A real-time map of trains, light rail, and streetcars in Toronto that updates every minute. Click the train icon for more information.
The following are the transit networks associated with Toronto monitored by trains.fyi.
GO Transit is a regional public transit system serving the Greater Golden Horseshoe region of Ontario, Canada.
The TTC is the largest public transit system in Canada and the third-largest in North America, serving approximately 1.7 million daily commuters in Toronto and surrounding municipalities.
The UP Express is a dedicated airport rail link connecting downtown Toronto to Toronto Pearson International Airport.
The history of trains, streetcars, and light rail in Toronto is a fascinating journey through the evolution of urban transportation. The story begins in the mid-19th century with the advent of horse-drawn streetcars. These early streetcars, operated by the Toronto Street Railway, marked Toronto's first foray into organized public transit, providing a much-needed alternative to walking or horseback travel. The network of streetcar lines expanded rapidly, catering to the growing population and the expanding city limits. By the end of the 19th century, the introduction of electric streetcars revolutionized the system. The Toronto Railway Company took over operations in 1891 and electrified the entire network, significantly increasing efficiency and capacity, and paving the way for the city's urban expansion.
The 20th century saw further transformations in Toronto's rail transport. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) was established in 1921, and it took over the city's streetcar operations. Under the TTC, the streetcar system continued to grow, but the focus slowly shifted towards more versatile and extensive forms of rail transport. The most significant development came in 1954 with the opening of the Yonge subway line, Toronto’s first subway. This marked the beginning of a new era in public transportation for the city, as subways offered faster, more reliable, and higher-capacity service compared to streetcars. Over the following decades, the subway system expanded with new lines and extensions, shaping the city's development and becoming a vital part of Toronto's identity.
In recent years, Toronto has witnessed a resurgence in interest in street-level rail transit. Recognizing the limitations of buses and the need for more efficient transit solutions in dense urban areas, the city has invested in modern light rail transit (LRT) projects. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, scheduled to open in the mid-2020s, is a prime example of this shift. It represents a blend of the capacity and speed of a subway with the street-level integration of a streetcar. This modern LRT system is designed to provide efficient, environmentally friendly transportation, easing congestion and enhancing connectivity across Toronto. The evolution of trains, streetcars, and light rail in Toronto reflects the city's ongoing commitment to adapting its public transit infrastructure to meet the changing needs of its residents.