Ultimate Best Things to Do in Toronto with Kids
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Planning a family trip to Toronto and looking for family-friendly activities? Keep reading to find out my list of the very best things to do in Toronto with kids. They are all fun and worth adding to your Toronto itinerary!
Toronto, the vibrant metropolis perched on the shores of Lake Ontario, is not only a cultural hub but also a fantastic destination for family adventures. Packed with diverse attractions, green spaces, and enriching experiences, Toronto promises a memorable getaway for both parents and kids alike. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best things to do in Toronto with kids, ensuring your family vacation is nothing short of spectacular.
Mini Guide to Toronto with Kids
Planning a family trip to Toronto and don’t want to read a million blog posts? Here is what you need to know before visiting Toronto with kids:
Things to do in Toronto with kids:
– Toronto Zoo: this family-friendly attraction always ranks high on the list of things to do with kids in Toronto!
– Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: this is a really fun way to discover the city of Toronto with kids!
– Day trip to Niagara Falls: if you are in Toronto for a few days, it’s absolutely worth adding a visit to Niagara Falls to your Toronto itinerary!
Where to stay in Toronto with kids:
– Chelsea Hotel Toronto: One of the best hotels for families in Toronto, with amazing family-friendly amenities and service.
– Westin Harbour Castle: Another perfect option for families who want a hassle free stay in Toronto with kids.
– Residence Inn by Marriott Toronto Downtown / Entertainment District: For spacious rooms equipped with kitchens and living areas.
Is it worth visiting Toronto with kids?
YES! Absolutely! Visiting Toronto with kids can be a fantastic experience for the whole family.
The city offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to children of all ages, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation.
Toronto is worth visiting with kids for many reasons.
First, it is home to many fun family-friendly attractions (keep reading as most of them figure on our list of best things to do with kids in Toronto).
But also, despite being a bustling metropolis, Toronto boasts an abundance of green spaces and parks where families can relax, play, and explore nature together. High Park, with its sprawling grounds, playgrounds, and zoo, is a favorite among families, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure.
In addition, Toronto is equipped with family-friendly amenities such as stroller-friendly sidewalks, clean and safe public transportation, and family restrooms in many public spaces. These amenities make navigating the city with children more convenient and enjoyable for parents.
Finaly, Toronto is filled with restaurants, shopping options, family-friendly hotels, grocery stores and pharmacies. It makes it easy for families to explore the city stress-free and without complex logistics.
Overall, Toronto offers a wealth of experiences and opportunities for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together.
Choose the perfect hotel for your family! Here are the 10 Best Family Hotels in Toronto worth booking now!
Best things to do in Toronto with kids
There a many family-friendly things to do in Toronto. Here are 10 activities we recommend you add to your Toronto itinerary.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada stands out as one of the best things to do in Toronto with kids for many reasons.
First off, aquariums are always extremely popular with kids. At Toronto Aquarium, the whole family can admire more than 20,000 marine animals.
The number of activities and exhibitions on offer is impressive. Here are some examples of what you can see and do at Ripley’s Aquarium:
- Discovery Dive Shows: These scheduled shows offer a chance for kids to watch divers interact with marine life up close. They can learn about the different species in the tanks and the importance of ocean conservation.
- Touch Tanks: One of the most interactive experiences at the aquarium, the touch tanks allow children to get hands-on with various marine creatures such as stingrays and small sharks. Educators are on hand to provide information and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Dangerous Lagoon: Walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine life. Kids will be amazed as these creatures swim overhead and around them, providing a truly immersive experience.
- Planet Jellies: Step into a fascinating world of jellyfish in this unique exhibit. Kids can learn about these mysterious creatures and observe their graceful movements in tanks illuminated with colorful lights.
- The Gallery: Discover many different marine species, including seahorses, octopuses, and jellyfish, in this gallery featuring stunning displays and informative exhibits.
The facility is kid-friendly – they can walk around safely. It is also stroller-friendly!
Plus, there is a play area where your kids can have fun and stretch their legs.
Food is available at the cafeteria is available on site.
Finally, the Aquarium is centrally located, right next to the CN Tower. Its ideal location makes it even easier to add this activity to your list of things to do with kids in Toronto without complex travel logistics.
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Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is a sure hit with families in Toronto! It is consistently ranked as one of the best family-friendly activities in Toronto.
The Toronto Zoo is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in North America.
It is home to over 3,000 animals representing over 300 species. Families can discover the animals’ various ecosystems and habitats, ranging from the African savanna to the Indo-Malayan rainforest.
Kids can get up close with their favorite animals, participate in keeper talks, and even enjoy a ride on the Zoomobile through the African Savanna exhibit.
The zoo features several interactive exhibits and play areas designed specifically for children.
The Discovery Zone offers hands-on activities, educational displays, and a splash pad where kids can learn about biodiversity and ecology in a fun and engaging way.
Interactive feeding stations and animal encounters provide opportunities for kids to get up close with some of the zoo’s residents and learn about their natural behaviors.
On site, you will find family-friendly amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for parents and children alike. Stroller-friendly pathways, rest areas, and dining options make navigating the zoo with young children convenient and stress-free.
The Zoomobile, a guided tour around the zoo’s grounds, provides an opportunity for families to explore the zoo together while learning about its diverse animal inhabitants.
The Zoo is located in Scarborough, outside of Toronto city’s center. Depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation, it can take around 30 to 45 minutes to drive from downtown Toronto to the zoo. Public transportation options, such as buses and trains, are also available for visitors who prefer not to drive.
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Centre Island
A visit to Centre Island is a perfect activity for families looking for a break from the city action.
Centre Island is a picturesque oasis in the heart of Toronto.
Getting to Centre Island is also part of the fun! Indeed, you’ll need to take a ferry across Lake Ontario to reach your destination. The ferry docks are located at the foot of Bay Street and Queens Quay in downtown Toronto.
Centre Island offers stunning views of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario. Families can enjoy picturesque picnic spots, scenic walking paths, and beautiful gardens, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The island is home to Centreville amusement park, featuring rides, games, and attractions suitable for children of all ages.
Families can also rent bikes, pedal boats, and kayaks to explore the island’s natural beauty and waterfront.
Centre Island boasts several sandy beaches and splash pads where families can cool off on hot summer days. With lifeguards on duty and designated swimming areas, it’s a safe and enjoyable destination for water play and relaxation.
In addition, kids will love the Far Enough Farm. It is a charming petting zoo where they can interact with a variety of farm animals, including goats, sheep, chickens, and ponies. Families can feed the animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy hands-on experiences with friendly creatures.
Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
We’re always delighted when this activity is offered in the destination we’re visiting. Hop-on Hop-Off bus tours are a fun and family-friendly way to discover Toronto with kids.
These tours provide a convenient and comfortable way to explore the city’s top attractions with kids. Instead of navigating public transportation or dealing with traffic and parking, families can relax onboard a spacious double-decker bus and enjoy panoramic views of Toronto’s landmarks.
Bus tours come with informative audio commentary available in multiple languages. You’ll be able to learn interesting facts and historical insights about the city’s attractions. It’s a fun and educational way for the whole family to learn about Toronto’s history, culture, and landmarks while sightseeing.
What we love about these tourist bus tours is the flexibility they offer families.
Indeed, the hop-on hop-off feature allows families to customize their itinerary based on their interests and schedule. With multiple stops at popular attractions and landmarks, families can hop off the bus to explore at their own pace and hop back on when they’re ready to continue the tour.
Bus tours cover a wide range of attractions and neighborhoods, giving families the opportunity to see more of Toronto in less time. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and Royal Ontario Museum to charming neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Yorkville, kids can experience the city’s diverse offerings in a single tour.
Kids will love riding on the top deck of the bus, where they can enjoy unobstructed views of Toronto’s skyline and iconic landmarks. It’s a great opportunity to snap photos, spot famous landmarks, and admire the city’s architecture from a unique viewpoint.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) should definitely be on your list of things to do in Toronto with kids. It’s the perfect family-friendly activity for a rainy afternoon or simply to discover new things.
The ROM offers numerous interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage and entertain kids of all ages. From dinosaur skeletons to Egyptian mummies, there are plenty of artifacts and displays that will spark curiosity and imagination.
Kids will be fascinated by the Dinosaur Galleries. Indeed, the ROM is home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, including a complete skeleton of a Barosaurus. Kids will be able to admire the size and scale of these prehistoric creatures. They will also have the opportunity to learn about their habitats, behaviors, and extinction.
Another super popular section of the ROM with families is the Bat Cave. The Bat Cave exhibit allows kids to explore a simulated limestone cave and learn about the important role bats play in ecosystems. With realistic cave formations, sound effects, and interactive displays, it’s a fun and educational experience for young visitors.
The ROM is equipped with family-friendly amenities such as stroller rentals, nursing rooms, and child-friendly dining options. Families can enjoy a hassle-free visit with young children and take advantage of facilities designed to accommodate their needs.
A visit to the Royal Ontario Museum is definitely worth adding to you Toronto itinerary.
Toronto Harbor and Islands Sightseeing Cruise
An Harbor and Islands Sightseeing Cruise is another must for families looking for fun things to do in Toronto with kids.
Indeed, boat tours and cruises are often really popular with families exploring new cities.
These 1-hours sightseeing cruises offer stunning panoramic views of the Toronto skyline, waterfront, and surrounding islands. Kids will love taking in the sights from the water and spotting iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and Toronto Islands.
These cruises are also a fun and relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. The whole family can sit back, relax, and enjoy the gentle breeze and soothing sounds of the water while taking in the sights.
A sightseeing cruise also provides plenty of opportunities for family photos and selfies against the backdrop of Toronto’s skyline and waterfront. Kids can capture memories of their cruise experience and share them with friends and family.
CN Tower
As one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world, the CN Tower is an iconic symbol of Toronto. It definitely ranks high on the list of unmissable things to do with kids in Toronto.
The whole family will be amazed by the height and distinctive design of the tower, making it a must-see attraction during your visit to the city.
The CN Tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Toronto and its surrounding area from its observation decks. You can admire the cityscape, waterfront, and landmarks like Rogers Centre and the Toronto Islands from high above, providing a unique perspective of the city.
If you plan on climbing to the top of the CN Tower, you can also opt for the Glass Floor Experience. It allows visitors to walk on a section of the observation deck with transparent glass panels beneath their feet, offering a thrilling sensation of walking on air. I
Whether you climb to the top of the CN Tower or not, be sure to plan an evening outing downtown to admire the illuminated tower. It’s a sight to behold!
Queues can get pretty long. We advise you to buy your tickets in advance.
Science Centre
Unleash your child’s inner scientist at the Ontario Science Centre.
This interactive museum dedicated to igniting curiosity and discovery is often considered as one of the best things to do with kids in Toronto.
The Science Centre offers a wide variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that cater to children of all ages. From exploring the human body to experimenting with physics principles, there are endless opportunities for kids to learn and engage with science in a fun and interactive way.
Families will love exploring the various curiosity Zones that focus on different scientific disciplines, such as space, biology, and earth sciences. Each zone offers interactive exhibits, educational displays, and hands-on activities that allow kids to explore specific areas of interest in depth.
KidSpark is a special area within the Science Centre designed specifically for young children, ages 8 and under. It features interactive exhibits and play areas that encourage exploration, creativity, and imaginative play, providing a safe and stimulating environment for young learners.
The Science Centre is home to an IMAX Dome Theatre, where families can enjoy immersive giant-screen films on a variety of topics, from nature and space exploration to science fiction and adventure. It’s a captivating experience that brings learning to life in a larger-than-life format.
The Science Centre is committed to making science accessible to all families, regardless of age or ability. It offers barrier-free access, sensory-friendly programming, and inclusive exhibits that accommodate children with diverse needs and abilities, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.
It is safe to say that a visit to the Science Centre is one of the most fun things to do with kids in Toronto.
High Park
If you are looking for a little break from the city’s action and noise, make sure to add a stop to High Park to your Toronto itinerary.
High Park is Toronto’s largest public park. It covers 400 acres of green space.
It features several playgrounds and play areas designed for kids of all ages. From traditional swings and slides to fun play structures and splash pads, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
The Park is also home to the High Park Zoo, a free-admission zoo that houses a variety of animals, including bison, llamas, deer, and peacocks. Kids can visit the zoo to learn about different animal species and observe them in their natural habitats.
On site, you’ll find numerous trails and hiking paths that wind through wooded areas, meadows, and ravines. Families can enjoy walks, bike rides, or hikes while taking in the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.
It is also the perfect spot for a family picnic in Toronto. The picnic areas are equipped with tables, benches, and barbecue facilities. The park also offers sports fields, tennis courts, and other recreational facilities for families to enjoy outdoor activities together.
High Park boasts beautiful landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and iconic landmarks such as Grenadier Pond and Colborne Lodge. Families can explore the park’s natural and historical attractions while capturing memories through photography and sightseeing.
In short, it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Toronto with kids for families looking for outdoor activities in the big city.
Family Travel Tip:
Make sure to add this place to your Toronto itinerary if you plan on visiting the city during spring. Indeed, in the spring, High Park’s cherry blossoms attract visitors from around the world. Kids can marvel at the stunning pink and white blossoms that blanket the park, creating a magical and picturesque setting for family outings and picnics.
Blue Jays Games
If you’re travelling to Toronto during the baseball season, a Blue Jays game is a must. It’s definitely at the top of the list of things to do in Toronto with kids for all sports-loving families.
During a Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre, the atmosphere gets electric and exhilarating. The cheering crowds, music and entertainment will impress the kids (and the adults too… let’s be honest!).
Blue Jays games offer a wide range of family-friendly entertainment options to keep kids engaged and entertained throughout the game. From between-innings activities and games to mascot appearances and giveaways, there’s always something fun happening at the ballpark.
The stadium offers a variety of food and snack options that appeal to kids of all ages, from classic ballpark fare like hot dogs and popcorn to kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and ice cream. Plus, souvenir cups and novelty snacks add to the fun and excitement of the game.
And if you’re lucky and attend a game on a sunny day, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view during the match. Weather permitting, the roof of the stadium is open and fans can enjoy a breathtaking view of the CN Tower.
The Blue Jays often host family-friendly promotions and events throughout the season, such as Kids Days, where children can enjoy special activities, giveaways, and discounts on tickets and concessions. These promotions make attending a Blue Jays game even more affordable and enjoyable for families.
The facilities at the Rogers Centre are very family-friendly.
Strollers are not allowed in the seating area, but a stroller parking supervised by Blue Jays staff is available.
A modern, well-equipped room is available for mothers who want to bottle-feed or breast-feed their babies. Changing tables, wipes, bottle warmers, rocking chairs, sinks and microwaves are all available. Bonus: televisions are installed on the walls in front of the rocking chairs so that mums can watch the game as they feed their babies.
If you’re going to a family game, the staff can give your children a certificate stating that they’ve attended their first Blue Jays home game! A great travel souvenir!
The Rogers Centre is easily accessible, right in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Overall, attending a Toronto Blue Jays game is a thrilling and memorable experience for families, offering a perfect blend of excitement, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun day out with the kids, a Blue Jays game is a must-do activity in Toronto that the whole family can enjoy together.
That’s it! You now have your list of the best things to do with children in Toronto. I hope this article will help you plan your itinerary for Toronto and have a great time with your family in this beautiful Canadian destination.
Conclusion – the Best Things to Do in Toronto with Kids
Toronto is packed with so many amazing things to do with kids that you’ll never run out of options. Whether you’re wandering through a hands-on museum, spending a day at the zoo, or simply enjoying the city’s beautiful parks and waterfront, there’s truly something for every family.
What I love most about Toronto is that it makes family travel easy and fun, with activities that kids will love and parents can enjoy too. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re coming back for another visit, I’m sure you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
So go ahead—explore, play, and soak in all the fun this vibrant city has to offer. Your kids will thank you, and you’ll leave with so many great moments to look back on!
PLANNING A FAMILY TRIP TO TORONTO? HERE ARE ADDITIONAL POSTS THAT MAY INTEREST YOU:
– Toronto with Kids: The 10 Best Family Hotels in Toronto
– 7 AMAZING LONG WEEKEND FAMILY GETAWAYS IN ONTARIO
