Gladstone Hotel

Toronto’s longest operating hotel has come a long way from the days the Royal Winter Fair touted it “the only safe place for one's great aunt to stay alone.” Built in 1889, the west Toronto landmark went from skid row to arts and music hotspot after a renovation in 2008. Each one of the hotel’s 37 rooms has been designed by a different artist, a nod to creativity that is also reflected in the three gallery spaces on premise that host a revolving door of exhibitions. The hotel has hung on hard to its roots, preserving the original Victorian floor plans and interior architecture. There’s even an antique elevator, although the stairs often prove faster. The Melody Bar hosts a variety of events, live music acts and karaoke sessions weekly. Food wise, the popular Harvest Wednesdays brings together menus inspired by Ontario’s growing season, featuring local meats, cheese, wines and beers. From $229 per night.