WELCOME TO TORONTO

Welcome to Toronto! The city where skyscrapers meet street food, and toddlers meet tantrums. Whether you're a local family looking for a weekend escape or a visitor aiming to conquer the best family-friendly spots in the 6ix, we’ve got you covered!

The Toronto Islands are a magical getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a different world, and no, we’re not talking about the world where your toddler's favorite word is “no.” Start with a picturesque ferry ride (yes, a boat ride, we already won the kids over). Once there, hit up Centreville Amusement Park, where mini roller coasters and pony rides will fuel their joy and sugar highs.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget a stroller—little legs tire fast, and piggybacks on the ferry? Not as charming as they sound.

This isn't your average fish tank. Imagine wide-eyed wonder as your kids spot sharks, jellyfish, and maybe even Nemo! Ripley’s is perfect for that Instagram shot where everyone’s looking awestruck—before one inevitably starts asking for snacks. And don’t miss the moving sidewalk in the shark tunnel—it’s like a lazy river, but cooler.

Fun Fact: Your kids will be so mesmerized, you might get five whole minutes of uninterrupted “me time.” Maybe.

For a day packed with outdoor adventure, head to High Park. There’s Grenadier Pond for a peaceful walk (ideal if you need to calm post-aquarium excitement), endless playgrounds for your kiddos to burn off energy, and, yes, a zoo with peacocks. Don’t ask why, just enjoy the randomness.

Bring a picnic or grab a bite at the Grenadier Café. Either way, the park is perfect for parents needing a breather while kids sprint toward something shiny (usually the peacocks).

The Royal Ontario Museum is where history, art, and dinosaurs collide. It's got everything from ancient mummies to towering dino skeletons that’ll make your little paleontologists’ jaws drop. The best part? The kids can go wild at the CIBC Discovery Gallery, touching fossils and artifacts.

Parent Win: The museum is stroller-friendly, and the nap-inducing dim lighting of some exhibits is just a bonus.

Did someone say castle? Casa Loma is every child’s dream come true (and maybe yours too, because who doesn’t want to pretend they own a castle?). With secret passageways, towers, and grand staircases, this place is primed for make-believe adventures. And if your kids aren't into history, just tell them it's where Batman totally lives—watch their interest level skyrocket.

Pro Tip: Climbing the tower isn’t for the faint of heart, but the view at the top will make you feel like you’re on top of Toronto, or maybe just victorious over the tantrums that came before.

End your Toronto family adventure with a beach day at Sugar Beach. While you can’t actually swim here (it's more about the vibes), the soft sand, giant pink umbrellas, and views of the harbor are enough to keep kids entertained as they build sandcastles—or destroy them.

Parents, grab a coffee and pretend you’re somewhere tropical. Kids, unleash your inner sand architect. Everyone wins!

Ah, the CN Tower, where your kids can marvel at the sheer height of this iconic building, and you can marvel at the fact that you managed to wrangle them into an elevator that goes 1,815 feet into the sky. Brave the glass floor, let your kids scream with delight, and then try not to scream as they run across it.

If you’ve got older kids, the EdgeWalk is the ultimate daredevil experience, but for most families, the observation deck provides all the thrills you need.

Hungry yet? St. Lawrence Market is where you’ll find some of Toronto’s best eats. Grab a peameal bacon sandwich (for you), fresh fruit or pastries (for the kids), and eat your way through this foodie paradise. The market is packed with local vendors, so everyone in the family will find something they love (even the picky eater who only likes bread).

Pro Tip: Go early to avoid the crowds, and you’ll score the best eats and the best seats for a family snack break.

For some city sparkle, head to Yonge-Dundas Square, where lights flash, music blares, and chaos reigns supreme—perfect for the little ones. Whether it’s a surprise water fountain show or an impromptu street performance, there’s always something happening. It's a fun place for families to enjoy urban life, without committing to anything other than people-watching.

Whether you’re dodging peacocks in High Park or pretending to be royalty in Casa Loma, Toronto’s family-friendly spots deliver fun in every corner. So grab your stroller, snacks, and sense of humor—because exploring the city with kids is an adventure like no other.

Bonus: If all else fails, bribery with ice cream from Kensington Market works wonders.

Ready to plan your next family adventure in Toronto? Share this post with your fellow parents and prepare for a trip that’s as fun as it is unpredictable!