How to Get to Queens Quay from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Queens Quay from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

Travel from Union Station Toronto to Queens Quay in 10–15 minutes walking (free), 5–10 minutes by taxi/Uber ($8–12), or 10–12 minutes via streetcar ($3.30) for fast, convenient waterfront access.

Queens Quay is Toronto’s scenic waterfront boulevard, featuring attractions like Harbourfront Centre, Toronto Islands ferries, and waterfront dining. It is easily accessible from Union Station, making it a top choice for tourists and locals alike.

This 2025–2026 guide explains the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Queens Quay, including walking, streetcar, taxi/Uber, and accessibility options, with travel times, costs, and tips for each method.

🚶 Option 1: Walking (Quick and Scenic)

Walking from Union Station to Queens Quay is the fastest and most enjoyable way to experience Toronto’s downtown streets and waterfront views.

  • Exit Union Station via Front Street and head south along Bay Street or York Street, following signs toward the Harbourfront Centre and Queens Quay West.

  • Distance: Approximately 800–900 meters (0.5 miles).

  • Travel time: 10–15 minutes.

  • Cost: Free.

  • Best for: Tourists and locals who enjoy a scenic downtown walk with waterfront views.

🚋 Option 2: Streetcar Transit (Affordable and Convenient)

Toronto’s 504 King and 509 Harbourfront streetcars provide a budget-friendly way to reach Queens Quay from Union Station.

  • Walk to King Street streetcar stop or Front Street stop and board a westbound streetcar toward the waterfront.

  • Get off at Queens Quay & York Street or Queens Quay & Bay Street stops for quick access to waterfront attractions.

  • Travel time: 10–12 minutes including walking.

  • Cost: $3.30 TTC fare with Presto card or contactless payment.

  • Best for: Budget-conscious visitors and those who want to experience Toronto’s streetcar system.

🚖 Option 3: Taxi, Uber, or Lyft (Fastest Door-to-Door)

For a direct and hassle-free route, a taxi or rideshare is ideal.

  • Pick up a taxi, Uber, or Lyft at Union Station and head south along Bay Street or York Street to Queens Quay.

  • Travel time: 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Cost: $8–12.

  • Best for: Travelers with luggage, young children, or mobility concerns, or anyone wanting a stress-free ride directly to the waterfront.

♿ Option 4: Accessibility Routes (Wheelchair-Friendly)

Union Station and Queens Quay are fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring a smooth journey.

  • Elevators, ramps, and accessible pathways are available from Union Station concourse to street level, continuing to Queens Quay.

  • Streetcars also provide accessible boarding, and taxis/rideshare vehicles can accommodate wheelchairs on request.

  • Travel time: 10–15 minutes walking or 5–10 minutes by rideshare.

  • Cost: Free walking; streetcar $3.30; taxi/rideshare $8–12.

  • Best for: Wheelchair users, families with strollers, and travelers needing fully accessible routes.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Route Time Cost Best For
🚶 Walk Union Station → Bay/York St → Queens Quay 10–15 mins Free Scenic downtown walk
🚋 Streetcar Union Station → 504/509 streetcar → Queens Quay 10–12 mins $3.30 Budget-friendly transit
🚖 Taxi/Uber Union Station → Bay/York St → Queens Quay 5–10 mins $8–12 Fast & convenient
♿ Accessibility Elevators/ramps/wheelchair-friendly streetcar → Queens Quay 10–15 mins Free/$3.30/$8–12 Wheelchair & stroller access

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Queens Quay from Union Station

1. How far is Queens Quay from Union Station?
It’s approximately 800–900 meters (0.5 miles) south of Union Station.

2. How long does it take to walk from Union Station to Queens Quay?
Walking takes about 10–15 minutes, depending on your pace.

3. What is the fastest way to reach Queens Quay from Union Station?
Taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft usually takes 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.

4. Can I take public transit from Union Station to Queens Quay?
Yes, the 504 King or 509 Harbourfront streetcars stop near Queens Quay, with a total travel time of 10–12 minutes.

5. Is Queens Quay accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, Union Station, streetcars, and waterfront pathways are all wheelchair and stroller-friendly.

6. Do I need to pay to walk to Queens Quay from Union Station?
No, walking is completely free.

7. Which streetcar stops are closest to Queens Quay attractions?
Queens Quay & York Street and Queens Quay & Bay Street provide easy access to Harbourfront Centre, ferry terminals, and waterfront parks.

✅ With this guide, you now know the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient ways to reach Queens Quay from Union Station in 2025–2026, whether by walking, streetcar, taxi, or accessible routes.

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