University of Toronto St. George Campus
A historic, architecturally stunning urban campus known for its gothic buildings and academic prestige.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos.
University of Toronto St. George Campus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, architecturally stunning urban campus known for its gothic buildings and academic prestige.
"Explore the breathtaking gothic architecture and vibrant academic atmosphere of U of T's St. George campus."
🚶♀️ Campus Navigation Hacks
Utilize building shortcuts to save time between classes or exploring.
📸 Dark Academia Photo Ops
Explore Emmanuel building and libraries for stunning gothic architecture shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

University College
Central Campus
Iconic gothic architecture, stunning quad, and a must-see for its historical charm.

Robarts Library
North Campus
A brutalist architectural marvel, offering unique perspectives and a vast collection.
Philosopher's Walk
West Campus
A serene, tree-lined path perfect for a peaceful stroll and reflection.

Convocation Hall
Central Campus
Grand rotunda with impressive architecture, a central landmark on campus.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Historic St. George Campus
Embrace the Dark Academia Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Campus Navigation Hacks
Utilize building shortcuts to save time between classes or exploring.
📸 Dark Academia Photo Ops
Explore Emmanuel building and libraries for stunning gothic architecture shots.
🗺️ Book a Campus Tour
Get an in-depth look at campus highlights and history from trained guides.
💧 Find Hidden Ponds
Discover tranquil pond areas near Back Campus for a peaceful escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Campus Navigation Hacks
Utilize building shortcuts to save time between classes or exploring.
📸 Dark Academia Photo Ops
Explore Emmanuel building and libraries for stunning gothic architecture shots.
🗺️ Book a Campus Tour
Get an in-depth look at campus highlights and history from trained guides.
💧 Find Hidden Ponds
Discover tranquil pond areas near Back Campus for a peaceful escape.
⏰ Class Punctuality
Professors are understanding of slight lateness due to campus size.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the University of Toronto's St. George campus for its breathtaking gothic architecture and vibrant academic atmosphere, often described as a 'dark academia' paradise. The sheer beauty of the historic buildings and the expansive grounds make it a popular spot for photography and leisurely exploration. Some find the campus size overwhelming and navigating between buildings can be challenging.
"I recently had the pleasure of attending the University of Toronto downtown campus and I must say, it was an absolutely incredible experience. The university is top-notch, with a wide variety of academic programs and research opportunities available to students.
The faculty at the University of Toronto downtown campus are also excellent. They are knowledgeable and dedicated, taking the time to ensure that students are well-prepared for success in their chosen fields.
In addition to the academic experience, the University of Toronto downtown campus also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and student services. There are a number of clubs and organizations to join, and the student services office is always available to provide support and assistance.
The campus itself is also beautiful, with a range of modern and well-maintained facilities. It is a great place to study, live, and socialize.
Overall, I would give the University of Toronto downtown campus a full five stars. It is a must-attend for anyone looking for a top-quality academic experience in a welcoming and supportive environment."
Fouad Abboud
"Honestly , I can give feed back for live sciences program.
There is no assistance provided by professors and Teacher Assistant in many courses.
The TAs check and mark the labs and several times have marked incorrectly which I have to fight and get it resolved.
I am surprised how UFT is number 1 in Canada.
I really want to tell the parents who want to send their kids to UFT please try to get into any other university.
It's only name and nothing else.
Also specially don't send your kids to Live Science it will be waste of money, energy and time of your child. Check there are other universities in Canada where your child can study live science and biology."
Arsalan Khan
"Didn't take a program at UoT but I'm giving this campus five stars for the architecture and atmosphere. Feels like you step into a historical movie set! Usually quiet - an amazing place to just get away from a busy day. They play the bells sometimes in the clock tower which adds to the beauty of this place. Spend an hour or two here and you'll feel refreshed and inspired."
Ksenia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The St. George campus is easily accessible via Toronto's public transit system. Take the TTC subway to St. George Station (Line 2) or Queen's Park Station (Line 1). Several bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, there are several parking garages and surface lots available for visitors. Popular options include the St. George Street underground garage and the Hoskin Avenue surface lot. Rates vary by location and duration.
The campus is quite walkable, but it's large. Wear comfortable shoes! Many visitors find it takes about 2 hours to walk around the main areas.
For a comprehensive overview, booking an official campus tour is highly recommended. Alternatively, you can explore self-guided, focusing on key architectural highlights and green spaces.
Absolutely! The campus is centrally located. St. George Station provides direct subway access to many parts of Toronto, making it easy to explore beyond the university grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to walk around the St. George campus is free. However, some specific buildings or museums within the campus may have admission fees or require appointments.
The campus grounds are generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific building hours vary, especially for libraries and academic facilities. It's best to check individual building schedules if you plan to enter.
Yes, the university offers guided campus tours. These are highly recommended for prospective students and visitors wanting a detailed look at the campus. Booking in advance is advised.
The university hosts various events throughout the year, including open houses for prospective students and public lectures. Check the official U of T website for event schedules.
Access to U of T libraries is primarily for students, faculty, and staff. While some may allow limited public access for research, it's best to inquire directly with the specific library.
📸 📸 Photography & Aesthetics
University College, Convocation Hall, and the area around the Emmanuel building are incredibly picturesque, especially for their gothic architecture. Philosopher's Walk offers a serene natural beauty.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed on the campus grounds. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of students and ongoing activities.
The dark academia aesthetic refers to the campus's gothic architecture, historic libraries, and scholarly atmosphere, evoking a sense of old-world learning and mystery.
Drone usage is restricted on campus due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to avoid flying drones over the university grounds.
Absolutely! Robarts Library is a prime example of brutalist architecture, while University College and the surrounding buildings showcase stunning gothic revival styles. The Daniels Building blends modern and historic elements.
🎫 🎓 Student Life & Residences
Residences like Knox offer double rooms with private bedrooms connected by a shared space, including desks and closets. Many are located within historic buildings, blending tradition with student living.
Yes, campus tours often include a look at some of the residence buildings or common areas. Specific residence tours might be available during open house events.
Students often gather in areas like the medsci building seating area with trees, or near University College. The surrounding downtown Toronto area also offers numerous cafes and eateries.
Yes, the University of Toronto offers scholarships for international students, such as those covering full tuition, books, and living expenses, often requiring nomination.
Students utilize the 10-minute passing period between classes, learn building shortcuts, and are aware that professors are generally understanding of minor lateness due to the campus's size.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's an active university campus. Plan your visit during weekdays when there are more people around, but perhaps avoid peak class change times if you prefer fewer crowds. Pack snacks and drinks, as dedicated family facilities are limited. The campus is easily accessible by public transit, making it a convenient outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
📚 Students & Prospective Students
If you're already a student, familiarize yourself with campus shortcuts and building layouts to navigate efficiently between classes. Explore the various libraries, study spots, and student hubs. The surrounding downtown Toronto area also offers plenty of off-campus dining, entertainment, and resources. Keep an eye out for scholarship opportunities, especially for international students.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Architectural Gems
For a different aesthetic, Robarts Library presents a striking example of brutalist architecture, a concrete behemoth that has become an iconic, albeit polarizing, feature of the campus. The Daniels Building, home to the Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, is another must-see, masterfully blending modern design with historic elements, showcasing innovative use of space and materials.
Beyond these major structures, the campus is dotted with smaller, charming buildings and hidden courtyards. Exploring areas like the Emmanuel building offers a quintessential dark academia experience, perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking atmospheric shots.
Navigating the Sprawling Campus
While the campus is walkable, comfortable footwear is essential. For those unfamiliar with the layout, booking an official campus tour is highly advised. These tours, usually around two hours long, provide a detailed overview of the campus, its history, and key landmarks, helping you orient yourself. Professors and teaching assistants are generally aware of the campus's size and are understanding if you are a few minutes late to class, so don't stress too much about perfect punctuality.
Public transportation is a great way to access the campus. St. George Station on Subway Line 2 and Queen's Park Station on Line 1 are conveniently located, with numerous bus routes also serving the area. This central location makes it easy to reach the campus and to explore other parts of Toronto afterward.
Student Life and Residence Experience
Prospective students can often get a glimpse into residence life through campus tours or during university open house events. Beyond formal tours, areas around University College and the medsci building are popular student gathering spots, offering places to study or socialize. The university also supports international students with various programs and scholarships, some of which can cover full tuition and living expenses, making higher education in Canada more accessible.
Managing academic life on such a large campus involves strategic planning. Students learn to leverage the time between classes and utilize campus shortcuts. The university environment fosters a sense of community, with various student groups and activities contributing to a vibrant campus culture.
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