Southern Ontario offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. The Toronto Zoo, one of the largest in the world, provides a chance to see over 5,000 animals from various continents, making it a hit with children and adults alike. The zoo’s diverse exhibits range from the African Savannah to the Polar Bear Cove, allowing families to explore wildlife in engaging and educational ways. Nearby, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers an immersive underwater experience with its stunning aquatic displays and interactive touch tanks, perfect for sparking kids’ curiosity about marine life.
Another standout family destination is Canada’s Wonderland, an expansive amusement park featuring over 200 attractions, including thrilling roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly rides. The park’s seasonal events and entertainment options make it a dynamic place to visit throughout the year. For a more relaxed outing, Centreville Amusement Park on Toronto Island provides a charming, nostalgic carnival atmosphere with rides and attractions designed for younger children. Additionally, the Royal Ontario Museum offers fascinating exhibits that range from dinosaur fossils to ancient artifacts, providing educational fun for the entire family. Together, these attractions make Toronto a vibrant city for family adventures.
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317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON416-979-6648 or 1-877-225-4246
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), located in downtown Toronto, is one of the largest and most distinguished art museums in North America. Renowned for its expansive collection, the AGO houses over 90,000 works of art, including masterpieces from European, Canadian, and contemporary artists. Highlights include an impressive array of works by Group of Seven painters, Canadian Indigenous art, and an extensive collection of European paintings, including pieces by El Greco, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh. The gallery’s striking architectural design, a blend of classic and contemporary elements, was revitalized by architect Frank Gehry, enhancing its role as a cultural landmark.
In addition to its permanent collections, the AGO is known for its dynamic rotating exhibitions and innovative programming that spans various media and artistic disciplines. The museum also offers engaging educational programs, workshops, and special events for visitors of all ages. With its commitment to promoting art appreciation and cultural dialogue, the AGO serves as a vibrant hub for artistic exploration and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of Toronto’s cultural scene.
9580 Jane Street, Vaughan, Ontario
905-832-8131
Canada’s Wonderland, located just outside of Toronto in Vaughan, Ontario, is the country’s premier amusement park. Spanning 330 acres, it boasts over 200 attractions, including 17 roller coasters, making it one of the top thrill-seeker destinations in North America. Among the most famous coasters are the adrenaline-pumping Leviathan, Yukon Striker—the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster—and the classic wooden roller coaster, The Mighty Canadian Minebuster. In addition to its extensive collection of rides, the park features family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and special events that draw millions of visitors each year.
Beyond the thrill rides, Canada’s Wonderland offers seasonal experiences like WinterFest, where the park is transformed into a magical winter landscape complete with holiday lights, ice skating, and festive shows. During the summer, Splash Works, its 20-acre water park, provides a refreshing escape with wave pools, water slides, and lazy rivers. With a blend of high-speed coasters, family attractions, and seasonal events, Canada’s Wonderland has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
The park is open seasonally from May to October.
1 Austin Terrace, Toronto ON
416-923-1171
Casa Loma, a majestic Gothic Revival-style mansion located in Toronto, stands as a stunning historical landmark and a testament to early 20th-century opulence. Built between 1911 and 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt, the estate features 98 rooms, including grand halls, luxurious bedrooms, and a grand library, all adorned with intricate architectural details and period furnishings. The castle is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, which offer a picturesque setting and a glimpse into the grandeur of its early inhabitants. Casa Loma’s towers and turrets create a fairy-tale ambiance that captivates visitors and provides panoramic views of Toronto’s skyline.
Today, Casa Loma serves as a popular tourist attraction and cultural venue, hosting a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can explore the castle’s rich history through informative tours, participate in seasonal activities like holiday events or themed tours, and enjoy the on-site café and gift shop. The estate’s elegant surroundings and historical charm make it a unique destination for those interested in Toronto’s architectural heritage and the allure of early 20th-century high society.
Ferries leave every 15 minutes from Bay St. and Queens Quay at Harbourfront, just south of Union Station.
416-203-0405
Centreville Amusement Park, located on Toronto’s Centre Island, is a charming, family-friendly destination that offers a nostalgic carnival atmosphere. Accessible by a scenic ferry ride across Toronto’s harbour, this amusement park is perfect for younger children and families seeking a relaxed, fun-filled day. The park features over 30 rides and attractions, including the classic carousel, a mini Ferris wheel, bumper boats, and the famous antique windmill ride. Centreville’s old-fashioned charm, with tree-lined pathways and quaint surroundings, creates an ideal setting for picnics and outdoor adventures.
In addition to the rides, Centreville Amusement Park is adjacent to Far Enough Farm, a free petting zoo that lets visitors interact with various farm animals, enhancing the experience for children. With nearby beaches, bike rentals, and picnic spots, the park offers a full day of fun and exploration. Centreville’s relaxed pace and beautiful island setting provide a peaceful escape from the busy city, making it a beloved summer tradition for Toronto families.
301 Front St. West ( & John St.)
416-868-6937
The CN Tower, a towering icon of Toronto’s skyline, stands at 553 meters (1,815 feet) and was once the world’s tallest free-standing structure. Completed in 1976, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario from its observation decks. Visitors can experience the thrill of walking on the Glass Floor, which provides a transparent view of the ground below, or dine in the revolving 360 Restaurant, which provides a unique rotating perspective of the cityscape. The CN Tower also features a SkyPod, one of the highest observation points in the world, accessible by an elevator that ascends at speeds up to 22 kilometres per hour.
In addition to its viewing platforms, the CN Tower is renowned for its role in telecommunications and broadcasting, serving as a crucial hub for radio and television signals. The tower is a centerpiece of Toronto’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene, hosting various events and providing an impressive backdrop for city festivities. Its distinctive design, featuring a slender spire and a large observation pod, has made it a symbol of innovation and a must-visit landmark for tourists and locals alike.
30 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
416-360-7735
The Hockey Hall of Fame, located in Toronto, is a premier destination for hockey enthusiasts and a shrine to the sport’s storied history. Situated in a grand historic building, the museum features an extensive collection of memorabilia, including iconic jerseys, equipment, and trophies such as the Stanley Cup. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to legendary players, memorable games, and pivotal moments that have shaped the game of hockey. Interactive displays, such as a virtual hockey experience and a replica broadcast studio, offer engaging ways to immerse oneself in the sport’s rich legacy.
In addition to its exhibits, the Hockey Hall of Fame is renowned for its Hall of Fame gallery, where honoured players, builders, and officials are enshrined for their contributions to the game. The Hall of Fame also hosts various events and educational programs that celebrate and promote the sport. With its comprehensive collection and interactive features, the Hockey Hall of Fame serves as a vibrant tribute to hockey’s past, present, and future, making it a must-visit destination for fans and sports historians alike.
288 Bremner Boulevard
Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, CANADA
Phone: (647) 351-FISH (3474)
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, located at the base of Toronto’s iconic CN Tower, is a stunning underwater world that immerses visitors in the beauty and diversity of marine life. Home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, the aquarium features nine galleries, each showcasing unique habitats, from the colourful Rainbow Reef to the eerie but fascinating creatures of the Dangerous Lagoon. The moving walkway through the Dangerous Lagoon’s tunnel, surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays, is one of the most popular attractions, offering an up-close and unforgettable experience.
In addition to its diverse marine exhibits, Ripley’s Aquarium offers interactive and educational experiences, making it perfect for families and curious minds. Kids can explore hands-on touch tanks with horseshoe crabs and stingrays, or visit the Discovery Centre for interactive play and learning. Special events, such as themed sleepovers and jazz nights, make Ripley’s Aquarium a dynamic and engaging destination for all ages. With its incredible exhibits and commitment to ocean conservation, it stands as one of Toronto’s top attractions for both locals and tourists.
100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
416-586-8000
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), located in Toronto, is one of Canada’s largest and most comprehensive museums, renowned for its diverse collection spanning natural history, world cultures, and art. The museum’s iconic architecture, featuring a striking glass and metal extension known as the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, contrasts with the historic building’s classical design, creating a dynamic visual experience. The ROM’s extensive exhibits include everything from dinosaur fossils and ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art and cultural artifacts from around the globe. The museum’s collection of over six million items provides a window into the natural world and human history, appealing to a wide range of interests.
Beyond its impressive permanent collections, the ROM offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and interactive experiences that engage visitors of all ages. The museum’s commitment to research and conservation supports its role as a center for scholarly study and public education. With its rich array of exhibits and vibrant programming, the Royal Ontario Museum stands as a cornerstone of Toronto’s cultural landscape, offering insights into the world’s natural wonders and human achievements.
361A Old Finch Avenue, Scarborough ON
416-392-5929
Open Year-Round
The The Toronto Zoo, located in the scenic Rouge Valley, is one of the largest zoos in the world, spanning 710 acres and home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 450 species. Divided into seven geographic regions, the zoo offers visitors the opportunity to explore wildlife from around the globe, including the African Savannah, Tundra Trek, and the Indo-Malaya Pavilion. Some of its most popular residents include the giant pandas, polar bears, and Sumatran tigers, along with the playful penguins at the zoo’s immersive exhibits. The zoo’s careful attention to replicating natural habitats ensures that visitors experience animals in an environment that closely mimics their wild counterparts.
Beyond its impressive animal exhibits, the Toronto Zoo is a leader in wildlife conservation and research, playing a vital role in protecting endangered species through breeding programs and public education. The zoo offers various educational programs and interactive experiences, such as behind-the-scenes tours, animal feedings, and seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo. For families, the zoo also features splash pads, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails, making it an ideal destination for a full day of exploration and fun. Whether you’re interested in wildlife conservation or simply enjoying a day surrounded by nature, the Toronto Zoo offers an enriching experience for all ages.
7855 Finch Ave. W., Brampton, ON
416-369-WILD
Wet ‘n’ Wild Toronto is a sprawling water park located just outside the city of Brampton, Ontario, offering a thrilling aquatic experience for visitors of all ages. The park features a wide range of water attractions, including adrenaline-pumping slides like the Krazy Kanuck and Caribbean Chaos, as well as the free-fall thrill ride Oh Canada! For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Wet N’ Wild Toronto provides the Lazy River and the Coconut Cove pool. The park also boasts a large wave pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
Designed with families in mind, Wet N’ Wild Toronto also includes the Bear Footin’ Bay kids’ splash area and Wet ‘n’ Wild Junior, a section specifically geared toward younger visitors. With private cabana rentals, a variety of food options, and shaded picnic areas, the park offers plenty of comfort and convenience for a full day of fun. Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, Wet N’ Wild Toronto delivers a perfect summer escape filled with excitement and aquatic adventure.
The park is open seasonally from June to August.
