Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant Entertainment District, St. Andrew Station is more than just a stop on the Yonge-University-Spadina line—it’s a gateway to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Just steps from Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the bustling Toronto Stock Exchange, this essential hub connects visitors and locals alike to the excitement of Toronto’s cultural and financial pulse. With convenient PATH connections and accessibility features, St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District makes exploring the city seamless. Whether you’re heading to work in the Financial District or catching a show in the evening, this public transit station stands out for its unique blend of convenience and connectivity. Dive into all this station has to offer and see why it’s one of the Entertainment District’s public stations that should be on every commuter’s radar.
History of St. Andrew Station
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District first opened its doors in 1963, marking a key moment in the development of Toronto’s subway system. Named after the historic St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church nearby, the station played a pivotal role in expanding the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line. This extension of the line allowed for greater connectivity across Toronto, establishing St. Andrew Station as a significant transit hub for both locals and visitors. Its location and integration into the subway network have helped make it one of the most important public transit stations in the Entertainment District, seamlessly linking the bustling cultural and financial areas of downtown Toronto.
Unique Features of St. Andrew Station
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District stands out among Toronto’s public transit stations with its unique three-level infrastructure and center platform layout. This design, combined with modern accessibility features, enhances the station’s appeal for residents, commuters, and tourists alike.
For added convenience, St. Andrew Station offers two elevators—one inside the station from the concourse to the subway platform and another in the office complex at 145 King Street West—making it fully accessible. Escalators provide efficient movement, though during weekday mornings (6 a.m. to 10 a.m.), the down escalator is unavailable to streamline flow for peak-hour commuters.
In addition, the station offers complimentary Wi-Fi and cellular service, allowing passengers to stay connected while they travel. These features, along with its strategic location, make St. Andrew Station one of the most modernized and user-friendly public transit stations in the EntertainmentDistrict, uniquely equipped to cater to Toronto’s busy downtown lifestyle.
Amenities and Services
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District stands out among Toronto’s public transit stations with its unique three-level infrastructure and center platform layout. This design, combined with modern accessibility features, enhances the station’s appeal for residents, commuters, and tourists alike.
For added convenience, St. Andrew Station offers two elevators—one inside the station from the concourse to the subway platform and another in the office complex at 145 King Street West—making it fully accessible. Escalators provide efficient movement, though during weekday mornings (6 a.m. to 10 a.m.), the down escalator is unavailable to streamline flow for peak-hour commuters.
In addition, the station offers complimentary Wi-Fi and cellular service, allowing passengers to stay connected while they travel. These features, along with its strategic location, make St. Andrew Station one of the most modernized and user-friendly public transit stations in the EntertainmentDistrict, uniquely equipped to cater to Toronto’s busy downtown lifestyle.
Entrances and Connections
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District provides six accessible entrances, each designed to support a high volume of commuters and improve connectivity. The main accessible entrance is at University Avenue and King Street West on the southeast corner, featuring elevator and stair access to the concourse level, along with an accessible Wheel-Trans stop at 145 King Street West. This primary entrance is ideal for riders needing accessibility features.
Additional entrances are located on each corner of University Avenue and King Street West. The southwest corner features two sidewalk staircases leading to the concourse, while the northwest and northeast corners also provide stair access. These multiple entry points allow quick access to the public transit station and improve crowd flow.
Moreover, St. Andrew Station is conveniently connected to the PATH system at the concourse level, linking it to the Financial District buildings, such as First Canadian Place and the Toronto Dominion Centre. This PATH connection enhances the station’s role among Entertainment District’s public stations by providing sheltered access to nearby offices and businesses, making it a central node for commuters in Toronto’s downtown core.
Platform and Train Information
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District offers a well-designed center platform layout that accommodates both northbound and southbound trains on the Yonge-University-Spadina line. The platform is easily accessible by two elevators and several stairways, ensuring smooth transit for all passengers. For northbound trains, the elevator is located near the fourth car, while the escalator is positioned near the fifth car. Stairs are placed strategically near the third and fifth cars to support easy access. For southbound trains, the elevator is by the third car, with an escalator near the second car, and stairs close to the second and fourth cars.
To add convenience, a designated waiting area (DWA) is marked on the platform near the fourth car for northbound trains and the fifth car for southbound trains. This waiting area is clearly marked and provides a safer, more comfortable space for passengers.
Arrival times are generally frequent, especially during peak hours, with trains running approximately every 2-5 minutes. This consistency in service underscores St. Andrew Station’s essential role among public transit stations in the Entertainment District, making it a reliable option for commuting through Toronto’s downtown core.
Surface Connections and TTC Routes
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District is well-connected to several TTC surface routes, making it a highly accessible transit hub for travelers. The primary streetcar routes serving the station include the 504 King and the 508 Lake Shore lines. The 504 King Streetcar runs eastbound towards Broadview Station and westbound towards Dundas West Station, providing a convenient option for those commuting along King Street.
The 508 Lake Shore Streetcar operates primarily during rush hours and offers service from the Long Branch Loop west of the city to Broadview Station in the east, adding valuable connectivity for those traveling along the lakefront.
To transfer between these streetcar routes and the subway at St. Andrew Station, passengers must obtain a transfer slip. Transfers are easy to manage, making St. Andrew Station a seamless connection point within public transit stations in the EntertainmentDistrict. With these accessible options, the station enhances Toronto’s transit network by efficiently linking the downtown core to surrounding neighborhoods.
Station Improvement Projects
St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District has undergone several improvement projects aimed at enhancing both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring it remains one of the most efficient public transit stations in the Entertainment District. One of the notable upgrades is the installation of LED lighting along the platform. These energy-efficient lights not only improve visibility but also contribute to a more sustainable, eco-friendly transit experience for riders.
To further enhance the station’s durability and appearance, wall treatments were updated with enamel-painted sheet metal panels, offering a cleaner, modern look while addressing previous issues with wall buckling. These aesthetic upgrades make the station more inviting and comfortable for daily commuters and visitors alike.
The Capacity Review Project of 2023 is another significant improvement effort, focused on expanding the station’s capacity to handle increased passenger volumes. Importantly, this project has been carefully managed to avoid any disruption to subway service, allowing St. Andrew Station to maintain its role as a key transit hub. Together, these improvements reinforce the station’s reliability and appeal, making it a standout among Toronto’s public transit stations in the EntertainmentDistrict.
Travel Tips for Visitors and Commuters
Navigating St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. For commuters, peak hours typically see higher traffic around morning and evening rush times, so planning travel outside these hours can provide a smoother experience. If traveling during peak hours, using the designated waiting area (DWA) on the platform helps ensure safe boarding, while keeping to the right on stairs and escalators can improve flow for everyone.
The PATH connections at the concourse level are invaluable for avoiding weather disruptions and gaining quick access to nearby buildings like First Canadian Place and the Toronto Dominion Centre. This underground network also connects to many landmarks, making it ideal for reaching destinations in the Entertainment District’s public stations without stepping outside. For those visiting St. Andrew Station, King Street West is a prime spot for dining, featuring some of Toronto’s top restaurants that capture the city’s vibrant food culture.
For tourists, St. Andrew Station offers excellent access to Toronto’s top sights. Just steps from the station are iconic spots such as Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Toronto Stock Exchange. Whether commuting or sightseeing, St. Andrew Station is an ideal starting point to explore Toronto’s vibrant downtown.
Location and Accessibility
Located at 173 King Street West at University Avenue, St. Andrew Station in the Entertainment District is perfectly positioned for anyone exploring Toronto’s dynamic core. This public transit station offers quick and easy access to many iconic landmarks, including Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Alexandra Theatre, and key spots like the Toronto Stock Exchange, First Canadian Place, and the Toronto Dominion Centre. With its prime location, St. Andrew Station is essential for residents and commuters heading to the Financial District for work and for tourists eager to experience the heart of Toronto’s cultural and entertainment venues.
The station’s accessibility features, including elevators, escalators, and connections to the PATH pedestrian system, make it a standout among the Entertainment District’s public stations, allowing seamless navigation around the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, St. Andrew Station is a reliable and convenient hub for Toronto’s bustling downtown.
- Address: Toronto, ON, Canada
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FAQs
- What subway line serves St. Andrew Station?
The station is on Toronto’s Line 1, Yonge-University-Spadina line. - What landmarks are near St. Andrew Station?
Nearby landmarks include Roy Thomson Hall, the Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Toronto Stock Exchange. - How can I reach the Financial District from St. Andrew Station?
You can access the Financial District directly via PATH connections from the concourse level. - Why is it called St. Andrew Station?
The station is named after the nearby historic St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. - Are there elevators at St. Andrew Station?
Yes, there are two elevators: one from the concourse to the platform and another at 145 King Street West. - How far is St. Andrew Station from major Toronto attractions?
It’s within walking distance of Roy Thomson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre, and the Entertainment District.