Roundhouse Park Toronto
Explore vintage locomotives and enjoy stunning city views at Roundhouse Park Toronto, a historic railway hub.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Roundhouse Park Toronto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore vintage locomotives and enjoy stunning city views at Roundhouse Park Toronto, a historic railway hub.
"A must-visit park in Toronto with unreal sunset views and historic trains!"
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Explore the vintage locomotives up close; kids love climbing aboard!
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Pack a lunch and enjoy it on the grass with iconic city views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Steam Locomotives
Throughout the park
Marvel at beautifully restored steam engines and railway cars, a tangible link to Toronto's past.

Miniature Steam Train Rides
Near the Toronto Railway Museum
Enjoy charming rides on a miniature steam train, a hit with kids and nostalgic adults alike.

Scenic Sunset Views
Various vantage points
Experience breathtaking sunset vistas over the city skyline, perfect for photos and relaxation.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Trains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Explore the vintage locomotives up close; kids love climbing aboard!
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Pack a lunch and enjoy it on the grass with iconic city views.
PSA: Roundhouse Park, across the street from Skydome, allows public drinking
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Stay for the sunset; the views are absolutely unreal.
🍺 Public Drinking Allowed
Enjoy alcoholic beverages in the park, but not on restaurant patios.
10 hours in Toronto with 5 year old
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Train Spotting Fun
Explore the vintage locomotives up close; kids love climbing aboard!
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Pack a lunch and enjoy it on the grass with iconic city views.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Stay for the sunset; the views are absolutely unreal.
🍺 Public Drinking Allowed
Enjoy alcoholic beverages in the park, but not on restaurant patios.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Roundhouse Park Toronto for its unique blend of history and urban charm, particularly the impressive collection of vintage trains and the picturesque sunset views. While the park itself is free, some find the costs for the miniature train rides and onsite dining to be a bit high. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for families, photographers, and anyone looking for a scenic and historically rich experience in the city.
"I really enjoyed visiting this open-air park and learning more about the fascinating history of rail in Canada. There are lots of interesting things to see. You also have sprawling views of the city skyline from here. This is a great place to come to explore, enjoy the slow pace, and marvel at the beauty of the city!"
Jared Bayley
"This was a really interesting museum. If you are interested in locomotives and history, it's pretty amazing to think of what this was once used for. Also pretty cool to see the old rail cars and newer ones too. Have to say I appreciated the little gift shop too - prices that were not outrageous. Finally the little train ride was a good attraction too, not costly and seemed to interest kids and adults alike."
Jennifer Ferdinands
"The area is under construction, could do better than the current condition. The trains r locked so u can't go inside of them, sum r caged up. Not much 2 do really here"
Farrukh Shakil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roundhouse Park Toronto is conveniently located near Union Station, making it easily accessible by GO Transit or TTC. Many visitors arrive via Union Station and walk a short distance. If driving, there are parking garages nearby, though they can be pricey.
Yes, Roundhouse Park Toronto is very well-served by public transport. The Union Station GO and TTC hub is just a few minutes' walk away, offering numerous bus and subway lines.
From downtown Toronto, you can easily walk to Roundhouse Park, especially if you're near the CN Tower or Rogers Centre. Alternatively, take the subway to Union Station and it's a short stroll.
Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of Roundhouse Park, including those near the CN Tower and Rogers Centre. Be aware that parking in this area can be expensive, especially on event days.
Cycling is a great option! There are bike lanes and paths leading to the area, and you can often find bike racks nearby. It's a pleasant ride with city views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Roundhouse Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, if you wish to ride the miniature steam train or visit the Toronto Railway Museum, separate tickets are required.
The park is generally open from dawn till dusk. Specific attractions like the miniature train and museum have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always mandatory, booking steam train tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or on weekends, to avoid disappointment.
Roundhouse Park occasionally hosts special events, particularly related to the railway museum. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.
Dogs are generally welcome in Roundhouse Park on a leash. However, they are typically not permitted inside the museum or on the miniature train rides. Always check local bylaws for specific pet regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the impressive locomotives, Roundhouse Park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful green spaces. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or to simply relax and enjoy the urban scenery.
Absolutely! The miniature steam train rides are a huge hit with kids, and exploring the old trains provides a fun, hands-on learning experience. There's plenty of open space for them to run around.
The vintage trains against the backdrop of the CN Tower and city skyline offer fantastic photo opportunities. The park also provides excellent vantage points for capturing sunset shots.
Yes, public restrooms are typically available within the park grounds, often near the Toronto Railway Museum.
Yes, public drinking is permitted in Roundhouse Park. However, you can only consume alcohol purchased from the onsite licensed establishments at their designated tables.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a licensed patio/restaurant within the park (Steam Whistle Brewery) that serves food and drinks. You can also bring your own food for a picnic.
The area around Roundhouse Park, particularly near the CN Tower and Rogers Centre, has numerous dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Union Station also offers a variety of food choices.
Yes, Roundhouse Park is an excellent spot for a picnic. There are plenty of grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal.
The onsite restaurant (Steam Whistle Brewery) offers typical city prices for food and beverages. Bringing your own picnic is a more budget-friendly option.
Given its proximity to downtown Toronto, you'll find a wide array of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options within a short walk or transit ride from Roundhouse Park.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the trains themselves are always photogenic.
Focus on the steam engines with the CN Tower in the background, the miniature train tracks, and the panoramic city views, especially during sunset.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban parks and near major landmarks like the CN Tower. It's crucial to check Transport Canada regulations and any specific park bylaws before flying a drone.
While specific tours might not be dedicated solely to Roundhouse Park, many Toronto city photography tours will include this area due to its iconic train exhibits and city views.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the trains and wider cityscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the trains, and a telephoto can isolate details. Don't forget a tripod for sunset shots!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a weekday afternoon to avoid the largest crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The Toronto Railway Museum, located within the park, offers further educational opportunities that can captivate curious young minds. It's a place where fun, learning, and relaxation seamlessly blend for a perfect family outing.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, take advantage of the park's picnic-friendly atmosphere. Pack your own lunch and snacks to enjoy amidst the historic railway setting. While the miniature train rides and museum entry have fees, they are generally reasonably priced for the experience offered. Plus, the ability to bring your own alcoholic beverages (consumed responsibly in public areas) can also help cut down on expenses compared to onsite purchases.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The park truly shines during the golden hour before sunset. The warm, soft light bathes the trains and the surrounding city in a beautiful glow, creating dramatic and atmospheric photographs. The panoramic views of Toronto from various points within the park are also excellent for capturing cityscapes. Consider bringing a versatile lens, a tripod for low-light conditions, and be prepared for a visually rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Toronto Railway Museum
One of the most delightful features for families is the miniature steam train ride. This charming attraction offers a fun, short journey around a portion of the park, giving younger visitors a taste of the magic of train travel. It’s a popular activity that consistently brings smiles and excitement. The museum also often features interactive exhibits and historical displays that delve deeper into the stories behind the trains and the railway industry's impact on Toronto's development.
Planning your visit to the museum is straightforward. While the park is always accessible, the museum and train rides have specific operating hours that vary by season. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current information on schedules and any potential special events. Combining a visit to the museum with a stroll through the park and a picnic makes for a perfect half-day outing.
Roundhouse Park as an Urban Oasis
The park is particularly renowned for its stunning sunset views. As the day winds down, the sky often puts on a spectacular show, painting the cityscape in warm hues. This makes it a popular spot for photographers and anyone looking for a picturesque end to their day. The combination of historic trains, modern city architecture, and natural beauty creates a unique and visually appealing environment.
For those looking to enjoy a beverage outdoors, Roundhouse Park offers a unique perk: public drinking is permitted. This allows visitors to enjoy a beer or other alcoholic beverage while relaxing on the grass, though it's important to note that consumption is restricted to public areas and not the licensed patios of onsite establishments. This adds another layer to the park's appeal as a relaxed social gathering spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit