Toronto is filled with exciting, educational and character-building activities for kids of all ages.
As an international hub filled with multiculturalism, world-class art, and natural beauty, you might be inclined to think Toronto isn’t a city for kids—think again! Whether your young ones like to explore the outdoors on a boat, learn everything there is to know about shoes or get their adrenaline pumping on a roller coaster, Toronto’s your city.
Take the kids to see Toronto from new heights at the CN Tower
Adrenaline rushes at Canada's Wonderland and the CN Tower
If you’re looking for pure entertainment to treat the kiddos while keeping parents interested too, check out iconic Canada's Wonderland, filled with thrilling rides and skill-based carnival games. Keep your adrenaline pumping with a visit to the CN Tower, where the family will skyrocket to the top of Toronto’s tallest building. Enjoy dinner among the clouds or treat the kids to the experience of a lifetime with a (safe, harnessed) walk along the outside rim of this impressive tower with EdgeWalk.
Where to eat nearby: Enjoy casual eats and arcade games close by at The Rec Room, which specializes in uniquely Canadian dishes like poutine.
Wonderous animals at Toronto zoos and aquariums
Check out Ripley's Aquarium of Canada or the Toronto Zoo with young animal lovers. Hands-on experiences are the perfect way to expose your little ones to new and exciting worlds, like what takes place beneath the cool waters of Lake Ontario.
Where to eat nearby: Grab a quick bite at Ripley's Café, which has family-friendly favourites from hamburgers to chicken fingers and pizza.
Spend the day with the little ones roaming Toronto's museums
Spend the day at a Toronto museum
Don’t miss out on Toronto’s many art and history museums. Toronto’s art museums are sophisticated and world-renowned, but nearly all have exhibits explicitly designed for families with kids.
You could spend an entire day exploring the Toronto museum exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) or head to Casa Loma and the Bata Shoe Museum for a unique experience. Each museum has programming specifically designed for kids, but your smart cookies will be intrigued just by the well-designed, impressive exhibits at these iconic Toronto institutions.
The Ontario Science Centre is full of interactive learning opportunities, from kinetic sculptures crafted by artist George Rhoads to simulated ecosystems from around the world to the Pipe Dreams art installation by Bruce Shapiro. Young children will love getting their energy out at the Cohon Family Nature escape. At the same time, older kids will be fascinated by the human anatomy gallery and the collection of science-themed arcade games, not to mention the Space Hall and planetarium.
While the Ontario Science Centre's current location is now closed to the public, they will continue to deliver innovative science experiences virtually, through pop-up experiences and in a temporary location, as they plan for a new permanent home at Ontario Place. More details will be shared as they are released on the Ontario Science Centre website.
Where to eat nearby: Find plant-based treats for the whole family at Fennel Eatery, just a short walk from the Royal Ontario Museum, including a pay-by-weight salad bar and comfort food dishes that help you eat your vegetables. Or have a side of delicious coffee shop fare at the MakerBean Cafe at the Ontario Science Centre. They pair dishes like pastries, soups and salads with 3D printer workshops and souvenirs built with lasers and other tech.
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Experience Canada in miniature form at Little Canada
Experience Little Canada
If you're looking for a unique and immersive experience for your little ones, make sure to visit Little Canada. Nestled in the heart of the city, this miniature world showcases the best of Canada in stunning detail. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the majestic landscapes of the Rockies, kids will be enthralled as they explore this pint-sized paradise. With interactive exhibits, captivating displays, and endless opportunities for imagination, Little Canada is a must-visit destination for families looking to make memories that will last a lifetime. Purchase tickets online, and be sure to sign up for the Toronto Museum Pass for more savings.
Where to eat nearby: Grab a quick snack at the Little Bites Café, located inside Little Canada. Perfectly situated in Yonge-Dundas Square, Little Canada is within walking distance of countless restaurants to satisfy every member of the family.
Check out the view of the city from Toronto Island
Escape to Toronto Island
Here in Toronto, you don't have to pay much or plan a big excursion to have a wonderful day outside. Take the ferry to Toronto Islands and let your children explore the stunning nature on these safe, quiet beaches of Lake Ontario. With tons of waterfront parks within walking distance of downtown, enjoying a low-budget picnic on the shore is easy. Plus, most of Toronto’s parks feature splash pads, jungle gyms and trails for active kids to get that energy out.
Where to eat nearby: Carousel Cafe inside the Centre Island amusement park is a perennial favourite for families with a fresh blend of kid-friendly treats and menu items the adults can get excited about too.
Go back in time at Black Creek Pioneer Village
At Black Creek Pioneer Village, your kids can imagine life in the 19th century with this living history museum. The village is sprawling and meticulously designed with historic and replicated buildings that’ll spark your kids’ imaginations and have them wondering what a kid like them would’ve been up to back in the 1800s.
Where to eat: Some tasty international restaurants nearby include the Delight Caribbean café, Spanish restaurant Cuscatlan and shawarma joint Nohadra Bakery.
The whole family will enjoy a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame
Discovery hockey’s history at the Hockey Hall of Fame
Kids of all ages will enjoy the Hockey Hall of Fame, where Canada’s athletic chops are celebrated to full effect. Since 1992, the Hockey Hall of Fame has been housed in an impressive building on Yonge Street, just a short walk from the Scotiabank Arena, where the Toronto Maple Leafs play each season.
Since 1943, the HHOF has been a place to learn about the National Hockey League, the Stanley Cup winners and the history of Canada’s signature sport.
Where to eat nearby: Grab a bite at Eggspectation, a breakfast-themed restaurant with treats like French crepes, pancakes, waffles and eggs benedict.
Parents love Toronto because you never have to go far to find a park, attraction, museum, or shop that will excite the kids. Whether you’re an outdoorsy family who wants to spend a day paddleboarding around the lake, an adventurous crew ready for the amusement park, or a spontaneous family ready to explore the city on a whim, this kid-friendly city has you covered.
