Walking Tour: Art and Architecture on the Spadina Line

Opened in 1978, the Spadina subway line broke from tradition: if Toronto’s subway stations had once been known for being functional but severe, the new Spadina Line redefined Toronto’s commuter experience with inspiring architecture and museum-worthy artwork that set a new standard for the city’s transit system. In 2017, six new stations—each a collaboration between local architects, celebrated international studios, and renowned artists—were added to the line, making the Spadina Line one of Toronto’s most impressive and integrated collections of contemporary art and architecture.

Join us on this one-of-a-kind subway ride as we explore the stories behind the underground gallery that is the Spadina Line! From grounded brutalist hubs to playful multi-coloured stops, we’ll explore the line’s unique stations, all drastically different from one another and featuring integrated artwork in fun and unexpected ways. Along the way we will discuss the exceptional collaboration that was needed to achieve these beautiful and functional buildings, as well as some of the challenges faced when integrating art into public settings.

Highlights on this tour include stations designed by Arthur Erickson, Foster + Partners, Grimshaw Architects, and Will Alsop.

Accessibility

We strive to host inclusive, accessible tours that enable all attendees to fully engage with the experience. This tour takes place mostly within TTC stations, so accessibility may vary based on station conditions. Both starting and ending stations have elevators. Please also note that we cannot use voice amplification in this tour. To notify us of any accommodations you may need, or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact us at tsa@torontosocietyofarchitects.ca.

Logistics

All TSA Walking Tours require prior registration. You can register online anytime prior to the start of the tour and walk-ins will be accommodated, unless we have reached capacity. Exact change is required for any tickets purchased at the tour ($15, HST included). Please note the TSA Membership discount is only available for tickets purchased online.

All tours are 1.5-2 hours long, and include mostly exterior stops.

Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the tour begins for your tour guide to check you in. We encourage you to go paperless — we can use either your digital ticket or your name for check-in.

Our tours take place rain or shine, so please double check the weather on the day of your tour and dress appropriately. Should inclement weather require tour cancellation, we will reach out in advance of the tour to the email/phone number you shared when registering.

Please note that the price of the tour ticket does not include TTC fare. You can purchase your TTC ticket at our first stop St. George Station.

Thank You!

TSA Walking Tours are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Ontario Association of Architects and the passion and dedication of our volunteer Tour Guides.