Canada is home to a wide range of historic houses that reflect the country’s rich heritage and architectural diversity. From Victorian mansions to Loyalist-era homes, these properties showcase the lifestyles, craftsmanship, and stories of generations past. Many of these houses have been preserved with original furnishings, gardens, and period details, making them perfect settings for films or photography. Here are 20 Historic Houses That Should Be Movie Sets, each offering a unique glimpse into Canada’s past.
Beaconsfield Historic House, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Beaconsfield Historic House is a fine example of 19th-century architecture in Charlottetown. Built in the mid-1800s, it was home to prominent local families who contributed to the city’s growth. The house retains original furnishings, woodwork, and period décor, providing an authentic glimpse into Victorian-era life. Visitors can tour multiple rooms, including parlours, bedrooms, and formal dining areas, all carefully preserved. The surrounding gardens offer seasonal beauty and maintain the historic atmosphere. Beaconsfield Historic House remains a key cultural site in Prince Edward Island, making it an ideal setting for films seeking a classical Canadian historic home.
Spadina House, Toronto, Ontario
Spadina House is a heritage property in Toronto that reflects the early 20th-century lifestyle of an affluent family. The mansion preserves original architecture, furnishings, and decorative elements from the 1900s. Its interior features elegant woodwork, period furniture, and historical artifacts that showcase domestic life during that era. The property also includes beautiful gardens and grounds that add to its cinematic appeal. Guided tours highlight family history, social events, and Toronto’s urban development. Spadina House’s well-preserved details make it a prime location for filmmakers looking to recreate early Canadian urban life and capture authentic period settings.
Whitehern Historic House & Garden, Hamilton, Ontario
Whitehern Historic House & Garden was the home of the McQuesten family, influential figures in Hamilton’s history. Built in the 1850s, the mansion retains original furniture, decorative items, and family possessions that reflect life in a wealthy Victorian household. The gardens surrounding the house have been restored to maintain period accuracy, providing a picturesque outdoor setting. The property serves as a museum offering tours and exhibits on social, cultural, and local history. Whitehern’s architecture and interiors are ideal for cinematic storytelling, making it an attractive choice for films or photo shoots requiring a historic Canadian backdrop.
Hillary House National Historic Site, Aurora, Ontario
The Hillary House is recognized as a National Historic Site for its architectural significance and history. Built in 1862, the house is a well-preserved example of the Gothic Revival style in Ontario. It was home to the Hillary family, who were prominent local physicians. The house contains original furnishings, medical equipment, and personal artifacts that provide insight into 19th-century medical practices and domestic life. Its intricate woodwork, steep gables, and period décor make it visually striking. The site hosts tours and educational programs, making it a rich resource for filmmakers looking to depict historical life or classic Canadian domestic settings.
Barnum House, Grafton, Ontario
Barnum House is one of Ontario’s earliest examples of Loyalist architecture, built in 1817. The house features distinctive brickwork, symmetrical design, and period interiors that reflect early 19th-century life. It was home to a prominent Loyalist family and includes original furnishings and household items. The property has been carefully maintained to preserve its historical integrity. Barnum House provides visitors with a glimpse into domestic life during a formative period in Ontario’s history. Its authentic architecture and historic charm make it an ideal location for films or photo shoots seeking early Canadian heritage settings.
Dundurn Castle National Historic Site, Hamilton, Ontario
Dundurn Castle is a grand 19th-century mansion located in Hamilton. Built in the 1830s, it was home to Sir Allan Napier MacNab, a prominent politician and businessman. The house features 40 rooms, period furnishings, and detailed architectural elements, including ornate woodwork and decorative plaster ceilings. The surrounding gardens and terraces complement the mansion’s stately appearance. Guided tours highlight the MacNab family history, social life, and Canadian politics of the era. Dundurn Castle’s elegant interiors and historic significance make it an excellent setting for films, photo shoots, or events requiring an authentic Canadian heritage backdrop.
Benares Historic House, Mississauga, Ontario
Benares Historic House is a notable example of Georgian Revival a
rchitecture in Mississauga. Built in 1850, it was originally a country estate for a wealthy family and later became a site for community events. The house has maintained its original interior layout, including elegant parlours, dining rooms, and bedrooms with period furnishings. The grounds feature landscaped gardens, providing a scenic and historic outdoor setting. Benares is open to visitors for tours, workshops, and heritage programs. Its architectural charm and preserved interiors make it a prime location for films or projects needing an authentic 19th-century Canadian setting.
Mackenzie House, Toronto, Ontario
Mackenzie House was the home of William Lyon Mackenzie, Toronto’s first mayor. Built in 1855, the Victorian townhouse preserves original furnishings, artwork, and period décor. Visitors can see domestic items, antique furniture, and historical exhibits detailing Mackenzie’s political life and reform movements. The house provides insight into middle-class urban life in 19th-century Toronto. Small rooms, elegant woodwork, and carefully preserved interiors offer a rich environment for storytelling. Mackenzie House remains a popular heritage site, offering filmmakers a detailed and authentic setting for recreating historical Canadian urban life.
Duff-Baby House, Windsor, Ontario
Duff-Baby House is one of Ontario’s oldest surviving structures, dating back to the late 18th century. Built by the Duff family, it served as a home and later played a role in local historical events. The house features original Georgian architecture with brickwork, timber framing, and period furnishings. Its historical significance is tied to early settlement and military history in Windsor. The property provides tours highlighting Loyalist heritage and daily life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Duff-Baby House offers filmmakers a classic historic Canadian backdrop with authentic architecture and preserved interiors.
Helmcken House, Victoria, British Columbia
Helmcken House is a heritage home built in 1852 by Dr. John Helmcken, a key figure in British Columbia’s early political history. The wooden residence retains much of its original construction, including floors, fireplaces, and furnishings. The property offers a glimpse into colonial life on Vancouver Island, highlighting domestic routines and social history. Gardens and the surrounding grounds add charm and historical context. Helmcken House hosts tours that educate visitors on early Victoria society. Its well-preserved interiors and exterior make it an ideal setting for period films or photo projects requiring mid-19th-century Canadian authenticity.
Homewood Museum, Maitland, Ontario
Homewood Museum is a historic estate built in the early 19th century in Maitland, Ontario. The property includes a main house and outbuildings with original architectural features and period furnishings. Homewood reflects the domestic life of affluent families during the early 1800s. Its well-maintained interiors, including parlours, dining rooms, and bedrooms, showcase Georgian and Federal design elements. The museum offers educational tours and cultural programs for visitors. Homewood’s preserved charm and historical significance make it a perfect location for filmmakers and photographers seeking authentic Canadian historic house settings.
Prescott House Museum, Starr’s Point, Nova Scotia
Prescott House Museum is a historic estate built in 1812 in Starr’s Point, Nova Scotia. The house was home to the Prescott family and retains period architecture and original furnishings. Visitors can explore parlours, bedrooms, and household artifacts that reflect early 19th-century life in the Annapolis Valley. The property includes gardens and outbuildings that enhance the historical experience. Guided tours provide insight into local history, family life, and regional culture. Prescott House’s authentic interiors and preserved surroundings make it a compelling location for films or photo shoots set in early Canadian rural life.
North Hills Museum, Granville Ferry, Nova Scotia
North Hills Museum is a restored 18th-century home located in Granville Ferry, Nova Scotia. Built with traditional Nova Scotian architecture, the house features original woodwork, period furnishings, and historic artifacts. The museum showcases daily life from the late 1700s to the 1800s, including domestic tools and family heirlooms. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. North Hills Museum offers educational programs and heritage tours for the public. Its well-preserved structure and historical authenticity make it ideal for filmmakers or photographers seeking a classic Nova Scotia historic house setting.
Diefenbaker House, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
Diefenbaker House is the former home of John G. Diefenbaker, Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, located in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Built in 1912, the house has been preserved with original furnishings and personal artifacts of the Diefenbaker family. The museum highlights political history, domestic life, and early 20th-century Canadian culture. Visitors can explore the living spaces, study rooms, and gardens that reflect life during that period. Diefenbaker House provides a detailed glimpse into a significant Canadian political figure’s home, making it a strong choice for film and photography projects requiring historically rich interiors.
57–63 St. Louis Street, Quebec City, Quebec
57–63 St. Louis Street is a collection of historic homes in Old Quebec, showcasing French Colonial and 18th-century architecture. These buildings retain original structural features, period facades, and interior elements that reflect urban life in historic Quebec City. The streetscape captures the charm of cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and narrow alleys. Preservation efforts maintain the authenticity of these homes, which now house museums, cultural exhibits, and private residences. Their architecture and historic appeal make this site an excellent backdrop for film productions or photography projects focused on early Canadian city life.
Manoir Papineau National Historic Site, Quebec
Manoir Papineau, located in Montebello, Quebec, was built in the early 19th century and served as the residence of Louis-Joseph Papineau, a prominent political figure. The manor combines neoclassical architecture with finely preserved interiors, including period furniture, decorative arts, and personal collections. The gardens and landscaped grounds provide scenic vistas overlooking the Ottawa River. The site hosts tours and educational programs that highlight the Papineau family and Quebec’s history. Manoir Papineau offers a cinematic setting for films and photography projects requiring elegant historical Canadian estates.
Inverarden House National Historic Site, Ontario
Inverarden House, located along the Rideau River in Ontario, was built in the mid-19th century. The house exemplifies Georgian-style architecture with period furnishings and original interior details. It was home to an influential local family and played a role in regional social and economic development. Visitors can explore the house, gardens, and surrounding grounds that preserve its historical context. Inverarden House provides insight into life in 19th-century Ontario. Its well-maintained interiors and picturesque setting make it a perfect location for filmmakers or photographers seeking a classic Canadian heritage site.
Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site, Montreal, Quebec
The Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site in Montreal was the home of one of Canada’s Fathers of Confederation. Built in the mid-19th century, the house showcases neoclassical architecture with period interiors, including original furniture, decorative objects, and family artifacts. Visitors can explore rooms that reflect both domestic life and Cartier’s political career. The site provides insight into Montreal’s history, social life, and the broader political landscape of 19th-century Canada. Its preserved elegance and historical significance make it an ideal location for filmmakers and photographers seeking an authentic Canadian heritage house setting.
Riel House National Historic Site, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Riel House in Winnipeg preserves the home of Louis Riel, a key figure in Canadian history. Built in the late 19th century, the house features original architecture, period furnishings, and artifacts related to Riel and his family. The museum offers guided tours that highlight daily life, Métis culture, and the political events surrounding Riel’s legacy. Visitors can explore living spaces and gardens that reflect historical authenticity. Riel House provides a rich cultural and historical backdrop, making it a compelling location for films or photo shoots focusing on Manitoba’s heritage and Canada’s early political history.
Woodside National Historic Site, Kitchener, Ontario
Woodside National Historic Site is the childhood home of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s longest-serving Prime Minister. Built in the 19th century, the house retains original architectural details, period furniture, and artifacts reflecting the King family’s daily life. The property includes gardens and surrounding grounds that preserve its historical context. Woodside offers tours that explore domestic life, Canadian politics, and King’s personal history. The site’s authentic interiors and well-preserved setting make it a valuable location for filmmakers and photographers seeking to recreate early Canadian domestic and political heritage.
22 Groceries to Grab Now—Before another Price Shock Hits Canada
Food prices in Canada have been steadily climbing, and another spike could make your grocery bill feel like a mortgage payment. According to Statistics Canada, food inflation remains about 3.7% higher than last year, with essentials like bread, dairy, and fresh produce leading the surge. Some items are expected to rise even further due to transportation costs, droughts, and import tariffs. Here are 22 groceries to grab now before another price shock hits Canada.
22 Groceries to Grab Now—Before another Price Shock Hits Canada
