Life with a toddler can be hectic, and trying to find activities to keep a toddler busy can be a job in itself! Here is our list of our favourite Toronto spots!
Bluffer’s Park and Beach
Located in Scarborough, just east of Toronto, Bluffer’s Park is a great place to come for a relaxing day for a picnic, beach and swimming! There are trails to walk, a lookout to see the great views of Lake Ontario, and a great beach to play on for kids. You would not even know you were in Toronto when you are here! Admission is free and paid parking lots are available. Visit the website for more information.
Canada’s Wonderland
From roller coasters to waterslides, there is something to do for every age! The perfect place to have fun with the whole family and more important, to tire the kids out! Located a short drive just north of Toronto in Vaughan, it’s the perfect getaway for the day. Visit the website for pricing and hours of operation
Centre Island
Centre Island is located a short ferry ride from The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the foot of Bay St. at Queens Quay. To avoid the long summer lines, purchase your ferry tickets in advance and cut the cue! We love Centre Island! There are beaches, bike rentals to ride around the island, restaurants but the most fun is at Centreville Island. There are over 30 rides and attractions that are perfect for young children. There is also the Far Enough Farm with pot bellied pigs, horses, sheep, mini ponies as well as a petting zoo. Admission is free to Centreville, however you must purchase ride tickets. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.
High Park
THE park of the city! High Park has everything any toddler can ask for! There is a zoo that has bison, llamas, buffalo, deer, peacocks and other animals. There is also the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground that kids can play at. In addition, the park has many beautiful trails, a lakefront, picnic areas. In the Spring, thousands of people come to see the Cherry Blossom trees in full bloom. Check the website for location, hours and amenities.
Kidstown Water Park
A water park that is perfect for toddlers. There is a giant water feature with a tipping bucket, splash pad, slides, grassy area for picnics. It is located in L’Amoreaux Park at 3159 Birchmount Rd in Scarborough. Hours of Operation; Mid June until the Sunday of Labour Day Weekend. Admission is free.
Ontario Science Centre
An amazing place to bring your child to learn about all things science, AND have fun doing it! There is a huge play area with a water table that teaches kids about water flow, a station where kids can learn about the human body, how heat inflates hot air balloons. They can build roller coasters and there is a “grocery store” where they can go shopping! It’s also a great place for adults! The Ontario Science Centre is located at 770 Don Mills Road. Visit their website for hours of operation and ticket prices.
Ripley’s Aquarium
A great place to discover and learn about different kinds of fish and aquatic life! There are many exhibits showcasing different types of fish, and habitats. Our favourite is the underwater tunnel to view the sharks! It is located at 288 Bremner Blvd. Hours of Operation vary due to events. Visit the website for specific times. You can purchase tickets online to avoid line ups (and they are cheaper!)
Riverdale Farm
Tour the Farm’s scenic 7.5 acres along pathways through wooded areas, around ponds, and into butterfly-herb-flower-vegetable gardens. Visit the farm animals and chat with the farmer during daily chores. Riverdale Farm is located in a park setting in the heart of the downtown community of Cabbagetown. Admission is free and parking is only available on neighbouring city streets. For more information, check out Riverdale Farm’s website.
Royal Ontario Museum
Featured galleries include life size dinosaur bones to ancient Egypt artifacts, there is A LOT to do and learn here! Perfect for toddlers is a fossil digging area and viking dress-up zone. Kids learn about animals and explore many different types of species. It’s one of our favourite go to places! Located in downtown Toronto at 100 Queen’s Park which is easily accessible by TTC. Visit their website for ticket price and hours of operation.
Toronto Zoo
From armadillos to zebras, The Toronto Zoo has everything you need to satisfy that need of any animal lover in the family! Get up close and personal with the giant pandas, walk trails, cool off in the splash pad on hot summer days! Located in the gorgeous Rouge River Valley at 2000 Meadowvale Road. Visit their website for up to date exhibit closures, hours and ticket information.
Let us know what are your favourite spots!
