Top Things to Do in Toronto with Kids: Indoor & Outdoor

What to do in Toronto with kids? Consider wandering through the dinosaur galleries at the Royal Ontario Museum. Hop a ferry over to the Toronto Islands. Or go to big-ticket attractions like the Toronto Zoo or the Ontario Science Centre. This guide brings together some of the best indoor and outdoor things to do in Toronto with kids. Read on for more details!

Best Things to Do in Toronto with Kids

I’ve rounded up some spots that are actually worth your time. Whether you’re dealing with rainy-day boredom or looking for a sunny outdoor adventure, these places are kid-approved and parent-tested.

Head to Ontario Science Centre for hands-on fun

Top family-friendly places in Toronto to check out

• Ontario Science Centre – Hands-on exhibits, live demos, and experiments that keep kids exploring for hours. Perfect for curious minds.
• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – Dinosaurs, ancient cultures, and natural history that’ll wow the whole family.
• High Park – Massive playgrounds, walking trails, and even a little zoo. Great for running off extra energy.
• Toronto Islands & Centreville Amusement Park – Beaches, bike paths, and carnival rides all in one. Perfect for a full day of fun.
• Toronto Zoo – One of the biggest zoos in Canada, with animals from all over the world.

Travel tips for US families visiting Toronto

• Bring snacks, water, and small toys to keep kids happy on the go.
• Plan a mix of indoor and outdoor stops so kids don’t get bored or tired.
• Choose a hotel or spot near attractions to cut down on long walks or transit with little ones.

Indoor Activities in Toronto with Kids

Toronto has plenty of options that let kids move, explore, and stay engaged without worrying about the weather.

Explore Hands-On Museums and Learning Spaces

When you want something fun and educational, hands-on museums are a great choice. Look for places where kids can touch, build, experiment, and ask questions instead of just looking at displays.

🎨 Art & Culture Museums for Kids

Take your kids to see fun, unexpected footwear at Bata Shoe Museum

🔬 Science & Discovery Museums for Kids

Have fun and take cool photos at Museum of Illusions - Wikipedia

🐠 Nature, Animals & Transportation

See sharks, rays, and colorful fish up close at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Let Kids Burn Energy Indoors

Some days, when you’re traveling with kids, they just need to move, and you can’t exactly do that in a hotel room.

That’s where Toronto’s indoor play spots come in handy. They’re perfect for rainy days, chilly mornings, or any time the kids need to burn off extra energy before dinner.

Here are some great indoor climbing spots where families often go:

Toronto Climbing Academy interior view

• Toronto Climbing Academy – beginner-friendly lessons and guided climbs, great for first-timers.
• Joe Rockhead's Indoor Rock Climbing – classic gym with routes for all ages and skill levels.
• Boulderz Toronto / Etobicoke – bouldering centres where kids can climb safely without ropes.

Tip: go earlier in the day or on weekdays if you want to avoid crowds.

Get Creative with Arts and Workshops

If your kids enjoy quieter activities, creative spaces can be a great alternative.

Art studios and hands-on workshops let kids paint, build, craft, and try new skills at their own pace. These activities are ideal when you’re looking for something calmer, or when your child enjoys expressing themselves through art rather than physical play.

Some places to check out:

Find a Class | Young Rembrandts

• Paintlounge – kids can try pottery, painting, and other crafts in a relaxed, guided environment.
• Young Rembrandts Toronto – drawing and art classes that make learning fun for school-age kids.
• The Creative School (U of T Kids Programs) – occasional workshops for kids to explore arts, crafts, and design.

Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Toronto with Kids

When the weather’s nice, Toronto really comes alive, and there are so many ways to get the kids outside without running out of things to do. The city has tons of green spaces, waterfront spots, and outdoor experiences that make it easy for kids to burn energy and have fun.

Parks, Nature, and Animals

Family fun with playgrounds, trails, and free zoo at High Park

• High Park – This one’s a classic. Huge playgrounds, walking trails, and even a little free zoo with animals like bison and peacocks. It’s perfect for letting kids roam while you enjoy a coffee on a park bench.
• Toronto Islands – A short ferry ride takes you to beaches, bike rentals, picnic spots.
• Riverdale Farm – Right in the city, this working farm lets kids get up close with cows, pigs, and sheep. It’s free, and honestly, kids love the hands-on vibe.

Outdoor Attractions and Adventures

Toronto Zoo

• Toronto Zoo – One of the biggest zoos in the country, with themed habitats and splash pads in the summer. It’s easy to spend a whole day here.
• Canada’s Wonderland – For thrill-seeking kids and teens, the rides range from gentle family-friendly coasters to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters.
• Harbourfront Centre – Waterfront walks, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly events make this a nice spot to just stroll, grab a snack, or catch a live show.

Free Things to Do in Toronto with Kids

If you’re traveling with kids and trying to keep costs down, Toronto actually has a surprising number of free options.

Let the little ones run wild in city parks or splash around in summer splash pads, hit the sand at Woodbine or Cherry Beach, or check out storytimes and programs at local libraries.

There are also plenty of free museum days and cultural events that are worth keeping an eye on, perfect for filling your day without spending a fortune. Honestly, you’d be surprised how much fun you can have without opening your wallet!

Toronto Pumpkinfest will have a lineup of rides and food trucks

Popular free options by season:

Note: The top fall festivals for families near Toronto include PumpkinFest Toronto, Markham Fair, and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Toronto

When you’re traveling with kids, the right hotel can save your sanity. Toronto has lots of family-friendly options, from spacious rooms to spots with kitchens or pools, all near attractions kids will love. Pick the right one, and everyone starts the day happy and ready to explore.

The Omni King Edward Hotel

5-Star Hotel

Enjoy the night at the Omni King Edward Hotel

• Classic, comfortable option right downtown, great base for exploring museums, the harbour, and quick transit rides.
• Offers connecting rooms/adjoining rooms, cribs on request, and extra beds available to make rooming with kids easier.
• With childcare service & children's breakfast available.

Ace Hotel Toronto

4-Star Hotel

Pick up a pleasant night at Ace Hotel Toronto

• Fun, stylish choice if you’re after a place with personality.
• Rooms are comfortable and modern, and its location in the lively Queen West area means easy access to cafes, shops, and fun neighborhood walks with older kids.
• Family rooms, children welcome stay!

The Novotel Toronto Centre

4-Star Hotel

Kids stay easily & for lots of fun at Novotel Toronto Centre

• Children’s meals that can appeal to younger tastes without extra fuss.
• Free cribs/infant beds available, helpful if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler and don’t want to bring your own gear.
• The hotel offers kid‑friendly games and a snack bar/deli that makes quick meals or treats easy between outings.

Final Thoughts: Planning Family Fun in Toronto

Toronto makes it easy to plan memorable family outings. Whether you’re looking for indoor things to do in Toronto with kids, outdoor adventures, or free activities, there’s something for every family and every season.

Save this guide, mix and match activities, and you’ll never run out of kid-approved things to do in Toronto.