Toronto’s architecture: Exploring the city’s most impressive buildings and structures.

Toronto is a city that is well known for its diverse and vibrant culture, but it’s also home to some incredible architecture. From historical landmarks to modern masterpieces, Toronto’s buildings and structures are a sight to behold. Here’s a guide to some of the city’s most impressive architecture.

1. CN Tower: The CN Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Toronto. At 553.3 meters (1,815 feet) tall, it’s the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere. The tower was completed in 1976 and was originally built to serve as a communication tower for television and radio broadcasting. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction with an observation deck that offers breathtaking views of the city.
2. Casa Loma: Casa Loma is a Gothic Revival-style mansion that was built in 1911. It was originally the home of financier Sir Henry Pellatt and was designed by architect E.J. Lennox. The castle-like structure features 98 rooms, a secret tunnel, and stunning gardens. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction that offers tours of the mansion and its grounds.
3. Royal Ontario Museum: The Royal Ontario Museum is a museum of art, culture, and nature. It was founded in 1912 and has since grown to become one of the largest museums in North America. The building’s most notable feature is the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, an addition that was completed in 2007. The Crystal is a modern, glass-and-steel structure that serves as the museum’s main entrance and features a dramatic sloping roof.
4. Toronto City Hall: Toronto City Hall is the home of Toronto’s municipal government. The building was completed in 1965 and was designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell. Its distinctive design features two curved towers that are connected by a large podium. The building’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with a large rotunda and a council chamber that features a massive mural by Canadian artist Group of Seven member Jack Bush.
5. St. Lawrence Market: St. Lawrence Market is one of the oldest and most beloved markets in Toronto. It was first established in 1803 and has been a hub for food and culture ever since. The building that houses the market dates back to 1850 and was originally used as a city hall. It was later converted into a market and has undergone several renovations over the years.
6. Union Station: Union Station is Toronto’s main transportation hub. The building was completed in 1927 and was designed by architects John M. Lyle and Henry Sproatt. It’s one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in Canada and features a large concourse that’s topped by a beautiful glass dome. Union Station has undergone several renovations over the years, including a major restoration project that was completed in 2017.
7. Distillery District: The Distillery District is a pedestrian-only village that’s home to a collection of Victorian-era buildings. The buildings were originally part of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which operated from 1832 until 1990. Today, the buildings have been converted into restaurants, shops, and galleries. The district’s cobblestone streets and preserved industrial architecture make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
8. Massey Hall: Massey Hall is a music venue that has been hosting concerts since 1894. The building was designed by architect Sidney Badgley and features a beautiful neoclassical façade. The hall has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and The Rolling Stones.

Toronto’s architecture is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. From towering skyscrapers to Victorian-era buildings, the city has a ton of great architecture to offer.