Prince Edward Viaduct, Toronto - a bridge over a river
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Prince Edward Viaduct Toronto

4.6
·55 reviews·Toronto, Canada

An iconic Toronto landmark, the Prince Edward Viaduct offers stunning architecture and panoramic city views, connecting vibrant neighborhoods.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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Prince Edward Viaduct, Toronto - a bridge over a river

Prince Edward Viaduct Toronto

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic Toronto landmark, the Prince Edward Viaduct offers stunning architecture and panoramic city views, connecting vibrant neighborhoods.

4.6
(55 reviews)

"A must-see for its breathtaking views and romantic charm, especially at sunset!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Full Length

Experience the viaduct's grandeur from end to end. Great for photos and city views!

❤️ Add a Love Lock

A popular romantic tradition! Bring your own lock to join the art installation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Viaduct's Grand Architecture

The Viaduct's Grand Architecture

The entire structure

An iconic engineering feat connecting two vibrant Toronto neighborhoods. Admire its scale and design.

Sunset City Views

Sunset City Views

Eastern viewpoints

Witness the Toronto skyline bathed in golden hour light. A truly breathtaking spectacle.

Love Lock Art Installation

Love Lock Art Installation

South side of the viaduct

Join couples in adding a love lock to this charming, ever-growing art piece. A sweet romantic gesture.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Prince Edward Viaduct, often called the Bloor Viaduct, offers stunning cityscapes. For the most dramatic views, aim for sunset or early morning. Weekends can get busy, so consider a weekday visit to avoid crowds and capture unobstructed photos.

Accessing the Ravine Trails

While the viaduct itself is an architectural marvel, its true magic extends to the ravines below. Plan to explore these green spaces, accessible via Pottery Road or Langley Avenue, for a different perspective and a refreshing escape.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

probably the cutest toronto date idea (and it’s only $10!) 🔐🫶 #toronto #torontolife #torontotiktok #torontogirls #torontogirl #torontowassup #torontodate #torontodateidea #torontodates #torontodatenig...
@natdoumkos
41.5K likes • 388.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Full Length

Experience the viaduct's grandeur from end to end. Great for photos and city views! TikTok

❤️ Add a Love Lock

A popular romantic tradition! Bring your own lock to join the art installation. TikTok

Highly requested path tutorial! From #unionstation to #eatoncentre BIG DISCLAIMER: HUDSONS BAY CLOSES AT 7PM so this method only works during this their store hours! #ttc #toronto #torontotiktok #toro...
@lil.nyxx
38.8K likes • 543.5K views
Toronto itinerary ideas ✨ #torontoguide #thingstodointoronto #torontodateideas #traveltok
@nataliextravels
35.3K likes • 986.5K views

🌳 Explore the Ravines

Access trails below via Pottery Rd or Langley Ave for a nature escape. Reddit

🚇 Subway Views

Catch a glimpse of the viaduct from the subway line running beneath it. Reddit

Replying to @YessyKass we dont gatekeep here ✨🤍 #sunsettoronto #torontoviews #the6ix #todotoronto
@yessykass
27.2K likes • 264.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Full Length

Experience the viaduct's grandeur from end to end. Great for photos and city views! TikTok

❤️ Add a Love Lock

A popular romantic tradition! Bring your own lock to join the art installation. TikTok

🌳 Explore the Ravines

Access trails below via Pottery Rd or Langley Ave for a nature escape. Reddit

🚇 Subway Views

Catch a glimpse of the viaduct from the subway line running beneath it. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(55 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Prince Edward Viaduct for its stunning architecture and breathtaking city views, especially at sunset. It's a popular spot for romantic strolls and adding love locks. Some find the ravine access a bit challenging to navigate.

"There used to wonder views to of the bridge. With the oversized death by suicide fencing; it takes away from the view and architectural of the bridge. Yes, preventing is important; it could been designed better (like on other bridges) and added to the architecture."

Jason Jordan

"This architectal masterpice is bridging the gap between the east and west parts of Toronto. It provides a spectacular view of greenery down below in the Don Valley as well as downtown highrises. At night, it enlightened with colorful changing led lights."

Subrata Kumar Saha

"Prince Edward Viaduct has so much history over the years and when I look up at it, walk under it I'm thinking of all the lives lost. Troubled souls that used this location to take there own lives. There is nothing attractive and or beautiful about any of it except for the Pink colored lights at night. Over the past 40 years I've lived here we use to know what happened and when. After so many lost they finally put up the barricades to prevent further tragedy. Still to this day walking under the Prince Edward Viaduct brings back so many memories of our past."

Tim Chase Photography

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Impressive architecture
Romantic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Ravine trail access can be tricky

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The viaduct is easily accessible via the TTC. Take the Bloor-Danforth subway line to Castle Frank or Broadview stations. Both offer convenient access to the viaduct and the surrounding ravine trails. TikTokReddit

Street parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity. It's recommended to use public transit or consider parking further away and walking or cycling to the viaduct. Some limited parking may be available near the ravine entrances. Reddit

Yes, there are protected bike lanes on the viaduct itself, making it a cyclist-friendly route. It's a great way to experience the structure and connect to other cycling paths in the city. Reddit

For access to the Don Valley Ravine trails, you can walk north on Broadview Avenue to Pottery Road, or head south on Broadview and descend into the park near Langley Avenue. Castle Frank Road also offers a scenic route. Reddit

The main pedestrian walkways on the viaduct are generally accessible. However, access to the ravine trails may be more challenging due to uneven terrain and stairs. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting and walking across the Prince Edward Viaduct is completely free. There are no admission fees to enjoy the architecture and the views. TikTok

The viaduct is a public thoroughfare and is accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience and safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours or early evening. TikTok

While the viaduct itself is free to access, you will need to purchase a love lock if you wish to add one to the art installation. Locks can be purchased from nearby vendors or brought from home. TikTok

Official guided tours are not commonly offered for the viaduct itself. However, many walking tours of Toronto may include this landmark. You can also explore independently. Reddit

Yes, the viaduct is open at night and offers a different, illuminated perspective of the city. Be mindful of your surroundings and personal safety when visiting after dark. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most spectacular light for capturing the viaduct and the city skyline. Early mornings also provide beautiful soft light and fewer crowds. TikTok

You can capture wide-angle shots of the viaduct's impressive structure, panoramic city views, romantic shots at the love lock installation, and interesting perspectives from the subway line below. TikTokReddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near infrastructure like bridges. It's advisable to check with Toronto's drone regulations before flying a drone in this vicinity. TikTok

For sunset, consider using a tripod for stability, a lower ISO to minimize noise, and adjusting your aperture for desired depth of field. Experiment with exposure compensation to capture the vibrant colors. TikTok

Absolutely! The viaduct provides excellent vantage points for photographing the downtown Toronto skyline, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle. TikTok+1

🎫 🌳 Nature & Recreation

The Don Valley Ravine system offers extensive trails. From the viaduct, you can access paths leading into the ravine for walking, jogging, or cycling, offering a peaceful natural escape. Reddit

While the ravines are beautiful, it's generally recommended to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark. The viaduct itself is more visible at night. Reddit

There are several green spaces and park areas along the ravine system where you can enjoy a picnic. Look for designated picnic tables or find a scenic spot to lay down a blanket. Reddit

The ravines are home to various urban wildlife, including squirrels, various bird species, and sometimes even deer. Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing nature. Reddit

Some main paths in the ravines are paved and may be suitable for strollers, but many sections are unpaved and can be uneven. It's best to check trail conditions beforehand. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Prince Edward Viaduct offers a great outing for families. Kids will be fascinated by the sheer size of the bridge and can enjoy spotting the subway trains running underneath. Reddit The nearby Don Valley Ravine trails provide a fantastic opportunity for children to explore nature, look for wildlife, and burn off energy in a safe, green environment. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the ravine's scenic spots, making for a fun and affordable family day out. Remember comfortable shoes for exploring the trails. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Visiting the Prince Edward Viaduct is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as it's completely free to access. You can enjoy stunning architecture and panoramic city views without spending a dime. TikTok Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy while taking in the scenery, further saving on costs. The adjacent ravine trails also offer free recreational opportunities for hiking and exploring. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The viaduct is a dream location for photographers. Capture the iconic architecture from various angles, especially during the golden hour for dramatic sunset shots of the Toronto skyline. TikTok The love lock installation provides a unique and romantic subject for close-ups or wider shots incorporating couples. TikTok Don't forget to experiment with perspectives from the subway line below for interesting urban photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel: A Look at the Viaduct's Design

The Prince Edward Viaduct, more commonly known as the Bloor Viaduct, is a testament to early 20th-century engineering. Completed in 1918, this massive concrete arch bridge spans the Don River valley, connecting the neighborhoods of Bloor Street East and Danforth Avenue. Its design was forward-thinking, incorporating a lower deck intended for future subway use, a foresight that proved invaluable decades later when the TTC subway line was built beneath it. Reddit+1

This innovative planning allowed for the seamless integration of public transit without major structural overhauls. The viaduct's construction was a significant undertaking, involving extensive excavation and the use of innovative techniques for its time. The sheer scale and elegant design have made it an enduring symbol of Toronto's urban development and a popular subject for photographers and urban explorers. Reddit

Beyond its functional purpose, the viaduct is also an aesthetic landmark. Its graceful arches and imposing presence contribute significantly to the city's skyline. The fact that it was designed with future transit needs in mind highlights a remarkable piece of urban planning that has served Toronto well for over a century. Reddit

Romantic Escapes: Love Locks and City Views

The Prince Edward Viaduct has become a beloved spot for couples, largely due to the charming love lock art installation on its southern side. Inspired by similar traditions in other cities, this feature allows visitors to attach a personalized lock, symbolizing their enduring affection. It's a sweet, interactive element that adds a layer of romance to the already picturesque setting. TikTok

Beyond the locks, the viaduct offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Toronto skyline, especially during sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical backdrop for a romantic stroll or a memorable date. Many visitors find this to be one of the most romantic and picturesque spots in the city for a date. TikTok+1

For those looking to combine romance with a bit of adventure, consider a walk through the adjacent Don Valley Ravine trails. The contrast between the urban grandeur of the viaduct and the natural beauty of the ravines provides a unique and memorable experience for couples seeking both scenic vistas and a peaceful retreat. Reddit

Connecting Neighborhoods: The Viaduct's Role in Urban Life

The Prince Edward Viaduct is more than just an impressive piece of infrastructure; it's a vital artery connecting the diverse neighborhoods of East Toronto. By bridging the Don River valley, it facilitates easy movement between areas like the Annex, Yorkville, and the vibrant Danforth strip, fostering a sense of community and economic exchange. Reddit

Its strategic location and the integration of the subway line beneath it have made commuting more efficient for thousands of Torontonians. This dual functionality—serving both vehicular and public transit—underscores its importance in the city's transportation network. The viaduct is a daily backdrop for many commuters, offering a moment of scenic beauty during their travels. Reddit

Furthermore, the viaduct serves as a visual landmark, instantly recognizable and deeply embedded in the city's identity. Its presence has shaped the character of the surrounding areas, making it a focal point for residents and a must-see for visitors exploring Toronto's urban landscape. Reddit

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