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.

Logistics

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

This tour is 3 hours in length, and includes a number of stops at TTC stations—including platform level and exteriors. Timing for this tour may be affected by platform wait times and TTC disruptions. Should a shutdown require tour cancellation/rescheduling, we will reach out the day prior to the tour to the email/phone number you shared when registering.

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

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) or you can use your credit card to tap on and off throughout the tour. 

Accessibility

We strive to host inclusive, accessible tours that enable all attendees to fully engage with the experience. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee all elevators and escalators will be functional at all stations. To notify us of any accommodations you may need, or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact us at tsa@torontosocietyofarchitects.ca.

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.