The city of Toronto has a streetcar system that consists of 11 streetcar routes that operate throughout the downtown core of Toronto. Most of Toronto’s streetcar routes are concentrated around the downtown core of Toronto and travel through many of Toronto’s most popular neighborhoods. Like all public transportation in Toronto, the streetcar network of Toronto is operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). It is the largest streetcar system in North America in terms of ridership, number of cars and track length. More than 50 million people ride Toronto’s streetcars every year.
About the Toronto Streetcar network
The city of Toronto has several streetcars that run through Toronto’s downtown core and pass some of Toronto’s busiest streets. The streetcars run on tracks that are located in the middle of some of Toronto’s most popular streets. Because the streetcars run on tracks that are located in the centre of the street, you need to walk across the street in order to get on or get off a streetcar. The rule is that all other traffic must yield when streetcar doors open, but it is quite possible that you may have to avoid cars during the process.
Toronto Streetcar: A Scenic way to see Toronto
Toronto’s streetcars provide a scenic way to view the streets of Toronto. They are a wonderful way to experience the excitement of Toronto’s popular streets and avenues. Since the streetcars operate on Toronto’s streets, streetcars must obey the traffic lights just like any other road vehicle. Keep in mind that streetcars are nowhere as fast as subways, so if you are in a bit of a hurry to get to your destination, then you may want to consider taking the subway or taking a taxi.
Toronto Streetcar Routes
Toronto’s TTC operates 11 streetcar routes throughout Toronto. The Toronto Streetcars all operate under the 500 series. The following is a list of all 11 streetcar routes:
- 501 Queen
- 502 Downtowner
- 503 Kingston Rd
- 504 King
- 505 Dundas
- 506 Carlton
- 508 Lake Shore
- 509 Harbourfront
- 510 Spadina
- 511 Bathurst
- 512 St Clair
New streetcars models
The TTC is introducing a new fleet of streetcars starting in 2012.The new modern streetcars are low-floor to ensure full accessibility, air conditioned, and carry almost two times the number of passengers current streetcars can hold. There also feature passenger safety alarms —like those on subways, and cameras on the vehicles sending images to the driver’s video screen.
Images of Toronto streetcars
Getting Around Toronto by Streetcar (flickr user Danielle Scott)
Getting Around Toronto by Streetcar (flickr user Bobolink)
Getting Around Toronto by Streetcar (flickr user Bobolink)
Toronto Streetcar Map (TTC) Click on the image to enlarge.
