Visit Casa Loma (House on the Hill) to see where scenes from Chicago, Cocktail and X-Men were filmed. The castle, with its elegant rooms, hidden passages and perennial gardens, is worth a visit even if you are not a Hollywood film fan. Most Toronto visitors wonder what lies behind its stone walls on the hill; as a result this is one of the most visited attractions in Toronto.

Start your visit with the Pellatt Newsreel, a short movie about Sir Henry Pellatt, the visionary founder of Casa Lomo. Pellatt made his fortune at a young age with investments in railways and utilities. He was a financier of the Toronto Electric Light Company in 1883 and was involved in a hydroelectricity generating plant at Niagara Falls at the turn of the 20th century. In 1914, Pellatt realized his dream of a Gothic-style residence. It became an official tourist attraction in the late 1930s.

See how the well-traveled Canadian modeled his home after European castles and decorated it with foreign furniture. Take the complimentary self-guided audio tour and discover some of the 98 rooms spread over three floors. Among these is the conservatory with a marble floor and steam pipes to keep flowers warm in colder weather. On the second floor is Sir Henry Pellatt’s Suite, with a hidden compartment behind the fireplace.

From the lower level, follow the 800-foot (244-meter) tunnel leading to the stables and the Hunting Lodge. Stroll through the expansive Estate Gardens, which are accessible only from May to October.

Enjoy Ghost Tracking, dining and dancing and the Summer Music Series with local musicians, among other regular events.

The hilltop mansion is a 10-minute drive from downtown Toronto. There are separate fees for entry and parking. Alternatively, catch the Metro to Dupont Station and walk 10 minutes to reach the building.

Casa Loma is open daily until late afternoon. The mansion closes early on December 24 and all day December 25. Check the official website for event times and prices.