Baldwin Steps: A Toronto Landmark
Ascend the historic Baldwin Steps in Toronto for stunning city views and a unique urban experience in the heart of the Casa Loma neighborhood.
The Baldwin Steps are a notable landmark in Toronto, offering a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Situated in the Casa Loma area, the steps traverse a steep escarpment that marks the ancient shoreline of Lake Iroquois. This geological feature made it impossible to construct Spadina Road directly, leading to the creation of the steps as a vital pedestrian pathway. The steps are named in honor of the Baldwin family, who were early landowners in the area, including Robert Baldwin, a former premier of Ontario. Originally, wooden steps were built in the 19th century to facilitate movement up the escarpment. These were replaced by a more permanent structure in 1913. In the 1960s, a proposed Spadina Expressway threatened the steps, but the project was canceled in 1971, preserving this public pathway. In 1987, the City of Toronto rebuilt the steps with new railings and concrete stairs, following the original zig-zag path. Today, there are 110 steps from street level to the top. The steps are surrounded by greenery, providing a pleasant environment for locals and tourists alike. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Toronto skyline. The Baldwin Steps remain a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a unique urban experience.
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer for pleasant weather and lush greenery.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the steps can be steep.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Casa Loma or Spadina House.
- Check out the historical plaque at the bottom of the steps to learn more about the area's history.
A brief summary to Baldwin Steps
- 486 Davenport Rd, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5R 1X8, CA
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Casa Loma or the Dupont subway station, the Baldwin Steps are easily accessible by foot. From Dupont Station, walk two blocks north on Spadina Avenue. The steps are located at the intersection of Spadina Road and Davenport Road. There is no cost to use the Baldwin Steps.
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Public Transport
The closest subway station to the Baldwin Steps is Dupont Station on the Yonge-University line. From Dupont Station, walk two blocks north on Spadina Avenue to Davenport Road. The 127 Davenport bus also stops at Davenport Rd at Walmer Rd, a 1-minute walk to the steps. A single fare on the TTC is approximately CAD 3.25.
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Ride Share or Taxi
Use a ride-sharing app or taxi service and provide the address: 486 Davenport Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8. This will take you directly to the base of the Baldwin Steps. The cost of a short taxi ride from downtown Toronto will likely range from CAD 10-20, depending on traffic and distance.
