getting married at toronto city hall: what to know + photo locations nearby
Toronto City Hall weddings have a reputation for being quick or “no-frills.”
But in reality? They’re intimate, meaningful, and full of quiet magic.
But in reality? They’re intimate, meaningful, and full of quiet magic.
If you’re planning a City Hall wedding, especially at Old City Hall. Here’s what to know, plus some of my favourite nearby photo spots within walking distance.
old city hall vs new city hall: what’s the difference?
Toronto actually has two City Halls, and they feel completely different.
Old City Hall
Located at Queen Street West, Old City Hall is a historic building with stone arches, warm textures, and timeless architecture. It’s perfect if you’re drawn to a more classic, documentary feel.
Located at Queen Street West, Old City Hall is a historic building with stone arches, warm textures, and timeless architecture. It’s perfect if you’re drawn to a more classic, documentary feel.
New City Hall
Just across Nathan Phillips Square, New City Hall is modern and bright, with clean lines and lots of natural light. It feels more minimal and contemporary.
Just across Nathan Phillips Square, New City Hall is modern and bright, with clean lines and lots of natural light. It feels more minimal and contemporary.
Both are beautiful, it really comes down to the atmosphere you’re drawn to.
photos belowbest photo locations near toronto city hall (all within ~7 minutes)
One of the biggest perks of a City Hall wedding? The photo locations are incredibly close.
Nathan Phillips Square
This is the square with the Toronto sign and skating rink. It’s iconic, open, and energetic — great for wide shots and city context.
This is the square with the Toronto sign and skating rink. It’s iconic, open, and energetic — great for wide shots and city context.
Osgoode Hall & Gardens
A calm, elegant contrast to City Hall. The gardens feel romantic and timeless, especially for portraits that feel a little more removed from the city buzz.
A calm, elegant contrast to City Hall. The gardens feel romantic and timeless, especially for portraits that feel a little more removed from the city buzz.
Osgoode Subway Station
For couples who love a bit of edge and movement, the station offers graphic lines, interesting light, and a more editorial feel.
For couples who love a bit of edge and movement, the station offers graphic lines, interesting light, and a more editorial feel.
All of these locations are just a short walk, which keeps things relaxed and unhurried.
a gentle tip for city hall weddings
Plan a little breathing room after your ceremony. Even 20–30 minutes makes a difference it allows you to settle, connect, and enjoy the moment instead of rushing through it.
Some of the most meaningful photos happen after the paperwork is done.
final thoughts
City Hall weddings aren’t about doing less.
They’re about focusing on what matters most.
They’re about focusing on what matters most.
If you’re planning a Toronto City Hall wedding and want your photos to feel honest, emotional, and timeless. I’d love to document it for you.
