Grand Canada Railway Hotels | Fairmont Royal York

The Fairmont Royal York is a landmark luxury hotel in downtown Toronto, renowned for its storied past, iconic architecture, and outstanding hospitality.

Opened on June 11, 1929, the Royal York was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway on the former site of the Queen’s Hotel. At the time of its debut, it was the tallest building in the British Empire, boasting 28 floors and over 1,000 guest rooms. Designed by the architectural firms Ross and Macdonald and Sproatt and Rolph, the hotel features a Châteauesque style infused with Art Deco and Romanesque influences—highlighted by Indiana limestone facades, arched windows, and richly detailed interiors.

Over the decades, the Royal York has welcomed a host of distinguished guests, including members of the British royal family—such as Queen Elizabeth II—as well as numerous heads of state and celebrities. The hotel has undergone several renovations, most notably in the 1970s and again in 2019, the latter a comprehensive restoration that artfully combines heritage charm with contemporary luxury.

Today, the Fairmont Royal York offers 1,363 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, blending timeless design with modern comfort.