27 Things to Do in Toronto That Kids Will Love

Planning a family trip can be tricky, especially when finding activities that keep kids entertained.

Luckily, Toronto is a fantastic city to visit with children, packed with exciting activities and unique experiences.

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27 Things to Do in Toronto with Kids

Whether it’s exploring museums, enjoying the parks, relaxing on beaches, or even riding a streetcar, there’s no shortage of activities in Toronto for kids.

As a Toronto local, I know firsthand how to navigate the city and make the most of your time with kids. This guide highlights the best things to do in Toronto with kids, helping you create a memorable family vacation in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

Best Toronto Attractions for Kids

Toronto is packed with fun activities for kids, from downtown attractions to free options and even things to do in winter.

This list will help you plan exciting outings, both in the city and a little beyond the Greater Toronto Area.

1. CN Tower

The CN Tower in Toronto, with a bright blue sky as the backdrop. The tower's EdgeWalk attraction is visible, where visitors can be seen walking around the outside ledge near the top. — Edge Walk at the CN Tower

The CN Tower is an unforgettable experience for kids. At 533 meters tall, it’s the tallest building in Canada and a true Toronto icon. The elevator ride alone is an exciting experience.

Kids can stand on the glass floor panels that look straight down to the city streets below. The incredible 360-degree views make it fun for kids to spot landmarks across Toronto.

For older, adventurous teens (13+), the EdgeWalk lets them strap into a harness and walk around the outside of the tower. It’s a thrilling challenge they’ll never forget!

2. Little Canada

A close-up view of Mississauga's evolving skyline in miniature form, with detailed construction cranes and iconic buildings. Perfect for curious kids and families looking to discover Canada's urban landscapes at Little Canada.

A miniature diorama of the Niagara Region at Little Canada, showcasing a bustling small-town scene with colorful houses, a clock tower, and a central park area featuring a fountain and outdoor seating. Beyond the town, lush green farmland and barns stretch into the distance, while visitors eagerly view the display from an elevated platform.

Little Canada is such a fun indoor activity for kids! It’s right across the street from Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge Dundas Square) and brings Canada to life through miniature models.

Miniature cities feature working lights, cars, trains, and streetcars. The cities even transition from day to night. Kids can stand on a special ledge to get a perfect view of the tiny worlds.

From Little Toronto to Niagara Falls, Little Quebec, Little Ottawa and more, children will love exploring Canada’s highlights in tiny, detailed worlds!

✓ Buy Your Tickets to Little Canada Now

3. Ride the Streetcar

Two red and white Toronto streetcars passing near the Harbourfront, with modern condos and high-rise buildings in the background. A classic urban scene and a option if you are looking for things to do with kids in Toronto, Canada.

Toronto’s streetcars are a fun and inexpensive way to get around the city while seeing its neighborhoods and attractions. With several routes to choose from, you can hop on and off to explore different areas of the city.

One of my favourite routes is the 505 or 504 streetcar. It starts at Broadview Station, passes by Riverdale Park, and continues along Queen Street into the downtown core. But there are lots of routes to chose from!

Riding the streetcar is a unique way to discover some of Toronto’s hidden gems while enjoying views of the city you might not see otherwise.

4. Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame, right across from Union Station, is an excellent attraction for hockey-loving kids and sports fans.

It’s home to the world’s largest hockey collection, including the iconic Stanley Cup, and features artifacts that trace the sport’s rich history.

Kids will love the interactive activities, like testing their skills against life-sized animated goalies. It’s not just about history—it’s hands-on fun that brings Canada’s love of hockey to life for everyone!

✓ Buy Your Tickets to the Hockey Hall of Fame Now

5. Centre Island and the Toronto Islands

A kayaker paddles towards the Toronto skyline from the calm waters of the Toronto Islands. The CN Tower and surrounding skyscrapers rise against a bright blue sky filled with a few scattered clouds.

Ferry headed back to the city from the Toronto Islands ferry docks.

A trip to Centre Island is an affordable way to spend the day with kids. The ferry ride from downtown Toronto takes about 15 minutes and is definitely part of the fun.

Bring or rent bikes to explore the islands, and visit kid-friendly spots like Franklin’s Children’s Garden and Far Away Farm. There are also several beaches, parks, playgrounds, as well as great sunset views of the Toronto skyline.

Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island is also a small amusement park (additional cost) with a splash pad that is ideal for young children.

6. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

Large polar bear and seal on display in a glass case at the Royal Ontario Museum Toronto.

Front entrance to the Royal Ontario Museum with visitors entering through the doors.

The Royal Ontario Museum is also a fantastic museum for kids, especially on rainy days or in winter. It’s Canada’s largest museum, with over 13 million objects and four floors of fascinating galleries to explore.

Kids will be wowed by the Age of the Dinosaurs exhibit, which has one of the best dinosaur collections in the world. The Gallery of Gems and Gold is also a hit, sparkling with treasures.

For toddlers, WonderWorks is a colourful, fun, interactive play space perfect for a break from the museum galleries.

✓ Buy Your Tickets to the ROM Now

7. Toronto Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Bus

Double-decker open top bus passes the Flatiron Building on a summer day in Toronto.

Image from the city sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus in downtown Toronto, with passengers viewing large digital billboards and skyscrapers. The vibrant advertisements dominate the scene against a clear blue sky. The busy urban atmosphere is evident with people walking and traffic in the background.

If your kids are like mine, walking long distances can sometimes be a challenge. That’s why we always choose to take a sightseeing bus when we visit any new city, and Toronto’s is a great option!

The hop-on-hop-off bus takes you to all the major attractions, like the CN Tower, the ROM, St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, Kensington Market and the Distillery District.

It’s a fun way to get an overview of the city and lets you choose which spots to explore further.

I definitely feel Toronto’s sightseeing bus is worth trying, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city!

✓ Buy Your Tickets to the Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus

8. Blue Jays Days for Kids

A vibrant crowd at the Rogers Centre cheering for a Toronto Blue Jays game, with the CN Tower rising above the open stadium roof. A must-experience activity for sports fans on a Toronto vacation.

Catching a Toronto Blue Jays game at Rogers Centre is always a hit with kids, thanks to its exciting atmosphere and new family-friendly spaces.

Even if it’s not a Sunday, a Blue Jays game is a fun and entertaining outing with plenty of kid-friendly food and activities.

If you can attend on a Jr. Jays Sunday, there’s even more to enjoy. Kids can explore Jr. Jays Zones, including the TD Park Social in the Outfield District. These zones feature games, activities, and prizes, and activities like face painting.

The best part? After every Jr. Jays Sunday game, kids 14 and under can run the bases, just like their favourite players! Sign up is required, but it is free.

9. Young People’s Theatre

For a live theatre experience tailored to children, Toronto’s Young People’s Theatre is an excellent choice. As Canada’s largest and oldest professional theatre for young audiences, it offers high-quality productions designed specifically for kids.

Past shows have included family favourites like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Where the Wild Things Are. Tickets are reasonably priced, making it an affordable way to enjoy live theatre in the city with your family.

10. Ripley’s Aquarium

Exterior view of Ripley's Aquarium of Canada in Toronto, with a modern angular design and crowds entering the glass-paneled building. The iconic attraction is a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts.

Ripley’s Aquarium, located right beside the CN Tower, is the largest aquarium in Canada and a hit with kids. Home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, it’s packed with fascinating sea life.

The highlight is the underwater tunnel with a moving walkway, where sharks, stingrays, and fish swim all around. Kids will love feeling like they’re part of the underwater world!

✓ Buy Your Tickets to Ripley’s Aquarium Now

11. Casa Loma

Front view of Casa Loma, a historic Gothic Revival castle in Toronto, with a central fountain and colorful garden in the foreground. The blue sky and fluffy clouds add to the scenic atmosphere.

Casa Loma is a good option for kids or teens who enjoy history. Built in 1914, this historic Toronto castle features 98 rooms, secret passageways, and beautiful perennial gardens.

Visitors can wander through the elaborately decorated rooms, climb the castle’s towers, and explore the hidden tunnel running beneath the castle and nearby streets.

Casa Loma is a fun and interesting way to experience a piece of Toronto’s past.

✓ Buy Your Tickets for Casa Loma Now

Science Centre (Closed Until 2029)

The Toronto Science Centre used to be one of our family’s favorite places to visit, but it has been permanently closed in its original location.

There is currently a temporary exhibition at Harbourfront, but the Science Centre is not expected to reopen until 2029 in it’s new location at Ontario Place.

Best Free Things to Do in Toronto with Kids

Not everything in Toronto has to cost money! There are plenty of free activities around the city that kids will enjoy. Here’s a list of fun, budget-friendly options to explore.

12. High Park

A scene at sunset with groups of people sitting on blankets, enjoying Hillside Gardens in High Park and the cherry blossoms. The sun is setting over a backdrop of trees and water, casting a warm glow over the grassy field where people are picnicking and socializing.

High Park, Toronto’s largest park, is ideal for families. It’s packed with activities for kids, including hiking trails, playgrounds, and even a zoo.

The Jamie Bell Adventure Park, near the Duck Pond, has an awesome play structure that looks like a castle. It has everything from ladders and ropes to slides and swings.

In summer, kids can cool off in the wading pool or outdoor swimming pool. In spring High Park is known as one of the best places in to see the cherry blossoms in Toronto.

The small High Park Zoo is open year round and High Park is easily accessible by subway. , open year-round, features animals like bison, llamas, peacocks, and deer.

13. Woodbine Beach

The Leuty Lifeguard Station sits on the beach and is visible through the autumn leaves. People walk along the Toronto Beaches Boardwalk in front of the beach.

Toronto has several great beaches, and Woodbine Beach is one of the best for families. Located in the Beaches neighbourhood, it’s an ideal spot for kids to swim, build sandcastles, or ride bikes along the bike trail.

After some time at the beach, Queen Street nearby has plenty of excellent cafes, restaurants, and outdoor patios to check out. It’s a fun and relaxing destination for a day at the beach.

14. Ashbridges’ Bay Skate Park

Ashbridges Bay skatepark at dusk with the Toronto skyline in the background. Skaters can be seen on skateboards at the park.

Toronto is home to several skate parks, but Ashbridges’ Bay Skate Park is one of the best. This large park has sections suitable for both beginners and experienced skateboarders. It’s a particularly great spot for teens who want a break from sightseeing.

Located across from Woodbine Beach and easily accessible by TTC, it’s a fun and convenient place to let kids or teens enjoy some active time outdoors.

15. Kew Gardens Park

The playground at Kew Gardens, Toronto includes three climbers, swings and slides.

Kew Gardens Park, located in the Beaches neighbourhood, is home to one of the best children’s playgrounds in Toronto. The fenced playground includes swings, a large climbing structure, and plenty of space for kids to run around safely.

In the summer, the park also has a wading pool, perfect for cooling off on warm days. You can take the streetcar to the park, enjoy a picnic, and then head to the nearby beach for an afternoon of fun.

16. Riverdale Farm

A young boy in a blue jacket feeding a friendly goat through a wooden fence at Riverdale Farm in Toronto. The goat leans over the fence to nibble on a leaf, surrounded by a rustic farm setting.

Riverdale Farm, located in the Cabbagetown neighborhood, is a working farm open year-round and free to visit.

Families can explore barns, meet animals like cows, pigs, and goats, and walk along three kilometres of trails. Riverdale Farm is particularly beautiful in the fall.

17. Evergreen Brick Works

Two people walking on a wooden boardwalk at Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto, surrounded by lush greenery and a marsh with floating lily pads. A tranquil nature spot for outdoor exploration in Toronto.

Families enjoying the children's garden at the Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto, with greenery, picnic tables, and a tall brick smokestack in the background. A unique outdoor space for kids and one of the best things to do in Toronto with kids.

Evergreen Brick Works, a former brick factory turned environmental hub, is a unique destination for families. The site features heritage buildings, parklands, and year-round Saturday Farmers’ Market and gardening store.

Kids will love exploring the Children’s Garden, designed to highlight the benefits of outdoor play and learning. They can also visit the natural ponds to spot turtles or enjoy the walking trails. In winter, there’s even a skating rink.

The cozy café with its outdoor patio is an ideal place to relax and grab some refreshments after enjoying your visit to the Brick Works.

18. Toronto Sign

A child lying on the edge of the fountain at Nathan Phillips Square, with the colorful Toronto sign and City Hall in the background. A lively summer spot and one of the fun things to do in Toronto, Canada, with kids.

Located in Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto, the iconic Toronto Sign is a popular attraction for visitors to the city. Originally created for the 2015 Pan Am Games, it has become a favourite spot for photos.

You can sit or stand inside the three-meter-tall letters, making it a fun experience.

In winter, Nathan Phillips Square is one of Toronto’s most popular outdoor skating rinks. The Toronto Sign is an easy stop on any Toronto itinerary.

Best Things to Do in the Greater Toronto Area

Toronto’s attractions extend far beyond the downtown core. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are a few great options for kids to explore!

19. Toronto Zoo

Two rhinoceroses grazing in a naturalistic enclosure at the Toronto Zoo, surrounded by trees, rocks, and a cloudy sky. A tranquil scene showcasing the zoo's dedication to wildlife conservation and education, one of the best "things to do in Toronto" for nature lovers.

The Toronto Zoo is Canada’s largest zoo, home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species. It’s easy to spend a whole day at the Zoo with kids.

With 10 km of walking trails, indoor and outdoor animal exhibits, a splash pad, and animal feedings, there’s so much to explore, making it one of our favorite places to visit with kids.

It’s worth noting that the zoo is located a fair distance from downtown Toronto, so you’ll need to plan for the travel time—but it’s absolutely worth the trip!

20. Canada’s Wonderland

The Sledge Hammer ride at Canada's Wonderland.

Green roller coaster with passengers outside the gates of Canada's Wonderland.

Canada’s Wonderland is the ultimate destination for kids and teens who love rides and roller coasters. With over 200 attractions, including 18 roller coasters, it’s one of the largest amusement parks in the country.

The park also has a 20-acre water park, Splash Works, included with admission. Spending the day at Wonderland is always a hit with kids and teens, making it a fantastic day trip from Toronto.

21. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto

Inside the bright and colorful LegoLand Discovery Centre in Toronto, featuring interactive Lego displays and activities for kids and families. A fun indoor attraction perfect for a family vacation to Toronto, Canada.

Located in Vaughan Mills Shopping Mall near Canada’s Wonderland, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is a great indoor activity for families with younger kids. It’s designed for kids aged 3-7, with several LEGO build and play zones.

One of the highlights is seeing Toronto landmarks like the CN Tower recreated in LEGO. The 4D cinema was a personal favourite of mine—it’s a fun and immersive experience!

If you’re already in the area, it’s an excellent spot to spend a few hours with the kids.

✓ Buy Your Tickets to LEGO Land Now

22. Reptilia Zoo

Reptilia Zoo, located in Vaughan near Canada’s Wonderland, is a unique and fun experience for kids. With over 250 animals, including snakes, turtles, frogs, iguanas, and alligators, there’s so much to see. About 75% of the animals are rescued, adding an important educational element to the visit.

Kids can enjoy watching live shows and scheduled feedings daily. Highlights include seeing the staff preparing food and interacting with reptiles throughout the zoo.

Reptilia is a great option for families in the area looking for something different to do.

23. Visit Niagara Falls

A vibrant evening scene of Clifton Hill with colorful neon lights, bustling crowds, and the Sheraton Hotel prominently visible in the background. For those wondering where to stay in Niagara Falls Canada, this lively area offers entertainment alongside easy access to top hotels.

A vibrant nighttime view of the Niagara SkyWheel illuminated with bright white lights, surrounded by a bustling crowd. The scene includes a glowing red “Strike! Game Zone” sign and a gold-costumed street performer, adding energy to the festive atmosphere.

I may be biased, but if you’re visiting Toronto with kids, a day trip to Niagara Falls is a must! Less than two hours from Toronto, it’s perfect for a day or weekend getaway.

Kids will love the attractions here, from the Butterfly Conservatory to the thrilling Hornblower Niagara Cruise, which takes you right up to the falls. Other family-friendly activities include the Aero Car, White Water Walk, and, in the summer, fireworks over the falls.

Touristy Clifton Hill is a favorite for kids and teens, packed with fun like a ferris wheel, arcade games, haunted houses, and wax museums. There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained!

Best Things to Do in Toronto with Kids in Winter

Toronto’s indoor attractions like the CN Tower, ROM, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Little Canada are perfect things to do on cold winter days.

But if you’re looking for more seasonal activities, here are a few specific ideas to enjoy with kids during winter in Toronto!

24. Ice Skating

Skaters at the Bentway in Toronto Ontario are ice skating under the projected lights.

Skaters on a bright sunny day skate along the trail at Colonel Sam Smith park in Toronto.

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and Toronto has plenty of great spots to enjoy it with kids. Nathan Phillips Square, with the iconic Toronto Sign as a backdrop, is a popular choice.

Other excellent rinks include the Bentway, the revived Harbourfront Skating Rink on the waterfront, and the scenic Colonel Sam Smith Trail.

All of these rinks are free to use, and many offer skate rentals, making it easy for families to join in on the fun. Skating is a wonderful way to experience winter in neighbourhoods across Toronto!

25. Play Shinny Hockey

A group of people playing shinny hockey on an outdoor rink in Scarborough, Toronto, with a snowy landscape and trees in the background. A lively and classic winter activity for families and visitors in Toronto, Canada.

Shinny hockey is an informal and fun way to enjoy winter on Toronto’s outdoor rinks. Full equipment isn’t required, but hockey gloves and a neck guard are recommended for safety.

Many rinks around the city have scheduled drop-in times for Shinny, where players bring their own skates, sticks, and pucks to join a game.

Some of my favorite spots for Shinny are Greenwood Park, Jimmie Simpson Park, and McCowan District Park. It’s a great way for kids and adults alike to get active and enjoy Canada’s favourite winter sport!

26. Go Sledding

Winter tobogganing at Riverdale Park, Toronto with the Toronto skyline in the background.

Once the snow falls, tobogganing—or sledding—is a favorite winter activity for kids in Toronto. The best time to go is right after fresh snow has blanketed the city.

One of the top spots for sledding is both Riverdale Park East and West in the east end. Other great options include Birchmount Park and Cedarvale Park.

So if you are here in the winter, bundle up, grab your sleds, and head out for some classic Canadian winter fun!

27. Visit WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland

Cozy huts are lit up with festive lights at WinterFest at Canada's Wonderland.

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland is one of the best holiday activities for kids in Toronto. From November to January, the park transforms into a festive wonderland filled with dazzling lights, holiday performances, and holiday activities.

Kids can enjoy the skating rink, meet Santa, and experience select rides that remain open during the event.

It’s a magical way to celebrate the holidays and take in the beautiful Christmas lights. Tickets are required, but it’s a memorable outing for the whole family.

Toronto Family-Friendly Hotels

Here are my top two recommendations for family-friendly hotels in Toronto.

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

The year round indoor-outdoor heated pool located at the Sheraton Centre Hotel Toronto in downtown Toronto.

The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is my top pick for families visiting Toronto. Its location is perfect—right beside the Toronto Eaton Centre and across the street from Nathan Phillips Square, home to the iconic Toronto sign and winter skating.

It’s also steps from public transportation, including subways and streetcars, making it easy to explore the city.

Why Families Love It:
✔️ Large, heated indoor/outdoor pool open year-round
✔️ Family-friendly atmosphere
✔️ Prime location near shopping, attractions, and transit

The indoor/outdoor pool is a standout feature, especially for kids. It’s heated and accessible all year, offering a fun and relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring.

For comfortable accommodations, great amenities, and a central location, the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is a fantastic choice for families visiting Toronto.

✓ Book the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel Now

Chelsea Hotel Toronto

The Chelsea Hotel Toronto is a dream for families, offering unique amenities designed with kids in mind.

It’s the only downtown Toronto hotel with a 130-foot indoor corkscrew waterslide, part of a fun-filled family pool area. For parents seeking some quiet time, there’s a separate adults-only pool on another floor.

This hotel goes the extra mile for families, with a dedicated family zone that includes a kids’ center for crafts and video games and a teen lounge featuring vintage arcade machines and a pool table. Its location near the Eaton Centre and public transportation makes it convenient for exploring Toronto’s top attractions.

Why Families Love It:

✔️ 130-foot indoor corkscrew waterslide
✔️ Family pool and separate adults-only pool
✔️ Dedicated family zone with a kids’ centre and teen lounge
✔️ Convenient downtown location near shopping and public transit

The Chelsea Hotel Toronto provides great value, especially for families looking for a hotel with a large indoor pool and the added excitement of a waterslide. It’s a fun and practical choice for a family stay in downtown Toronto.

✓ Book the Chelsea Hotel Toronto Now

Family Activities in Toronto: Final Thoughts

Toronto is an incredible city to visit with kids, offering a perfect mix of fun, learning, and adventure.

From kid-friendly attractions like the CN Tower and Toronto Zoo to unique experiences like Little Canada and family-friendly spots like Woodbine Beach and the Toronto Islands, there’s no shortage of kids activities in Toronto.

Start planning your trip today and discover why Toronto is a fantastic destination for families. With its exciting attractions, welcoming vibe, and endless opportunities for fun, Toronto might just be the perfect choice for your next family vacation!

Before You Go: More Information About Toronto

As you plan your visit to Toronto, here are some additional articles that may help you decide what to do and where to visit.