Lower Bay Station in Toronto 2024

This bricked-over, abandoned subway station can still be reached via a secret gateway

Best time: May 25–26, 2024

Lower Bay Station, also known as Bay Lower, according to the Toronto Transit Commission, is one of Toronto's most famous hidden underground sites. Despite the station being bricked over and access being challenging, anyone can visit this place during the Doors Open Toronto weekend in late May.

History

Originally intended to redirect trains from northbound to eastbound in Toronto's subway system, the Lower Bay station saw brief use for just six months (from February to September) 1966 before its closure. It served as part of an interlining experiment conducted by the TTC. During this trial, trains traversed three routes, with one mirroring the subsequent Bloor-Danforth line and the other two combining segments of the Bloor-Danforth line with the Yonge-University line.

However, the experiment was unsuccessful, primarily due to system-wide delays resulting from disruptions. Additionally, the station's layout did not facilitate efficient cross-platform interchange, confusing passengers as trains alternated between levels, leading to uncertain waits on the stairwells.

Since 1966, the Lower Bay station entrance was sealed off, leaving it abandoned for over half a century. Abandoned spaces have long held a mysterious allure for adventurers, and Lower Bay Station is no exception. It has become a favored location for filming and is occasionally opened to the public for special events, adding to its mystique.

The best time to visit

The station has become a coveted destination for urban explorers, who may wonder how to access it when its entrance has been sealed. Hidden fire doors offer a clandestine entry point for intrepid explorers, although unauthorized visits pose significant legal and safety risks. If you're determined to explore the station, your best bet is to join the crowds during the annual Doors Open Toronto weekend in late May. This year's event is scheduled for May 25th and May 26th, where the abandoned station is often included as a featured attraction.

During Doors Open Toronto, sightseeing is free, allowing everyone to experience the allure of this hidden gem.