Toronto, Ontario, a vibrant metropolis nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered by families. Beyond the bustling city streets lies a world of The Things Your Children Will Love in Toronto, Ontario: interactive museums, lush gardens, historical landmarks, and thrilling amusement parks. This guide unveils some of the most captivating attractions that will leave your children with lasting memories of their Toronto adventure.
To make the most of your family vacation, consider purchasing a Toronto CityPASS. This pass grants discounted access to five of Toronto’s top attractions, allowing you to tailor your itinerary to your family’s interests. Choose from iconic landmarks like the CN Tower, engaging cultural institutions like the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), and exciting recreational destinations like the Toronto Zoo. With many attractions conveniently located and easily accessible by foot or public transportation, exploring the city is a breeze.
Exploring Toronto’s Natural Beauty: Gardens and Green Spaces
Get Lost in the Gardens
Escape the urban landscape and immerse yourselves in the serene beauty of Edwards Gardens and Toronto Botanical Garden. Located a short drive from the city center, these adjacent gardens offer a tranquil retreat for families seeking outdoor adventures. Stroll through meticulously manicured landscapes, discover diverse flora blooming throughout the seasons, and enjoy a leisurely snack at the seasonal garden cafe. For an enriching experience, join a guided tour and learn about the fascinating plants, trees, and flowers that call these gardens home.
Venture a little further to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, a sprawling 2,700-acre green space that promises a full day of exploration. Wander along scenic nature paths, surrounded by vibrant blooms that change with the seasons. In winter, marvel at the Mediterranean Garden; in spring, witness the breathtaking display of cherry blossoms, magnolias, and lilacs; in summer, revel in the colorful spectacle of peonies, roses, irises, and perennials in the rock garden; and in autumn, be captivated by the fiery hues of the fall foliage.
Historical Adventures: Castles and Farms
Visit Casa Loma, Toronto’s Coolest Castle
Step back in time and explore the majestic Casa Loma, a stunning castle that transports visitors to a world of European elegance. Built in 1914 by Sir Henry Pellatt, this grand estate showcases exquisite architecture, opulent interiors, and meticulously landscaped gardens. Wander through the castle’s halls and rooms, marvel at the intricate details, and discover hidden passageways. Older children and teens with an interest in history will be particularly fascinated by the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Regimental Museum, housed on the castle’s third floor. For an added dose of excitement, consider participating in one of Casa Loma’s Escape Room events.
Check Out Chudleigh’s Farm
For a taste of rural life, head to Chudleigh’s Farm, located just outside Toronto in Milton. This family-friendly destination offers a variety of activities that celebrate the joys of farm life. Learn about food production, pick your own apples and pumpkins during the harvest season, meet adorable farm animals, hike along scenic nature trails, and enjoy a relaxing hayride. During the summer months, Chudleigh’s Farm hosts popular Summer Music Nights events and offers a range of kid-friendly activities, including slides and hay bale jumps.
Iconic Landmarks and City Views
Take in Views From the Top of CN Tower
No trip to Toronto is complete without a visit to the iconic CN Tower. Ascend to the top of this towering structure and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding area. Feel the adrenaline rush as you ride in a glass elevator and marvel at the world below through the glass floor at the top. To avoid long lines, consider making reservations at the 360 Restaurant, where your meal includes admission to the tower.
Educational and Engaging Museums
Visit the Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a must-see for families seeking a blend of education and entertainment. The museum’s distinctive architecture is a landmark in itself, and inside, you’ll discover a vast collection of exhibits spanning natural history, world cultures, and art. Explore the dinosaur skeleton collection, venture into a bat cave simulation, and discover artifacts from around the globe. The museum’s interactive exhibits and discovery gallery make learning fun and engaging for children of all ages.
Have Fun Learning at the Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre is another gem for families seeking hands-on learning experiences. This interactive museum offers a wide range of exhibits that allow children to touch a tornado, listen to a heart murmur, crawl through a cave, and explore the wonders of science and technology. Located a short distance from downtown Toronto, the Ontario Science Centre is well worth the trip, especially with the Toronto CityPASS.
Get a Dose of Sports History at the Hockey Hall of Fame
For hockey enthusiasts, a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must. This interactive museum celebrates the history and legacy of Canada’s beloved sport. Explore exhibits featuring iconic memorabilia, test your skills in interactive games, and even call the action of famous hockey games in broadcast pods.
Learn All About Shoes at the Bata Shoe Museum
For a truly unique museum experience, consider visiting the Bata Shoe Museum. This quirky museum houses a collection of footwear spanning over 4,500 years, showcasing the history, culture, and artistry of shoes from around the world. The museum’s permanent exhibition includes a special section designed specifically for children, and weekend activities often include treasure hunts and arts and crafts workshops.
Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario
Expose your children to the world of art at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). With a collection of over 90,000 works, the AGO offers a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. Children can explore the hands-on center, where they can create their own masterpieces using various techniques and materials.
Aquatic Adventures and Animal Encounters
Visit Canada’s Largest Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the largest aquarium in the country. Explore a vast collection of marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, rays, and sea turtles. Walk through underwater tunnels, marvel at colorful coral reefs, and even touch rays in the Shoreline Gallery.
See the Animals at the Toronto Zoo
Embark on a global wildlife adventure at the Toronto Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals representing over 300 species. Explore seven distinct zoological zones, each showcasing animals from a particular region of the world. Don’t miss the award-winning African Savanna, the gorilla rainforest, and the interactive kids’ zoo.
Step Back in Time at Riverdale Farm
For a glimpse into Ontario’s agricultural past, visit Riverdale Farm, a replica of an early 20th-century farm. Children can interact with farm animals, explore historic buildings, and learn about traditional farming practices.
Amusement Parks and Playgrounds
Take a Ferry to Centre Island’s Amusement Park
Escape to Centre Island, a tranquil island oasis just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. Explore Centreville Amusement Park, a charming amusement park reminiscent of a bygone era. Enjoy pony rides, an antique Ferris wheel, and a colorful carousel.
Amuse the Kids at a Theme Park
For thrill-seekers, Canada’s Wonderland is a must-visit destination. This sprawling theme park features a wide array of roller coasters, family rides, live shows, and an adjacent water park called Splash Works.
Play With Legos at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Let your children’s imaginations run wild at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto, a scaled-down version of a LEGO theme park. Explore rides, a 4-D movie theater, and open play areas filled with LEGO bricks.
Let the Kids Run Wild at High Park
Toronto’s High Park offers a vast playground, a zoo, greenhouses, and hiking trails. The playground, designed in part by children, is a main attraction, and the park is a popular spot to view cherry blossoms in the spring.
Beyond the City: Day Trips
Day Trip to the Ontario Side of Niagara Falls
Embark on a memorable day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Witness the breathtaking power and beauty of the falls from various vantage points, including scenic viewpoints along Niagara Parkway, guided tours behind the falls, and even ziplining adventures above the Niagara River.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Enjoy the Summer Events and Festivals
Summer in Toronto is a time for celebration, with numerous family-friendly festivals and events taking place throughout the city. Enjoy food and street festivals, outdoor markets, free movie nights under the stars, and relaxing days at Sunnyside Beach.
Toronto offers a wealth of experiences that will captivate children of all ages. From interactive museums and lush gardens to historical landmarks and thrilling amusement parks, The Things Your Children Will Love in Toronto, Ontario, ensuring a memorable and enriching family vacation.
