Guide to travel in Toronto, Ontario, there are five family attractions to include in your vacation. From nature to science to high-tech, there is something for visitors and children of all ages.
If you're planning a trip to Toronto with your children, here are some suggestions of places you can go as a family.
CN Tower
The world's tallest free-standing structure is 1,815 feet, 5 inches high and stands on the shore of Lake Ontario. The elevator trip to the first observation gallery at 1,122 feet takes 58 seconds in an awe-inspiring glass elevator that looks out onto the city.
That observation gallery is not for the feint of heart since the floor is made of glass! Exceptionally strong (it could hold the weight of over a dozen hippos), this unique experience is like walking on air. Thirty-three storeys above is the main observation gallery that provides a 360 degree view of the city and lake. On a clear day you can see Niagara Falls.
At top you'll also find motion simulator rides that are suitable for the whole family. You can race against time as the existence of Earth is threatened in Comet Impact or glide over all of Canada in Easy Glide to name just two. There is also an arcade with action games.
With restaurants also at the top, the CN Tower provides an exciting and full day for the kids. And since it's right downtown near many hotels and steps away from the subway (TTC) and commuter train systems (GO), getting to and from the Tower is easy.
Ontario Science Centre
Located in mid-town Toronto with ample parking or accessible by TTC bus routes, this is a must see for the inquisitive of all ages. Design to make science fun and educational, the Science Centre is continually updating its exhibits and interactive displays.
Its family-oriented layout and approach means that there is truly something for everyone whether you want to learn about electricity, the digestive system, ecology, the brain, or scores of other science-related topics.
There is a restaurant and shops, plus the Omnimax theatre with IMAX technology for when your feet need a rest.
Toronto Zoo
This world-class zoo is situated on the east side of Toronto and can be reached by car or TTC bus. Since the zoo is so large, strollers, wagons and wheelchairs can be rented on site.
The zoo was designed to provide each animal with as natural an environment as possible. So don't expect to see lions in a cage, for example. They have a secure area that allows them to roam and behave as they would in the wild. And because there are animals from all kinds of climates and terrains, the zoo is sectioned off into groups based on the continents.
Easy to read signs give brief explanations of the animals and their environments and the staff is helpful and informative. There are restaurants and washroom facilities throughout the zoo for your convenience.
This is definitely an all day event and be sure to wear comfortable shoes because you won't want to miss a thing.
High Park
If you're looking for a more low-key place to spend time with the kids, try High Park. Located near Lake Ontario on the west side of the city, this 399-acre park is steps away from the subway. There is also plenty of free parking.
There are activity areas for kids, tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, swimming pools, ice skating rinks in winter, gardens, hiking trails, a large pond, historical buildings and more. There really is something for everyone. Plus, there are plenty of animals like chipmunks, swans and geese to admire in addition to the small zoo.
The park is a favorite for walking dogs, cycling and roller blading. During the spring, summer and fall, there is a free, low-speed trolley train for sightseeing or just getting from one side of the park to the other. Many outdoor festivals and charity events also take place in the park throughout the year.
There are several restaurants and snack stands and washroom facilities throughout the park. A day in a High Park is like spending a day in the country without ever leaving the city.
Playdium
If nature isn't your thing, take the kids to Playdium in downtown Toronto. This 52,000 square foot entertainment complex on four floors houses over 260 leading edge electronic attractions. It is minutes away from the subway and GO trains. Limited parking is available.
This high-energy attraction will be sure to provide you and children (not suitable for toddlers) with plenty of physical and mental challenges as you play the games in this huge arcade. There are several restaurants from which to choose and shopping is close by.
The Playdium is a favorite of pre-adolescents and teenagers and is safe for them to experience on their own if the adults find the noise level hard to take.
