The hype
Travelers universally praise the 'impeccable' design and 'soundproof' rooms, but often wish for in-room coffee makers that aren't just request-only.
Ace Hotel Toronto
$230-350/ night
Book this if You want a design-forward base camp in the Fashion District that feels like a cool friend's loft, not a corporate box.
Why People Love It
- The suspended lobby 'floating' on steel rods is an architectural marvel
- Window nooks in every room that actually make you want to read a book
- Alder's wood-fired Mediterranean food is a destination in itself
Quick Take: It’s undeniably cool and the staff are genuinely nice, but the 'cozy' rooms can feel tight if you bring more than one suitcase.
Reviewed by @44nouns: I stayed in this suite and it felt more like a friend's cool loft than a hotel. The vintage vinyl collection and that acoustic guitar gave me total creative freedom, and curling up in the window nook with a view of the Toronto skyline was the perfect recharge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'cool' factor means low lighting in rooms and bathrooms that some find frustrating for getting ready.
- You appreciate architecture — the Shim-Sutcliffe design is world-class
- You want a lively lobby scene with DJs and craft cocktails
- You travel with a dog (pets stay free, no fees)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.3
- Housekeeping: Daily service is thorough; guests consistently describe rooms as 'impeccable' and 'spotless'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Pristine. Grout lines are clean, glass is streak-free. No mold reports found.
- Maintenance: New build feel. Everything works, though some find the vintage-style light switches tricky.
- Linens & towels: High quality, crisp white linens. Towels are plush and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Neutral to fresh woodsy scent. No musty carpet smells reported.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Corridor noise if near the elevator
- Fire alarm tests (rare but noted in reviews)
Before you book
Good to know
- Breakfast is NOT included; grab pastries at The Lobby or sit down at Alder
- The gym is open 24/7 but small — best for a quick cardio session, not a powerlifting meet
- Check-in is 3pm, Check-out is 12pm (generous!)
What to pack
- Vinyl records (there's a turntable in your room)
- Swimsuit (for the Othership sauna/ice bath nearby, since there's no hotel pool)
- Walking shoes (Queen West and Chinatown are at your doorstep)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Medium High Floor King — guarantees a view and clears the treeline
- Corner Rooms — offer dual-aspect views and feel significantly larger
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor rooms facing the alley if you want natural light
- Double Double rooms if you are actually four adults (it's a squeeze)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love to request a 'Medium High Floor' King room, ideally a corner unit if available, to maximize the window bench view. We are light sleepers, so high floor is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking?
No on-site parking. You must self-park at a nearby garage (e.g., 505 Richmond St W). Keep your receipt!
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, extremely. Pets stay free with no size restrictions or fees.
Does the room have a coffee maker?
Not by default. You have to request a kettle/coffee kit from the front desk or buy coffee in the lobby.
Is the rooftop bar open year-round?
Yes, Evangeline is open year-round. In winter, it transforms into a 'Winter Chalet' with fondue.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a small 24-hour fitness studio on level B2 with treadmills, an elliptical, and free weights.
What is the 'Destination Fee'?
$25/night + tax. Covers high-speed WiFi, bike rentals, and access to lobby programming.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Show your parking receipt at the front desk — they often offer a credit of up to $30/night to offset the cost.
- ✨
The 'Winter Chalet' on the roof (Dec-Feb) has a free curling rink — sign up early as it's first-come, first-served.
- ✨
Waterworks Food Hall is literally across the street (50 Brant St) and is a fantastic, cheaper alternative for lunch.
5 things to know before you go
💡The window benches are deep enough to actually nap on.
💡The 'Double Double' room is really just two beds touching each other; don't expect privacy.
💡The lobby floor is suspended from steel rods — if you look closely, it doesn't touch the columns.
💡You can borrow a guitar from the front desk if your room doesn't have one.
💡The shower pressure is excellent, but the controls can be a bit finicky to figure out.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Ace Hotel Toronto is located and what's nearby.