The Toronto Public Library – Toronto Reference Library isn’t just a place to read—it’s a temple of knowledge. With soaring ceilings, stunning glass skylights, and timeless wooden shelves, light floods in like poetry. Whether hunting a rare book or just letting ideas flow in silence, this inspiring space fuels creativity and curiosity, a true haven for book lovers and dreamers alike.

This 2024 award-winning hotel is the perfect choice for your Toronto getaway! Located in the heart of the city, just a 10-minute walk from the Exhibition Place and Ontario Place, it offers unbeatable convenience. Enjoy top-notch amenities like an indoor tennis court, 24-hour fitness club, and outdoor pool, or unwind with a relaxing spa massage. Traveling with kids? Take advantage of the kids' club and babysitting services. Dining options are plentiful, from poolside bars to 24-hour room service. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting centers and business center, making it ideal for both work and play.

This hotel is the epitome of luxury! Located in the heart of Toronto, it's just a 5-minute drive to the Rogers Centre and Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, seasonal outdoor pool, and three on-site restaurants with a poolside bar for relaxing drinks. Rooms are cozy and equipped with minibars, plasma TVs, and free WiFi. Business travelers will appreciate the business center and meeting spaces. Family-friendly? Absolutely, with a kids' play area and babysitting services. Plus, it's pet-friendly—your furry friends are welcome too!

This downtown Toronto hotel is absolutely fantastic! Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Ontario from your room, along with the luxurious Heavenly Bed and Bath for ultimate relaxation. The hotel offers indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and even rock climbing and bike rentals - perfect for families and adventurers. Business travelers will appreciate the 6,503 sq.ft event spaces, while weddings shine in the 2,323 sq.ft ballroom with expert planning support. Conveniently located just minutes from subway and bus stops, it's your ideal base to explore the city. Plus, it's pet-friendly - bring your furry friend along!

This hotel is the perfect choice in downtown Toronto! Just a 5-minute walk to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada and Rogers Centre, and close to the CN Tower. Enjoy indoor pools, hot tubs, and spa services for ultimate relaxation, or stay active at the fitness center and tennis courts. Traveling with kids? They offer childcare services and kids' meals. Dine at one of the 3 on-site restaurants, especially SOCO Kitchen + Bar for local flavors. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and 13 meeting rooms. The rooms are cozy with free WiFi and iPod docks, making it a home away from home!

This hotel is a prime spot in downtown Toronto, just 3 minutes’ walk to CF Toronto Eaton Centre and 6 minutes to Ryerson University—perfect for shopping and academia! Enjoy top-notch amenities like an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and hot tub for relaxation. Traveling with kids? The game room and kids’ meals have you covered. Business travelers will love the meeting rooms and executive lounge. Unwind at the bar or treat yourself to a spa massage. Rooms are cozy with smart TVs and luxury toiletries, making you feel right at home!




Everything you need to know about Toronto Public Library - Toronto Reference Library
Consider staying at Rosewood Toronto, a luxury hotel just a 5-minute walk from the Toronto Reference Library. Located in downtown Toronto’s vibrant core, it offers panoramic city views, an elegant rooftop pool, and a fine dining restaurant with skyline vistas. The property is ideal for travelers who wish to combine cultural exploration—like visiting the library—with urban comfort.
Another excellent option is The Addison Hotel, known for its modern design, free premium coffee, and proximity to the library. Both properties provide 24-hour concierge services and seamless access to major attractions such as Union Square and the Royal Ontario Museum via public transit. Whether you're here for research, leisure, or city life, these hotels blend intellectual ambiance with refined hospitality, enhancing your Toronto experience with style and convenience.
From the Toronto Reference Library, a 5-minute walk to Queen Street connects you to multiple TTC subway lines, including the Yonge-University Line (Line 1). In under 3 minutes, you can reach Union Station, where transfers lead directly to top destinations like CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Bay Street shopping district.
For faster access, take the 501 Queen Streetcar, which runs along Yonge Street and stops near major business hubs and entertainment zones. Alternatively, use bike-sharing stations or electric scooters located outside the library for short, eco-friendly trips.
Walking is also a great option—just a 10-minute stroll leads to City Hall, St. Lawrence Market, and Old City Hall, showcasing Toronto’s blend of historic architecture and urban green spaces. This route offers a scenic, immersive journey through the city’s cultural heart.
Beyond exploring the vast collections at the Toronto Reference Library, visitors can enjoy vibrant cultural events in the surrounding area. The Robson Square plaza hosts seasonal outdoor film screenings and community concerts during summer months, drawing crowds for lively, open-air entertainment.
Nearby, St. Lawrence Church regularly features classical music performances and art exhibitions, showcasing its stunning Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows. Just a 10-minute walk away, St. Lawrence Market opens daily at dawn, offering local favorites like French baguettes, maple syrup treats, and fresh Ontario produce—perfect for sampling authentic Toronto flavors.
The library itself also hosts regular events such as author talks, children’s story hours, and digital creators workshops, making it ideal for families and book lovers seeking interactive engagement. These experiences seamlessly blend knowledge, art, and community spirit, highlighting Toronto’s identity as a dynamic cultural hub.
Yes, staying near the Toronto Reference Library provides exceptional access to major museums. A 10-minute walk takes you to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), one of North America’s most visited institutions, featuring Egyptian artifacts, natural history exhibits, and Indigenous art.
A 5-minute subway ride on Line 1 (Yonge-University) reaches both the Canada Science and Technology Museum and the Art Gallery of Toronto, located within the city’s cultural corridor. These venues showcase everything from industrial-era machinery to contemporary visual arts.
Additionally, the Art Gallery of Ontario and Toronto Aquarium are easily accessible via Line 1 or dedicated shuttle buses, situated along Lake Ontario’s scenic waterfront. Free Wi-Fi hotspots and tourist information kiosks are available nearby, offering maps and discounted tickets to help streamline your museum itinerary.
Whether interested in history, science, or art, these institutions form a dense network of knowledge-rich attractions around the library—creating a true cultural nexus where exploration and discovery unfold with minimal transit effort.
The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is just a 5-minute walk from the Toronto Public Library, offering luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the city skyline. The hotel features an indoor pool, fitness center, and direct access to Union Station and Rogers Centre, making it ideal for both business travelers and tourists.
Another top choice is Marriott Toronto Downtown, located just south of the library, with modern rooms, excellent meeting facilities, and easy access to major attractions. Both hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and a prime location within walking distance of restaurants, art galleries, and cultural venues.
Besides the Toronto Public Library itself, St. James Cathedral Library offers a quiet, historic reading space with rare archives and manuscript collections. Nearby, CBC Building Café features dedicated workstations with power outlets and high-speed Wi-Fi—perfect for remote workers or students.
Duke’s Lounge, a sophisticated lounge bar adjacent to the library, provides cozy nooks, book-sharing sections, and hosts regular literary salons. These venues combine accessibility, ambiance, and intellectual engagement, reflecting Toronto’s reputation as a hub for culture, knowledge, and creative exchange.
From the Toronto Public Library, a 10-minute walk leads to Union Station, where you can catch GO Transit or TTC subway lines to major sites like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Royal Ontario Museum. The Queen's Park Station (on the Yonge-University Line) is directly across the street, providing quick access to City Hall and the Ontario Legislature.
For a scenic route, rent a Bike Share Toronto bike and ride along Bay Street west toward Financial District or Queen Street south to Trinity Bellwoods Park. Along the way, enjoy vibrant street art, iconic architecture, and lively neighborhood vibes—ideal for exploring Toronto’s urban landscape at your own pace.
The Toronto Public Library area hosts a vibrant cultural scene. Each summer, Harbourfront Square features the International Book Fair and Poetry Reading Festival, drawing authors and readers worldwide. Just across the street, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) showcases contemporary art and Indigenous exhibitions, including interactive children’s zones.
During Toronto Book Week in spring, the library partners with local bookstores for author talks, signings, and literary events. Additionally, the Toronto Literary Foundation organizes “Night Read” gatherings under the stars, celebrating classic literature in an open-air setting. These programs highlight Toronto’s status as a dynamic cultural hub, blending education, creativity, and community engagement.
Hyatt Regency Toronto is an excellent choice for families, located just an 8-minute walk from the Toronto Public Library. It offers spacious family rooms, kids’ play areas, and 24-hour room service. The hotel features an indoor pool, game room, and amenities like cribs and child-friendly meals.
Marriott Toronto Downtown also provides family suites and curated kid-friendly tours. Nearby attractions such as the Ontario Science Centre and Toronto Children’s Museum are within a 30-minute walk, perfect for parent-child outings. Both hotels are close to TTC subway stations, ensuring convenient access to cultural and natural landmarks—ideal for stress-free family travel in Toronto.
The Toronto Public Library itself is a stunning example of modernist architecture, featuring a glass dome and marble atrium—perfect for architectural and portrait photography. Shoot during early morning or golden hour to capture sunlight streaming through the dome, creating dramatic lighting effects.
Just east of the library, Harbourfront Square offers lush lawns, waterfront views, and rotating art installations. Pair the scene with the distant CN Tower for a striking cityscape shot. Don’t miss the sculpture garden and glass pavilion at the Art Gallery of Ontario, which provide unique textures and reflections ideal for creative photography. These spots blend nature, design, and urban life—showcasing Toronto’s visual appeal.
See what other travelers say about Toronto Public Library - Toronto Reference Library

Staying at Hotel X Toronto, a Destination by Hyatt was an excellent experience from start to finish. The room offered stunning views, and the 28th-floor Japanese restaurant delivered both delicious food and breathtaking cityscapes—perfect for a memorable dinner. The front desk staff were warm and helpful, making check-in smooth and welcoming. What really stood out was how close the hotel is to the Coca-Cola Coliseum—ideal for concerts or events, with easy access whether walking or using public transit. The location, comfort, and service all hit the mark. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Toronto who values convenience and quality.

My entire stay was fantastic! The check-in process was seamless and effortless. I was pleasantly surprised with a room upgrade to one featuring a balcony—though the view wasn’t much to write home about (just a glass facade above, so you’re mostly looking up). Still, the space felt spacious and well-designed. The room itself was incredibly comfortable, especially the bed—perfect for a good night’s sleep. The hotel boasts heated floors, but despite leaving the feature on for about 30 minutes, I didn’t notice any difference in temperature. That said, it didn’t detract from the overall experience. The ambiance is modern and calming, staff were attentive without being intrusive, and the location makes exploring downtown Toronto easy—just a short walk or quick transit ride away. For the quality, comfort, and service, this place truly delivers. Definitely coming back.

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.

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto is brand new with stunning views and a very welcoming atmosphere. The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to assist—whether it’s for water or any other request, they’re prompt and warm. Breakfast quality is solid overall, though I noticed there were no vegetables and the variety was quite limited compared to other Marriott properties we’ve stayed at. Still, it’s one of the best locations for travelers relying on public transit—just a short walk from the train station and the bus stop heading to Niagara Falls. This convenience alone makes it our top pick for this trip, especially when considering value and location. Highly recommend for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize easy access to transportation.

Staying at this hotel was easily the highlight of my trip to Toronto. Located right in the heart of downtown, it’s just steps away from major attractions and shopping spots—perfect for exploring on foot. What truly stood out was the front desk staff: a young Chinese gentleman who went above and beyond. I arrived late, but he warmly welcomed me, proactively arranged a quiet, high-floor room, and even offered bottled water—so thoughtful and welcoming. Unfortunately, I spent most of my weekend out exploring, so I didn’t get to fully enjoy the hotel amenities. Still, I’m already planning my return visit. This place offers an unbeatable combination of location, service, and comfort—highly recommend for anyone visiting Toronto.

Staying at the Courtyard Toronto Downtown was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of the city with a subway station just steps away. There are countless restaurants and cafes around, offering everything from local favorites to international cuisine. It’s only a 10-15 minute walk to Eaton Centre, IKEA, and the University of Toronto—perfect for exploring or commuting. The room was spacious, the bed comfortable, and the breakfast spread was generous and delicious. The only minor downside was occasional sirens from emergency vehicles late at night, but it didn’t ruin the experience. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value, convenience, and comfort—highly recommend for anyone visiting downtown Toronto.

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!
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