How to Get to Toronto Zoo from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Toronto Zoo from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

From Union Station Toronto (2025–2026), take GO Train + TTC bus to Toronto Zoo in 75 minutes ($9–12 CAD), or drive 35–45 minutes ($25–40 with parking). Cheapest is TTC (~$9).

The Toronto Zoo in Scarborough is Canada’s largest zoo, home to over 5,000 animals and a favorite for families and tourists. If you’re starting your trip at Union Station Toronto, you have several ways to reach the zoo depending on time, budget, and convenience.

🚇 Option 1: GO Train + TTC Bus (Best Public Transit Option)

If you want a balance of speed and affordability, combining GO Transit with a TTC bus is the smartest choice.

  1. From Union Station, board a GO Train (Lakeshore East Line) heading toward Oshawa.

  2. Get off at Guildwood Station or Rouge Hill Station (both are close to the zoo).

  3. Transfer to the TTC 85 Sheppard East bus, which takes you directly to the Toronto Zoo entrance.

  • Time: ~75–85 minutes total

  • Cost: ~$9–12 CAD (GO fare + TTC fare)
    👉 This is the most reliable transit option for tourists, especially if you’re unfamiliar with TTC’s multiple transfers.

🚌 Option 2: TTC Subway + Bus (Cheapest Choice)

For those on a budget, you can use only the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) network.

  1. From Union Station, take Line 1 Yonge–University subway northbound to Don Mills Station (Sheppard Line transfer at Sheppard-Yonge).

  2. From Don Mills, catch the 85 Sheppard East bus.

  3. Stay on the bus until it reaches the Toronto Zoo stop at the main entrance.

  • Time: ~90 minutes

  • Cost: $3.35 CAD (PRESTO fare, includes transfers)
    👉 Cheapest way to reach the zoo, though it takes slightly longer.

🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Fastest & Easiest)

If convenience matters most, taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft directly from Union Station to the Toronto Zoo is the simplest option.

  • Time: 35–45 minutes depending on traffic

  • Cost: ~$55–75 CAD one way

  • Parking at Zoo: $15–20 CAD if you’re driving yourself

👉 Ideal for families with kids, groups, or anyone short on time.

🚗 Option 4: Drive Yourself

If you have access to a car, driving gives you the most flexibility.

  • From Union Station, take the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) northbound → connect to Highway 401 East → exit at Meadowvale Road North, which leads directly to the zoo.

  • Time: 35–45 minutes (traffic can add delays)

  • Parking: $15–20 CAD at the zoo

👉 Best for those wanting to explore the zoo at their own pace without transit schedules.

♿ Accessibility Notes

  • The TTC subway, GO Trains, and buses are wheelchair accessible.

  • The Toronto Zoo has accessible pathways, mobility rentals, and accessible washrooms.

  • Rideshare apps allow you to request wheelchair-accessible vehicles if needed.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Time Cost Notes
🚇 GO Train + TTC Bus 75–85 mins $9–12 CAD Balanced option, reliable
🚌 TTC Subway + Bus ~90 mins $3.35 CAD Cheapest, longer travel
🚖 Taxi / Uber / Lyft 35–45 mins $55–75 CAD Fastest, door-to-door
🚗 Drive + Parking 35–45 mins $25–40 + parking Flexible, but traffic risk

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Toronto Zoo from Union Station

1. How far is the Toronto Zoo from Union Station?
The Toronto Zoo is about 35 km (22 miles) northeast of Union Station.

2. What is the cheapest way to get to the Toronto Zoo from Union Station?
Taking the TTC subway + bus costs only $3.35 CAD with a PRESTO card.

3. What is the fastest way to get to the zoo from Union Station?
A taxi, Uber, or Lyft takes about 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

4. Does GO Transit go directly to the Toronto Zoo?
Not directly—you must transfer to a TTC bus from either Guildwood or Rouge Hill GO stations.

5. How much is parking at the Toronto Zoo in 2025–2026?
Parking costs $15–20 CAD per vehicle.

6. Is the Toronto Zoo accessible by TTC?
Yes, the 85 Sheppard East bus connects directly to the zoo entrance.

7. Is the Toronto Zoo open year-round?
Yes, but some exhibits and rides are seasonal. Always check the zoo’s official website for hours.

8. Can I use PRESTO to pay for my trip to the zoo?
Yes, PRESTO works on GO Transit and TTC, making transfers seamless.

✅ With this 2025–2026 guide, you now know exactly how to get from Union Station Toronto to the Toronto Zoo—whether you want the fastest, cheapest, or most convenient route.

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