Moving to Toronto with children brings plenty to think about, but finding things to do together can be one of the most enjoyable parts of settling in. The city has a strong mix of green spaces, museums, waterfront attractions and neighbourhood activities, so families can keep busy throughout the year without needing to travel far. Families preparing for the move may also want to explore the cost of living in Canada, particularly as housing, transport and everyday expenses can be higher in Toronto than in many other Canadian cities.
This guide covers some of the best family-friendly activities in Toronto, including major attractions that are worth visiting at least once and quieter places that local families return to regularly. It is mainly written for families moving to the city, but it should also be useful for anyone visiting Toronto with children and looking for practical ideas for a day out.
1. Toronto Zoo, Scarborough
Toronto Zoo is a full-day outing, with more than 3,000 animals and around 10 kilometres of walking routes spread across several geographical zones. Arrive close to opening time, decide which sections matter most to your family and accept that you probably will not see everything in one visit. Tickets use plan-ahead pricing, and booking more than three days in advance can reduce the admission price.
2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Entertainment District
The aquarium is especially good for younger children, with colourful tropical fish, interactive areas and a moving walkway through the shark-filled Dangerous Lagoon. It is open into the evening on many dates, so an early morning or later timed entry can be more comfortable than the middle of a rainy weekend. Buying online lets you select an arrival time and can also save time at the entrance.
3. CN Tower, Entertainment District
The CN Tower gives children a memorable view of Toronto, Lake Ontario and the surrounding neighbourhoods, although the experience depends heavily on visibility. Check the forecast and aim for a clear morning, as sunset slots tend to be particularly popular. Families also planning to visit Ripley’s Aquarium should compare the combined Sea the Sky ticket with separate admission before booking.
4. Toronto Islands, Toronto Harbour
A ferry ride to the Toronto Islands feels like a proper day trip, despite leaving directly beside downtown Toronto. Centre Island has beaches, picnic areas, open lawns and seasonal family attractions, while Ward’s Island offers a quieter starting point for a walk through the island community. Buy ferry tickets online before a summer visit, as online ticket holders can use an express entrance during busy periods.
5. High Park, West Toronto
High Park is one of the best free family days out in the city, with woodland trails, an animal area, playgrounds, splash pads and plenty of picnic space. The Jamie Bell Adventure Playground is usually a highlight for younger children, while the trackless train can save tired legs during the warmer months. Visitor vehicles are generally restricted at weekends, so taking the subway to High Park Station is often easier than looking for nearby parking.
6. Royal Ontario Museum, Yorkville
The Royal Ontario Museum works well on cold winter days, very hot afternoons and those wet weekends when outdoor plans fall apart. Its dinosaur fossils and natural history galleries usually hold children’s attention better than attempting to cover every floor in one go. General admission to most galleries is free on the third Tuesday evening of each month, although special exhibitions may still carry an extra charge.
7. Art Gallery of Ontario, Grange Park
The AGO is more family-friendly than some parents expect, with children’s activities, creative spaces and a Hands-On Centre included with general admission. Weekend mornings are a good time to visit before the building becomes busier, particularly if you have younger children who prefer shorter gallery visits. Children under ten enter free, while Ontario residents under 25 can apply for free admission through the gallery’s annual pass scheme.
8. Riverdale Farm, Cabbagetown
Riverdale Farm is a free working farm hidden among the residential streets of Cabbagetown. Children can see pigs, poultry and other farm animals while exploring the barns, gardens, ponds and wooded areas across its 7.5-acre site. Visit earlier in the day when children have more energy, and remember that feeding the animals is not permitted.
9. Evergreen Brick Works, Don Valley
Evergreen Brick Works combines nature, play and Toronto’s industrial history on the site of a former brick factory. Families can explore the wetlands and walking trails, visit the large outdoor Children’s Garden and look for seasonal workshops or guided nature activities. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends often have more events and a livelier market atmosphere, so the better choice depends on the type of visit you prefer.
10. Little Canada, Yonge and Dundas
Little Canada recreates Canadian cities, landmarks and landscapes in miniature, with moving trains, tiny residents and detailed scenes that reward patient viewing. Allow around two hours, as children often spend longer than expected spotting humorous details hidden inside the displays. Timed tickets booked in advance can cost up to C$5 less per person than flexible or walk-up admission.
11. The Village at Black Creek, North York
Previously known as Black Creek Pioneer Village, this living history museum lets families explore historic homes, workshops, gardens and demonstrations. The best visits are usually on days with a full programme of trades, games and seasonal activities, rather than simply walking through the buildings. Check the daily schedule before travelling, as the available demonstrations and opening arrangements can change throughout the year.
12. The Bentway, Fort York
Built beneath the Gardiner Expressway, The Bentway is a good example of the less obvious family spaces that locals often use. Its programme changes throughout the year, with ice skating in winter and activities such as roller skating, outdoor art and family events during the warmer months. Many activities are free, and families can discover more events taking place across Toronto and the rest of the country in our guide to Canadian festivals you shouldn’t miss.
13. Toronto Railway Museum, Roundhouse Park
The Toronto Railway Museum is a manageable choice for children who love trains but may not have the patience for a large museum. It sits inside the historic John Street Roundhouse and includes railway exhibits, locomotives and a seasonal outdoor miniature train ride. The mini train runs on selected days during the warmer months and costs extra, so check its operating schedule before promising children a ride.
14. Rouge National Urban Park, Scarborough
Rouge National Urban Park gives families access to forests, wetlands, farmland and rivers without travelling far outside the Toronto area. The shorter Cedar Trail and Beare Wetlands route includes a 1.5-kilometre option that takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, making it more realistic for younger walkers. Download the current trail map and check for closures before leaving, particularly after heavy rain or during winter.
Tips for Visiting Toronto with Family
- Use public transport where possible. Toronto’s subway, streetcars and buses make many of the city’s main family attractions easy to reach. Children aged 12 and under travel free, while each passenger aged 13 or over needs their own payment method. Check the official TTC fares and passes page before travelling for current prices and payment information.
- Prepare for Toronto’s changing seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter requires warm coats, suitable footwear and plenty of layers. Our guide to packing essentials for Canada covers some of the clothing and practical items families may need.
- Book major attractions ahead. Timed admission is sensible for the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and Little Canada. Toronto Zoo tickets and Island ferry tickets are also worth purchasing online before busy weekends.
- Group nearby attractions together. The CN Tower, aquarium and railway museum are within easy walking distance of one another, which makes them practical to combine without spending much of the day travelling.
For families settling in Toronto, these attractions can quickly become part of everyday life rather than places visited only once. Local parks, museums, nature trails and seasonal activities give children plenty to do throughout the year, while also helping new arrivals explore different neighbourhoods and feel more at home in the city.
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