Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in Ontario:
1Casa Loma
TorontoAt the time of its completion, Casa Loma was the largest private residence in North America, boasting 98 rooms. The mansion was equipped with modern amenities such as an elevator, a large oven capable of roasting an ox, two vertical passages for pipe organs, central heating, and two secret passages leading to Pellatt's ground floor office. Additionally, the mansion housed three bowling alleys, which were later converted into a souvenir shop. 2Fort York National Historic Site
TorontoFort York is a historic site located in the west of downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is known for its military fortifications and associated buildings. The fort was built by the British Army and Canadian militias in the late 17th and early 18th centuries to defend the settlement of York and protect the new capital of the British colony of Upper Canada from the threat of military attack, especially from the newly independent United States. 3Watson's Mill
OttawaWatson's Mill, located in Manotick, Ontario, Canada, is a unique attraction as it is the only working museum in the Ottawa area and one of the few operating industrial grist mills in North America. This historic flour and gristmill offers a rare glimpse into the past, showcasing the industrial processes of the past in a fully operational setting. 4Schneider Haus National Historic Site
KitchenerThe Schneider Haus National Historic Site, previously known as the Joseph Schneider Haus, is a museum situated in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. This historic site is a significant part of the region's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The museum is located on some of the earliest land to be settled by non-Indigenous peoples in what would later become Waterloo County. 5Diefenbunker - Canada's Cold War Museum
OttawaThe Diefenbunker is a significant historical site in Canada, built as a nuclear fallout shelter between 1959 and 1961. Located in Carp, just outside of Ottawa, the bunker was constructed to protect Canadian government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. The construction of this shelter was a secret operation, reflecting the tense political climate of the Cold War era. 6Spadina Museum
TorontoSpadina House, also known as Spadina Museum, is a historic mansion located on Spadina Road in Toronto, Canada. The museum is operated by the City of Toronto's Culture Division and is a significant part of the city's cultural heritage. The mansion has been preserved largely as it existed historically, reflecting the contemporary styles from the 1860s to the 1930s. 7Castle Kilbride
BadenCastle Kilbride, located in Baden, Ontario, is a significant historical site in Canada. It was the former residence of James Livingston, a notable Canadian member of parliament and owner of flax and linseed oil mills. The castle was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in March 1994, marking its importance in the country's history. 8Gibson House Museum
TorontoGibson House is a historical museum situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is conveniently located on Yonge Street, in the North York Centre neighbourhood of the former city of North York. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area. 9Niagara Apothecary
Niagara-on-the-LakeThe Niagara Apothecary is a significant historical site in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Established no later than 1820, it has since been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. This apothecary was operated by a series of owners, most of whom had apprenticed under the preceding owner. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 10Sharon Temple National Historic Site and Museum
East GwillimburyThe Sharon Temple is a museum site located in Sharon, Ontario. It was declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990, marking it as a significant location in the country's history. Managed by the Sharon Temple Museum Society, the site offers a unique glimpse into Canada's past. 11Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
MidlandSainte-Marie among the Hurons, located near the Wye Marsh near Georgian Bay on Lake Huron, was a significant Jesuit missionary center in the 17th century. This historical site in New France offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and work of the Jesuit missionaries during that era. 12Black Creek Pioneer Village
TorontoBlack Creek Pioneer Village, formerly known as Dalziel Pioneer Park, is an open-air heritage museum located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of the 19th century Ontario. It's a great place for tourists who are interested in history and want to learn more about the lifestyle of the people during that period. 13Fulford Place
BrockvilleFulford Place is a historic mansion located in Brockville, Ontario. It was completed in 1901 for Senator George Taylor Fulford, a prominent Canadian businessman and politician. The mansion is a testament to the Edwardian era and reflects the opulence of the time. It is now operated by the Ontario Heritage Trust and has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada since 1992. 14Murney Tower Museum
KingstonThe Murney Tower, a Martello tower located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, was constructed in 1846. Its primary purpose was to serve as a redoubt for the port of Kingston. This historical structure provides a glimpse into the defensive architecture of the time. 15King Heritage and Cultural Centre
KingThe King Township Museum, located at 2920 King Street in King City, Ontario, Canada, serves as a local history museum for the King Township. It was formerly known as the Kinghorn Museum and is situated in the locality that was once known as Kinghorn, now a borough of the city of King. The museum is operated by the 'Parks, Recreation and Culture' organization led by Kathleen Fry. 16Dundurn National Historic Site
HamiltonDundurn Castle is a historical mansion of neoclassical style situated on York Boulevard in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. This architectural gem is a significant part of the city's heritage and offers a glimpse into the past. The mansion's location provides easy access for tourists and is a notable landmark in the city. 17Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives
BramptonThe Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives (PAMA) is a multifaceted institution that serves as a museum, art gallery, and archives for the Regional Municipality of Peel. It is situated in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The establishment offers a rich blend of historical, artistic, and cultural experiences, making it a significant destination for tourists and locals alike. 18Griffin House Museum/historical Building
HamiltonThe Griffin House, built in 1827 by Englishmen, was purchased by Enerals Griffin and his wife Priscilla in 1834. This historical building, located in Ancaster, offers a glimpse into the past and the lives of its former inhabitants. The Griffins, who were some of the first Black settlers in the area, had escaped from slavery and made a new life for themselves in Canada. Their story is a significant part of the history of the Griffin House. 19Museum of Health Care
KingstonThe Museum of Health Care is situated in the historic Ann Baillie Building on the Kingston General Hospital site in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of medical history, spanning from the 18th century to the present day. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of health care within the context of a historic hospital site. 20Morningstar Mill
ThoroldMorningstar Mill is a heritage site that spans 2.98 acres, located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. It's a place where history comes alive, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The site is rich in historical significance and offers a unique experience for those interested in history and heritage. 21Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
Sault Sainte MarieThe Sault Ste. Marie Canal is a National Historic Site located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. It is part of the national park system and is managed by Parks Canada. This site is a significant part of Canadian history and offers visitors a chance to explore and learn about the country's past. 22Buxton National Historic Site & Museum
Chatham-KentThe Buxton National Historic Site and Museum is a significant tribute to the Elgin Settlement, which was established in 1849. This settlement was founded by Rev. William King, along with an association that included Lord Elgin, who was the Governor General of Canada at the time. This historical site provides a glimpse into the past and the efforts made to create a safe haven for fugitive slaves and free Blacks. 23The R. Tait Mckenzie Memorial Museum
Mississippi MillsOne of the key features of the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area is an 1830s grist mill. This mill was once the summer home and sculpture studio of R. Tait McKenzie, a medical doctor, sculptor, and native of Ramsay Township. McKenzie's connection to the mill adds a layer of historical and cultural significance to the site. 24Mcmichael Canadian Art Collection
VaughanThe McMichael Canadian Art Collection (MCAC) is a renowned art museum situated in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada. The museum is nestled on a sprawling 100-acre property in the charming village of Kleinburg. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. 25Billy Bishop Museum
Owen SoundThe Billy Bishop Home & Museum, located in Owen Sound, Ontario, is a National Historic Site of Canada. It is dedicated to commemorating the life and achievements of World War I flying ace and Victoria Cross winner Air Marshall William Avery "Billy" Bishop. The museum is situated in Bishop's birthplace and childhood home, providing a unique insight into the early life of this decorated serviceman. 26Montgomery's Inn
TorontoMontgomery's Inn, situated in the Etobicoke area of Toronto, Ontario, is a historic building that now functions as a living history museum. This Georgian-style inn was built in the early 1830s and offers a glimpse into the colonial times of Upper Canada. Although most of the artifacts on display are not original to the building, they are period pieces that help to tell the story of this historic site. 27Bellevue House National Historic Site
KingstonBellevue House National Historic Site, located in Kingston, Ontario, served as the residence of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John Alexander Macdonald, from 1848 to 1849. This historical significance makes it a notable destination for those interested in Canadian history and politics. 28Parkwood National Historic Site
OshawaThe Parkwood Estate in Oshawa, Ontario, is a significant historical site as it was the residence of Samuel McLaughlin, the founder of General Motors of Canada. The McLaughlin family lived in this residence from 1917 until 1972, making it a place of historical significance and interest. 29Richmond Hill Heritage Centre
Richmond HillThe Richmond Hill Heritage Centre, located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, is a significant example of 1840s Regency-style architecture. This historical dwelling provides a glimpse into the architectural style and aesthetics of the mid-19th century, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time. 30Thunder Bay Museum
Thunder BayThe Thunder Bay Museum, situated in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is managed by the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society. This society was incorporated in 1972 as the successor to the Thunder Bay Historical Society. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a wealth of historical and cultural exhibits for visitors to explore. 31Hermitage Gatehouse Museum
HamiltonThe Hermitage, once a grand residence in Ancaster, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, now stands as a historical ruin. It forms a significant part of The Hermitage and Gatehouse Museum, which is diligently maintained by the Hamilton Conservation Authority. The site offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of a once magnificent home. 32Campbell House Museum
TorontoCampbell House, located in downtown Toronto, is a heritage house and museum that dates back to 1822. It was originally built for Sir William Campbell, the Chief Justice of Upper Canada, and his wife Hannah. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of one of Canada's prominent figures during the early 19th century. 33Laura Secord Homestead
Niagara-on-the-LakeVisit a nicely restored mansion of a woman who was one of the most important figures in the War of 1812. You can learn more about her here. 34Wellington County Museum and Archives
FergusThe Wellington County Museum and Archives, located in Fergus, Ontario, is housed in the oldest surviving state-supported poorhouse in Canada. The building was constructed in 1877 and served as a poorhouse and farm until 1947, and later as an old age home until 1971. In the 1980s, the building was repurposed to house the museum and archives, providing a unique historical setting for visitors. 35Huron Historic Gaol
GoderichThe Huron Historic Gaol is not just any ordinary jail; it was designed by Thomas Young and modelled after Jeremy Bentham’s Panopticon design. This design was common in mid-19th century Britain and North America and is characterized by its octagonal shape. This unique architectural style adds to the intrigue and historical significance of the site. 36Amherstburg Freedom Museum
AmherstburgThe Amherstburg Freedom Museum, formerly known as the North American Black Historical Museum, is situated in Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada. This community-based, non-profit institution is dedicated to narrating the history and contributions of African-Canadians. Many of the individuals whose stories are told here had ancestors who entered Canada as refugees from slavery in the United States. 37Barnum House Museum
GraftonThe Barnum House holds the distinction of being the first house museum to open in Ontario. It was restored and opened to the public by the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario in 1940. This makes it a significant site for those interested in the preservation and celebration of architectural history. 38Battlefield House Museum & Park
HamiltonThe Battlefield House, situated near King Street East and Centennial Parkway in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, serves as a living history museum. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand. The museum is set in a house built in 1796 and is a significant site of the historic Battle of Stoney Creek, which took place on June 6, 1813, during the War of 1812. 39Walker House
KincardineThe Paddy Walker House, also known as the Walker House, holds the distinction of being the oldest building in the town of Kincardine. It also has the honor of being the oldest standing hotel in Bruce County, Ontario, Canada. This historical landmark has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century, making it a significant part of the local heritage. 40Port Burwell Marine Museum & Historic Lighthouse
Port BurwellThe Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse is a significant historical site located in Port Burwell, Ontario, Canada. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the time when Port Burwell was a thriving shipbuilding community. The museum and lighthouse are situated at the mouth of the Big Otter Creek on Lake Erie, providing a picturesque setting for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. 41Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre
SudburyThe Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre, located in Capreol in Greater Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, is a rail transport museum. The museum's primary focus is on preserving historical artifacts that represent the heritage of Northern Ontario and the history of the lumber, mining, and railroading industries. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and heritage of Northern Ontario and its significant industries. 42Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History
Chatham-KentThe Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History is an open-air museum located in Dresden, Ontario, Canada. The museum is dedicated to documenting the life of Josiah Henson, a runaway slave, abolitionist, and minister who served as the inspiration for the title character in Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin. In addition to Henson's life, the museum also explores the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad. 43Delhi Tobacco Museum and Heritage Centre
DelhiNorfolk County is a municipality located in the province of Ontario, Canada. The capital of the county is Simcoe, a town known for its rich history and vibrant community. The county's history is closely tied to that of its neighbour, Haldimand County, with which it shares a long and intertwined past. 44Grey Roots Museum & Archives
Owen SoundThe Grey Roots Museum and Archives is conveniently located just south of Owen Sound on Grey Road 18. The facility houses the County museum, archives, and tourism offices, making it a one-stop destination for tourists interested in exploring the history and culture of Grey County. 45Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung
StrattonThe Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre, also known as Manitou Mounds, is a significant site of early habitation and ceremonial burial in Canada. It comprises a vast network of 30 village sites and 15 ancient burial mounds, making it a rich source of historical and cultural information. The site offers a unique opportunity to explore Canada's ancient past and gain insights into the lives and practices of its early inhabitants. 46Lang Pioneer Village Museum
Otonabee-South MonaghanThe Lang Pioneer Village Museum is a living history museum situated in the hamlet of Lang, within Peterborough County, Ontario. The museum was established in 1967 by the County of Peterborough. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it was in the 19th century. The museum is located on the shores of the historic Indian River and features more than 30 restored and furnished buildings, many of which were donated from the surrounding townships. 47Whitehern Historic House
HamiltonThe McQuesten House is a villa from the mid-19th century, located at 41 Jackson Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8P, Canada. It was purchased by its namesake, Dr. Calvin McQuesten, in 1852 and has been declared a cultural monument of the city of Hamilton in the province of Ontario, Canada on May 17, 1962. 48Glengarry Pioneer Museum
North GlengarryThe Glengarry Pioneer Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the pioneer and Celtic history of eastern Ontario, from before 1812 until the 1920s. This historical journey provides a unique perspective on the region's past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. 49Markham Museum
MarkhamThe Markham Museum, located in Markham, Ontario, Canada, is a 25-acre open-air museum. It is dedicated to preserving the old buildings and artefacts from Markham's past. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and explore the history of Markham. 50Dionne Quints Museum
North BayHistory of the Dionne Quintuplets On May 28, 1934, five identical girls were born to Oliva and Elzire Dionne, a Franco-Ontario family in the tiny community of Corbeil, Ontario. Their births were a miracle of its time during the difficult Depression, the only quintuplets to survive more than a few d 51Perth Museum
PerthThe Matheson House, located in Perth, Ontario, is a significant historical site. Constructed in 1840, it was the home of Roderick Matheson, a prominent local merchant who later served as a member of the Senate of Canada. This two-story sandstone building is a fine example of Palladian style architecture. 52Oshawa Museum
OshawaThe Oshawa Museum, located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, is a historical museum founded by the Oshawa Historical Society. It serves a dual purpose, offering exhibits for the general public and acting as a storage facility for the city's historical documents. The museum is a significant resource for those interested in learning about the history of Oshawa and its surrounding areas. 53Grand Trunk Railway Station
CaledoniaThe Caledonia railway station, built in 1908 by the Grand Trunk Railway Company of Canada, is a significant part of the town's history. It was the third station to be constructed in Caledonia, Ontario, and has since become a symbol of the town's rich railway heritage. The station's architecture and historical significance make it an interesting site for visitors interested in railway history. 54Guelph Civic Museum
GuelphThe Guelph Civic Museum, located in Guelph, Ontario, is a cultural and natural history museum. It was established with the aim of exploring and showcasing the culture and natural history of Guelph through various exhibitions and public programs. The museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and culture of Guelph. 55The Craigleith Heritage Depot
The Blue MountainsThe Craigleith Heritage Depot is a multifaceted institution located in The Blue Mountains, Ontario. It serves as a museum, library, tourism and community hub. This unique combination of roles makes it a significant destination for tourists interested in learning about the local history, culture, and community. 56Lost Villages Museum
South StormontToday, Ault Park is home to the Lost Villages Historical Society, which operates the Lost Villages Museum. This living museum incorporates a number of buildings that were moved from the villages. These buildings serve as a testament to the history and culture of the area, providing visitors with a unique insight into the past. 57Woodchester Villa
BracebridgeWoodchester Villa, also referred to as The Bird House, is a unique historic octagon house. It is situated at 15 King Street, offering a picturesque view of the Muskoka River in Bracebridge, Ontario. This distinctive structure provides a glimpse into the architectural style of the late 19th century and is a significant part of the town's history.- 58
The Don Jail
TorontoThe historic Don Jail - located on the Bridgepoint campus - has been restored from a place of incarceration to one of innovation. The 84,000-square-foot structure is now renamed the Hennick Bridgepoint Administration Building and provides office space for hospital administrators, educators and clini - 59
Peterborough Museum & Archives
PeterboroughThe Peterborough Museum & Archives, previously known as the Peterborough Centennial Museum and Archives (PCMA), is a historical museum situated in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. It is conveniently located near the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site of the Peterborough Lift Lock, making it an ideal stop for tourists interested in exploring the rich history of the region. - 60
North Lanark Regional Museum
Mississippi MillsThe North Lanark Regional Museum, located in Ontario, Canada, was established and is managed by the North Lanark Historical Society. The museum's primary mission is to collect, preserve, and display the history of Mississippi Mills, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the area's past. - 61
Halton Region Heritage Services
MiltonHeritage Services is a key institution in the preservation of the material and cultural heritage of Halton Region. It is dedicated to acquiring and sharing knowledge about the region's historical and natural world. This commitment to preservation and education provides a rich and informative experience for visitors.