This lovely Victorian redbrick hotel, opened in 1889, is the longest continually operating hotel in the city. Those first guests probably wouldn’t know what to make of the arty offerings of the Gladstone today. When artist Christina Zeidler and her architecturally inclined family (her father, Eb, designed the Eaton Centre and Ontario Place) took over in 2005, they transformed the place while preserving its heritage features, including the charming birdcage elevator. The hip public rooms are now a hive of cultural activity, with offerings ranging from burlesque shows to indie bands, and the Melody Bar hosts the city’s most colorful karaoke. No two rooms here are alike; artists have been given free reign over the decor. Epicureans will love Bob Blumer’s food-decorated suite, outfitted with images of doughnuts, the Pillsbury DoughBoy, and Mr. Peanut as well as a mini kitchen quipped with a bar set and panini press; while pointillists will love Leif Harmsen’s Pixel Ceiling. If contemporary art isn’t your thing, the Victorian Billio room, furnished with the Gladstone’s original antiques, might be a perfect fit. Note: If you’re a light sleeper, this may not be the place for you.