Arriving: check-in, ID, deposit and parking

When can we check in, and when must we leave?

Check-in begins at 4 p.m. and check-out is by 11 a.m. If you need an earlier arrival or a later departure, the rules say to ask the front desk; the hotel will try, cannot guarantee it and may charge extra.

What does the desk ask for?

Age

The primary guest must be at least 19

Identification

Valid government-issued photo ID

Address

The address of your usual place of residence

If any is missing

The reservation can be cancelled without refund, with the one-night cancellation penalty

That last line is the one people miss. If the booking is in the name of someone who is not arriving, or the person checking in is 18, sort it out before you set off.

How does payment work?

Credit cards are pre-authorised for the full stay plus a security or incidental amount, and the rules remind you that your bank decides how long that hold lasts. Cash or debit is accepted if you prepay in full and leave a security deposit of up to 50 percent of the room total, including taxes and fees. Cheques are not accepted. Rates are in Canadian dollars, and the rules allow a resort fee at the hotel's discretion; we always ask whether one applies before we quote.

What is the cancellation rule?

Unless your confirmation says otherwise, cancel at least 24 hours before the 4 p.m. check-in time to avoid a charge of one night plus tax. For a Saturday arrival, that means by 4 p.m. on Friday.

Where do we park?

In the free on-site lot. Every room type includes free self-parking. The operator's rules forbid firearms anywhere on the property, including inside a parked vehicle, and pets may not be left unattended in cars.

What else is in the house rules?

• The hotel and all rooms are smoke-free, including cannabis, e-cigarettes and vaping; a first violation costs a $1,000 cleaning fee, eviction and a ban of up to three months.
• A do-not-disturb sign is honoured for up to 24 hours in a row; after that, management may enter.
• Exceeding a room's maximum occupancy can lead to eviction without refund.
• Lost property is kept for 30 days, then donated.
• Housekeeping runs during regular hours, and its frequency may vary.

Is the hotel open during the labour dispute?

In its update of 2 October 2026 the operator said Great Blue Heron "remains open and is operating as usual", with all entrances open, while other properties in the Toronto area had delays at picket lines. Situations like this change; check the operator's update page the day before you travel.