Gooderham Building, Toronto - cars on road near high rise buildings during daytime
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Gooderham Building Toronto

4.7
·1k reviews·Toronto, Canada

Toronto's iconic redbrick flatiron building, a stunning piece of late Victorian architecture offering unique photographic opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for photos

CrowdLow
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Gooderham Building, Toronto - cars on road near high rise buildings during daytime

Gooderham Building Toronto

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Toronto's iconic redbrick flatiron building, a stunning piece of late Victorian architecture offering unique photographic opportunities.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A must-see architectural gem in Toronto, perfect for photos and soaking in the city's historic charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Head to the intersection of Bay St & Front St W for the classic mirror selfie with the CN Tower .

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Mural Side

Don't miss the trompe-l'oeil mural on the south-facing side for a different perspective .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Flatiron Facade

The Flatiron Facade

Wellington Street East & Front Street West

The striking redbrick, wedge-shaped building is a must-see architectural marvel.

Trompe-l'oeil Mural

Trompe-l'oeil Mural

South-facing side

Discover a hidden gem: a realistic mural that adds an artistic touch to the building's side.

Surrounding Streetscape

Surrounding Streetscape

Intersection of Wellington St E & Front St W

Enjoy the unique perspective from the intersection, offering unobstructed views of the building.

Planning Your Visit

Capture the Iconic View

The Gooderham Building, often called the Flatiron Building, is a Toronto icon. For the best photos, aim for the intersection of Wellington Street East and Front Street West. Be mindful of traffic signals, as one Reddit user noted the intersection can be a bit chaotic.Reddit

Understand the Building's Purpose

This historic redbrick building, constructed in 1892, houses various offices. While its unique shape is the main draw, knowing it's a working building helps manage expectations for interior access.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on brick
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

if you’re visiting and want a mirror selfie with the CN tower go here ! 📍Bay St & Front St W #toronto #cntower
@gabricait
157.8K likes • 1.4M views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Head to the intersection of Bay St & Front St W for the classic mirror selfie with the CN Tower.TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Mural Side

Don't miss the trompe-l'oeil mural on the south-facing side for a different perspective.Reddit

It feels good to be appreciated 🥰. Thank you for the love @Freshdaily Toronto ❤️❤️❤️ #berczypark #oldtowntoronto #oldtoronto #stlawrencemarket #stlawrencemarketneighbourhood #torontok #torontolife
@oldtowntoronto
43.1K likes • 1.3M views
This is the best way to spend $10 in Toronto. You HAVE to go on this ferry ride. You can buy tickets online or at the Jack layton ferry terminal, the ferry can take you to Wards island, centre island ...
@lifewidmuskan
41.9K likes • 783K views

🚦 Mind the Traffic

The intersection can be busy; be aware of crossing signals and traffic.Reddit

🏢 Building's Purpose

It's primarily an office building, so interior access is limited.Reddit

reddit.com

The Gooderham Building, also known as the Flatiron Building

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Head to the intersection of Bay St & Front St W for the classic mirror selfie with the CN Tower.TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Mural Side

Don't miss the trompe-l'oeil mural on the south-facing side for a different perspective.Reddit

🚦 Mind the Traffic

The intersection can be busy; be aware of crossing signals and traffic.Reddit

🏢 Building's Purpose

It's primarily an office building, so interior access is limited.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Gooderham Building for its unique architecture and iconic status in Toronto. Its distinctive flatiron shape and redbrick facade make it a must-see for photographers and tourists alike. While the building itself is primarily offices, its exterior charm and the surrounding vibrant area, including nearby St. Lawrence Market, contribute to a positive overall experience.

"A nice old- looking building in Canada Toronto’s downtown area!! When I was in there, it was under the construction, and with my personal experience of directly seeing this building, this building looked very old. ( about late 19th century styled….) for sure…. 👍:);):) also, there is a nice gravity -styled art style in the behold part of the Gooderham building too!!!"

is it who

"A Remarkable Experience at the Gooderham Building

I had the pleasure of visiting the iconic Gooderham Building last weekend, and I was thoroughly impressed by its historical significance and stunning architecture. As one of Toronto's most recognizable landmarks, this building, often referred to as the "Flatiron Building," offers a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage.

The moment you approach the building, its unique triangular shape and ornate design immediately capture your attention, making it a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture. The surrounding area, with its charming streets and bustling atmosphere, further enhances the experience, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

The view from the building's vantage point is absolutely breathtaking, providing a picturesque panorama of the city’s skyline and surrounding neighborhoods. Whether you’re visiting for the architecture or simply to enjoy the scenery, the Gooderham Building offers an unforgettable experience.

Overall, the Gooderham Building is a true testament to Toronto's architectural legacy and is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. It stands as a timeless symbol of the city's growth and cultural history, and I highly recommend taking the time to explore this iconic landmark."

Shaqline Mostak

"“A beautifully preserved old building with timeless charm and character. Its history and craftsmanship make it a standout in the area!”"

TONY SHAJI

What People Like

Iconic flatiron shape
Beautiful redbrick facade
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Busy intersection
Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gooderham Building is easily accessible by public transit. Take the streetcar to the King St E at Bay St stop or the subway to King Station and walk a few blocks east. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging in the area.TikTok

While there are parking garages nearby, they can be expensive. Street parking is limited. Many visitors opt for public transit or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.TikTok

The most popular way to view the Gooderham Building is from the intersection of Wellington Street East and Front Street West, offering a clear view of its iconic shape.Reddit

Yes, you can walk around the exterior of the building. Be mindful of traffic, especially at the busy intersection.Reddit

Absolutely! The Gooderham Building is well-served by the TTC. Several streetcar lines run nearby, and it's a short walk from King subway station.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, viewing the exterior of the Gooderham Building is free. You can admire its architecture from the surrounding streets.Reddit

The Gooderham Building is primarily an office building, so public access to the interior is generally not permitted. You can see the British-style pub located within.Reddit

As it's an office building, there are no specific 'opening hours' for public viewing. You can view the exterior at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.Reddit

There is no admission fee to see the Gooderham Building from the outside. It's a public landmark that can be enjoyed by all.

You can find historical information online through Toronto's heritage sites or by visiting local libraries. The building's unique architecture and history are well-documented.

📸 📸 Photography

The intersection of Wellington Street East and Front Street West offers the most iconic view. For a unique shot, try capturing it with the CN Tower in the background.TikTok

Experiment with different angles! The south side features a trompe-l'oeil mural, offering a different photographic opportunity.Reddit Looking out from the building also provides a unique perspective.Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the redbrick. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded for unobstructed shots.Reddit

Drone usage in Toronto is subject to strict regulations. It's best to check Transport Canada's guidelines and local bylaws before attempting any drone photography in the area.

For general shots, a wide-angle lens is useful. Consider aperture priority mode to control depth of field and a tripod for low-light conditions or sharper images.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a British-style pub located within the Gooderham Building, offering a place to grab a bite or a drink.Reddit

The Gooderham Building is close to the St. Lawrence Market, which offers a vast array of food vendors. You'll also find numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding Distillery District and Old Town Toronto areas.

The St. Lawrence Market is a great spot for affordable eats. Many casual eateries and cafes in the Old Town area also offer reasonably priced meals.

You can find a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional pub fare and international dishes to quick bites and gourmet options, especially near St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery District.

Reviews for the pub inside the building are mixed. While convenient, many suggest exploring the wider culinary scene around St. Lawrence Market for more variety and potentially better value.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gooderham Building itself is more of an architectural sight than an interactive experience for young children. However, its location near the St. Lawrence Market makes it a great stop on a family outing. Kids might enjoy the novelty of the building's shape and the trompe-l'oeil mural.Reddit

Consider combining a visit with a trip to the nearby Sugar Beach or a walk through the Distillery District, which offer more engaging activities for families. The market itself provides plenty of food options that cater to picky eaters, making it a convenient spot for lunch or snacks.TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Gooderham Building is a dream. The iconic wedge shape is best captured from the intersection of Wellington and Front Streets.TikTok Experiment with different times of day to see how the light plays on the redbrick – golden hour is particularly magical.Reddit

Don't forget the mural side for a unique shot.Reddit While the building is primarily offices, the surrounding streets offer plenty of vantage points. Be prepared for urban elements like traffic lights and pedestrians, which can add to the city vibe or be avoided with careful framing.

🚶‍♀️ Urban Explorers & History Buffs

The Gooderham Building is a piece of Toronto's history, built in 1892. Its unique architectural design and its nickname, the Flatiron Building, make it a fascinating subject for urban explorers.Reddit Take time to appreciate its late Victorian style and imagine the city as it was when this landmark was erected.

Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby St. Lawrence Market or the historic Distillery District to immerse yourself in Toronto's past. Understanding that it's an active office building means interior access is limited, but the exterior tells a compelling story of the city's development.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Gooderham Building, completed in 1892, is a prime example of late Victorian commercial architecture in Toronto. Its distinctive wedge shape was a result of the triangular plot of land it occupies, a common feature for buildings designed to fit awkward urban spaces, earning it the nickname Flatiron Building.Reddit The use of red brick and intricate detailing is characteristic of its era, making it a beloved landmark and a popular subject for photographers and architecture enthusiasts.

Its design was innovative for its time, maximizing usable space on a challenging corner. The building's enduring appeal lies not just in its form but also in its historical context, representing a period of significant growth and development in Toronto. It stands as a testament to the city's architectural heritage and continues to be a focal point for urban exploration.Reddit

While the exterior is the main attraction, the building also houses offices and a pub, integrating it into the daily life of the city. Its presence adds character to the streetscape and serves as a visual anchor in the downtown core.

Photography Tips & Tricks

Capturing the Gooderham Building effectively requires understanding its best angles and lighting. The most iconic view is from the intersection of Wellington Street East and Front Street West, where the building's triangular form is most dramatic.TikTok For a unique perspective, consider the trompe-l'oeil mural on the south-facing side, which adds an unexpected artistic element.Reddit

Timing is crucial for photography. Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. However, the golden hour in the late afternoon can bathe the redbrick in a warm, inviting light, creating stunning images. Be prepared for busy traffic at the intersection; patience and awareness are key.Reddit

Experiment with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens can capture the entire building and its surroundings, while a telephoto lens can isolate details or frame it with other city elements, like the CN Tower.TikTok Remember to check local regulations if considering drone photography, as it is restricted in many urban areas.

Navigating the Intersection

The Gooderham Building is situated at a busy intersection, which can be both a photographic opportunity and a minor challenge. Reddit users have noted that the crossing signals can be ill-timed, making it a bit of a 'mess' to navigate.Reddit This means pedestrians should be extra vigilant and aware of their surroundings when crossing the street to get the best views or photos.

Despite the traffic, the intersection provides an unobstructed view of the building, free from many of the usual urban clutter like garbage bins or parking signs that can detract from a clear shot.Reddit This makes it a prime location for capturing the building's unique architecture. Visitors are advised to be patient and use designated crosswalks.

Some locals suggest that certain periods, especially during summer construction, can make the intersection even more chaotic.Reddit Planning your visit during off-peak hours or being prepared for a bit of urban bustle will enhance your experience.

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