Planning family outings can be daunting, especially when looking for the best things to do with kids in Toronto. It’s challenging to find entertaining, educational, and suitable activities for children of all ages.
Toronto is a vibrant city with countless attractions, but not all are kid-friendly. Wasting time and money on activities that don’t engage or captivate your children can quickly turn a fun day into a disappointment.
Discover the ultimate guide to the best things to do with kids in Toronto! Our carefully curated list provides engaging and educational activities to keep your little ones entertained and create lasting memories. We’ve covered you, from interactive museums and thrilling amusement parks to scenic outdoor adventures and hands-on workshops. Plan your family outings confidently and ensure every moment spent in Toronto is filled with joy and excitement for kids and parents alike!
The Best Things to Do With Kids in Toronto
1- Toronto’s Hockey Hall of Fame
The Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see for any hockey fan, and it’s also a great place to take the kids. There are interactive exhibits where they can learn about the game’s history, try on equipment, and even get their picture taken with the Stanley Cup.
The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in downtown Toronto, Ontario, and is a must-visit destination for hockey enthusiasts. The Hall of Fame showcases the history and culture of ice hockey with exhibits featuring artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays.
The Hockey Hall of Fame is home to the Stanley Cup, the most prestigious trophy in professional ice hockey, and visitors can take a photo with the cup or even touch it. The Hall of Fame also has exhibits dedicated to the greatest players, coaches, and builders of the game, with displays featuring equipment, jerseys, and other memorabilia.
In addition to the exhibits, visitors can participate in various interactive experiences, such as shooting against virtual goalies, broadcasting a play-by-play call, and stepping into a replica locker room. There is also a state-of-the-art 3D movie theatre that shows hockey-themed films.
The Hockey Hall of Fame is open year-round and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, near many other popular attractions, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
2- Casa Loma
I was searching for a fun activity to do with my kids in Toronto and decided to check out Casa Loma, which is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This historical house was built in the early 1900s and is now a museum and garden that is perfect for a day of exploration. Additionally, there are numerous photo opportunities throughout the grounds.
Sir Henry Pellatt, a wealthy businessman and military officer, built Casa Loma between 1911 and 1914 with the help of architect E.J. Lennox. The castle features a unique blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Arts and Crafts
After Sir Henry Pellatt’s financial ruin in the early 20th century, Toronto seized Casa Loma due to unpaid taxes. The castle was later converted into a museum and has since become a popular tourist attraction.
Casa Loma is renowned for its impressive architecture and design, featuring a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Arts and Crafts styles. The castle’s exterior is made of light-coloured stone, with turrets, towers, and other decorative elements.
With over 98 rooms, including several grand halls, a library, a conservatory, and a secret passage, Casa Loma’s interior is decorated with ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and other decorative elements.
Throughout the year, Casa Loma offers exhibits and events that showcase different aspects of Toronto’s history and culture. The castle’s permanent exhibits include the Pellatt family’s original furnishings and collections, as well as displays of the castle’s architecture and design.
The castle also hosts annual special events, such as concerts, theatre performances, and holiday-themed events. One of the most popular events at Casa Loma is the Legends of Horror, a spooky Halloween-themed tour of the castle’s secret passageways and hidden rooms.
Casa Loma is open daily, with hours varying by season. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for seniors, children, and families. The castle also offers several dining options, a gift shop, and other amenities.
Visitors can explore Casa Loma at their own pace with a self-guided tour or join a guided tour led by a docent. The castle is also available for private events, such as weddings and corporate event
Overall, Casa Loma is a unique and impressive destination for visitors to Toronto, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.
3- Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum is one of the most iconic Toronto activities to enjoy with the kids. This world-renowned museum is home to over six million artifacts and specimens, making it the perfect place to learn about history, science, and culture. The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs that will engage and educate the whole family.
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of Canada’s premier museums in Toronto. With a collection of over six million objects, the ROM is one of the largest museums in North America. The museum’s collections cover various topics, including natural history, art, and culture, and offer insights into the world’s history and cultures.
The Royal Ontario Museum was founded in 1912 and has undergone several major expansions and renovations. The museum’s original building was designed in the Beaux-Arts style and has since been expanded with modernist and postmodernist additions. Today, the museum is a striking architectural landmark in the heart of Toronto.
The Royal Ontario Museum’s collections are extensive and diverse, with over six million objects spanning a range of topics and disciplines. The museum’s natural history collection includes dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and specimens of plants and animals worldwide. The museum’s cultural collections include art, artifacts, specimens from ancient civilizations, and contemporary works by Canadian and international artists.
The Royal Ontario Museum offers a wide range of exhibitions and programs for visitors of all ages. The museum’s permanent galleries include exhibits on natural history, ancient civilizations, and Canadian history and culture. The museum hosts several temporary exhibitions annually, highlighting different themes and topics.
The museum’s programs for families and children include interactive galleries, workshops, and educational programs. The museum also offers guided tours, lectures, and other events for visitors of all ages.
The Royal Ontario Museum is located in downtown Toronto and is easily accessible by public transit or car. The museum is open daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for students, seniors, and families. Visitors should check the museum’s website for current hours and admission prices.
Overall, the Royal Ontario Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural history, art, and culture. With its extensive collections, diverse exhibitions, and engaging programs, the museum offers visitors of all ages a unique and enlightening experience.
4- Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is an excellent destination for families enjoying a fun-filled day with animals. With over 5,000 creatures, it is one of the largest zoos in North America, offering exhibits and educational programs on various animals from around the world. Kids will be thrilled to see the animals up close, including tigers, elephants, and giraffes. The zoo also has many special events and programs throughout the year, including animal feedings, behind-the-scenes tours, and educational presentations.
Established in 1974, the Toronto Zoo has undergone several expansions and renovations. Its mission is to promote protecting and conserving wildlife and their habitats through education and research. The zoo houses many animals, including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, in naturalistic habitats that often feature waterfalls, streams, and other natural features.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Toronto Zoo is the Tundra Trek, which showcases animals from the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, such as polar bears, Arctic wolves, and reindeer. Other popular exhibits include the African Savanna, home to giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses; the Australasia Pavilion, featuring animals from Australia and New Zealand, such as kangaroos and wallabies; and the Indo-Malaya Pavilion, home to tigers and other animals from Southeast Asia. The Toronto Zoo offers a wide range of programs and events for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that teach visitors about wildlife conservation and ecology.
The zoo also hosts several special events throughout the year, including Zoo Camp, a summer day camp for kids; Boo at the Zoo, a Halloween-themed event; and Wild Lights, a winter event featuring illuminated animal sculptures and other festive displays. The Toronto Zoo is committed to conservation efforts within and outside the zoo. It participates in several breeding and recovery programs for endangered species, such as the black-footed ferret, the Vancouver Island marmot, and the Puerto Rican crested toad.
The zoo also supports conservation efforts worldwide through partnerships with conservation organizations and research programs. Its conservation initiatives include habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and education and outreach programs. The Toronto Zoo is open year-round, with hours varying by season. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for seniors, students, and families. The zoo offers several dining options, a gift shop, and other amenities.
The Toronto Zoo offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages, with its diverse collection of animals, engaging exhibits, and commitment to conservation and education.
5- Canada’s Wonderland
If you want a fun activity to enjoy with your kids in Toronto, Canada’s Wonderland is the perfect place to go! This world-famous theme park offers thrilling rides, exciting shows, and many other fun things to do. Moreover, it is conveniently located just outside the city.
Canada’s Wonderland is a giant amusement park in Vaughan, Ontario, just outside Toronto. It is a popular destination for thrill-seekers and families, with over 200 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.
The park opened in 1981 and has since undergone multiple expansions and renovations. It is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, which owns several other amusement parks across the United States.
Canada’s Wonderland has plenty of attractions, including 17 roller coasters, more than any other amusement park in Canada. Some of the most famous roller coasters at the park include Leviathan, Behemoth, and Yukon Striker, the tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster worldwide.
In addition, the park features several water rides, such as the White Water Canyon rafting ride and the Splash Works water park. Other popular attractions include Wonder Mountain’s Guardian interactive dark ride, the Fly Over Canada flying theatre experience, and the Planet Snoopy kids’ area.
Canada’s Wonderland offers a variety of entertainment options throughout the park, including live shows and performances. The park’s theatres host several daily shows featuring singers, dancers, and performers.
Regarding dining, Canada’s Wonderland offers options ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. The park also provides several snack stands and food carts, offering treats such as funnel cakes, cotton candy, and ice cream.
The park’s gift shops offer a wide range of souvenirs, including T-shirts, hats, and other merchandise featuring the park’s famous characters and attractions.
Canada’s Wonderland is open seasonally, from May to October, with hours varying by season. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for seniors, children, and groups. The park offers several dining and shopping options, lockers, stroller rentals, and other amenities.
Canada’s Wonderland offers a thrilling and exciting experience for visitors of all ages, with its many roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to Canada’s Wonderland for a day of family fun!
6- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
This world-class aquarium is home to more than 16,000 aquatic animals from over 450 species. Kids will love exploring the 12,500 square meter space and seeing all the amazing underwater creatures. Plus, there are plenty of interactive opportunities for kids to learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is famous in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. With over 20,000 aquatic animals worldwide, the aquarium is a popular destination for families and visitors of all ages.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada features a variety of exhibits showcasing marine life from different regions of the world. One of the most popular exhibits is the Dangerous Lagoon, a moving walkway that takes visitors through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life.
Other popular exhibits include the Canadian Waters exhibit, featuring animals from Canada’s freshwater lakes and rivers; the Rainbow Reef exhibit, showcasing brightly coloured fish and coral from tropical environments; and the Ray Bay exhibit, featuring stingrays and other types of rays.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. The aquarium’s education programs include guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities designed to teach visitors about marine biology and conservation.
The aquarium also hosts several special events throughout the year, including sleepovers, birthday parties, and other private events. The aquarium’s public events include holiday-themed events, such as the Halloween After Dark and the Festival of Lights.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers several dining options, including a café, a snack bar, and a full-service restaurant. The aquarium’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including T-shirts, hats, and other merchandise featuring the aquarium’s animals and exhibits.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is open daily, with hours varying by season. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for seniors, children, and families. The aquarium offers several dining and shopping options, lockers, stroller rentals, and other amenities.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Its diverse collection of aquatic animals, engaging exhibits, and commitment to conservation and education.
7- CN Tower
The CN Tower is a famous downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada landmark. The tower was built in 1976 by the Canadian National Railway Company (CN) as a communications tower and tourist attraction and is one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world, standing at 553.33 meters (1,815 feet) tall. It is a popular tourist attraction in Toronto, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
The tower was designed by architects John Andrews, Webb Zerafa, and Menkes Housden and features a unique, slender, tapered shape. The CN Tower has three observation decks that offer panoramic views of Toronto and the surrounding areas. The main observation deck is 346 meters (1,136 feet), with a glass floor and outdoor terrace.
The other two observation decks are located at higher elevations, offering even more spectacular views. The SkyPod, situated at a height of 447 meters (1,465 feet), is the most elevated observation deck in the world, providing 360-degree views of Toronto and the surrounding areas.
The Tower also offers an exciting experience called EdgeWalk, where visitors can walk outside the tower’s central pod while harnessed to a safety rail. EdgeWalk participants can lean out over the tower’s edge, offering a unique and thrilling perspective of Toronto.
The Tower has several dining options, including the 360 Restaurant, which offers fine dining with stunning city views. The tower’s other dining options include a casual café and a bar.
The tower is open daily, with hours varying by season. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for seniors, children, and families. The tower offers several amenities like lockers, stroller rentals, and shopping options.
The Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Toronto, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding areas and unique and exciting experiences such as EdgeWalk.
8- The Town of Oakville’s Kettle Valley Railway
The Kettle Valley Railway is an iconic Toronto activity perfect for kids of all ages. This historic railway offers a variety of rides and attractions, as well as educational opportunities, making it a great way to spend a day with the family.
One of the best things about the Kettle Valley Railway is that it is in the heart of Oakville. There are plenty of other activities and attractions nearby that you can enjoy after your time on the railway. If you’re looking for something else to do in the area, check out some of the other great options Oakville offers.
The Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) is a historic railway in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. The railway was initially built in the early 20th century and played an essential role in developing the region’s transportation infrastructure. Today, the Kettle Valley Railway is a popular destination for visitors interested in exploring the town’s history and natural beauty.
It is a popular recreational trail stretching 16 kilometres (10 miles) from Oakville to Kaleden. The trail offers stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and several historic sites and landmarks.
Along the trail, visitors can explore several historic railway trestles and tunnels and the restored Myra Canyon section of the railway. The trail also offers access to several parks and nature reserves, including the Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park and the Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park.
The Kettle Valley Railway trail provides a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. It is popular among hikers and cyclists who enjoy challenging terrain and scenic views. Depending on the season, the trail is also open to horseback riders and cross-country skiers.
Visitors can enjoy several picnic areas, rest stops, interpretive signage, and historical markers along the trail. Additionally, the trail hosts several annual events, including the Myra Canyon Trestle Restoration Society’s annual bike ride and the KVR Classic running race.
The trail is accessible year-round, with hours varying by season. Visitors can access the trail for free, and there are multiple parking areas and trailheads throughout the town of Oakville and surrounding areas. The trail also offers several amenities, including restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas.
The Kettle Valley Railway trail is a unique and picturesque destination for visitors interested in exploring Oakville’s history and natural beauty.
FAQ
Is Toronto worth visiting with kids?
One of the main reasons why Toronto is worth visiting with kids is its abundance of family-friendly attractions. The city boasts numerous museums, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Ontario Science Centre, which offer interactive exhibits and educational experiences tailored to children’s interests. The Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is another popular destination that allows kids to explore marine life through immersive displays.
In addition to museums, Toronto is home to several parks and outdoor spaces where families can enjoy recreational activities together. High Park, located in the city’s heart, features playgrounds, hiking trails, and even a zoo. The Toronto Islands provide a serene escape from the bustling city and offer beaches, bike rentals, and picnic areas perfect for family outings.
Furthermore, Toronto hosts various festivals and events that cater specifically to children. From the Canadian National Exhibition with its thrilling rides and games to Winterlicious, where families can sample delicious food from local restaurants – there is always something happening in Toronto that will captivate young minds.
Lastly, Toronto’s transportation system makes it easy for families to navigate around the city. With an extensive network of subways, buses, streetcars, and bike lanes available, getting around with kids becomes convenient and hassle-free.
How do you explore Toronto with kids?
Exploring Toronto with kids can be an exciting and memorable experience. With its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and family-friendly activities, this Canadian city offers numerous opportunities for a fun-filled adventure.
To make the most of your trip to Toronto with kids, here are some tips and ideas to consider:
1. Visit Toronto’s iconic attractions: Explore the CN Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking city views from its observation deck. Don’t miss out on Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, which offers interactive exhibits and mesmerizing marine life encounters.
2. Explore nature at High Park: This expansive urban park is perfect for families. Stroll through beautiful gardens, visit the zoo, or have a picnic by Grenadier Pond. Kids will love the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground’s castle-like structures and slides.
3. Discover educational museums: Toronto has several museums catering to children’s curiosity and learning. The Ontario Science Centre offers hands-on exhibits engagingly exploring science and technology concepts. The Royal Ontario Museum features fascinating displays of art, history, and natural history.
4. Enjoy outdoor activities at Harbourfront Centre: Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Harbourfront Centre hosts various events and activities throughout the year suitable for all ages. There’s always something happening here, from outdoor concerts to art installations and recreational programs like kayaking or skating in winter.
5. Experience cultural diversity in Kensington Market: Take your kid’s stroll through this vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, street art, and multicultural cuisine options. Let them explore unique stores or try international flavors from food stalls.
6. Have fun at Canada’s Wonderland: Just outside Toronto lies Canada’s premier amusement park featuring thrilling rides, live entertainment shows, and water slides at Splash Works water park section – perfect for a day filled with excitement!
Remember to plan by checking opening hours and availability due to current restrictions or seasonal changes. Toronto offers an array of family-friendly activities that cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
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