A few days away to relax, indulge, and reset can work wonders when it comes to elevating the mood and centering oneself. The good news (yes, that’s still a thing) is that Toronto offers no shortage of options for a memorable, self-care-filled staycation – from boutique and artsy, to as glamorous as it gets. Common denominators include well-curated menus, thoughtful themed packages, luxurious linens, and prime locations. Here are nine of our favourite spots.
Toronto’s Best Hotels for a Staycation
1. Four Seasons Hotel Toronto Staycation
For a well-deserved splurge, check into Toronto’s stylish Four Seasons Hotel and take advantage of both its world-famous Café Boulud restaurant and its experience-enhancing packages. Those marking a special occasion may appreciate the “Sweet Celebration” package, which includes a daily dining credit, cake, champagne, early check-in, and late checkout. Meanwhile, the “Urban Wellness Retreat” offers a dose of self-care for guests in the market to recharge, with a healing RMT massage, a memorable meal, and healthy snacks.
Great for: Couples marking milestones, families, and discerning wellness-seekers.
2. Fairmont Gold at Fairmont Royal York Staycation
For a romantic escape that’s distinctively “Toronto” feeling, hit the iconic Fairmont Royal York. The historic Toronto landmark underwent an impressive renovation to mark its 90th birthday in 2019, but retains its dreamy charm of times past. The hotel’s new Gold program offers a luxury boutique experience with residential-style rooms and suites, a personalized private concierge service, elevated amenities, and a stunning 18th-floor lounge. The “Fairmont Gold Royal Romance” package includes a couples massage, an in-room movie, in-room breakfast for two, chocolate strawberries, sparkling wine, late check-out, and valet parking.
Great for: Couples looking to reignite the romance.
3. Shangri-La Hotel Toronto Staycation
The aromatic lobby of Toronto’s Shangri-La Hotel soothes the mind upon entry. Its roaring fireplaces, flowing cocktails, and live music (at least, in normal times) offer no reason to leave – even if you’re taking it all in solo. Unless, of course, you’re enjoying a gourmet meal in a robe in pristine linens or stepping up your self-care game at the award-winning Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie Paris. Inspired by the ancient rituals of the Middle East, the soothing spa transports guests to a world of peace and rejuvenation.
Great for: Those seeking a solo staycation centred on self-care.
4. The Drake Hotel Staycation
For a more eclectic, boutique vibe, The Drake Hotel caters to the lovers of art, music, food, and unpretentious fun. Each of the unique, character-rich rooms features eye-popping art, custom furniture and woodwork, Malin+Goetz toiletries, comfy queen-sized Sealy mattresses, and unexpected creative miscellaneous touches throughout. The “Art Passport” package includes mini bottles of sparkling, a $50 credit to enjoy The Drake’s upscale reimagined cuisine, an original Art-For-You artwork keepsake, and late checkout. A stay at the creatively inspiring spot means you’re within walking distance of Queen West’s vibrant boutiques and the beloved restaurants on the Ossington strip.
Great for: Creative move-makers seeking an inspiring change of scenery.
5. St. Regis Toronto Staycation
Housed in a swanky skyscraper, the St. Regis Toronto is a solid option for a well-rounded staycation that can include everything from a day of pampering in the sleek Iridium Spa, to ending off an over-the-top gourmet meal from celebrated restaurant Louix Louis with a slice of their famously indulgent thirteen-layer chocolate cake. Those in the market to return home refreshed will appreciate the luxurious urban oasis offered at the spa, a five-star 24-hour fitness centre (complete with Peloton bikes and Technogym equipment), and infinity-edge saltwater lap pool that overlooks the city skyline.
Great for: Urban wellness seekers and fancy foodies.
6. The Broadview Hotel Staycation
In the east end, The Broadview Hotel – once the longtime Toronto landmark Jilly’s strip club – is a trendy spot filled with references to the building’s storied past in its design and decor. The pet-friendly rooms(!) feature king-sized beds outfitted with luxury linens, vinyl record players, and an eclectic mini bar filled with a selection of locally sourced goods. Aside from the talking points, a major draw of the Broadview Hotel is its restaurant, café, and bar – especially its 360-square-foot rooftop bar/restaurant and terrace, which offers a stunning backdrop of the Toronto skyline to accompany your cocktail. The surrounding Leslieville neighbourhood is filled with local shops and restaurants to discover.
Great for: Couples looking to live like a local in another neighbourhood.
7. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Toronto Staycation
For a sophisticated, five-star stay, pack your weekend bag and check into the swanky Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Spa seekers will appreciate the hotel’s sprawling 23,000-square-foot Spa My Bland by Clarins – the largest luxury spa in Toronto. A stay at the Ritz inevitably includes indulging in traditional Italian cuisine from celebrated restaurant TOCA, including the goodness housed in Canada’s only hotel-based cheese cave – made even more comforting when enjoyed in a signature Ritz-Carlton bath robe. Complementing this are the handcrafted classic drinks, signature cocktails and nitrogen martinis from the Ritz Bar.
Great for: Discerning winers and diners and wellness seekers.
8. Windsor Arms Hotel Staycation
If you’re in the market for a distinctively regal-feeling change of scenery, book a stay at the Windsor Arms Hotel. The longtime Yorkville staple was originally built in 1927 and completely rebuilt in 1999, designed with an attention to detail that reflects its storied, royal-worthy past (it’s a longtime go-to for royalty and aristocrats). Appreciated features of this sophisticated spot include a 20,000-bottle wine cellar, a welcoming spa with a Bromine salt pool and salt cave, and a stunning tearoom that houses the hotel’s famous afternoon tea (and offers a good of reason as any to bust out those fancy clothes).
Great for: Individuals and couples needing to swap the sweats and for a royal-worthy reality escape.
9. Hotel X Toronto Staycation
The amenity-packed, view-filled Hotel X is a no-fail option for the active set of staycationers. The luxury lakefront hotel boasts unrivalled sports and wellness facilities – from a stylish Guerlain Spa (the first in Canada) and scenic year-round rooftop pool, to its top-of-the-line gym and pristine tennis courts and an extensive year-round tennis program. The hotel caters to families, with a variety of suite sizes and connecting room options, a Play Centre complete with its own sports court, and kid-friendly amenities like a TopGolf Swing Suite with virtual games. Guests marking a special occasion can enjoy added touches, from rose pedals and tea lights, to celebratory balloons.
Great for: Active couples and families.
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