Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family. Toronto and the Greater Toronto area have an incredible variety of fun-filled events and activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, engaging cultural experiences, or thrilling sports events, you’ll find countless opportunities to make the most of the warm weather and longer days.
The city and its surrounding areas offer diverse festivals catering to all ages and interests. From the Port Union Waterfront Festival in Toronto to the TD Toronto Jazz Festival in downtown Toronto, families can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture while enjoying live music, food, and entertainment. Toronto’s numerous splash pads, public parks, and recreational facilities offer outdoor enthusiasts hours of fun and relaxation.
A visit to Canada’s Wonderland could be just the ticket for a day of laughter and excitement, with Splash Works opening its doors for the summer season. Whatever your family’s preferences, Toronto and the Greater Toronto area have something to offer everyone this summer 2024.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions
Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is an excellent destination for a fun-filled family day.
Spread across 710 acres, the zoo is home to over 5,000 animals representing 450 species. Encourage your children to learn about wildlife conservation while having a great time.
Explore themed areas such as the African Savanna, Indo-Malaya, and the Tundra Trek.
Ontario Science Centre
Foster your kids’ curiosity at the Ontario Science Centre. This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits covering space, the human body, and technology.
There’s something for everyone, with engaging displays like the Living Earth, KidSpark, and Space. Catch an exciting show at the IMAX Theatre for an immersive experience.
Ripley’s Aquarium
Delve into the aquatic world with a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium.
The 135,000-square-foot facility boasts over 20,000 aquatic animals. Walk through the mesmerizing Dangerous Lagoon tunnel and admire the captivating jellyfish exhibit.
Be sure to catch one of the educational dive shows to learn about the fascinating underwater creatures.
High Park
Spend a relaxing day outdoors exploring High Park, Toronto’s largest public park.
With its beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and picnic areas, the park offers something for the whole family. In springtime, the park is home to cherry blossoms, and the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground offers hours of entertainment.
Centreville Amusement Park
Centreville Amusement Park is located on Toronto Island and offers thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.
Take a nostalgic spin on the antique carousel, or brave the park’s exhilarating roller coasters. Besides rides, this nostalgic amusement park includes bumper boats, a mini-golf course, and a petting farm.
Outdoor Summer Festivals
Harbourfront Centre Summer Festivals
A series of exciting events await you at the Harbourfront Centre Summer Festivals. With a wide variety of themes and attractions, there is something for everyone.
Here are just a few events to look forward to:
- Dance and Theater Performances: Watch talented artists showcase their skills through diverse and engaging performances.
- Art Exhibitions: Admire various art displays throughout the venue as you explore the festival’s offerings.
- Food and Drink: Indulge in various cuisines, with options to suit every taste.
Redpath Waterfront Festival
Celebrate Toronto’s vibrant waterfront at the Redpath Waterfront Festival. This popular event features activities that emphasize the city’s connection to Lake Ontario.
Highlights include:
- Marine-themed Entertainment: Be amazed by nautical performances and interactive exhibits.
- Live Music: Enjoy various genres of live music with the picturesque backdrop of the water.
- Waterfront Market: Here, you can shop from local vendors, browse handmade goods, and indulge in treats from around the world.
Educational and Interactive Workshops
Royal Ontario Museum Family Events
This summer, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) offers a variety of family events that are both educational and fun.
You can participate in hands-on activities, explore new exhibits, and attend workshops with your family. Some of the highlights include:
- Eco-Explorers: Discover nature’s wonders by exploring our planet’s biodiversity.
- Dino Diggers: Unearth the Jurassic world by participating in real-life dinosaur digs.
- Art Adventurers: Get creative with arts and crafts inspired by ROM’s collections.
Art Gallery of Ontario Art Camps
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) offers art camps for children ages 5-13, where they can dive into the world of art and creativity.
These camps provide a supportive environment for kids to explore ideas, learn new techniques, and create masterpieces. Some of the art camp themes include:
- Painting and Drawing: Develop your skills using various mediums like watercolors, acrylics, and pastels.
- Sculpture and 3D Design: Create stunning sculptures using unique materials and techniques.
- Digital Arts: Use technology to create digital masterpieces and bring your ideas to life.
Toronto Botanical Garden
The Toronto Botanical Garden offers various programs for families to explore the natural world and learn about plants and gardening.
Here are a few activities for you and your family to enjoy:
- Family Guided Walks: Discover the garden’s beauty with a knowledgeable guide.
- Garden Crafting: Get crafty and create garden-inspired art projects.
- Children’s Garden Programs: Let your kids learn and play in the garden with various age-appropriate activities.
Sports and Recreation
Family Bike Tours
Explore Toronto and its surrounding areas with your family through Family Fun Toronto’s recommended bike tours.
Rent bikes for you and your family and embark on an adventure together. Here are some popular family-friendly bike routes in Toronto:
- The Waterfront Trail: A picturesque trail along the Lake Ontario shoreline with parks and beaches to stop by.
- The Beltline Trail: A leisurely ride through lush greenery, connecting different neighborhoods and parks.
- The Humber River Trail: Enjoy a mix of nature and history as you cycle along the riverbanks.
Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay energized during your ride.
Public Swimming Pools
Cool off on hot summer days at Toronto’s public swimming pools. The city offers free access to numerous outdoor and indoor swimming pools, making it an affordable and enjoyable family activity.
Here are some standout pools to explore:
Pool Name Location Features
Giovanni Caboto Pool 1369 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6E 1C5 Outdoor pool, Splash pad, Wading pool
Alexandra Park Pool 275 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5T 2S4 Outdoor pool, Splash pad, Wading pool
Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6S 5A3 Outdoor pool, Lake views
Culinary Experiences for Families
Taste of Toronto
Embrace the multiculturalism of Toronto by going on a Culinary Adventure with your family.
Discover diverse neighborhoods and indulge in delicious international cuisines, like the vibrant village filled with European grocers, cafes, and one-of-a-kind restaurants. These food tours are perfect for families to bond over new flavors and experience Toronto’s culinary scene together.
Food Truck Fairs
We seek a unique and fun way to spend a weekend with your family.
Attend a Food Truck Fair in the Greater Toronto Area.
These fairs often feature live entertainment and food trucks offering a diverse selection of delicious street food.
It’s a great way to expose your family to new cuisines and create lasting memories.
Picnic Spots and Farmers’ Markets
There’s nothing like a family picnic at a picturesque park, enjoying freshly prepared food and local produce. Visit one of the many Family-Friendly Events happening in the Greater Toronto Area.
These events include Farmers’ Markets where you can purchase locally-grown produce and artisanal foods. Here are some suggestions for perfect picnic spots:
- High Park: With large playgrounds, a beautiful pond, and plenty of green space, it’s an ideal location to relax and share a meal.
- Toronto Island Park: Accessible by ferry, this park offers stunning city views, sandy beaches, and charming gardens.
Remember to pack a blanket, utensils, and eco-friendly containers when planning your family outing to make your picnic enjoyable and sustainable.