The Iron Block Building - A very tall building with a lot of holes on it
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The Iron Block Building

4.9
·10 reviews·Milwaukee, United States

A historic Toronto landmark, this iconic triangular building, once known as the 'Coffin Block,' is a photographer's delight.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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The Iron Block Building - A very tall building with a lot of holes on it

The Iron Block Building

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Toronto landmark, this iconic triangular building, once known as the 'Coffin Block,' is a photographer's delight.

4.9
(10 reviews)

"This is a beautiful historical building and a must see. Check it out!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Best Photo Spots

Wander to the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East for the classic view.

💡 Historical Context

Remember its original name, the 'Coffin Block,' for a unique historical perspective.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Flatiron Shape

The Iconic Flatiron Shape

Front facade

Marvel at the distinctive wedge shape that gives this building its famous nickname. A true architectural gem.

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Exterior

Appreciate a piece of Toronto's history, built in 1860 and a testament to enduring architecture.

Unique 'Coffin Block' Past

Unique 'Coffin Block' Past

Historical context

Uncover the intriguing original name and its resemblance to a funeral box, adding a layer of mystique.

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Planning Your Visit

A Toronto Icon's Hidden History

Discover the fascinating evolution of The Iron Block Building, from its original 'Coffin Block' moniker to its current iconic status. Learn about its 1860 origins and its 1890s transformation into the Flatiron Building.

Capturing the Perfect Shot

This unique triangular building offers incredible photo opportunities. Explore different angles and times of day to capture its architectural charm, especially from nearby vantage points.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Golden Hour
Why
Warm light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Day 25 of making an iron block until minecraft responds🤯😱#fyp #foil #Minecraft #day1 #xyzbca credits: @foilto.ball
@road2ironblock
57.4K likes • 1.2M views

📸 Best Photo Spots

Wander to the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East for the classic view. Instagram

💡 Historical Context

Remember its original name, the 'Coffin Block,' for a unique historical perspective. Instagram

Should I go back to girlironblock again?🤔#fyp #foil #Minecraft #day1 #xyzbca
@road2ironblock
35.5K likes • 905.3K views
Recognize this Toronto landmark? It is referred as The Flat iron or Gooderham building BUT did you know it was called The Coffin Block Building & that was the original building on this site? Reason being its resemblance to the end of a funeral box ⚰️ The building we know now replaced it in the 1890s, with the Gooderhams' Flatiron Building. And a less general shape reference to an iron commonly...
luvewantshop
27 likes • 1.4K views

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding historic Distillery District. Reddit

reddit.com

Advice on building around an iron farm?

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Best Photo Spots

Wander to the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East for the classic view. Instagram

💡 Historical Context

Remember its original name, the 'Coffin Block,' for a unique historical perspective. Instagram

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding historic Distillery District. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(10 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Iron Block Building as a beautiful and historically significant landmark in Toronto. Its unique architectural shape is a major draw, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the city. While some reviews are brief, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its aesthetic appeal and historical value.

"The Iron Block Building was built in 1860 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This is a beautiful historical building and a must see. Check it out!"

Cam Kay

"Dental Associates are pretty good."

prayagdeep parija

"Salvation Army Dog!😤"

shawn olsen

What People Like

Beautiful historical building
Iconic architectural shape
Must-see landmark

What People Dislike

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Iron Block Building is easily accessible by public transit. Take the streetcar to the Front Street East or Wellington Street East stops. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging in the area. Reddit

While there are some paid parking lots and street parking nearby, it can be limited and expensive, especially during peak hours. Consider public transport or ride-sharing services. Reddit

If you're staying in the downtown core, walking to The Iron Block Building is a pleasant option, allowing you to see more of the city's architecture. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Iron Block Building is an exterior landmark. You can view and photograph it from the street without needing any tickets. Instagram

As it's an exterior building, you can view it at any time of day or night. However, daytime offers the best light for photography. Instagram

There is no entrance fee as it's a historic building viewed from the outside. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset provides beautiful warm light that enhances the building's textures. Daytime offers clear views but can be harsher. Instagram

The most iconic shots are from the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East. Experiment with different perspectives from across the street. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas like Toronto. Always check Transport Canada guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Originally known as the 'Coffin Block Building' due to its shape, it was rebuilt and renamed the Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building) in the 1890s. It's a significant historical landmark. Instagram

The building is a prime example of late 19th-century commercial architecture, notable for its distinctive triangular shape. Instagram

The name 'Iron Block' likely refers to its construction materials and its prominent, solid appearance in the cityscape. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

The Iron Block Building is a dream for photographers. Its unique shape and historical significance offer endless creative possibilities. The classic view from the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East is a must-capture. Instagram Consider visiting during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting. Instagram Don't forget to explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Distillery District, for complementary shots. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ History Buffs

Delve into the rich history of The Iron Block Building. Originally known as the 'Coffin Block Building,' its transformation in the 1890s into the iconic Flatiron Building is a fascinating story of urban development. Instagram Appreciate its status as a historical landmark and a survivor of Toronto's architectural evolution. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of The Iron Block Building

The structure we recognize today as The Iron Block Building has a fascinating past. Originally, the site was occupied by a building known as the 'Coffin Block Building,' a name derived from its resemblance to the end of a coffin. This original structure was replaced in the 1890s by the current building, which became known as the Gooderham Building, often referred to as the Flatiron Building due to its shape. This transformation marks a significant period in Toronto's architectural development. Instagram

This iconic triangular building, constructed in 1860, stands as a testament to the city's growth and architectural ambition. Its unique design has made it a beloved landmark and a popular subject for photographers and tourists alike. The building's enduring presence highlights the importance of preserving historical architecture within a modern urban landscape. Instagram

Understanding its history, from the 'Coffin Block' to the 'Flatiron,' adds a deeper appreciation for this architectural marvel. It’s a piece of Toronto’s heritage that continues to capture the imagination and stand out against the city skyline. Instagram

Photography Guide for The Iron Block Building

Capturing the essence of The Iron Block Building is a must for any visitor. The most celebrated viewpoint is from the intersection of Front Street East and Wellington Street East, where the building's triangular form is most dramatic. This vantage point allows you to frame the entire structure against the sky or surrounding cityscape. Instagram

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The warm, soft light at these times can accentuate the building's textures and create a more inviting atmosphere. While daytime offers clear visibility, the light can be harsher, leading to stronger shadows. Instagram

Experiment with different focal lengths and angles. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the building in its context, while telephoto lenses can isolate architectural details. Don't forget to look for reflections in nearby windows or puddles after rain, which can add an artistic touch to your shots. Instagram

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