Toronto Railway Museum, Toronto - A view of the Apartments & Office skyscrapers directly behind some of Toronto's iconic carriages & engines located in Toronto Railway Museum.
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Toronto Railway Museum Toronto

4.2
·1k reviews·Toronto, Canada

Explore Toronto's rich railway past at the historic John Street Roundhouse, featuring vintage locomotives, streetcars, and a miniature train.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Toronto Railway Museum, Toronto - A view of the Apartments & Office skyscrapers directly behind some of Toronto's iconic carriages & engines located in Toronto Railway Museum.

Toronto Railway Museum Toronto

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Toronto's rich railway past at the historic John Street Roundhouse, featuring vintage locomotives, streetcars, and a miniature train.

4.2
(1k reviews)

"A nostalgic journey through Canadian railway history with impressive vintage trains and a charming miniature ride!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚂 Ride the Mini Train!

Don't miss the miniature train ride; it's a hit with kids and adults alike!

🎟️ Check for Free Days

Look out for 'Doors Open Toronto' for potential free admission!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage TTC Streetcars

Vintage TTC Streetcars

Outdoor display area

Step back in time with beautifully restored TTC streetcars, a nostalgic glimpse into Toronto's public transit history.

Historic Locomotives

Historic Locomotives

Outdoor display area

Marvel at impressive locomotives, including a rare Northern type engine, showcasing the power and evolution of rail travel.

Operational Roundhouse

Operational Roundhouse

Roundhouse building

Discover the operational switcher housed within the historic CP roundhouse, a testament to the area's rich railway past.

Miniature Train Rides

Miniature Train Rides

Designated track

Enjoy a charming ride on the miniature train, a delightful experience for all ages, especially younger visitors.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Train Enthusiasts

Plan your visit to the Toronto Railway Museum to catch the best of its collection. Consider weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the vintage locomotives and streetcars. Check for special event days, as these can offer unique access and activities.

Tickets & Access Insights

Admission to the Toronto Railway Museum is generally affordable, with tickets often priced around $20. Some Reddit users mention free admission days, like Doors Open Toronto, so keep an eye out for those opportunities. The museum is located across from Ripley's Aquarium, making it an easy addition to a downtown Toronto itinerary.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Special Event Days
Why
Unique access & activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @armandhammer711 this railway museum is home to OLD TTC streetcars 🚃 #toronto #ontario #canada #ttc #trains #streetcar #rail #railroad #museum #throwback #history #oldschool #iykyk
@blogto
1.3K likes • 29.6K views

🚂 Ride the Mini Train!

Don't miss the miniature train ride; it's a hit with kids and adults alike! TikTok

🎟️ Check for Free Days

Look out for 'Doors Open Toronto' for potential free admission! Reddit

reddit.com

Is Toronto Railway Museum worth going?

reddit.com

Help me plan a fun day in the City with my 5 yr old!

📍 Prime Downtown Location

Conveniently located across from Ripley's Aquarium, perfect for a day trip. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of vintage trains and the historic roundhouse. Instagram

reddit.com

Was visiting Toronto with my parents and definitely didn’t expect to find a roundhouse in the middle of the city

Tips

from all over the internet

🚂 Ride the Mini Train!

Don't miss the miniature train ride; it's a hit with kids and adults alike! TikTok

🎟️ Check for Free Days

Look out for 'Doors Open Toronto' for potential free admission! Reddit

📍 Prime Downtown Location

Conveniently located across from Ripley's Aquarium, perfect for a day trip. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of vintage trains and the historic roundhouse. Instagram

🍺 Nearby Brewery

Combine your visit with a stop at Steam Whistle Brewery next door. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Toronto Railway Museum for its impressive collection of vintage trains and streetcars, offering a nostalgic journey through Canadian railway history. The historic roundhouse setting and the charming miniature train ride are particular highlights. While some find the indoor exhibits could be more extensive, the overall experience is highly recommended for its educational value and unique appeal.

"We did not wait to enter.
The inside has some you trains for little kids to play with, I thought this was a VERY great idea!
Inside has alot of information if you take the time to look, scan the codes and listen. There is also a train simulator. Indoors can be slightly overwhelming as everything is crammed into a small area.

The outdoor guided tour was informative and interactive. We enjoyed learning about the old rail system and exploring inside the carts.

The gift shop was lovely, however there needs to be a way to exit the gift shop where patrons of the mini train are not taking up the space. There is a wide deck but everyone waiting for the mini train was lined up and there was really no where for my family to exit with space or getting in the way of the mini train ride.

Also I think that some of the staff could have been a little more upbeat to make the experience joyful. Everyone seemed very cut and dry.

All in all we enjoyed our time, it is brief but affordable."

Destiny Q

"I thoroughly enjoyed our little tour of the Toronto Railway museum. The trains displayed outside the museum are amazing. With our entry ticket, we had a tour guide which explained the history of one of the trains he was the engineer to. I learnt a lot from him and it was truly a trot down memory lane. The museum inside is quite small, but they have a child play area with colouring. There is also a simulation, which we enjoyed a lot. The miniature trains were so lovely too. If you're around the area and love trains, go for it and take the tour. It was truly worth it."

Anusha Ramgoolam

"Lots of information to take in here and I recommend the tour because without it, it's not worth the money. Not much value in sucks a small place. Kids are more then happy to just explore outside, on their own. Save the money and just spend the 10$ for them to ride the mini train."

Amy Marynewich

What People Like

Impressive vintage train collection
Historic roundhouse setting
Charming miniature train ride

What People Dislike

Indoor exhibits could be more extensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Toronto Railway Museum is easily accessible by public transit. Take the TTC to Union Station and it's a short walk. It's also conveniently located across from Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity, including the Bremner Boulevard parking garage. However, public transit is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs in downtown Toronto. TikTok

Yes, the Toronto Public Library's Map Pass program often includes admission to the Toronto Railway Museum, so check with your local branch for availability. Reddit

Absolutely! Its central location and manageable size make it an ideal stop for a fun day out in downtown Toronto, especially when combined with nearby attractions. Reddit

If arriving by GO Train, Union Station is your closest stop, followed by a short walk. This makes the museum very accessible for visitors from the Greater Toronto Area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission tickets are typically around $20. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, the museum sometimes participates in events like 'Doors Open Toronto,' offering free admission on specific days. Keep an eye on their announcements for such opportunities. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or special event days, to guarantee your entry and avoid queues. TikTok

Tickets generally grant access to the outdoor exhibits of vintage locomotives and streetcars, as well as the indoor displays detailing railway history. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Toronto Railway Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit. TikTok

🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience

You can explore a collection of historic locomotives, vintage streetcars, and learn about Canadian railway history through indoor exhibits. The site also features an operational roundhouse. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum offers rides on a charming miniature train, which is a popular attraction for families and train enthusiasts of all ages. TikTok

Absolutely! Kids love the miniature train rides, exploring the large locomotives, and the interactive elements of the exhibits. It's a fantastic spot for a family outing. Reddit

Yes, photography is encouraged! The vintage trains and historic roundhouse provide excellent opportunities for unique and memorable photos. Instagram

It's a combination of both. You can explore a significant collection of trains and streetcars outdoors, with indoor exhibits providing historical context and details. Reddit

🍽️ 🍺 Food & Dining

The museum itself may have limited concessions. However, its prime location means numerous dining options are available nearby in the Entertainment District and around the CN Tower. Reddit

You'll find a wide array of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets in the vicinity, from casual eateries to upscale dining. The Steam Whistle Brewery is a popular choice right next door. Reddit

While policies can vary, it's generally best to check the museum's specific rules regarding outside food and beverages. Picnicking might be possible in designated outdoor areas nearby. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The outdoor display of vintage locomotives and streetcars offers fantastic backdrops. The historic roundhouse itself is also a very photogenic structure. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the museum's exhibit areas, allowing you to capture the details of the historical artifacts and displays. TikTok

This museum is perfect for capturing vintage industrial photography, historical reenactments, or even unique portraits with the trains as a backdrop. Instagram

While general photography is allowed, professional shoots or commercial photography might require special permits. Always check with museum staff if you have specific plans. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Toronto Railway Museum is a hit with families! The miniature train ride is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for younger children.TikTok Exploring the massive vintage locomotives and historic streetcars provides endless fascination. It's a great way to introduce kids to Canadian history in a fun, hands-on environment. The museum's location across from Ripley's Aquarium makes it an easy addition to a family-focused day in the city.Reddit

Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to see outdoors. Consider packing snacks or planning a lunch break at one of the many family-friendly restaurants nearby. The museum is easily accessible by public transit, which can simplify travel with little ones. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Toronto Railway Museum offers excellent value for money. With ticket prices generally around $20, it's an affordable way to experience a significant piece of Toronto's history.Reddit Keep an eye out for special events like 'Doors Open Toronto,' which have offered free admission in the past, making it an even more budget-friendly option.Reddit

Combine your visit with a picnic lunch from a local grocery store, as there are often pleasant outdoor areas nearby. Utilizing Toronto's public transit system to get to the museum will also help save on transportation costs compared to driving and parking downtown. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Toronto Railway Museum is a dream. The vintage locomotives, historic streetcars, and the iconic roundhouse provide stunning subjects for industrial and historical photography.Instagram The outdoor setting allows for dynamic shots, and the details on the trains offer opportunities for close-ups. Instagram

Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for the best lighting. The museum's location also offers unique perspectives, especially with the city skyline in the background. Professional photographers may want to contact the museum regarding any specific guidelines for shoots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Toronto's Railway Heritage

The Toronto Railway Museum (TRM) is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the history of rail transport in Canada. Situated within the John Street Roundhouse, a National Historic Site, the museum preserves and showcases a significant collection of locomotives, passenger cars, and vintage TTC streetcars.TikTok This collection tells the story of how railways shaped Toronto and the nation, from early industrial expansion to modern transit.

The museum's location is as historic as its exhibits. The John Street Roundhouse was once a vital part of Canadian Pacific Railway's operations. Today, it not only houses the museum's indoor exhibits but also an operational switcher locomotive,Reddit offering a tangible connection to the past. The surrounding area, known as the Railway Lands, was a massive rail yard, and the preservation of this roundhouse is a testament to the city's commitment to its industrial heritage. Reddit

Visitors can expect to see everything from powerful steam engines to the iconic red streetcars that once navigated Toronto's streets. The miniature train is a particular highlight for younger visitors, offering a fun, scaled-down railway experience.TikTok The TRM is more than just a collection of old machines; it's a living museum that brings the romance and engineering marvels of the railway era to life.

Experiencing the Toronto Railway Museum with Family

The Toronto Railway Museum is a fantastic destination for families looking for an engaging and educational outing in downtown Toronto. The sheer scale of the vintage locomotives and historic streetcars is captivating for children, sparking their imagination about travel and engineering. The miniature train ride is a definite must-do, providing a delightful and memorable experience for younger visitors.TikTok

Beyond the visual spectacle, the museum offers opportunities for learning. Indoor exhibits delve into the history of railways in Canada, making it an enriching experience for curious minds. The proximity to other major attractions like Ripley's Aquarium also makes it easy to plan a full day of family fun in the city.Reddit Remember to check for any special family-friendly events or activities the museum might be hosting during your visit.

Practical tips for families include wearing comfortable shoes for exploring the outdoor exhibits and bringing snacks or planning a meal at one of the many nearby restaurants. The museum's central location makes it accessible via public transit, which can be a convenient option for families navigating the city with children. Reddit

Photography Opportunities at the TRM

For photography enthusiasts, the Toronto Railway Museum offers a wealth of unique and visually striking subjects. The vintage locomotives and historic streetcars, set against the backdrop of the John Street Roundhouse, provide incredible opportunities for capturing dramatic industrial and historical shots.Instagram The textures, colors, and sheer scale of the trains make for compelling compositions.

Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for softer light that can enhance the mood and details of the trains. The outdoor exhibits are particularly photogenic, allowing for a wide range of angles and perspectives. Don't forget to explore the details: the intricate machinery, the worn paintwork, and the signage all tell a story and can make for captivating close-up shots.Instagram

While the outdoor exhibits are the main draw, the indoor displays also offer opportunities for capturing historical artifacts and informative panels. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits themselves. If you're planning a professional photoshoot, it's advisable to contact the museum in advance to inquire about any specific guidelines or permits required. TikTok

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