Getaways & Day Trips Guide › Day trips: Architecture

Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens

285 Spadina Rd. (at Austin Terr.) • View on map »
416-392-6910

Rebuilt in 1866 (the first house on the site burned down in 1835), this stately home, originally owned by James Austin, was once surrounded by countryside. Though it was gradually encircled by the city, it remained in the same family until 1982. That year, Anna Kathleen Thompson, one of Austin’s descendants, donated the house and its entire contents to the city. Rooms are decorated according to varying periods and styles, staying true, when possible, to their original function and era. Highlights include the green art nouveau wallpapers found in the grand Edwardian front entrance, and a billiards room with a stuffed loon and other taxidermied trophies.

When:: Jan. to March, Sa–Su noon–5; April to Labour Day, Tu–Su noon–5; Labour Day to Dec., Tu–F noon–4, Sa–Su noon–5; call for holiday hours.
How Much:: adults $6, seniors and youth $5, children six to 12 $4, five and under free; holiday rates vary.
Tours:: one-hour guided tour mandatory; groups by appt.
Parking:: pay lot next door at Casa Loma.
TTC access:: Dupont station; or 512 St. Clair streetcar west to Spadina Rd.