Five King West building viewed from the foot of Yonge Street in Toronto on a clear day

One King Street West

One King Street West Toronto: Comprehensive Visiting Guide, History, and Attractions

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: One King Street West—Where Heritage Meets Modern Toronto

One King Street West in Toronto is a remarkable landmark that encapsulates the evolution of the city’s urban and architectural landscape. Originally built in 1914 as the Dominion Bank Building, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece now stands seamlessly fused with a soaring 51-storey glass tower, earning it recognition as both a luxury hotel and a premier residential address. The site’s blend of restored heritage interiors and sleek contemporary design offers visitors a unique window into Toronto’s financial history, architectural ambition, and vibrant downtown culture.

Strategically located at the intersection of King and Yonge Streets, One King West is accessible via Toronto’s PATH system, streetcars, and subway, making it a central point of interest for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and travelers seeking memorable city experiences. This guide covers everything you need to know for a visit: hours, tickets, accommodations, amenities, accessibility, and nearby attractions. For the latest updates and details, consult the official One King West website, Wikipedia, and Toronto Scoop.

Introduction
Visiting Hours & Ticket Information
Accessibility & Travel Tips
Historical Overview
Architectural Features & The Vault
Suites, Amenities & Guest Services
Dining, Fitness & Family Facilities
Transportation & PATH Access
Events & Meeting Spaces
Nearby Attractions & Photo Spots
FAQs
Visitor Tips
Awards & Recognition
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Five King West building viewed from the foot of Yonge Street in Toronto

Reflection of 5 King West building on glass surface

Reflection of 5 King West building in glass windows

View from inside an eastbound 504 King streetcar in Toronto showing streetcars and urban scenery

View from window of eastbound 504 King streetcar showing urban street scene

View from window of eastbound 504 King streetcar showing city street scene

View from eastbound 504 King streetcar window showing urban street and buildings in Toronto

One King Street West tower in Toronto Canada

Toronto skyline featuring the One King West building

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Lobby & Public Spaces: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Historic & Event Spaces: Accessible during scheduled events or by private booking—no general admission ticket is required for the lobby or dining areas.
[Tours: Public guided tours are not regularly offered, but special event access and private tours can be arranged through the hotel’s events team or via the official website.](#tours:-public-guided-tours-are-not-regularly-offered,-but-special-event-access-and-private-tours-can-be-arranged-through-the-hotel’s-events-team-or-via-the-official-website.)
Event Tickets: Prices vary by event; check the event calendar or contact organizers directly.

Accessibility & Travel Tips

Wheelchair Access: Full accessibility with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Transit: Located at King and Yonge, steps from King subway station, multiple streetcar lines, and directly linked to Toronto’s PATH network.
Parking: On-site valet and off-site self-serve parking available; public transit is recommended due to downtown congestion.
Photography: The banking hall, vault, and tower’s exterior are prime spots. Respect event privacy and signage regarding photography.

Historical Overview

Dominion Bank Foundation (1914)

The original 13-storey Dominion Bank Building, completed in 1914, was designed by Darling and Pearson in the Beaux-Arts style. Its imposing limestone façade, grand columns, and marble-clad interiors reflected Toronto’s rise as a financial center (Toronto Scoop).
A highlight is the 40-tonne vault imported from England, so massive that it required 19 horses and eight men to move—an event that left a literal mark on Yonge Street (BlogTO).

Heritage Status & Preservation

The Dominion Bank Building’s Beaux-Arts architecture and historical import earned it Ontario Heritage Property designation (One King West). Toronto’s city-wide Heritage Conservation Districts framework ensures ongoing protection (City of Toronto Heritage Conservation Districts).

Modern Tower Addition (2001–2006)

Between 2001 and 2006, One King West was transformed with the addition of a 51-storey glass tower, dubbed “The Sliver.” Designed by Standford Downey Architects Inc., the tower is one of the world’s slenderest high-rises, standing 578 feet (176 meters) tall with a dramatic height-to-width ratio (Wikipedia). Advanced rooftop dampers holding 1,000 gallons of water each stabilize the structure during high winds (One King West).

Adaptive Reuse

The integration of the old and new is an exemplary case of adaptive reuse, with the banking hall restored for events and the vault serving as a unique venue for functions, weddings, and film shoots (One King West). Select suites in the heritage section feature original architectural details, offering guests a tangible connection to Toronto’s past.

Architectural Features & The Vault

Beaux-Arts Detailing: Limestone exteriors, grand columns, marble interiors, and decorative cornices.
The Vault: 40-tonne steel and concrete marvel, Canada’s heaviest bank vault door, now an event and filming space (BlogTO).
Modern Tower: Reflective glass curtain wall, slender form, and innovative wind dampers.
Event Spaces: The restored banking hall is among Toronto’s most striking venues for weddings and conferences.

Suites, Amenities & Guest Services

Accommodations: 575 suites—divided between historic (Dominion Bank) and tower categories. Historic suites exude period charm, while tower suites provide panoramic city and lake views (One King West Suites; Rent It Furnished).
Room Features: Many suites feature kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and modern tech.
Concierge: Attentive team assists with bookings, city guidance, and special requests.
Direct Texting Service: For guest convenience and quick response (One King West Amenities).
Housekeeping: Daily and extended-stay options.

Dining, Fitness & Family Facilities

Dining: In-room dining and curated amenity packages available. Menus cater to diverse palates and dietary needs (One King West Amenities).
Rooftop Fitness Centre: 17th floor gym with city and lake views, whirlpool, and saunas. Open 5 AM–11 PM.
Family Amenities: Complimentary CYBEX Platinum strollers, children’s packages.
Business Center: Workspaces and office essentials for business travelers.

Transportation & PATH Access

Private Limousine: Airport transfers available by request (One King West Amenities).
PATH System: Direct hotel connection to Toronto’s 27-kilometer underground retail and transit network.
Valet & Self-Parking: Multiple options for flexibility and convenience.

Events & Meeting Spaces

Grand Banking Hall: Renowned for weddings, galas, and conferences (One King West).
Multiple Venues: Boardrooms and meeting spaces with modern AV support.
Historic Vault: Bookable for private events, film shoots, and unique experiences.

Nearby Attractions & Photo Spots

Hockey Hall of Fame: Celebrates the heritage of Canada’s favorite sport.
St. Lawrence Market: Historic food hall with local vendors.
King West Nightlife & Dining: Trendy district nearby (Destination Toronto).
Photo Opportunities: The banking hall, vault, and tower’s sleek exterior.

FAQs

Q: What are the visiting hours for One King West?
A: Lobby and public areas are open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM; event spaces by booking.

Q: Do I need tickets to enter?
A: No tickets for lobby/public areas. Event and tour access may require reservation.

Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible washrooms.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Policies may vary; check with the hotel prior to booking.

Q: How do I get there via transit?
A: Located above King subway station, connected to PATH, with major streetcars nearby.

Q: Can I book the vault for a private event?
A: Yes, the vault is available for private functions—contact the events team.

Visitor Tips

Book directly through the official website for best rates and offers.
Notify the concierge in advance for special requests or accessibility needs.
Use the PATH for weather-protected access to shops and transit.
Early mornings or weekdays offer quieter visiting times for photography.

Awards & Recognition

One King West is frequently cited as a model for best-practice adaptive reuse and urban heritage integration, receiving accolades from architectural and hospitality organizations for its preservation and innovation (Toronto Scoop; One King West).

Conclusion & Call to Action

One King Street West is more than just a hotel—it’s a living testament to Toronto’s history and forward-looking spirit. Visitors can experience architectural grandeur, innovative design, and luxurious comfort all under one roof. Its prime location, accessibility, and proximity to key city attractions make it an essential destination for anyone exploring Toronto.