The Fairmont Royal York Hotel - Toronto, ON

I recently went for a tour of the famous Art Deco hotel, The Fairmont Royal York in Toronto. I'm ashamed to admit this, but even though I've lived in this city practically my whole life, before this recent visit, I have never actually been inside this gorgeous building.

I've walked/driven by it a million times but never ventured in. I finally decided it was time to visit this this über-glam wonder-of-architecture. Needless to say, I was not disappointed.

The walls, the floors, the ceilings all ooze luxury. Everything from the geometric-patterned carpets, to the mirrored elevator doors to the sparkling chandeliers is of fine Art Deco quality. Just walking through the spectacular Art Deco hotel lobby made me lose my breath!

The Royal York Hotel History

Original Advertising Poster for the Royal York Hotel

After several incarnations, the hotel as we know it today, first opened its doors on June 11, 1929.

At the time it was the tallest building in the British Commonwealth and drew the crème-de-la-crème of high society - royalty, actors, political leaders and the like.

It was a major attraction and Toronto's most prominent landmark. Its hospitality and guest services set the standard for all luxury hotels of the period.

The entire building was restored to its original Art Deco glory in the late 1980's and early 1990's and to this day it is considered to be one of the most spectacular examples of Art Deco architecture.