Historical Development of Scarborough Town Centre
From Suburban Mall to Urban Core
STC opened in 1973 to serve Scarborough’s rapidly expanding suburbs. Its original design emphasized convenience and accessibility, with anchor tenants, an enclosed layout, and extensive parking. Over time, it added entertainment, dining, and community services, in line with the vision for a vibrant east-end core (Scarborough Town Centre Guide).
Transit and Civic Integration
The arrival of the Scarborough RT and the Scarborough Centre TTC station in 1985 established the area as a major transit hub (Urban Strategies Master Plan). With the Scarborough Civic Centre, public library, and bus terminal nearby, the precinct developed into Scarborough’s downtown, hosting civic events and supporting community engagement.
Master Planning and Urban Intensification
Since 2016, Oxford Properties and Urban Strategies have guided a master plan to transform STC from a car-oriented mall into a mixed-use, high-density urban district. The plan includes residential towers, expanded retail, improved public spaces, and underground parking, with a focus on walkability and sustainability (Urban Strategies Master Plan). The area’s evolution is also shaped by the city’s Secondary Plan, which emphasizes density, green space, and community amenities.
Future Developments
The five-tower development proposed at 100 Borough Drive will add over 2,300 residential units, new retail, and public spaces (UrbanToronto News). The Scarborough Subway Extension is set to be completed by 2030, providing a direct subway connection to STC and further anchoring it as a transit-oriented community (UrbanToronto News; GTA Weekly). Plans also call for green spaces and energy-efficient infrastructure, guided by city planning policies.
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
Shopping
STC has over 250 shops and services, including international brands such as H&M, Uniqlo, Hudson’s Bay, and OVO; tech retailers such as Best Buy; and local boutiques. Pop-ups and new store openings add to the retail mix (Scarborough Town Centre). Specialty kiosks offer gifts and souvenirs across a range of budgets and tastes.
Dining
The TASTE MRKT food court has over 30 quick-service options, including global cuisines and local favorites such as Chatime and Poulet Rouge. Sit-down restaurants include Milestones and Moxie’s. Seasonal food festivals and restaurants offer dining options for families, friends, and business meetings.
Entertainment
Cineplex Cinemas offers the latest films, including IMAX and VIP experiences. Movie tickets are available through Cineplex. STC also hosts art exhibitions and cultural festivals such as the Scarborough Folk Fest (Scarborough Folk Fest).
Community and Cultural Engagement
STC reflects Scarborough’s multicultural identity through its tenant mix, culinary diversity, and community events. It hosts multicultural festivals, art shows, charity drives, and seasonal celebrations. The Scarborough Walk of Fame recognizes local leaders, while event spaces host performances and educational workshops (History of Toronto; Scarborough Walk of Fame). The mall is a gathering place for residents, students, and visitors.
Practical Visitor Information
Location and Accessibility
- Address 300 Borough Drive, Toronto, ON
- Access Directly off Highway 401, between McCowan and Brimley Roads
- Parking Over 3,000 spaces, including accessible and family-designated spots; parking is free in multiple lots and the garage (Scarborough Town Centre Tourism)
- Transit Served by TTC Scarborough Centre station and multiple bus routes. GO Transit regional buses serve the adjacent terminal.
Visiting Hours
- Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Sunday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Holidays and special events Hours may vary; check the official site.
Tickets and Entry
- General entry Free; no admission ticket is required.
- Attractions Tickets for Cineplex Cinemas and special events are available online or at the venue (Cineplex).
- Events Some cultural or seasonal events may require tickets (Scarborough Town Centre Events).
Amenities and Services
- Food court and sit-down restaurants, including TASTE MRKT, Milestones, and Moxie’s
- Cineplex Cinemas with IMAX and VIP
- Free Wi-Fi, family rooms, stroller rentals, accessible washrooms, and digital directories
- StyList platform for online shopping and in-mall pickup
- Lost and found, security, and information kiosks
Accessibility and Transportation
Physical Accessibility
- Step-free entrances, wide corridors, and elevators for all levels
- Accessible washrooms and family rooms
- Designated parking near main entrances
- Wheelchair and stroller rentals
Sensory and Cognitive Accessibility
- Quiet zones for sensory-sensitive visitors
- High-contrast signage and screen-reader-friendly digital directories
- Personalized assistance from customer service desks
Public and Regional Transit
- TTC buses Multiple routes serve the mall, with frequent service to Kennedy Station (Line 2).
- GO Transit Scarborough Centre Bus Terminal connects to regional destinations.
- Ride-sharing and taxis Designated pick-up and drop-off zones are near main entrances (CBC Transportation Test).
- Cycling Modest cycling lanes and secure bike racks are available; Highland Creek Trail is nearby (Nomadlio Bikeability).
- Parking EV charging stations are available.
Sustainability Initiatives
Green Building and Operations
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and advanced HVAC systems
- Automated controls to minimize energy consumption
- Recycling and composting programs
Sustainable Transportation
- EV charging stations
- Promotion of public transit and cycling (Destination Toronto Sustainability)
Local Sourcing and Waste Reduction
- Events and markets featuring local artisans and sustainable brands
- Support for local farmers’ markets (Scarborough Farmers Market)
- Partnerships with zero-waste retailers (Sustainable Review: Zero Waste Stores)
Water Conservation and Policy
- Water-efficient fixtures and landscaping
- Guidance from the Scarborough Sustainability Committee (Scarborough Living Sustainability Committee)
Visitor Tips
- Visit on weekdays or early in the morning for a quieter experience.
- Plan ahead during holidays and special events, when traffic may be higher.
- Use public transit for convenience, especially during peak times.
- Book restaurant reservations in advance at popular venues.
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
- Scarborough Bluffs Cliffs and scenic trails (Tourist Places Guide)
- Toronto Zoo One of Canada’s largest zoos, with attractions for families (The Tourist Checklist)
- Rouge National Urban Park Trails, birdwatching, and nature programs
- Guild Park and Gardens Sculpture park and historic site
For nearby outdoor attractions, dress appropriately. Public transit or carpooling can be used for ease and sustainability. Check the mall’s event calendar to coincide a visit with festivals or promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Scarborough Town Centre’s hours?
A: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; holiday hours may vary.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No. General admission is free, though tickets are required for certain attractions or events.
Q: How do I get to STC by transit?
A: Take TTC buses or GO Transit to Scarborough Centre. Subway access will improve with the extension opening in 2030.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes. Free lots and garage parking include accessible spaces, and EV charging stations are available.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only service animals are permitted inside the mall.
Q: What accessibility features are available?
A: Barrier-free entrances, accessible washrooms, family rooms, and stroller and wheelchair rentals are available.
Q: What sustainability initiatives are in place?
A: Energy-efficient operations, recycling, support for green transit, and community environmental programs.
Plan Your Visit
Scarborough Town Centre brings together shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Download the Audiala app for exclusive offers, real-time updates, and interactive maps. For the latest information, visit the official STC website and follow on social media.
