Gather for Doors Open at Spadina Museum

There is a specific kind of magic that settles over the Spadina Museum during Doors Open. While it is always a fascinating portal into the lives of the Austin family—who built their fortune in mining and finance and left behind a home that perfectly encapsulates the shift from Victorian opulence to the modern sensibilities of the 1920s—there is an added layer of electricity when the doors are thrown wide open for the city. This year, the museum is leaning hard into the Doors Open theme, 'The World in a City,' by transforming the estate into a living, breathing testament to how Torontonians gathered, competed, and played a century ago.

A Glimpse into the Roaring Twenties

Most historic house museums focus on the architecture or the fine china, but Spadina Museum has always excelled at telling the full story—including the lives of the staff who kept the household running. For this year’s event, the focus shifts to the lighter side of the Jazz Age. The 1920s were a period of massive societal shift in Toronto, and leisure was no exception. You won't just be looking at artifacts behind velvet ropes; you’ll be exploring the sports, games, and social pastimes that defined the era. Expect to see displays that highlight everything from the rise of organized sports to the parlour games that filled the evenings before the ubiquity of radio and cinema. It’s a fantastic way to contextualize the sheer speed at which Toronto was transforming into a modern metropolis.

The Gardens: A Six-Acre Sanctuary

One of the most underrated aspects of the Spadina Museum is its grounds. Perched on the edge of the Davenport Escarpment, the six acres of gardens are a masterclass in Edwardian and 1920s landscape design. During Doors Open, these gardens become the perfect place to decompress. Whether you are wandering through the formal flower beds or finding a quiet corner to look out over the city, the juxtaposition of the historic home against the backdrop of the modern Toronto skyline is striking. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on how much—and how little—the city has changed since the Austins called this place home.

Making a Day of It in Forest Hill

Located in the prestigious Forest Hill neighbourhood, the museum is perfectly positioned for a wider exploration of this part of the city. Before or after your visit, take a stroll down to the nearby Forest Hill Village. It’s a charming, walkable strip that feels worlds away from the downtown core. If you’re looking for a post-museum bite, grab a coffee or a light lunch at one of the local cafes along Spadina Road. The area is known for its quiet, leafy streets and historic homes, making it one of the most pleasant walks in the city on a late-May weekend.

Getting There & Good to Know

Doors Open is a city-wide phenomenon, and while the Spadina Museum offers a more intimate experience than some of the downtown skyscrapers, it will be busy.

• **Getting There:** The museum is located at 285 Spadina Rd. If you are taking the TTC, the easiest route is to take the subway to St. Clair West station and enjoy the short, pleasant walk south. Parking is extremely limited on-site, so public transit is highly encouraged.
• **Accessibility:** While the main floor is generally accessible, some of the historic upper levels may have limitations. It is always a good idea to check with the museum staff upon arrival if you have specific mobility requirements.
• **Timing:** Because this is a self-paced experience, you can spend as much or as little time as you like. However, I recommend carving out at least two hours—one for the house and one to properly enjoy the gardens.
• **Pro Tip:** Bring a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes. The gardens are expansive, and you’ll want to explore every corner of the property without worrying about your feet.