🚆 How to Get to GO Train from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]
From Union Station, follow signs downstairs to the GO Train concourse. Walking takes 2–5 minutes at no cost. Taxis or rideshares aren’t needed since trains depart directly inside the station.
🏙 Why Start at Union Station?
Union Station is Toronto’s main transit hub, connecting VIA Rail, TTC subway, UP Express, and the GO Train system. If you’re traveling to the suburbs or nearby cities like Mississauga, Oakville, or Hamilton, you’ll almost certainly start your trip here.
🚶 Option 1: Walking Inside Union Station (Most Direct Way)
The GO Train platforms are inside Union Station, so walking is the easiest and only option for boarding.
- Route: Enter Union Station → Follow green “GO Transit” signs → Head downstairs to the GO Concourse → Access platforms.
- Travel Time: 2–5 minutes.
- Cost: Free to access (fare applies when boarding trains).
- Best For: All GO Train passengers.
💡 Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes early to find your platform since Union Station is busy and large.
🚌 Option 2: TTC to Union Station (If Arriving from Elsewhere in Toronto)
If you’re not already at Union Station, the TTC subway is the fastest way in.
- Route: Take Line 1 (Yonge–University) → Union Station stop → Walk to GO Concourse.
- Travel Time: Depends on your starting station (5–30 minutes).
- Cost: $3.30 with PRESTO.
- Best For: Local travelers connecting from other Toronto neighborhoods.
🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare to Union Station
If you’re starting outside of walking distance, a taxi or Uber/Lyft drops you right at Union Station.
- Route: Enter through Front Street or Bay Street entrances → Walk inside to GO Train concourse.
- Travel Time: Varies by distance (10–30 minutes within Toronto).
- Cost: $10–$30 depending on starting point.
- Best For: Travelers with luggage or coming from Toronto Pearson Airport (via UP Express + GO Train).
🚗 Option 4: Driving to Union Station (Not Ideal)
Driving is possible, but downtown traffic and limited parking make it inconvenient.
- Route: Drive to downtown Toronto → Use nearby parking garages on Front, York, or Bay Streets.
- Travel Time: 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Cost: Parking $20–$40 daily.
- Best For: Visitors renting cars or being dropped off.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking (inside station) | 2–5 mins | Free | All GO Train passengers |
| TTC Subway | 5–30 mins | $3.30 | Travelers from other Toronto areas |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 10–30 mins | $10–$30 | Luggage or airport transfers |
| Driving (car) | 20–40 mins | $20–$40 | Drivers/rentals, but costly |
🙋 FAQs About Getting to the GO Train from Union Station
Q1: Where are the GO Train platforms in Union Station?
They’re located in the GO Concourse, accessible via stairs, escalators, or elevators from the main hall.
Q2: How early should I arrive for a GO Train?
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to navigate the station and find your platform.
Q3: Do I need a ticket before boarding the GO Train?
Yes, tap your PRESTO card or buy a digital/physical ticket before boarding.
Q4: Is Union Station the only place to board GO Trains in Toronto?
No, but it’s the main hub. Some trains stop at Exhibition, Bloor, or Scarborough stations.
Q5: How far is Union Station’s subway stop from the GO Train?
Just a short walk inside the station—Line 1 Union subway connects directly to the GO Concourse.
Q6: Can I take UP Express from Union Station to connect with GO Trains?
Yes, UP Express departs from Union and connects with GO services at Bloor and Weston.
✅ Final Word:
Getting to the GO Train from Union Station is straightforward. If you’re already inside the station, just follow the green GO Transit signs. If coming from elsewhere, use the TTC, taxi, or rideshare for quick access.