Financial District, United States
Central location in the downtown business district
Historic, chic ambiance with modern updates
Modern, spacious rooms have sleek bathrooms and large flat-screen TVs
European-style pampering at Nouvelle Maria Spa
Classy beauty salon on-site
State-of-the-art fitness center with modern cardio equipment
Elegant breakfast and brunch served at Victoria’s Restaurant
Classic high tea available on weekends
Regal hallways and ballrooms ideal for events and business functions
Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel
Valet parking is expensive
No pool
Possibly the most historic hotel in Toronto, the King Edward has had a reputation for elegance for over 100 years. The lobby, dining rooms, ballrooms, and hallways are arguably the most beautiful of any hotel in Toronto. Most of the rooms have been updated with pedestal sinks and chic, if not slightly Spartan, furniture and decor. All units are spacious with huge, comfy beds and modern flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers. Aptly located on King Street, the King Edward is within easy walking distance of many downtown hot spots and the financial district. The venue is ideal for tourists and business travelers willing to pay for prestige.
Scene
Historic chic with modern flare
Old Britain emanates from the regal lobby, chandelier-endowed lounges, and meeting halls. Replete with pillars, vaulted ceilings, and ballrooms, the hotel gives off the vibe that King Edward -- or any modern monarch -- might stride through at any moment. One of Toronto’s most historic buildings, the hotel opened in 1903, and was named in honor of King Edward VII. It was designed for the wealthy to meet, eat, and play. Updates such as a state-of-the art spa and fitness center and spacious, plush rooms give the property a fresh shine. Original oil paintings and classic art pieces adorn the walls and hallways remain wide.
Location
Smack in the middle of downtown business district
King Street, home of “the King Eddy,” is always busy with pedestrian and car traffic. Several theaters, including the Royal Alexandra, Princess of Wales, and Ed Mirvish, are all within a 15-minute walk of the hotel, as is premier shopping at the Eaton Centre. The Hockey Hall of Fame is right down the street and attractions such as the CN Tower, Convention Centre, and Harbourfront Centre are a short ride away via subway, which is half a block from the hotel. Pearson Airport is about 20 minutes away by car.
Rooms
Varying room styles with ample floor space
The updated guests rooms and suites are elegant with chandeliers, classic-style ottomans, and modern furnishings. There’s plenty of floor space in all rooms, but the few that have not been refurbished are dated and dark. The executive suites are fit for kings, with enormous seating areas the size of a living room, unique wall furnishings, and velvety couches and pillows. Some of the bathrooms might be a touch too chic with pedestal sinks that are not conducive to holding cosmetics or toiletries. No rooms have balconies, and while some look onto bland nearby buildings, others have lovely, bird’s eye views of the financial district.
Features
British charm, from the elegant ballrooms to high tea on weekends
The meeting rooms, replete with chandeliers and vaulted ceilings, are named after London boroughs. Victoria’s Restaurant and Consort Bar offer breakfast, brunch, dinner, and classic high tea on the weekends. There is also valet parking, a full-service spa and salon, a fitness center with high-tech equipment, and 24-hour concierge and room service. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the hotel, and laundry and tailoring services are available as well.