🎶 How to Get to History from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]
Take Line 1 subway from Union Station to Pape, then bus 72A to Commissioners Street, reaching History Toronto in 35 minutes for $3.35, or taxi in 15 minutes for $15–$20.
🏛️ Why Visit History Toronto?
History is one of Toronto’s most exciting music and cultural venues, located at 1663 Queen Street East in the Beaches area. Opened in partnership with Live Nation and Drake, it hosts top-tier concerts, comedy shows, and community events.
Since Union Station is Toronto’s central hub for GO Transit, VIA Rail, and TTC, reaching History is simple with several affordable and fast options.
🚇 Option 1: Subway + Bus (Best Public Transit Route)
The most reliable TTC route combines subway and bus travel.
- Route: Union Station → Line 1 subway northbound → Pape Station → Bus 72A southbound → Commissioners Street & Leslie Street → Walk 2 minutes to History.
- Travel Time: 35 to 40 minutes.
- Cost: $3.35 with PRESTO card.
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers and daily commuters.
💡 Tip: TTC runs late-night services on weekends, perfect for concerts ending after midnight.
🚋 Option 2: Streetcar (Scenic Ride Along Queen Street)
A slightly slower but very scenic way to travel.
- Route: Union Station → Walk to Queen Street → Take the 501 Queen Streetcar eastbound → Get off at Queen Street East & Leslie Street → Walk 5 minutes to History.
- Travel Time: 50 to 55 minutes.
- Cost: $3.35.
- Best For: Visitors who want a true Toronto streetcar experience.
💡 Tip: The 501 is one of Toronto’s longest streetcar routes, giving you plenty of city views.
🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Fastest & Most Convenient)
If you prefer comfort and speed, a taxi or rideshare is ideal.
- Route: Union Station → Queen Street East (History).
- Travel Time: 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: $15 to $20.
- Best For: Groups, travelers with luggage, or those short on time.
💡 Tip: Fares may increase during event nights, so plan ahead.
🚗 Option 4: Driving Yourself
Driving gives flexibility, though parking can be tight during events.
- Route: Union Station → Gardiner Expressway East → Carlaw Avenue → Queen Street East → History Toronto.
- Travel Time: 15 to 25 minutes.
- Cost: Parking $10 to $20.
- Best For: Visitors staying in Toronto for several hours.
💡 Tip: Reserve parking online in advance when attending popular shows.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway + Bus | 35–40 mins | $3.35 | Reliable, budget-friendly |
| Streetcar | 50–55 mins | $3.35 | Scenic Queen Street ride |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 15–20 mins | $15–$20 | Fastest, most comfortable option |
| Driving | 15–25 mins | $10–$20 | Flexibility and independence |
🙋 FAQs About Getting to History from Union Station
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to History from Union Station?
A taxi or rideshare takes just 15 to 20 minutes.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to reach History Toronto?
The TTC subway plus bus, or the streetcar, both cost $3.35.
Q3: How far is History Toronto from Union Station?
It’s about 5 miles (8 km) east of Union Station.
Q4: Is there a direct TTC route to History?
No, but the subway and bus combo is the quickest and easiest.
Q5: Does the TTC run late after concerts at History?
Yes, with Blue Night buses covering routes after subway service ends.
Q6: Is there parking at History Toronto?
Yes, limited paid parking is nearby, usually $10 to $20.
✅ Final Word:
Getting from Union Station to History Toronto is straightforward. Take the subway and bus for the cheapest trip, the streetcar for a scenic ride, or taxi/rideshare for speed and comfort.