Panoramic view of TTC's Kennedy station platform with trains and passengers

Scarborough Centre

Scarborough Centre Toronto: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in eastern Toronto, Scarborough Centre has evolved from rural farmland into a major urban hub that blends a rich historic legacy with modern development. Once dotted with small settlements, Scarborough Centre’s transformation accelerated following Toronto’s postwar expansion, driven by the construction of Ontario Highway 401 in the 1950s and the Scarborough Town Centre mall in the 1970s. Today, Scarborough Centre is recognized as one of Toronto’s provincially-designated Urban Growth Centres—a focal point for mixed-use development, cultural diversity, and sustainable, transit-oriented urban design. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Scarborough Civic Centre, the bustling Scarborough Town Centre mall, and natural retreats such as East Highland Creek and Frank Faubert Woodlots. With robust transit connections and accessible amenities, Scarborough Centre offers a comprehensive visitor experience (Toronto City Planning; UrbanToronto; urbanstrategies.com).

This guide covers everything you need to know for your visit—including historical context, opening hours, ticket information, transit options, and curated itineraries—so you can fully appreciate Scarborough Centre’s unique blend of history, culture, commerce, and green spaces.

Panoramic view of Kennedy Station on the TTC rapid transit line showing platforms and tracks

Panoramic view of Toronto Transit Commission's original Scarborough Town Centre subway station

Panoramic view of TTC's original Scarborough Town Centre station on the Scarborough Rapid Transit line

Panoramic view of the original Scarborough Town Centre station of the TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit line

Panoramic view of TTC's original Scarborough Town Centre station showcasing the Scarborough Rapid Transit route

Panorama view of the original Scarborough Town Centre station on the TTC Scarborough Rapid Transit line

Panorama of TTC's original Scarborough Town Centre station showing the Scarborough Rapid Transit route before closure

Scarborough Rapid Transit original station panorama showing the TTC train and platform

Panoramic view of the Toronto Transit Commission's original Scarborough Rapid Transit station at Scarborough Town Centre with platform and station infrastructure

Panoramic view of the original Scarborough Rapid Transit (SRT) station by the TTC in Toronto before closure

Panoramic view of the original Scarborough Town Centre station on the TTC Scarborough Rapid Transit line

Panoramic view of TTC's original Scarborough Town Centre station

Panorama of the TTC Scarborough Town Centre rapid transit station with trains and platform

Panoramic view of the original Scarborough Town Centre station on the TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit line

Panoramic view of TTC's original Scarborough Town Centre rapid transit station platform and tracks

Panoramic view of the original Scarborough Town Centre Station of the TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit line with surrounding area

Panorama of the original Scarborough Town Centre station of Toronto's Scarborough Rapid Transit (SRT)

Scarborough Centre RT station on Line 3 Scarborough light rail line

Exterior view of Scarborough Centre RT station on Line 3 Scarborough light rail

Scarborough Centre RT station on Line 3 Scarborough light rail

Entrance to Scarborough Centre TTC station near Scarborough Town Centre mall in Canada

Scarborough Town Centre station on TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit route before closure in 2022

Scarborough Town Centre station on TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit route shortly before closure

Scarborough Town Centre station on the TTC Scarborough Rapid Transit route in 2022 shortly before closure

Scarborough Town Centre station on TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit route in 2022 shortly before closure

Scarborough Town Centre station on Toronto's Scarborough Rapid Transit route shortly before the route's closure in 2022

Scarborough Town Centre station on TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit route shortly before its closure in 2022

Scarborough Town Centre station on the TTC Scarborough Rapid Transit route shortly before closure in 2022

Scarborough Town Centre station on TTC's Scarborough Rapid Transit route before its closure in 2022

Discover Scarborough Centre
Historical Evolution & Urban Development
Key Attractions and Things to Do
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Transit and Getting There
Community, Culture, and Public Spaces
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Nature and Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual & Interactive Resources
Future Developments
Summary & Conclusion
References

Discover Scarborough Centre

Scarborough Centre is Toronto’s dynamic, multicultural urban hub. Whether you’re exploring architectural landmarks, enjoying shopping and dining, attending cultural events, or seeking green spaces, Scarborough Centre offers a diverse and accessible experience for every visitor.

Historical Evolution & Urban Development

Early Roots: Scarborough Centre began as a rural community of farms and small villages. The arrival of railways in the late 19th century and the construction of Highway 401 in the 1950s catalyzed growth, connecting the area to the rest of Toronto (Toronto City Planning; getleo.com).

1970s Civic and Commercial Transformation: Designated as the civic and commercial heart of the Borough of Scarborough, the Scarborough Civic Centre (opened 1973) and Scarborough Town Centre mall anchored the district’s growth. Albert Campbell Square became a key public gathering space (UrbanToronto).

Transit-Driven Growth (1980s–2000s): The opening of the Scarborough RT rapid transit line in 1985 and the expansion of the Town Centre mall spurred commercial and residential development (Toronto City Planning). Urban planning shifted in the 2000s to encourage mixed-use and walkable communities.

Current & Future Vision: Scarborough Centre is now a designated Urban Growth Centre, targeted for major residential and employment growth through 2041. The new Scarborough Subway Extension—expected by 2030—will further enhance connectivity and urban vibrancy (urbanstrategies.com; Storeys).

Key Attractions and Things to Do

Scarborough Civic Centre: An architectural landmark for government and community events, adjacent to Albert Campbell Square (City of Toronto Civic Centre).
Scarborough Town Centre (STC): One of Canada’s largest malls, with 250+ stores, diverse dining, and year-round events (Scarborough Town Centre Directory).
Albert Campbell Square: Outdoor plaza for concerts, festivals, and skating.
East Highland Creek & Frank Faubert Woodlots: Urban trails and green spaces for walking and relaxation.
Scarborough Centre Library: Modern public library with digital innovation hub and community programs (Toronto Public Library).
Scarborough Bluffs & Rouge National Urban Park: Natural attractions nearby for hiking, photography, and birdwatching (Hungry416; Rouge National Urban Park).
Cultural Institutions: Scarborough Museum, Chinese Cultural Centre, and frequent community events (historyoftoronto.ca).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Scarborough Town Centre (STC)

Address: 300 Borough Drive, Scarborough, ON M1P 4P5 (Scarborough Town Centre Directions)
Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- (Check official website for holiday hours)
Admission: Free entry. You only pay for shopping, dining, or entertainment activities.
Accessibility: Full wheelchair access, elevators, accessible washrooms, and parking. Multilingual staff and family-friendly amenities available (History of Toronto).

Scarborough Civic Centre & Library

Civic Centre: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Public tours available by appointment.
Library: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

Tickets

Events: Most community events are free. Some special events at the Civic Centre or Cineplex Cinemas require tickets—check event pages or box office.
Cultural Sites: Scarborough Museum may have a nominal entrance fee (approx. $5 for adults, free for children under 12).

Parking

Over 4,500 free parking spaces at STC; accessible, family, and EV charging spots available (Toronto For You).

Transit and Getting There

By Car: Accessible from Highway 401, with clear signage from Brimley Road, McCowan Road, and Progress Avenue.
By Public Transit:
- TTC Subway: Scarborough Centre Station (Line 3), soon to be upgraded to the Scarborough Subway Extension.
- Bus: TTC, GO Transit, and intercity buses serve the Scarborough Centre Bus Terminal.
By Bike/Walk: Expanding bike lanes and pedestrian pathways.

For trip planning, use the TTC Trip Planner or GO Transit.

Community, Culture, and Public Spaces

Scarborough Centre is a model of multiculturalism and community engagement. It features:

Public Art & Murals: Celebrating local heritage and diversity.
Festivals: Canada Day, Diwali, Lunar New Year, Caribbean and African celebrations (City of Toronto Events).
Inclusive Development: Affordable housing, new schools, and accessible public spaces form part of the district’s future (City of Toronto, 2025).

Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment

Shopping: 250+ stores featuring international brands and local boutiques (Epic Footsteps).
Dining: 30+ eateries, including global chains and local favorites; TASTE MRKT food court offers diverse cuisine (Vast Tourist).
Entertainment: Cineplex Cinemas (tickets online or at box office), Scarborough Walk of Fame, live performances, and pop-up markets.

Nature and Nearby Attractions

Scarborough Bluffs: Panoramic lakeside cliffs and hiking trails (TransCanada Highway).
Rouge National Urban Park: Canada’s first national urban park, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Toronto Zoo: Major family attraction nearby (Toronto Zoo).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Times to Visit: Weekdays are quieter; weekends and holidays are busier—arrive early for parking or events.
Guided Tours: Offered seasonally; book in advance through local organizations.
Transit: Use a PRESTO card for seamless travel (CityPASS Toronto Tips).
Safety: The area is generally safe; remain vigilant in crowded spaces (Ontario Away).
Photography: Top spots include Scarborough Bluffs, Albert Campbell Square, and public art installations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the main visiting hours?
A: STC mall: Mon–Sat 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, Sun 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; Civic Centre: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. Hours vary for other attractions.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Tickets are required only for certain events and at the Cineplex.

Q: How accessible is Scarborough Centre?
A: Highly accessible, with wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible parking.

Q: Is parking free and are there EV charging stations?
A: Yes, parking is free. EV charging available at Entrance #3 for a fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for select sites—arrange through the Guest Experience Desk or local organizations.

Q: What family amenities are available?
A: Family washrooms, nursing rooms, stroller rentals, and playgrounds.

Visual & Interactive Resources

Virtual Tours: Available on the official STC website.
Interactive Maps: Highlighting shopping, dining, and transit.
Photo Galleries: Explore images of public art, green spaces, and community events.

Future Developments

Scarborough Centre is undergoing significant urban transformation, with new high-density residential towers, public parks, schools, and the Scarborough Subway Extension. The “Our Scarborough Centre” plan forecasts up to 64,000 residents and 27,000 jobs over the next 30 years, cementing its status as Toronto’s premier east-end destination (City of Toronto, 2025).

Summary & Conclusion

Scarborough Centre exemplifies Toronto’s multicultural vibrancy and urban growth. Anchored by landmark institutions, robust transit, and a diverse retail and dining scene, it welcomes visitors from all walks of life. Its commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and community is evident through ongoing developments and accessible amenities. For a dynamic, rewarding, and family-friendly experience, plan your visit using official resources and stay connected with the latest updates via the Scarborough Town Centre website and the Audiala app.