Looking for fun things to do in Toronto with your kids? Look no further! Toronto is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities, educational experiences or just some good old-fashioned fun, Toronto has something for everyone.
Toronto Skyline
From exploring the city’s many museums and galleries to visiting the famous CN Tower, there are plenty of iconic attractions to check out. You can also take a stroll through one of Toronto’s many parks or gardens, or head to the waterfront to enjoy some outdoor activities like boating or cycling. And if you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, there are plenty of quirky and unusual attractions to discover too. So book your flights to Toronto, pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Outdoor Activities
Toronto offers plenty of outdoor activities that are perfect for families with kids. From exploring the Toronto Islands to taking a stroll in the Distillery District, there’s something for everyone.
Visit the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a great place to spend a day with your family. You can take a ferry to the islands and enjoy a picnic, go cycling, or take a dip in the lake. The islands are home to several parks, including Centreville Amusement Park, which has over 30 rides and attractions for kids of all ages. You can also visit the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes.
Explore High Park
High Park is a large park in the west end of Toronto that offers plenty of activities for families. You can go for a hike, play in the playgrounds, and even visit a zoo. The park is also home to several gardens, including the famous cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring. You can also visit the High Park Nature Centre, which offers educational programs for kids.
Take a Stroll in the Distillery District
The Distillery District is a pedestrian-only neighbourhood that is home to several art galleries, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll with your family and enjoy the historic architecture. You can also visit the Young Centre for the Performing Arts, which offers theatre productions and other performances for kids.
Overall, Toronto offers plenty of outdoor activities for families with kids. Whether you’re looking to explore the islands, hike in a park, or take a stroll in a historic neighbourhood, there’s something for everyone.
Toronto Islands
Indoor Activities
When the weather outside is not ideal for outdoor activities, Toronto offers plenty of indoor options to keep your kids entertained. Here are some of the best indoor activities for kids in Toronto.
Visit the Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the largest museums in Canada and a great place to take your kids. The museum has a vast collection of art, culture, and natural history exhibits from around the world. Your kids will love exploring the dinosaur fossils and the bat cave exhibit. The ROM also offers interactive exhibits and workshops for kids, making it an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
Check out the Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre is a must-visit for families with kids of all ages. The centre has over 500 interactive exhibits that explore science and technology in a fun and engaging way. Your kids can learn about space, electricity, the human body, and more. The Science Centre also offers live science demonstrations and workshops, making it a great place to spend a day.
Experience the Hockey Hall of Fame
If your older kids are national hockey league fans, they will love the Hockey Hall of Fame. The museum has a vast collection of hockey memorabilia, including jerseys, sticks, and pucks from some of the greatest players in the game’s history. Your kids can also test their skills in the interactive exhibits, including shooting and goaltending challenges. The Hockey Hall of Fame is a great place to learn about the history of hockey and its impact on Canadian culture.
Rogers Centre
Visiting the Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays, is a must-do activity for families visiting Toronto. Kids will love watching the exciting baseball games, getting their favourite baseball jersey and cheering on the Blue Jays. The retractable roof means that games can be enjoyed rain or shine, and the stadium offers plenty of food and drink options, including kid-friendly options like hot dogs and popcorn.
In addition to baseball games, the Rogers Centre also hosts other events and concerts throughout the year, making it a versatile and exciting destination for families. With its central location in the heart of Toronto, the Rogers Centre is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient and fun activity for families to enjoy. We had so much fun doing a stadium guided tour a few years back! Walking onto the pitch was a memorable experience!
Casa Loma mansion and garden in midtown Toronto
Family-Friendly Attractions
If you’re looking for some fun family-friendly attractions in Toronto, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options to choose from that will keep both kids and adults entertained. Here are some of the most popular attractions to check out:
Visit the Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is a great place to take the whole family. With over 5,000 animals from over 500 different species, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The zoo is divided into several different sections, including the African Savanna, the Canadian Domain, and the Tundra Trek. You can also catch a live animal show or take a ride on the Zoomobile. Be sure to check out the zoo’s website for information on special events and exhibits.
Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is another must-visit attraction for families. With over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, you’ll feel like you’re underwater as you explore the exhibits. Kids will love the touch tanks, where they can get up close and personal with some of the animals. Be sure to check out the daily dive shows, where you can watch divers feed the animals.
Take a Trip to Canada’s Wonderland
Canada’s Wonderland is an amusement park located just outside of Toronto. With over 200 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Kids will love the Planet Snoopy section, which is dedicated to younger children. You can also catch a live show or watch the nightly fireworks display. Be sure to check out the park’s website for information on special events and discounts.
Overall, Toronto has plenty of family-friendly attractions to choose from. Whether you’re looking for animals, aquatic life, or amusement park rides, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto
The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto is an indoor family entertainment centre located in Vaughan Mills Mall in Vaughan, Ontario just north of Toronto. It’s a fun place to visit with children aged around 3-10 years. Perfect for young children if it’s a rainy day!
Cultural Activities
Toronto is a city with a rich cultural scene that offers plenty of opportunities for families with kids to explore and learn. Here are some of the best cultural activities to enjoy with your little ones.
Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is a must-visit destination for art lovers of all ages. The gallery houses an impressive collection of more than 95,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations. The AGO also offers a variety of family-friendly programs and activities, such as art-making workshops, guided tours, and interactive exhibits.
National Gallery of Canada
Explore the Royal Conservatory of Music
The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is a world-renowned institution that offers music education and performance programs for students of all ages and skill levels. The RCM also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, featuring some of the best musicians and performers from around the world. Take your kids to one of these events to expose them to the beauty and power of music.
Experience the Toronto Symphony Orchestra
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is one of the most respected and celebrated orchestras in North America. The TSO performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music and offers a variety of family-friendly concerts and events throughout the year. Attend one of these concerts with your kids to introduce them to the magic of live orchestral music.
Black Creek Pioneer Village
Black Creek Pioneer Village is an open-air heritage museum in the northern part of Toronto. The village is a recreation of life in 19th-century Ontario, depicting pastoral Upper Canada before 1867. You can immerse yourself in the 1860s and explore a genuinely-created country village of the Toronto region. The village features 40 major structures, including a gristmill, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Get hands-on with 70 rare and heritage breed animals and 10 gardens growing flowers and plants from heirloom seeds.
Black Creek Pioneer Village – 19th-century Ontario
Food and Drink
When it comes to food and drink options in Toronto, there are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants and fun food experiences to enjoy. Here are some of the top picks:
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
- Old Spaghetti Factory: This family-friendly restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes at affordable prices. Young kids will love the spaghetti and meatballs, while parents can enjoy a glass of wine.
- The Burger’s Priest: This popular burger joint is known for its delicious burgers made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Kids can choose from classic cheeseburgers or try something new like the “Vatican City” burger.
- Rainforest Cafe: This themed restaurant is perfect for kids who love animals and adventure. The restaurant is designed to look like a rainforest, complete with animatronic animals and thunderstorms.
Fun Food Experiences:
- CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant: For a truly unique dining experience, head to the iconic CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant. This revolving restaurant offers stunning views of the city while you enjoy a delicious meal. Don’t forget to stand on the glass floor at the top of the CN Tower for a stunning view down!
- Kensington Market Food Tour: Take a guided food tour of the eclectic Kensington Market neighbourhood, where you’ll sample a variety of delicious foods from around the world. This is a great way to expose kids to different cultures and cuisines.
Toronto has no shortage of kid-friendly restaurants and fun food experiences to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for classic Italian dishes, juicy burgers, or a unique dining experience with a view, there’s something for everyone in Toronto.
CN Tower as seen from the Music Garden
What’s There To Do With Kids In Downtown Toronto?
There are many things to do with kids in downtown Toronto. Some popular options include visiting Ripley’s Aquarium taking the ferry to Toronto Islands and exploring nature on the beaches of Lake Ontario. Visiting Riverdale Farm is another great option. It’s a replica of early 20th-century Ontario farm life set on 7.5 acres of green space in the heart of Toronto. A perfect way to keep the kids entertained!
Visiting Toronto With Kids
Visiting Toronto with kids can be a fun and memorable experience, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip. Here are some tips and advice for families visiting Toronto with kids:
- Where to stay: When choosing a place to stay, consider staying in a family-friendly neighbourhood such as the Entertainment District or the Harbourfront. Look for hotels that offer amenities for families, such as swimming pools, game rooms, and babysitting services.
- How to get around: Toronto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, streetcars, and subways. These are the best ways to get around. Consider purchasing a day pass or a family pass to save money on transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
- How to save money: Toronto can be an expensive city, but there are ways to save money. Look for free things or low-cost activities, such as visiting public parks, and museums with free admission, or attending free events. Consider packing snacks and meals to save money on food. Find a green space for a picnic!
- Plan ahead: Research the top attractions and activities in Toronto before your trip to ensure you don’t miss anything. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
- Resources for planning: There are many resources available to help families plan a trip to Toronto. The Yo-Toronto interactive website for kids offers information on kid-friendly attractions and events. And take a look at the Toronto Tourism website, it offers information on accommodations, transportation, and events.
Extend Your Toronto Trip – Visiting Niagara Falls on the Canadian side
To extend the trip and add even more excitement to a family vacation in Toronto, visiting Niagara Falls on the Canadian side is a great option. The falls are only a short drive from Toronto and offer breathtaking views and fun activities for the whole family. Kids will love taking a boat tour on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, which takes visitors right up to the base of the falls. The Niagara SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel, offers stunning views of the falls from above. Families can also enjoy exploring the Niagara Falls State Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the falls. With its natural beauty and exciting activities, Niagara Falls is a perfect addition to a family vacation in Toronto.
Niagara Falls
Visiting the city of Toronto is a great family trip to go on with plenty of fun things to do for kids of all ages. Some of the top attractions include the Toronto Zoo, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and KidSpark. Outdoor activities like visiting the Toronto Islands, exploring High Park, and biking along the Waterfront Trail are perfect for families.
Cultural experiences at the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Ontario Science Centre are also great options. When it comes to food and drink, kid-friendly restaurants like the Old Spaghetti Factory and The Burger’s Priest are popular choices, while fun food experiences like the CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant and the Kensington Market Food Tour are unique and memorable.
With resources like the Yo-Toronto interactive website for kids and the Toronto Tourism website, families can plan a fun and stress-free trip to Toronto.
*This is a collaborative post
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