What to See and Do Around Toronto’s Union Train Station

When you hop off the train at Union Station in downtown Toronto, you don’t have to go far to find some of the city’s top spots and best-kept secrets. Here are our recommendations for where to eat, drink, relax, shop, or simply get away from it all.

Toronto's Union Station: The Heart of the Metropolis

Located in the heart of downtown, Union Station is the backbone of all intercity transportation in Greater Toronto. Serving nearly 300,000 passengers a day, it’s Canada’s busiest train station year-round! A designated heritage site since 1989, it is also distinguished by its remarkable Beaux-Arts architecture, which is of national importance. As Toronto’s main transit hub, Union Station is easily accessible from anywhere, whether you’re travelling on foot or by subway, streetcar, or bus.

Walking Distance from Union Station

Great coffee, a renowned marketplace, an urban beach—all of these can be found within a 15-minute walk from the train station.

Enjoy the Ambiance at Maman

If you’re in the mood to enjoy a latte in a Pinterest-worthy setting, Maman is the ideal place. This cafe has roots in (you guessed it) France and is a fantastic spot to grab a coffee to go, or to savour one slowly while getting lost in a good book.

Located in First Canadian Place, Maman has a large outdoor patio that patrons love. Depending on what time of day you visit, you can also grab lunch or a round of cocktails. And if you happen to need a venue for an upcoming get-together, this stylish coffee shop can even be rented for private events.

Get Lost in St. Lawrence Market

Looking for some local delicacies? St. Lawrence Market is the place to go. With over a hundred merchants under one roof, it abounds with delicious options—seafood, fresh bread, meats, fruits and veggies, olives, cheeses, and more.

Once you’ve filled your basket, grab a spot indoors or at one of the many picnic tables outside!

Catch Some Rays at Sugar Beach

Get that sand-between-your-toes feeling without leaving the city, less than two kilometres from Union Station. Sugar Beach, which sits adjacent to its namesake, the Redpath Sugar Refinery, is where locals come to trade their power suits for bathing suits and soak up the sun.

Fully equipped with lounge chairs and pink umbrellas, this little slice of paradise will help take your mind off any stresses of the day and jump-start your travels.

Activities Requiring Public Transportation

Take the subway, streetcar, or bus straight from the train station to check out these must-see spots for shopping, relaxing, and enjoying some fresh air!

Get a Dose of Culture at The Drake Hotel

One of the best features of The Drake Hotel, Toronto’s legendary boutique hotel and well-known hot spot, is its incredible patio, the perfect place for sipping cocktails.

Discover unexpected menu options in decor so hip it hurts. The Drake has brazenly dubbed itself a “hotbed for culture”—which only works because it’s true. It’s where Toronto’s cool kids gather, and where the vibe is always lively, day or night.

Shop at Oak + Fort

If you’re wondering where all those uber-hip people at the Drake get their threads, you might want to stop in at the uber-hip clothing shop Oak + Fort.

This Canadian retailer, founded in Vancouver in 2010, offers minimalist clothing characterized by clean lines and neutral tones. Oak + Fort doesn’t do fussy—just well-made, stylish pieces that will hold a place of pride in your closet for years to come!

Explore Trinity Bellwoods Park

A vast expanse of greenery bordered by Queen Street to the south and Dundas Street to the north, Trinity Bellwoods Park is the perfect place to take a nature break after a long day in the city. And since there’s no shortage of takeaway dining options close to the park, you can even enjoy a gourmet picnic before hitting the road!

Celebrate Pride Month in Toronto

If you’re planning a trip to the 416, we recommend visiting in June to experience Toronto Pride month in all its glory. With events for every age and taste, arrive anytime during the month and choose your activity. Even better, make sure to stay for Festival Weekend, which features an incredible line up of free performances on outdoor stages and happens to coincide with Canada Day this year (read: party time!). And, of course, do not miss the parade – the grand culmination of the monthlong celebration, it’ll be just you and about 2 million other spectators!

Plan your next Toronto Train Getaway