royal York Toronto Located?

The Royal York is in Downtown Toronto, within the city’s Old Town. The address for the Fairmont Royal York is 100 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5J 1E3, Canada. This hotel is in the southern Financial District, near Bay Street. It’s close to many other hot spots- including the Entertainment District, South Core and St Lawrence. The hotel and its surrounding areas are inside of the Union Station Heritage Conservation District, a historic district that includes buildings from the 1850s to the present day. It is a 2-minute walk from Union Station and around the corner from Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

Nearby neighbourhoods include:

  • The Entertainment District
  • Toronto’s Chinatown
  • St. Lawrence Market
  • Ryerson University
  • Union Station (Canada’s busiest transportation hub)

Book the Fairmont Royal York Toronto Hotel

You can book your stay at the Fairmont Royal York Toronto on TripAdvisor. It’s smart to shop around but you should be able to find the best prices on TripAdvisor.

History of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Canada opened its doors on June 11th, 1929. An astonishing $16 million was spent to build this luxurious hotel. It was designed by Ross & Macdonald Architects. This firm created some of Canada’s most famous buildings such as Château Laurier, Fort Garry Hotel, and Maple Leaf Gardens. Part of what made the Fairmont Royal York Toronto so valuable at the time was its large meeting and convention facilities. To this day, the size is notable with a capacity to hold events with up to 1,670 guests.

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel is a 5-star hotel and has been recognized as one of the most famous hotels in Canada. It is a member of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. These include Fairmont properties all across the globe. The Fairmont Toronto is among several historic Fairmount hotels located throughout North America.

In 2014, KingSett Capital Inc. and InnVest Real Estate purchase 80% of the Fairmont Toronto from IvanhoĂŠ Cambridge. Upon announcing the purchase, the new owners announced a $50 million renovation. The renovation is now complete and you will enjoy the stunning upgraded experience.

The Fairmont Royal York is in Downtown Toronto

Downtown Toronto is the heart of Toronto, Ontario. It is roughly defined as the area centred on Yonge Street and University Avenue. It contains the city’s major business districts. You will find high-rise buildings, shopping centers, and entertainment areas. Downtown is also known as ‘the core’ or ‘the financial district’.

The heart of the downtown core is the intersection of Yonge Street and Dundas Street. This area is known as Dundas Square. You will also recognize the name “Nathan Phillips Square”. In this area, you can find commercial activity, culture, and heritage. Downtown Toronto is one of the most densely-populated Downtowns in North America. Downtown Toronto also attracts many tourists with attractions such as Rogers Centre (home of the Toronto Blue Jays), Ryerson University, Ontario Place, The Eaton Centre, Royal Ontario Museum, and CN Tower. Downtown is also home to City Hall, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and Art Gallery of Ontario, and other famous attractions.

The Toronto Eaton Centre is a large retail mall in Downtown Toronto that opened in 1977 and is now the iconic shopping centre in Downtown Toronto. It contains 235 shops and services including large retailers like Sears, The Bay, and Old Navy. Downtown Toronto is also famous for its Chinatown district, Ontario’s largest. Downtown Toronto has several major league sports teams. These include the Toronto Blue Jays (Major League Baseball), the Toronto Maple Leafs (National Hockey League), and Toronto Raptors (National Basketball Association).

Within Downtown Toronto, there are many names you might recognize during your travels. These include Union Station, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, CN Tower, Steam Whistle Brewing, Eaton Center, Old City Hall, Roy Thomson Hall & Massey Hall, Nathan Phillips Square), Royal Alexandra Theatre and the Princess of Wales Theatre.

Most important, though, is the diversity in culture within Downtown Toronto. You will find dozens (if not hundreds) of different cultures. As a result, you will have access to one of the best food cities in the world.

With so much going on, there are always countless things to do in Downtown Toronto. You are bound to have a great time. Between the things to do, restaurants, festivals and day trips – you will love Toronto.

Things to do Near the Fairmont Royal York hotel

There are a ton of things to do near the Royal York. You’ll be in the heart of Downtown Toronto. If you find yourself near the Fairmont Royal York Hotel be sure to check out some of these great places. You can also look at our expert-selected 3-day travel itinerary for Toronto.

1. Take a tour of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is the name for three waterfalls that straddle the international border between Canada and the United States. More specifically, between Ontario and New York. They form the southern end of the Niagara Gorge. Niagara Falls are renowned both for their beauty and as a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Formed by retreating ice age glaciers over 10,000 years ago, Niagara Falls are the most powerful waterfall in North America. Niagara Falls consists of two major waterfalls. These are the Horseshoe Falls (Canadian side) and the American Falls (United States side).

Getting to Niagara Falls from the Fairmont Royal York Toronto can be done in several ways. The most convenient and direct way is to take a Niagara Falls tour. Queen Tour Niagara Falls Tours can take care of the trip for you. You will be picked up from the Fairmont Royal York in the morning and return around 4:30 – 5:00 PM for a free evening in Toronto.

2. Take photos and visit Old City Hall

This historical building was Toronto’s city hall until 1966. Since then it has turned into a courthouse and is also a tourist attraction. It was designed by E.J. Lennox, one of Toronto’s most famous architects, who also designed Casa Loma. It is called ‘the most photographed building in Canada’. Inside the Old City Hall, there are tours, film screenings, and other events. This will be great for a photo opportunity, especially to see the Old City Hall and New City Hall side by side.

3. See a show in the Theatre District

Located just west of Yonge Street on King Street, the Toronto Theatre District is full of historic theatres. You’ll be able to enjoy live performances by some of the most famous artists in the world. These theatres include:

These are just a few of the many theatres you can visit while staying at Fairmont Royal York Toronto. There are plenty more to check out if you’re interested in theatre.

4. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a museum of art, world culture and natural history in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is the largest museum in Canada and one of the largest in North America. The Museum is located north of Queen’s Park, in the University of Toronto district, with its main entrance on Bloor Street West. The Royal Ontario Museum is a short uber ride, or 30 minutes walk away from Fairmont Royal York Toronto. With other 6 million artifacts, this is one stop we highly recommend during your trip to Toronto.

You can order a skip-the-line ticket to the ROM here.

5. Head up to the CN Tower (also great for lunch or dinner)

Another amazing structure is the CN Tower, which stands at 553 meters above ground level or 1,815 feet tall. It’s one of the tallest towers in the world! Located 10 minutes walking from the Fairmont Royal York, the CN Tower is an attraction you probably already have on your radar. In the CN Tower, you will find out more information about Canada’s history as well as three different observation levels. You can also check out the Edge Walk activity if you want to walk on top of the tower (with safety equipment of course).

6. Grab a bite and shop in Kensington Market

Kensington Market is a northeast area where you can find some great shopping deals and food. You can get ridiculous deals on used clothes, books, t-shirts, and even souvenirs from around the world. It is also home to many delicious restaurants and Instagram-worthy treats.

We’d recommend checking out Fruta Libre on 178 Balwin st for a delicious Mexican treat. Try the pina colada in pineapple and some mango treats. Enjoy it on the roof of one of the parking lots nearby for a special view and treat.

Kensington Market - Fruita Libre

7. Spend a few hours at the Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario is located at 317 Dundas Street West. The Fairmont Royal York Toronto is only 5 blocks away and well worth the 5-minute drive or 19-minute walk! You’ll often find world-class art exhibits here.

8. Visit the Bata Shoe Museum for 1.5 hours

You’ll want to catch an uber or subway ride as this museum is in Midtown, Toronto. The Bata Shoe Museum has one of the largest collections of footwear in the world including. Over 14,000 artifacts showcasing styles from around the globe like sandals, boots, dress shoes, sneakers, rainwear, and more! If you’re looking for museums in the area, this unusual and unique museum will be enjoyable. Expect to spend 1 to 1.5 hours here.

You can buy a skip-the-line ticket to the museum here.

9. Visit the Hockey Hall Of Fame attraction

The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto is located only a 5-minute walk Fairmont Royal York Hotel at 30 Yonge Street on Downtown’s corner of the street. The Hockey Hall of Fame was opened in 1943 in Kingston, Ontario, and moved to Toronto in 1958. It includes memorabilia from hockey greats including Benny Goodman, Wayne Gretzky, Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, Maurice Richard, Mario Lemieux, Patrick Roy, and many more. This will be a cool place to visit if you’re a hockey fan, and even if you’re not – you can see what Canadians are so obsessed with.

You can purchase your admission tickets here.

10. Visit Toronto’s castle, Casa Loma

You’ll want to call an Uber for this one. It’s well worth it if you have the time. Casa Loma is a historical building that was built in 1911 (designed by E.J. Lennox, one of Toronto’s most famous architects, who also designed Old City Hall). It was the house of Sir Henry Pellatt – who was one of Toronto’s richest men in the early 1900s. Today, it has activities such as guided tours, escape rooms, and onsite dining. Definitely worth checking out!

Restaurants Near the Fairmont Toronto

The Fairmont Toronto has nearly 65,000 sq. ft of meeting space, 29,000 sq. ft of retail space and 4 restaurants.

Inside of the Fairmont Royal York, you can enjoy dining at REIGN Restaurant + Bar + Bakery (for breakfast and dinner) or CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktails (for dinner). The Fairmont Royal York also offers in-room dining.

It’s easy to find restaurant options near Fairmont Toronto. There are so many great places to choose from, and they range from casual dining experiences to high-end options. There isn’t much of a need for taxis or other transportation if you’re staying at this hotel. You’ll be in the centre of the best food city in the world. Some cool restaurants we personally recommend include:

  • WVRST (65 Front St W, 5-minute walk from the Fairmont Toronto)
  • Byblos (11 Duncan St, 9-minute walk from the Fairmont Toronto)
  • PAI (18 Duncan St, 8-minute walk from the Fairmont Toronto)
  • KOST (80 Blue Jays Way, 11-minute walk from the Fairmont Toronto)
  • iQ (18 York St, 5-minute walk from the Fairmont Toronto)

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fairmont Royal York Toronto

Who owns the Fairmont Royal York?

The Fairmont Toronto building is owned by KingSett (60%), InnVest Real Estate Investment Trust (20%) and Ivanhoe Cambridge (20%). The hotel is managed by Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, which is owned by hotel conglomerate Accor. Accor owns over 5,000 hotels in 110 countries. Accor purchased Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in 2016. This included the Fairmont chain of hotels along with Raffles, SwissĂ´tel, and more.

How old is the Fairmont Royal York?

As of 2021, it is 92 years old. The Fairmont Royal York was built starting in 1927 and opened its doors in 1929. It is one of the best examples of Edwardian Architecture.

How many rooms does the Fairmont Royal York have?

There are over 1,363 guest rooms available in the Fairmont Royal York.

How much is parking at the Fairmont Royal York?

Valet parking and self-parking options are available. The current overnight parking rate is $49 CAD per night, including in and out privileges.

Is public transit easily accessible?

You bet! You will have easy access to both the Yonge and University lines on the subway. Also, there are streetcars nearby. Calling a taxi, Uber or Lyft is very easy from the Fairmont Royal York. Lastly – walking is actually a great option as well! You will be in a prime location. Pretty much everything you will want to do in Toronto will be within walking reach or a short TTC ride away.

Is Royal York pet-friendly?

The Fairmont Royal York welcomes one pet up to 25 pounds. There is an additional fee of $50 for your pet. We suggest reconfirming this policy and pricing at the time of booking. Pets cannot be left unattended in the room.

How much does Fairmont Gold cost?

The Royal York tends to be on the more expensive side. Expect a minimum of $349 a night for a standard room or $649 for the Fairmont Gold experience.

Does Fairmont have WIFI?

The Royal York hotel offers Wi-Fi in all Deluxe, Signature, and Fairmont Gold guest rooms. WIFI is free for the Fairmont President’s Club members, which is a Fairmont’s loyalty program. There is no cost to enroll and it can easily be done online on their website before booking.

How many floors is the Royal York?

The Fairmont Royal York has 28 floors.

How tall is the Fairmont Royal York Toronto?

The Fairmont Royal York Toronto is 124 metres tall (407 ft), and has 28 floors.

Video Walkthrough of the Fairmont Toronto

This video offers a good walkthrough of the Fairmont Royal York Toronto, which should be helpful for tourists. We recommend having a look if you are visiting Toronto and want to stay at the Fairmont Royal York.

Enjoy Your Stay at the Fairmont Royal York Toronto Hotel!

The Fairmont Royal York Toronto is a historic hotel in Downtown Toronto, Ontario. It will be an excellent choice for your visit. It offers convenience for exploring nearby attractions. You’ll be able to enjoy the best restaurants Toronto has to offer. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or business trip – the Fairmont Royal York Toronto will be a great choice for your accommodations in Toronto. Safe travels!