1. Top Things to Do in Toronto for All Ages
Toronto offers a mix of urban energy and laid-back charm, and it's
packed with attractions for visitors of all ages.
Start your exploration with a food journey at the iconic St. Lawrence Market, where you can bite into the award-winning "World
Famous Peameal Bacon at Carousel Bakery and shop for seasonal produce
at their Saturday Farmers Market. Then, take in the sweeping skyline from
the CN Tower’s SkyPod, or if you're feeling brave, try the EdgeWalk— the world's highest full circle hands-free walk along the edge of the tower’s main pod.
Explore the cultural heart of the city at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) or immerse yourself in science and innovation at the Ontario Science Centre. Art fans can’t miss the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), home to significant Canadian collections including works by the Group
of Seven. For a touch of history and architecture, stroll through Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival castle with secret tunnels, stately rooms &
special year-round events.
Sports fans can catch a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Scotiabank Arena or visit the Hockey Hall of Fame where you can touch the Stanley Cup and get your photo taken with hockey's Holy
Grail.
Shopping lovers can explore everything from major retailers at the Eaton Centre, located at the bustling Dundas Square, officially named Sankofa Square, to luxury boutiques in Bloor-Yorkville.
Ride the 501 Queen Streetcar, also known as the “Red Rocket,” across the city—from
The Beaches in the east through hip neighbourhoods like Leslieville, Queen
West, Parkdale, and Roncesvalles. Each stop offers something unique, from
boutique shopping to coffee shops and creative street art.
When it comes to entertainment, you’re never far from a concert,
comedy show, or stage performance in this lively city. For music lovers,
catch a live set at the Horseshoe Tavern, a legendary venue where acts like The Rolling Stones have made surprise
appearances, or enjoy smooth jazz at The Rex.
The Toronto Islands offer a quick ferry escape to beaches, trails, and serene nature
views, making them perfect for a relaxing day trip.
2. Best Outdoor Activities in Toronto
When the weather’s nice, Toronto comes alive outdoors. One of the
city’s most scenic spots is High Park, offering hiking trails, a zoo, cherry blossoms in spring, and plenty of
green space for picnics. Along the waterfront, you’ll find Harbourfront Centre, where you can enjoy lakeside dining, boat tours, and seasonal
festivals.
For cyclists and runners, the Martin Goodman Trail stretches for kilometers along Lake Ontario, while Tommy Thompson Park provides a natural escape with stunning skyline views and excellent
birdwatching.
Toronto’s beaches are a summer favourite—Woodbine Beach and Cherry Beach offer sandy shores and swimming areas, while Sugar Beach is great for relaxing downtown. In winter, the city transforms with
outdoor skating rinks like Nathan Phillips Square and The Bentway, offering magical urban skating experiences.
Explore the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods like the historic
Distillery District or Kensington Market, where vintage finds, Jamaican patties, tacos, spices, and organic
coffee all collide.
3. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Toronto
Traveling with kids? Toronto has endless family-friendly options. For
animal lovers check out Ripley’s Aquarium downtown or the Toronto Zoo which is one of the largest in the world, home to over 5,000
animals from around the globe. Nearby, visit a miniature world at Little
Canada or visit The Ontario Science Centre for hands-on, interactive exhibits about space, the human body, and
the environment. For a unique experience, try LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Vaughan, a short drive from downtown, where kids can explore
themed zones and build their own creations.
Spend a full day discovering fascinating exhibits like the Bat Cave at
the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) or opt for a unique adventure at Casa Loma
and the Bata Shoe Museum. Each location offers kid-friendly programming to
keep young visitors engaged. If planning on visiting multiple museums,
make sure to grab the Toronto Museum Pass for huge savings.
Families love the Toronto Islands for their wide-open spaces, playgrounds, and gentle beaches all
with a view of the downtown skyline—plus the ferry ride is always a
hit.
In colder months, head to indoor play zones, science centres, or skating
rinks. In the summer, splash pads and outdoor festivals keep little ones
entertained. Public transit—especially the iconic
streetcars—can even feel like an adventure for young visitors.
Foodie families can “travel the world” without leaving the
city, with delicious meals in Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown, Koreatown, and Little India. There are also plenty of parks, interactive art installations, and
seasonal events that make Toronto a great place to explore with
kids.
4. Amusement Parks & Theme Parks in Toronto
While Toronto doesn’t have a massive theme park right downtown, it
does have plenty of ways to thrill and entertain. Throughout the year,
you’ll find pop-up carnivals and fairs like the notorious Canadian
National Exhibition (The Ex). A must-visit with kids, The Ex is a beloved
end-of-summer tradition, packed with over-the-top festival eats, a lively
carnival midway, and endless entertainment. Fun fact: around 270,000
plushies are won during its 2½-week run each year!
Centreville Amusement Park on the Toronto Islands is a classic summer attraction with rides
for young kids and beautiful picnic spots.