Planning your trip to the Canadian National Exhibition this year? Here’s your ultimate guide on how to get to CNE from Union Station in 2025. Whether you’re heading to The Ex for thrilling rides, concerts, or international food markets, this detailed, this guide will help you navigate from downtown Toronto’s major transit hub directly to the CNE fairgrounds in the easiest and fastest ways.
🚆🚆 Option 1: GO Train to Exhibition Station – Fastest & Most Direct
Route: Take the Lakeshore West GO Train from Union Station to Exhibition GO Station
Duration: ~7–8 minutes
Cost: ~$3.70 CAD (Presto card fare)
Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes during weekdays, more frequently during CNE event days
Access Point: Union Station’s GO Concourse → Follow signage for Lakeshore West Line
Drop-off Point: Exhibition GO Station (right outside the CNE grounds)
Pros: No traffic delays, fast and direct, ADA accessible
Tip: Check Metrolinx’s schedule during CNE for extra trains
🚋🚋 Option 2: TTC Streetcar – Budget-Friendly
Route: From Union Station, board the 509 Harbourfront Streetcar (from Queens Quay Station) heading west to Exhibition Loop
Duration: ~15–20 minutes depending on traffic
Fare: $3.35 CAD with PRESTO or exact cash
Boarding Location: Underground at Union Station → Take the pedestrian walkway to Queens Quay
Drop-off: Exhibition Loop (directly beside CNE grounds)
Pros: Direct TTC connection, scenic waterfront route
Cons: May be slower during peak hours or event congestion
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-accessible streetcars
🚌🚌 Option 3: TTC Bus – Alternate Option with Transfers
Route: From Union, take Bus 121 Fort York-Esplanade westbound → Transfer to 509 or 511 Streetcar
Duration: ~25–30 minutes total
Fare: Same TTC fare system ($3.35 CAD)
Pros: Backup option if streetcars are delayed
Cons: Requires at least one transfer
🚖🚗 Option 4: Taxi or Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) – Best for Groups
Distance: ~3.5 km (2.2 miles)
Time: 10–20 minutes depending on traffic
Cost: ~$12–$18 CAD one-way
Pick-Up: Union Station taxi stands or Ride App Zone
Drop-Off: CNE Princes’ Gates or Ontario Drive
Pros: Convenient, door-to-door service
Cons: May face traffic on Lakeshore Blvd during peak event times
🚶🚶 Option 5: Walking or Biking – Scenic and Free
Walking Time: ~40–45 minutes along the Martin Goodman Trail or Bremner Blvd → Lakeshore Blvd
Biking: ~15–20 minutes; Bike Share Toronto docks available at Union Station and near CNE
Pros: Eco-friendly, scenic along the waterfront
Cons: Not ideal for families with kids or hot/rainy days
🎯 Final Travel Recommendation
If you’re looking for the fastest and most reliable way in 2025, take the GO Train from Union Station to Exhibition Station. It drops you directly next to the CNE gates in under 10 minutes. Budget travelers can opt for the 509 Streetcar, which also stops right at Exhibition Loop. Ride-shares are handy for groups but slower during busy weekends or evenings.
🌟 FAQs
What is the fastest way to get to CNE from Union Station in 2025?
The fastest way is the GO Train on the Lakeshore West Line. It takes just 7–8 minutes from Union Station to Exhibition GO Station, located right beside CNE.
How much is the GO Train from Union Station to CNE?
As of 2025, the adult fare with a PRESTO card is approximately $3.70 CAD one-way.
Does TTC streetcar go to CNE from Union Station?
Yes, the 509 Harbourfront Streetcar runs from Union Station to Exhibition Loop, directly outside the CNE entrance.
Can I walk from Union Station to the CNE?
Yes, it’s about a 40–45-minute walk. It’s a scenic option if you follow the waterfront path, but it may not be practical for everyone.
Are there ride-share services from Union Station to the CNE?
Yes, Uber and Lyft are available, with rides costing around $12–$18 CAD. Travel time varies based on Lakeshore traffic.
Is the CNE accessible from Union Station for wheelchair users?
Absolutely. Both the GO Train and TTC services offer full accessibility with elevators, ramps, and accessible streetcars.
🛂 Trusted Government Sources
- GO Transit (Metrolinx) – Official Trip Planning
- TTC – Toronto Transit Commission
- Bike Share Toronto – Station Map
Insider Tip: During the 2025 CNE season (August 15 – September 1), GO Transit and TTC may add extra service. Plan ahead using official apps to avoid delays and arrive right at the CNE gates without the hassle.