Fairmont Royal York

The Fairmont Royal York hotel in Toronto, Canada, opened in 1929 and has been delighting visitors ever since. At the time of its opening, it was the tallest building in the British Commonwealth. Many nearby buildings today surpass its height, but there's no denying its grandness and prestige. It's conveniently across the street from Union Station and near Scotiabank Arena, home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors. Visitors can access both via underground walkways.

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations have helped many visitors to Canada arrange stays at Fairmont Royal York. Several of our popular train trips include time at this iconic property. There's so much more to learn about this historic hotel. Discover more in our guide to the five-star Fairmont Royal York.

The Fairmont Royal York offers several types of accommodations, allowing guests to choose which best complements their needs and preferences. All suites and guest rooms showcase exceptional style with a focus on comfort, convenience, and design.

Three levels of rooms are available at the Fairmont Royal York. 

Fairmont Gold delivers VIP-level service to guests who reserve a Fairmont Gold Room, Fairmont Gold Suite, or Fairmont Gold Studio Suite on the designated Fairmont Gold floor. Some of the many perks include access to a private lounge and complimentary breakfast and afternoon canapés. 

Five types of suites — a Junior Suite, Luxury 1-bedroom Suite, 1-bedroom Suite, Luxury Executive Suite, and Executive Suite — are available to guests, with each featuring either one king, one queen, or two queen or king beds. Visitors also have a choice of four types of guest rooms: the Fairmont Room, Fairmont Luxury Room, Signature Room, or Deluxe Room. Features vary based on room type, but some standard amenities in Fairmont Royal York rooms include bathrobes, an automated mini bar, a hair dryer, and a television. 

Certain amenities, such as rollaway beds, cribs, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves, may be attainable, and guests can book connecting rooms depending on availability. There's a designated hypoallergenic floor, which guests must request to stay on in advance. There are also 12 accessible rooms for guests with disabilities, and a TTY is available for use. All televisions include closed captioning, and various other services are obtainable upon request. 

Guests have access to many amenities while staying at the Fairmont Royal York in Canada. The hotel is pet-friendly, but pets aren't allowed to be by themselves in the room. 

Check-in time is 4 p.m. or later, and check-out time is noon or before. Valet parking is available, and there's an EV charging station for those with electric vehicles. Guests can also take advantage of nearby self-parking. 

The Xerox Business Centre is open on weekdays for those who require its services. Laundry services, including garment pressing, are obtainable upon request, but ironing boards and irons are also in the rooms. 

Visitors can enjoy the fitness center and health club, which includes perks such as an indoor swimming pool. Numerous other shops and services are on the premises, including a shoe-shine kiosk, salon, spa, several dining options, and stores. An on-call doctor is also available when requested.

Certain activities and bookings at the Fairmont Royal York may result in extra fees and surcharges. For instance, certain rooms come with complimentary WiFi, while others require that guests pay for standard or premium Internet access. Some additional charges range from parking to pet fees. 

As the Fairmont Royal York always tries to cater to the needs and requests of guests, various accessibility features are obtainable. Typically, guests need to make these requests before making a reservation. 

Rooms for guests who have disabilities include accessibility features ranging from roll-in showers and bathroom grab bars to lowered thermostats and light switches. Assistive devices are available. Guests can also request a raised toilet in their accessible rooms and the use of a wheelchair from the hotel. A significant number of areas throughout the hotel are designed for accessibility, including the swimming pool, public entrance, and public restrooms. 

Allergy-free rooms are attainable on the hypoallergenic floor where animals aren't allowed. Guests must make this request before making Fairmont Royal York reservations. 

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Guests have a multitude of ways to enjoy fabulous food at the Fairmont Royal York. They can dine at Clockwork, the Library Bar, or REIGN, or take advantage of in-room dining. Keep an eye out for special themed pop-ups appearing for a short time during the holiday season and special holiday events and meals. 

1. Library Bar and Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails 

The Library Bar and Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails are two fabulous places to go right in the Fairmont Royal York when you want delicious drinks and food in stylish settings. Please note that reservations may be necessary. 

Open from noon to midnight every day, the Library Bar has prided itself on being part of the reinvention of the cocktail culture. Expect sophistication with a literary influence, as evidenced by the portrait of George Locke, who was the first ever Chief Librarian of Toronto. Make sure to try their signature drink, the Birdbath Martini. 

Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails is also open from noon to midnight daily, with afternoon tea from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. An art-deco-inspired elegant atmosphere awaits you. Try various themed beverages, such as the "Meet Me at the Clock," "Tick Tock," and "Time Out." 

2. Reign 

Reign at the Fairmont Royal York showcases its appreciation of French cuisine and Canada's food offerings. Depending on whether you're visiting the sustainable restaurant, bar, or bakery, Reign is open from 7 a.m. to midnight, with varying hours for each. A breakfast buffet is available, and other types of buffets may be offered throughout the year, such as during the holidays.

Several notable guests have graced the halls of the Fairmont Royal York. The hotel has had the pleasure of getting visits from icons that include Queen Elizabeth II, Eartha Kitt, James Brown, and many others.

There are no shortage of off-site local attractions and activities guests can do during their stay. Attend a game at the Scotiabank Arena, visit the Hockey Hall of Fame, go to an event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, explore the Fashion District, or visit the Royal Ontario Museum. Many more options are minutes away. 

[ Read: What to do in Toronto ]

Contact the concierge to learn more about any deals and discounts that may be available to guests who stay at Fairmont Royal York.

Guests love leaving reviews about the Fairmont Royal York. Some of the Fairmont Royal York reviews from Google include: 

• Joanna B. states: "Very easy access from airport via the train, literally across the road from the station. Grand, impressive and with friendly service. Nice pool and hot tub. Clockwork bar did great cocktails. Convenience store just around the corner for extra water and snacks, the minibar prices are as outrageous as you'd expect!" 
• M D explains: "Took a little trip to Toronto for the weekend. The place is luxurious, and the service is great. The location is pretty good if you like to walk or even catch an Uber. The train station is across from the hotel, which is convenient." 
• Kay states: "A pretty Meh experience! Great location, but other than that, you can definitely get more elsewhere for what they charge a night. Was put in a room with an adjoining room and could not get a good sleep as we could hear everything- like hear the actual conversations in the other room. And they charge for wifi?? In a luxury hotel? Just ridiculous. Not coming back here." 
• Oyetunde Olashile says: "Absolutely love the customer service in this hotel. I was there to stay for a few days, and I couldn't get enough of the luxury feel and the vintage aesthetics of this hotel. 100% recommend!" 

The Fairmont Royal York has various public areas and services, including four event rooms, that help provide guests a little extra magic, whether they're hosting an event at the hotel and/or staying as a guest. 

1. Wedding Services 

Four event rooms — the Imperial Room, Concert Hall, Ballroom, and Canadian Room — serve as lovely spaces to have a Fairmont Royal York wedding. Two wedding packages are proposed: The Imperial and The Royal. Both include a beverage package, and package enhancements are available for an added cost. Engagement and bridal shower packages are also offered. Contact the hotel for specific details about current promotions and packages brides-to-be and their entourage can peruse. 

2. Fitness Center and Health Club 

A Fairmont Royal York gym experience is one that's as invigorating and relaxing as you'd like it to be. The fitness center and health club offers sports facilities that can help you destress and keep up with your workout regimen. 

Steam rooms and saunas at the health club are a perfect way to relax. Another option is swimming in the indoor pool, where you can enjoy views through the skylight as you do your laps. You could also opt for the whirlpool, which stays at 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and children can utilize the wading pool. Locker facilities with complimentary towels are available for use. 

Guests who wish to use the fitness center have access to TechnoGym equipment and various other types of equipment ranging from pulley machines to stability balls. Those desiring a personal training session must first book an appointment. 

There are numerous other services on-site for guests wanting to pamper themselves. If you're looking for a Fairmont Royal York spa experience, there are multiple kinds of services available at Kalani Spa, including hot stone massages, facials, needleless acupuncture, and body treatments. The wellness spa is open Monday through Saturday. Enquire about their spa packages and signature packages. 

Visitors interested in options such as Botox, hand rejuvenation, or microneedling have access to the services at Skinjectables Cosmetic Clinic. The Men's Salon at the Fairmont Royal York is an option for those interested in a high-quality barbershop experience. 

3. Indoor Pool 

Using the Fairmont Royal York pool is an ideal way to clear your mind while getting exercise. Guests can use the 50-foot-long indoor pool that has a depth of 3.5 feet to 4.2 feet and stays at a consistent 82 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The facilities have changing rooms. 

Children 11 years old or younger who want to use the swimming pool or whirlpool can only do so if they have an adult accompanying them. Younger children must wear swim diapers. 

4. Valet Parking 

Guests opting for valet parking can go to the hotel's east entrance. Overnight parking, which includes in and out privileges, is 59 CAD per night. The event rate for valet parking is 42 CAD, and the restaurant rate (up to 3 hours) is 30 CAD. Guests who prefer to self-park have an option to do so at 79 Wellington Street. Vehicles must have a height that's less than 6'4" to qualify for Fairmont Royal York parking at the hotel. Ones with a height of 6'4" or above must utilize a nearby self-parking option, such as at 30 Bay Street or 66 Wellington Street. 

5. Safety Deposit Boxes 

Safety deposit boxes are available for use at Fairmont Royal York. Various secure storage options, including for luggage, may also be obtainable depending on availability. Contact the Fairmont Royal York before making a reservation if there are specific questions about security and safety features guests can utilize during their stay, such as for valuable items. 

From its proximity to many activities to the on-site amenities and features, the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto is a must-visit. The staff at this iconic five-star hotel goes out of their way to ensure every guest has the stay of a lifetime, including by helping you arrange off-site adventures. Excellent customer service and exceptional attention to detail are what make this Toronto hotel one worth visiting.