Canada Life Building: A Beaux-Arts Landmark
A historic Beaux-Arts building in downtown Toronto, famous for its architecture and weather beacon.
Located at 330 University Avenue, the Canada Life Building stands as a testament to Toronto's architectural heritage. Completed in 1931, the 15-story Beaux-Arts structure was designed by Sproatt & Rolph as the headquarters for Canada Life Assurance Company. The building's facade is clad in Indiana limestone, and its architecture includes a 3-story portico with 10 Tuscan columns. Originally intended to be the first of many Beaux-Arts buildings lining University Avenue, the Great Depression curtailed these plans, leaving the Canada Life Building as the sole example of this style on the street. The building was designed to convey stability and security. Inside, the building features ceilings adorned with gold leaf, and floors, columns and trim made of different types of marble. A weather beacon was added to the top of the building in 1951. The beacon uses a simple light pattern to forecast the weather: flashing red means rain, flashing white means snow, solid red means cloudy, and solid green means clear skies. The Canada Life Building also houses the majority of the Civil operations of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for the Toronto region.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays for a quieter experience.
- The intricate architectural details make for stunning photographs.
- Explore the surrounding area for great dining options after your visit.
A brief summary to Canada Life Building
- 330 University Ave, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1R8, CA
- +1888-252-1847
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Canada Life Building via public transport, take the subway to St. Patrick Station on Line 1 (Yonge-University). Exit onto University Avenue and walk south for about 5 minutes; the building will be on your left. Alternatively, take the 505 Dundas or 501 Queen streetcar to the University Avenue stop and walk north. The fare for the subway, streetcar, and bus is CAD 3.25 per ride.
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Walking
From Nathan Phillips Square, head north on Bay Street, then turn left onto Queen Street West. Walk west to University Avenue and turn left again. Walk south on University Avenue, and the Canada Life Building will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to downtown Toronto and take the University Avenue exit from major highways like the Gardiner Expressway or Don Valley Parkway. Head north on University Avenue; the Canada Life Building will be on your right. Street parking is available, but nearby parking garages are a more reliable option, with rates typically ranging from CAD 10-30 for daily parking.
