Frommer's Review
The old-fashioned grandeur of the Gladstone is visible even at a distance. The hotel first opened its doors in 1889, and its lovely Victorian red-brick structure has housed guests continuously since then. Gargoyles guard the exterior, while the interior is notable for its decorative archways and high ceilings. After a massive top-to-bottom renovation, the hotel relaunched itself as a chic place to stay in December 2005. One of its main attractions is in the design of its guest rooms. Each has been designed by a Canadian artist (most Toronto locals, though a couple of contributors hailed from Montréal and Nunavut). The rooms range from the film-noir setting of the "Parlour of Twilight," which channels the spirit of Raymond Chandler, to the riotous "Red Room," a sumptuous confection of color, pattern, and texture. The view from the "Rock Star Suite," located in the hotel's two-story tower, makes the downtown Toronto core look like a faraway metropolis.
The Gladstone's co-owner, Christina Zeidler, is an artist, so it's no surprise that the property is beloved by Toronto's arts community. The hotel uses its public spaces as a rotating art gallery, and it is famous for its Wednesday-night drawing classes. The Melody Bar is widely regarded as the best place in Toronto for karaoke.
One caveat about the Gladstone: If you're a light sleeper, this may not be the place for you. The hotel has its original windows -- which open to let air in -- but they have single-pane glass. Earplugs are provided on the nightstand, but since the Gladstone is situated near railway tracks, this may not afford enough peace and quiet for everyone's liking.
Facilities:
Restaurant; cafe; bar
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
