Exploring The Bentway in Toronto

Toronto is a city known for its vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks. Tucked away beneath a major artery of the city is a truly special place: The Bentway. What was once a forgotten space under the Gardiner Expressway has been transformed into a dynamic public area and a hub for community life. It’s a prime example of imaginative urban design, offering year-round activities for everyone. 

For visitors arriving for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, The Bentway is a key destination to celebrate amongst fans. Its location near key GO Transit hub Union GO Station makes it incredibly easy to reach. Whether you're a lifelong Torontonian or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you discover all that The Bentway has to offer. And with simple fare options like tapping your credit card or using a PRESTO card, your journey with GO Transit is seamless. 

What is The Bentway? 

The Bentway is a one-of-a-kind public space that stretches from Strachan Avenue to Fort York Boulevard, creatively using the space beneath the Gardiner Expressway. This area, once overlooked, is now a year-round destination for culture, recreation, and community connection. The concrete columns that support the expressway above define the space, creating a series of outdoor "rooms" that host a wide range of activities and events. 

The project's vision was to reclaim this underutilized land and turn it into a vital piece of the city's public realm. It serves as a connector, linking several downtown neighbourhoods including Liberty Village, CityPlace, and the Fort York area. By providing a safe, engaging pathway, The Bentway encourages walking and cycling, fostering a more connected, accessible city. 

More than just a path, The Bentway is a cultural institution. It offers a platform for public art, performances, and community gatherings. From art installations that interact with the unique industrial architecture to lively festivals that fill the space with music and energy, there is always something happening. This commitment to year-round programming ensures that The Bentway remains a lively and welcoming place for all, no matter the season. 

Where is The Bentway in Toronto? 

You will find The Bentway located directly under the Gardiner Expressway, between Strachan Avenue in the west and Fort York Boulevard in the east. Its address is 250 Fort York Blvd, putting it right in the heart of one of Toronto’s most historically significant areas. 

This central location makes it an easily accessible point of interest. The Bentway is adjacent to several key city landmarks. To the south lies the historic Fort York National Historic Site, the birthplace of urban Toronto. To the west is Exhibition Place, a sprawling site that hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). 

The Bentway's proximity to these sites, the waterfront, and the surrounding residential communities positions it at a bustling crossroads. Its design thoughtfully integrates it into the urban fabric, making it feel like a natural extension of the city’s parks and public spaces. 

How to Get to The Bentway in Toronto 

Getting to The Bentway is simple, especially with GO Transit. Our network connects the entire Greater Golden Horseshoe, bringing you directly to the heart of the action. The closest GO stations are Exhibition Station and Union Station, the central hub. 

Once you arrive at Union GO Station, you have a few convenient options to complete your journey to The Bentway, which is just over two kilometres away. Taking a TTC streetcar is a reliable option. The 509 Harbourfront streetcar runs from the Union Station streetcar loop and has a stop at Fleet Street and Fort York Boulevard, just steps from The Bentway. The 511 Bathurst streetcar also stops nearby.  

Walking or cycling is also encouraged! For those who prefer to travel on foot or by bike, the walk from Union Station is pleasant. You can follow the scenic Waterfront Trail or navigate through the city streets for around a 35-minute walk. The route is well served by bike lanes and waterfront paths, making for a safe and enjoyable journey, especially on a nice day. It’s a great way to see a bit of the city on your way, as you pass by Rogers Centre and the infamous CN Tower! 

Exhibition GO Station is conveniently located right next to Exhibition Place and is another excellent access point for The Bentway. From the station, it’s a short walk east along Strachan Avenue to the western entrance of The Bentway. This route is especially handy for events happening at the western end of the space. 

The Bentway Skate Trail 

During the winter months, The Bentway transforms into a magical urban ice rink. The Bentway Skate Trail is a 220-metre, figure-eight-shaped trail that weaves around the concrete bents of the Gardiner Expressway. It has quickly become one of Toronto's most popular winter attractions. 

Skating under the massive expressway offers a truly unique experience. The industrial architecture provides a stunning backdrop, creating a memorable atmosphere unlike any other outdoor rink in the city. The trail is open to the public daily, weather permitting, throughout the winter season. 

For those who don't own skates, rentals are available on-site for all ages. There are also sharpening services and heated lounge areas where you can warm up with a hot drink. The facilities are designed to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 

The winter programming at The Bentway often includes special events centred around the skate trail. These can range from DJ skate nights and skating lessons to seasonal celebrations. Each year brings new programming, so there's always a reason to come back and see what’s new on the ice. 

Events at The Bentway 

The Bentway is a stage for an incredible variety of year-round events and activities. Its programming is designed to be inclusive and engaging, offering something for every interest and age group. 

Throughout the year, you can find art installations and exhibitions that bring large-scale public art projects to life, often engaging with the site’s unique structure. These exhibitions are free and open to the public, turning the space into an ever-changing outdoor gallery. 

Beyond art, The Bentway comes alive with live performances and concerts that take full advantage of the excellent acoustics under the Gardiner, creating an excellent setting for live music, dance, and theatre. In years past, The Bentway & Fort York have hosted Electric Island, a summer electronic music festival. 

Community markets and pop-ups are another staple, offering everything from farmers' markets to artisan fairs. These events not only support local vendors but also provide a welcoming space for neighbours and visitors to connect. Fitness enthusiasts can also enjoy free or low-cost classes like yoga, dance, and boot camps in the open-air environment, while workshops and educational programs focus on creativity, urbanism, and fostering a sense of community. 

For the FIFA World Cup 2026™, The Bentway, along with the neighbouring Fort York National Historic Site, will play a central role in the city's celebrations. This area has been chosen to host the official FIFA Fan Festival™ for Toronto. 

The FIFA Fan Festival™ is the ultimate destination for fans who want to soak up the tournament atmosphere. It will be a vibrant hub offering live match screenings on giant screens, live music and entertainment from local and international artists, and a wide array of food and beverage options. It's a place where fans from around the world can gather to share their passion for football in a festive and welcoming environment. 

Let’s GO Explore The Bentway 

The Bentway stands as a remarkable example of what can happen when cities invest in vibrant, inclusive public spaces. From ice skating beneath city streets to cheering at the world’s largest single sporting event during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, The Bentway brings people together and celebrates Toronto’s creative spirit.  

With GO Transit, every step of your journey is made accessible, straightforward, and enjoyable. Whether you’re heading to a festival, joining friends for a market, or simply exploring, GO Transit connects you directly to the heart of the city and all that The Bentway has to offer. Let us help you make the most of your next Toronto adventure; getting there is just the beginning!