Ontario College of Art & Design University (OCAD U) is a dreamland for creatives! Brick walls meet bold installations, every corridor pulses with inspiration. Whether you’re a graffiti lover, photography addict, or design geek, this place speaks to your soul. Don’t miss the rooftop view—soak in Toronto’s skyline while your imagination takes flight.

This hotel is the perfect choice in downtown Toronto, whether for business or family trips! Its prime location is just a 5-minute walk to CF Toronto Eaton Centre and 13 minutes to University of Toronto, with plenty of dining and attractions nearby. Enjoy top-notch amenities like the indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center to unwind, plus 24-hour business center and limousine service for corporate guests. Families will love the childcare and kids' meals. Don’t miss dining at Hemispheres Restaurant or sipping cocktails at the bar. Rooms are spacious and cozy, with free Wi-Fi and minifridge for a home-like stay!




Everything you need to know about OCAD University
Recommended stays include The Drake Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from OCAD U, blending historic architecture with modern design and featuring an on-site art gallery and café. Another excellent option is Kimpton Great Northern Hotel, offering upscale amenities and easy access to Toronto’s arts district and shopping areas.
Unique Experiences: Join campus tours or visit nearby galleries like the Art Gallery of Ontario to explore contemporary art exhibitions, immersing yourself in Toronto’s vibrant creative scene.
OCAD U is within a 10-minute walk to Yonge Street transit hub, where you can catch the TTC Subway Line 1 (Yonge-University Line) for a 15-minute ride into Downtown Toronto. Additionally, GO Transit buses and Bike Share Toronto offer flexible travel options across the city.
Transport Advantage: Located in a central transit corridor, the university provides seamless access to downtown attractions, shopping, and employment hubs—perfect for exploring Toronto efficiently.
Nearby highlights include the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), housing Indigenous Canadian works and international contemporary exhibitions. The StreetARTOR street art district and The 519 Church Street Community Centre host vibrant public installations and community workshops.
Top Recommendations: Attend open house events hosted by OCAD U to witness student projects firsthand, or visit St. Lawrence Market on weekends to experience the fusion of art, food, and local culture.
While the area is student-centric, Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown East offers family rooms and child-friendly amenities, just a 15-minute walk from OCAD U, with easy access to attractions like the Toronto Zoo and Rogers Centre. The hotel features an indoor pool and game room to keep kids entertained.
Family-Friendly Tips: Plan a day trip including a visit to the school’s art exhibitions followed by a stop at the Ontario Science Centre, combining education and fun for a memorable family experience.
Spadina Avenue's historic buildings and Queen Street West's street art are prime photo locations. The campus features an outdoor sculpture garden and glass-domed classrooms, offering striking light and composition opportunities. Nearby, Harbourfront Centre by Lake Ontario provides stunning skyline reflections at dusk, ideal for dreamy night shots.
Best Times to Shoot: Early morning or golden hour when crowds are low and lighting is soft, perfect for capturing the blend of urban life and artistic expression.
The area is packed with independent eateries and cafés. Visit St. Lawrence Market for fresh local produce, artisan breads, and cheeses. Try Mama’s Pizza or The Keg Steakhouse for classic Canadian fare.
Culinary Highlights: Join an “Art & Eats” themed walking tour, sampling hidden gem restaurants along the arts district while learning about the intersection of food and design in Toronto’s creative culture.
See what other travelers say about OCAD University

Staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Toronto Downtown was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and well-designed, with a comfortable Sleep Number bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I loved that bottled water was available in unlimited supply—perfect for staying hydrated throughout the day. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, always smiling and going the extra mile to help. Having on-site parking was a major plus, especially if you're driving. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from major attractions and right near Chinatown, making it super easy to grab some delicious Asian food without having to travel far. It’s rare to find such a great mix of comfort, convenience, and hospitality in one place. I’ll definitely be returning.

Staying at Canopy by Hilton Toronto - Yorkville was an absolutely delightful experience. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive from the moment we arrived—genuine hospitality that made us feel right at home. The rooms are spacious, beautifully designed, and feature a modern aesthetic with plenty of natural light. I especially appreciated the wide hallways and quiet, well-maintained environment, which added to the overall sense of calm and comfort. Location-wise, it’s perfectly situated in the heart of Yorkville—just steps away from upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and public transit for easy access to downtown Toronto. The only minor note is that the shower water pressure could be stronger, but honestly, that’s a tiny detail in what’s otherwise a near-perfect stay. Overall, the quality, service, and ambiance make this hotel a top choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Toronto! The location is unbeatable—just a 3-minute walk from the Osgoode subway station, right at the Four Seasons Arts Centre exit. I couldn’t have asked for a more convenient spot. From here, it’s an easy stroll west to Chinatown or east to Eaton Centre, so everything—from shopping and dining to exploring local culture—is within reach. One of the best surprises? Some rooms have stunning views directly facing the iconic clock tower of Toronto City Hall. Waking up to that view every morning felt like being in a postcard. Clean, modern, and incredibly well-located, this place offers excellent value for the price. If you're visiting Toronto for business or leisure, don’t miss this gem—it’s truly one of the best spots in the city.

Staying at Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton was an absolute highlight of my trip to Toronto. The hotel is brand new with a unique and stylish design that feels both modern and welcoming. The rooms are incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. Its central location is unbeatable—most attractions are just a short walk away, and public transit is super convenient. I did notice parking fees are on the higher side, but given the quality of the stay and the prime location, it’s worth it. Interestingly, weekend rates aren’t significantly different from weekday prices, which is a plus. Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value, excellent service, and a fantastic urban experience. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto.

Staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Toronto Downtown was an absolutely excellent experience. The surrounding area is quiet and very safe, making it a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the city. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—special mention to Carol, who went above and beyond with her warm and efficient service. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, well-prepared, and especially perfect for coffee lovers—the brew was rich, aromatic, and exactly what you’d want to start your day right. The freshly squeezed orange juice tasted authentic and refreshing. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring downtown Toronto, with easy access to public transit and major attractions. Comfortable rooms, great amenities, and top-notch hospitality make this a standout choice. I’ll definitely be returning.

The apartment offers an incredible view of the CN Tower and the entire city skyline—truly breathtaking. Located just a 2-minute walk from Union Street Station, it's also within easy reach of the Blue Jays stadium and the iconic CN Tower. The location is perfect for both sightseeing and exploring downtown. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto.

An ideal overnight stop in Toronto. We found the hotel easily enough after initially walking the wrong way from the station—classic tourist move. The room was spotless, cozy, and had that modern vibe I love. Plus, the building’s location is fantastic—right in the heart of dining options, so we never had to go far for a good meal. One minor quirk (if you can even call it that): the frosted glass bathroom door looks sleek and contemporary, but at 5 a.m. during jet lag, flipping on the light felt like summoning the sun itself—my husband woke up instantly, startled by what he thought was dawn breaking through the room. Hilarious, really! We ended up using our phone flashlights instead, which worked perfectly. Overall, this stay was excellent—great comfort, smart design, and a convenient location. Would absolutely recommend and come back again.

Staying at Hyatt Regency Toronto was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk or quick transit ride into downtown, making it super easy to explore restaurants, shops, and attractions. I was especially impressed by the beautiful fall views from my room, which added a peaceful, scenic touch to my stay. The staff were friendly and efficient, the rooms were clean and well-appointed, and everything felt thoughtfully designed. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a comfortable home away from home. I’d absolutely return here on my next trip to Toronto.

Absolutely recommend this hotel! Located right in the heart of Yorkville, it's incredibly convenient for exploring downtown Toronto—just a short walk to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The room was stylish and well-thought-out, with attention to small details that make a big difference, like the quality of linens and thoughtful touches throughout. The pool is compact but clean and inviting, especially in the evening when the lights come on—it creates such a relaxing vibe. The fitness center is modest in size but fully equipped and well-maintained, perfect for a quick workout. Staff at the front desk were friendly and efficient, and the valet service was seamless. With the location, amenities, and pricing, this place offers incredible value. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next trip to Toronto.

The Avalon Suites Yorkville is an absolute gem! The room matched the photos exactly, and being right in the heart of downtown Toronto makes it incredibly convenient for shopping at high-end boutiques nearby. I loved how easy it was to get around—just a short walk or quick subway ride away. With its great value, comfort, and prime location, this place exceeded my expectations. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto.

My stay at Fairmont Royal York Hotel was absolutely outstanding! From the moment I walked in, the service was impeccable—friendly, efficient, and genuinely attentive. The location couldn’t be better, just steps away from major attractions and downtown Toronto’s vibrant energy. The room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and incredibly comfortable, with a plush bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches throughout the hotel, like the complimentary welcome drink and the well-curated minibar. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, diverse, and delicious. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every level. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto. A true gem in the city!

Staying here was perfect for catching a Toronto Raptors game—right in the heart of downtown and just a short walk from the arena. The room itself was comfortable with a good bed, clean bathroom, and modern enough amenities. That said, some of the public areas do feel a bit dated, with older furnishings and decor. Parking is pricey at $60 CAD plus tax, but it’s valid until 2 AM the next day, which is helpful if you’re planning to stay late or leave later. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re visiting for sports or sightseeing, especially with the unbeatable location and great value for the convenience.
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