Museum · Old Toronto

Mackenzie House

4.5 · 86 reviews
Mackenzie HouseSimonP at English Wikipedia · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
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Mackenzie House is a museum dedicated to the life and times of William Lyon Mackenzie, Toronto's first mayor and a key figure in the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion. Located at 82 Bond Street in the Old Toronto district, this restored Victorian row house offers a glimpse into mid-19th-century domestic and political life. Visitors can explore period-furnished rooms, including a print shop where Mackenzie published his reformist newspaper, The Colonial Advocate. The museum features interactive exhibits, such as a working printing press and a Victorian-era kitchen. The site is notable for its authentic architecture and artifacts, providing a tangible connection to Toronto's early history. The museum is operated by the City of Toronto and offers guided tours that delve into Mackenzie's controversial legacy and the social history of the era.

Don't miss

  • Tour the restored Victorian parlors, bedrooms, and kitchen with period furnishings
  • Operate a replica of Mackenzie's printing press in the basement print shop
  • See exhibits on the 1837 Rebellion and Mackenzie's political career
  • Explore the small garden and outbuildings typical of the era
  • View rotating exhibits on Toronto's social history

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Mackenzie House

You can visit on your own (Paid entry; check the official City of Toronto website for current fees. Discounts available for seniors, students, and children). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

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How travelers rate it

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Getting there

Know before you go

  • Guided tours are offered on the hour; last tour starts one hour before closing.
  • Photography is allowed without flash in most areas.
  • Combination tickets with other City of Toronto museums may be available.
  • The museum is small; combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Eaton Centre or Yonge-Dundas Square.

A bit of history

William Lyon Mackenzie (1795–1861) was a Scottish-born journalist and politician who led the failed Rebellion of 1837. He served as Toronto's first mayor in 1834. The house at 82 Bond Street was his family home from 1859 until his death, and it was later preserved as a museum.

Common questions

How long does the tour take?

The guided tour lasts about 45 minutes, but you can explore the print shop and exhibits on your own afterward.

Is there parking nearby?

Street parking is limited; paid lots are available on Dundas Street. Public transit is recommended.

Can I hold events at Mackenzie House?

Yes, the museum can be rented for private events; contact the City of Toronto for details.

Is the print shop operational?

Yes, staff demonstrate the printing press during tours, and you can take a printed souvenir.

Are there washrooms?

Yes, a washroom is available on the ground floor.

What is the best age group for this museum?

The museum appeals to history enthusiasts and families with older children; younger kids may find it less interactive.

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