The Perfect Toronto Itinerary With Kids: Toronto, Canada’s dynamic and diverse metropolis, offers an incredible mix of culture, nature, history, and entertainment—making it an ideal destination for families traveling with children. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning an extended stay, Toronto has something to delight kids of all ages while keeping parents engaged and stress-free. Here's your ultimate itinerary for exploring Toronto with kids—filled with memorable experiences, fun learning opportunities, and plenty of smiles.
Day 1: Discover Downtown Toronto’s Big Attractions
Morning: CN Tower & Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Start your adventure at one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks—the CN Tower. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Brave families can try the Glass Floor or the SkyPod for an even higher view.
Just next door is the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, a favorite for kids. The moving walkway through the underwater tunnel is a hit, offering close-up views of sharks, stingrays, and colorful reef fish. Interactive displays and touch tanks make this experience both educational and exciting.
Afternoon: Roundhouse Park & Steam Whistle Brewery
After lunch, head over to Roundhouse Park, where children can explore vintage trains and learn about Canada’s railway history at the Toronto Railway Museum. While the kids explore, parents can enjoy a quick break at the nearby Steam Whistle Brewery, which is family-friendly and located in a historic rail roundhouse.
Evening: Dinner at The Rec Room
Just across from the CN Tower, The Rec Room offers a family-friendly dining experience paired with arcade games and virtual reality experiences that are sure to entertain the kids while parents relax over a good meal.
Day 2: Nature and Science Explorations
Morning: Toronto Zoo or Ontario Science Centre
Depending on your children's interests, choose between two outstanding destinations:
- Toronto Zoo: One of the largest in the world, the zoo is home to over 5,000 animals and features various themed zones. Kids will love the Gorilla Rainforest, the Tundra Trek with polar bears, and the Discovery Zone with splash pads and a zoo-themed play area (seasonal).
- Ontario Science Centre: A top-notch museum where kids can interact with hands-on exhibits, explore space in the planetarium, and get creative in the KidSpark zone—a space designed especially for children under eight.
Afternoon: Picnic and Play at High Park
Spend the afternoon in High Park, Toronto’s largest public park. It's perfect for a family picnic and features hiking trails, a beautiful pond, a seasonal zoo, and an exceptional playground called Jamie Bell Adventure Playground. During spring, the cherry blossoms are a must-see.
Evening: Harbourfront Walk and Ice Cream
Take a relaxing stroll along the Harbourfront Centre. Kids can watch boats, chase bubbles, or play in the open space by the lake. Stop by one of the nearby ice cream parlors or grab dinner with a lakeside view.
Day 3: Culture, Creativity, and Local Favorites
Morning: Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Begin your day at the Royal Ontario Museum, one of North America’s largest museums of world culture and natural history. The dinosaur exhibit, Egyptian mummies, and hands-on CIBC Discovery Gallery make it a big hit with young explorers.
Afternoon: Kensington Market or St. Lawrence Market
Introduce the kids to Toronto’s multicultural flavors with a visit to Kensington Market—an eclectic neighborhood filled with vibrant street art, international snacks, and vintage shops—or St. Lawrence Market, a food hall filled with family-friendly bites and local treats.
Evening: Relax with a Theatre Show or Movie Night
Check out a family-friendly performance at Young People's Theatre or enjoy a cozy evening with popcorn at Cineplex VIP Cinemas, many of which offer kid-focused screenings.
Bonus Activities (If You Have More Time):
- Centre Island & Centreville Amusement Park (seasonal): Just a ferry ride away, it offers amusement rides, bike rentals, and beaches.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Centre: Located just outside Toronto in Vaughan, this indoor attraction is perfect for LEGO lovers.
- Hockey Hall of Fame: A great stop for sports fans with interactive exhibits and photo ops with the Stanley Cup.
Final Tips for Visiting Toronto With Kids
- Get a CityPASS: It includes access to top attractions like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the ROM at a discounted rate.
- Use Public Transit: The TTC subway and streetcars are stroller-friendly and convenient for city travel.
- Pack for the Weather: Toronto’s climate varies by season. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and sunny—perfect for outdoor activities.