Old City Hall
1 / 10

Old City Hall

4.8
·17 reviews·Tacoma, United States

A stunning Romanesque Revival architectural gem, Old City Hall offers a glimpse into civic history with its grand arches and iconic clock tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons (11 AM - 3 PM)

Rare public access days

CrowdMedium
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Old City Hall

Old City Hall

Best Time

Summer afternoons (11 AM - 3 PM)

Rare public access days

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Romanesque Revival architectural gem, Old City Hall offers a glimpse into civic history with its grand arches and iconic clock tower.

4.8
(17 reviews)

"This building is absolutely gorgeous! Such a wasted shame, and typical of city governments."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Access Dates

Public access is limited to specific summer hours. Plan ahead to catch these rare openings!

📸 Photography Paradise

The stunning architecture is a dream for photographers. Capture the grand arches and detailed stonework.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Romanesque Revival Architecture

Romanesque Revival Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the grand arches, detailed stonework, and imposing clock tower of this 1899 architectural gem.

Historic Clock Tower

Historic Clock Tower

Exterior

Gaze up at the impressive 103-meter tall clock tower, a defining feature of the Toronto skyline.

Courtyard Ambiance

Courtyard Ambiance

Courtyard

Enjoy lunch or a moment of peace in the charming courtyard, a hidden oasis within the city.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Old City Hall

Old City Hall in Toronto offers rare public access during specific summer hours. Check for special event dates to explore its historic halls and courtyard. Avoid peak summer weekends for a more relaxed experience.

Understanding Old City Hall's Dual Identity

While known for its stunning architecture, Old City Hall in Toronto now functions as a courthouse. Some locations, like Duluth's Old City Hall, house unique bars in former holding cells. Always check current access policies before visiting.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons (11 AM - 3 PM)
Why
Rare public access days
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays outside peak season
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you know that the Stadium Hogh School stadium bowl was once best known as “Old Woman’s Gulch” and served as a widows retirement, community of sorts? That is until the failed hotel project was converted into a public high school and the city of Tacoma decided to evict all the widows and turn their shantytown into the greatest stadium on the West Coast. #w#wah#Historyg#ghosts#stadiumhighp#pnwW#W...
@prettygrittytours
6.2K likes • 67.2K views

🎯 Check Access Dates

Public access is limited to specific summer hours. Plan ahead to catch these rare openings! Instagram

📸 Photography Paradise

The stunning architecture is a dream for photographers. Capture the grand arches and detailed stonework. Instagram+1

This Summer Old City Hall is opening their doors from 11-3 for visitors to wander the halls and take photos. You can have lunch in their courtyard as well! #visittoronto #toronto #oldcityhall
visittorontophotos
21 likes • 728 views
🇨🇦Step inside Toronto’s Old City Hall ~a rare glimpse into a historic landmark! 🏛️Completed in 1899; served as Toronto’s city hall until 1966. ✍️Designed by E.J. Lennox in Romanesque Revival style. 🧱Features grand arches, detailed stonework. 🕰️Notable for its 103-meter tall clock tower. ⚖️ Now functions as a courthouse. ⛳️One of Toronto’s key historic and architectural landmarks. 📍Toronto Old C...
16.priya.das
1.7K likes • 118.9K views

🏛️ Beyond Toronto

Discover other historic Old City Halls, like Duluth's with its unique basement bar. Instagram

✨ Architectural Marvel

Appreciate the Romanesque Revival style, a true landmark of its era. Instagram

Located in the basement of the Old City Hall in Duluth, MN, @the_rathskeller is a unique place to grab a drink. The historic space was initially a holding cell for the municipal court one floor above when the building was the center of city government from 1889-1926. There are rumors that the location served as a speakeasy during prohibition. The bar in its current state opened in 2012. #duluth...
kristeninmn
2.7K likes • 87.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Access Dates

Public access is limited to specific summer hours. Plan ahead to catch these rare openings! Instagram

📸 Photography Paradise

The stunning architecture is a dream for photographers. Capture the grand arches and detailed stonework. Instagram+1

🏛️ Beyond Toronto

Discover other historic Old City Halls, like Duluth's with its unique basement bar. Instagram

✨ Architectural Marvel

Appreciate the Romanesque Revival style, a true landmark of its era. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(17 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Old City Hall for its stunning and gorgeous architecture, particularly its Romanesque Revival style, grand arches, and clock tower. Many express a desire for the building to be better utilized, viewing its current state as a missed opportunity. The building is recognized as a significant landmark, especially in Tacoma, with anticipation for its renovations.

"This building is absolutely gorgeous!
Why isn’t it being used by the city for housing or retail space???
Such a wasted shame, and typical of city governments."

Lisa Fagan

"Tacoma's most unique building, I can't wait to visit when they finish the renovations."

Baby Inuyasha

"The Old City Hall was built in 1893 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This is a beautiful building and a must see. Check it out!!"

Cam Kay

What People Like

Gorgeous architecture
Historic landmark
Impressive clock tower

What People Dislike

Underutilized space
Renovation delays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old City Hall is centrally located in downtown Toronto. It's easily accessible via public transit, with numerous streetcar and subway lines nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking can be challenging and expensive in the downtown core. Instagram+1

The Old City Hall in Tacoma is undergoing renovations. While exterior views are available, interior access might be limited. Check their official channels for updates on public access post-renovation. Instagram

Yes, the Old City Hall in Duluth now houses a unique bar called The Rathskeller in its former basement holding cells. It's a great spot to grab a drink and soak in the history. Instagram

Indeed, Vienna has an 'Altes Rathaus' (Old City Hall) dating back to the 14th century. It was the center of Viennese civic life for centuries and can still be visited. Instagram

The Knights Halls in Old Akko, often referred to in relation to historic city halls, are best reached by walking through the Old City of Akko. Public transport to Akko is available, and then it's a short walk to the historic sites. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Typically, Old City Hall in Toronto functions as a courthouse, so general public access is limited. However, during specific summer periods, they open their doors for visitors to explore the halls and courtyard. Keep an eye on their official announcements for these dates. Instagram

When open for public tours, Old City Hall in Toronto is usually accessible from 11 AM to 3 PM. These are special access days, so confirm the exact dates and times before your visit. Instagram

During the limited public access periods, there is generally no entrance fee for Old City Hall in Toronto. It's a chance to experience the historic landmark for free. Instagram

Old City Hall in Tacoma is undergoing renovations. They have partnered with tour groups for exclusive pre-opening tours, so keep an eye on their social media for opportunities to win or book such experiences. Instagram

As Old City Hall in Toronto also serves as a courthouse, visitors should be aware of security protocols. When open for tours, standard visitor guidelines for historic buildings apply. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside Toronto's Old City Hall, you can admire its grand arches, intricate stonework, and the impressive clock tower's interior mechanisms if accessible. The building's Romanesque Revival design is a highlight. Instagram

Information on wheelchair accessibility for Old City Hall in Toronto, especially during limited public access, can be limited. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility details. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside Old City Hall during public access days, allowing you to capture its stunning architectural details. However, always check for any specific photography rules in place. Instagram+1

The Old City Hall in Duluth is unique because its basement, once a holding cell, now houses The Rathskeller, a bar with a rumored speakeasy past. It offers a distinct historical drinking experience. Instagram

Old City Hall in Toronto, completed in 1899, served as the city's seat of government until 1966 and is a prime example of Romanesque Revival architecture. It's a key historic landmark. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, during its summer public access hours, you can have lunch in the courtyard of Old City Hall in Toronto. It's a lovely way to experience the historic ambiance. Instagram

Old City Hall in Toronto is located in a vibrant downtown area with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a wide range of culinary choices. Instagram

The Rathskeller, located in the basement of Duluth's Old City Hall, offers drinks and likely pub-style fare, capitalizing on its historic and somewhat clandestine atmosphere. Instagram

While there was a mention of a failed hotel project in Tacoma's Old City Hall, it's unclear if any dining facilities are currently operational as part of its renovation. Check local listings for updates. TikTok

The Old City of Akko, including areas around the Knights Halls, offers various dining experiences, from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to cafes, providing a taste of local flavors. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, with its grand facade and clock tower, is a prime photo spot. Inside, focus on the detailed stonework, arches, and the overall architectural grandeur. The courtyard also offers charming shots. Instagram+1

For exteriors, use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale. Inside, a prime lens with a wide aperture is great for low light. Consider a tripod for stable shots, especially in dimly lit areas. Instagram

Look for the intricate carvings, the symmetry of the arches, and the play of light and shadow on the stonework. The clock tower is an iconic element to frame. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting on the exterior. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing interior details if light is coming through windows. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historic buildings due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Old City Hall can be an engaging experience for families, especially during the summer when public access is granted. The grand architecture and the impressive clock tower are sure to capture children's imaginations. Instagram Consider making it a part of a larger downtown Toronto exploration, perhaps combining it with a visit to a nearby park or museum. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options inside might be limited to the courtyard during open days. Instagram

For families visiting other Old City Hall locations, like Duluth, the unique setting of The Rathskeller (while perhaps more suited for older teens or adults) offers a quirky historical anecdote. Instagram Always check the specific accessibility and age policies for any venue before planning your family outing to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Old City Hall is a photographer's dream, offering stunning Romanesque Revival architecture with its intricate stonework and imposing clock tower. Instagram+1 During public access days in Toronto, focus on capturing the grand arches, the detailed facades, and the play of light and shadow. The courtyard provides a more intimate setting for shots. Instagram

Experiment with different angles and lenses to showcase the building's scale and detail. Consider visiting during the golden hour for the most dramatic lighting on the exterior. Instagram For those exploring other Old City Halls, like the one in Duluth, the unique basement bar offers a different, moodier photographic opportunity. Instagram Remember to always be respectful of the building's function, especially if it's an active courthouse or undergoing renovations.

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Old City Hall represents a tangible link to the past. In Toronto, understanding its role as the city's former seat of government until 1966 provides context for the building's significance. Instagram The Romanesque Revival style itself is a historical marker, reflecting the era's architectural aspirations. Instagram

Exploring other Old City Halls, like Vienna's centuries-old 'Altes Rathaus,' offers a deeper dive into civic history. Instagram The stories behind these buildings, from their construction to their evolution, offer rich narratives. Whether it's the rumored speakeasy past of Duluth's Old City Hall or the ongoing transformation of Tacoma's, these sites are living history lessons waiting to be discovered.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance of Old City Hall

Old City Hall in Toronto, completed in 1899, is a magnificent example of Romanesque Revival architecture, designed by E.J. Lennox. Its defining features include grand arches, detailed stonework, and a prominent 103-meter tall clock tower that dominates the skyline. The building served as Toronto's city hall until 1966 and is now a functioning courthouse, preserving its historical grandeur while serving modern civic needs. Its robust design and intricate ornamentation reflect the architectural trends of the late 19th century, making it a significant landmark. Instagram

Beyond Toronto, other cities boast their own 'Old City Halls' with unique histories. Duluth, Minnesota's Old City Hall features a basement bar, The Rathskeller, located in what were once municipal court holding cells, hinting at a colorful past that may include prohibition-era speakeasy activities. Instagram Tacoma, Washington's Old City Hall, a beautiful red brick building with a clock tower, is a notable landmark undergoing renovations, with plans to repurpose it. Instagram These varied examples highlight how these historic civic buildings have evolved, from centers of government to unique cultural and commercial spaces.

The historical context of these buildings is crucial to understanding their appeal. For instance, Vienna's 'Altes Rathaus' (Old City Hall) dates back to the 14th century and was the heart of the city for over 500 years. Instagram These structures are not just buildings; they are repositories of civic memory and architectural heritage, offering a tangible connection to the past for visitors and residents alike.

Experiencing Old City Hall: Beyond the Facade

While Old City Hall in Toronto is primarily a courthouse, it offers rare opportunities for public exploration during specific summer hours. Visitors can wander through its historic halls and enjoy the courtyard, making it a unique chance to appreciate its architectural splendor up close. Instagram This limited access transforms the building from a mere landmark into an experiential destination, allowing people to step back in time and imagine its past as the city's civic heart. The chance to have lunch in the courtyard adds a delightful dimension to the visit, blending history with a moment of relaxation. Instagram

For those interested in unique historical settings, the basement of Duluth's Old City Hall offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The Rathskeller bar, situated in former holding cells, provides a distinctive atmosphere and a story to tell, rumored to have been a speakeasy during Prohibition. Instagram This repurposing of historical spaces demonstrates how old civic buildings can find new life, offering visitors unconventional yet memorable experiences. It’s a reminder that history isn't just in grand halls but also in the hidden corners of former government buildings.

In Tacoma, the Old City Hall's ongoing renovations promise a future where this iconic building will be more accessible. Instagram The anticipation surrounding its completion highlights the community's appreciation for its architectural significance. The mention of potential tours, even before full public opening, underscores the desire to share this historic structure with the public, offering a chance to witness its transformation and future potential. Instagram

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