Family Travel/Toronto

Toronto Kids Travel Guide

Discover the The Six. Plan a perfect kid-friendly family adventure with local tips and curated day-by-day itineraries.

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Best Time

May to September

⚠️

Avoid

January and February

✈️

Arrival

Toronto Pearson International Airport

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Transport

TTC (subway, streetcars, buses) with family day pass

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Rating

9.5 / 10

ASK A LOCAL

Travel Insights

Select Date:

Expected Weather (September)

14°C to 22°C

Mild

Expected Crowds (September)

Moderate

Perfect time for a family safari! ✨

Choose Your Duration

Pick how long you plan to stay in Toronto using the selector below.👇

Aesthetic Summary

Perfect for Active families who love the outdoors, beaches, and scenic views

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DAY 1

A Day on the Islands

🗺️ Today's Route

Ferry to Centre Island

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Board the ferry at Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. The 15-minute ride offers stunning views of the Toronto skyline. Ferries depart every 30 minutes.

Kid-proof

Kids love the boat ride. Sit on the upper deck for the best views. Life jackets are not required, but hold hands.

Pro Tip

Get tickets early to avoid lines. Round trip: Adults $8.50, Kids (2-14) $5.50. The ferry terminal is at 9 Queens Quay West.

Check ferry schedule online. The first ferry is around 6:30 AM.

🎒 Pack for this:

SunscreenHat

Bike Ride Around Centre Island

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Rent a bike or pedal car at the island's rental shop. Cycle along the paths, past lagoons, and through the playgrounds. Stop at the island's small farm to see animals.

Kid-proof

Bike trailers and tag-alongs are available for younger kids. The paths are flat and safe. The farm is a hit with toddlers.

Pro Tip

Rentals cost about $15/hour for bikes, $25/hour for pedal cars. Bring a lock. The island is car-free, so it's very safe.

Faro's Bike Rentals is near the ferry dock.

🎒 Pack for this:

Water bottleHelmet (if you have one)

Picnic Lunch at Centre Island

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Grab food from the Island Café or bring your own picnic. Find a spot under a tree near the lagoon. Watch the swans and ducks.

Kid-proof

Plenty of space to run. The café has grilled cheese, hot dogs, and ice cream.

Pro Tip

Packing a picnic saves money. There are many benches and grassy areas.

Café prices are moderate.

🎒 Pack for this:

Picnic blanketSnacksHand sanitizer

Beach Time at Hanlan's Point or Centre Island Beach

1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Enjoy the sandy beaches. Centre Island Beach has a designated swimming area with lifeguards. Build sandcastles, splash in the water, and play beach games.

Kid-proof

The water is shallow near the shore, perfect for kids. The beach is clean and supervised. There are change rooms and washrooms.

Pro Tip

Bring swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes. Apply sunscreen regularly. There is a snack bar nearby.

Free. Lifeguards on duty during summer.

🎒 Pack for this:

SwimsuitsTowelsSunscreenSand toys

Visit the Toronto Island Lighthouse & Franklin Children's Garden

3:45 PM - 5:00 PM

Walk to the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse (oldest in Toronto) and explore the Franklin Children's Garden, a magical garden with interactive elements and a treehouse.

Kid-proof

The garden has a 'secret' path and a 'whispering' bench. Kids can climb on the treehouse. It's a peaceful spot.

Pro Tip

The lighthouse is not open to the public, but the exterior is great for photos. The garden is free.

Located on Centre Island.

🎒 Pack for this:

Comfortable walking shoes

Ferry Back to City

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Take the ferry back to the mainland, watching the sunset over the skyline. Enjoy the views.

Kid-proof

Kids can wave at other boats. The ride is short and pleasant.

Pro Tip

Check the ferry schedule to avoid long waits. The last ferry is around 11 PM in summer.

Same ticket as morning.

🎒 Pack for this:

Jacket (it can get cool on the water)

Dinner at the Amsterdam BrewHouse

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Waterfront restaurant with a kids' menu and a great view of the lake. Try their famous burgers and craft beer for adults. Kids can watch boats from the patio.

Kid-proof

The patio is spacious and family-friendly. High chairs available. The kids' menu includes fish and chips and chicken tenders.

Pro Tip

Make a reservation. Located at 245 Queens Quay West. It's a short walk from the ferry terminal.

Kids' meals around $10. Adults' mains from $20.

🎒 Pack for this:

No extra items needed

💡 Daily Pro Tips

•Arrive early to get the first ferry and avoid crowds.
•Rent bikes early as they sell out.
•Check the weather; it can be windy on the islands.

Frequently Asked Questions about Toronto

What is the best time to visit Toronto with kids?▼

The best time to visit Toronto with children is May to September. Avoid travelling during January and February.

How do I get around Toronto with children?▼

In Toronto, families typically use TTC (subway, streetcars, buses) with family day pass. Always confirm child-seat availability in advance.

What airport serves Toronto?▼

Toronto Pearson International Airport

What languages are spoken in Toronto?▼

The primary languages in Toronto are English, French. English is generally understood in tourist areas.

Is Toronto safe for family travel?▼

Toronto is generally safe for families. KidsVentura itineraries are designed with child safety in mind — we recommend kid-friendly attractions, restaurants with high chairs, and comfortable transit routes.

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