10 Unique Experiences for Kids
in Toronto

Looking for fun things to do in Toronto with your kids? Check out these 10 unique experiences that will provide hours of entertainment and create lasting memories.

Elvine Assouline - Founder

10 Unique Experiences for Kids in Toronto That You Won't Want to Miss

Are you looking for fun and unique experiences to do in Toronto with your kids? Toronto is a vibrant city with plenty of activities to offer for families with kids of all ages. From exploring the city’s museums and parks to indulging in delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone. However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 10 unique experiences for kids in Toronto that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these activities are sure to provide lasting memories for you and your little ones.

1 - AGO March Break Programming for Families in Toronto

Looking for a unique and family-friendly way to spend your next weekend in Toronto? Look no further than the Art Gallery of Ontario’s Family Sundays. This ongoing event offers a fun and engaging way for families to explore the world of art together. During March Break, there are even more kid-focused programming available, including art making, family-friendly tours of AGO Collection, and maker stations throughout the gallery.

One of the highlights of the event is the AGO PLAY activity booklet, which outlines adventures to see and do inside the Gallery. From art making challenges to scavenger hunts and close-looking activities, the AGO PLAY is a kid-friendly guide to exploring the gallery in a fun and interactive way. AGO Play and pencils will be available as long as supplies last.

In addition to the AGO PLAY, there are also family-friendly tours available, which depart from the Weston Family Learning Centre at 11:30 am, 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30 pm. For even more hands-on fun, check out the roving maker station called the Art Carts, which can be found in Walker Court, Galleria Italia, and the Education Commons daily from 11 am to 4 pm.

If you’re looking for more structured programming, you can attend Seeing the Music! Xenia Concerts, Phoenix the Fire, and Kyla Charter in Jackman Hall on Saturday, March 11th at 11 am. For something truly unique, check out TimeTraveller™ by Skawennati in Jackman Hall from Sunday, March 12th to Sunday, March 19th at 11 am, 12:15 pm, 1:30 pm, and 2:45 pm. Please note that this program contains coarse language, discussions of sex, and depictions of nudity.

For a March Break pop-up, drop by the Annex on the Concourse Level for a bite to eat. Light snacks are available for purchase while supplies last. Best of all, admission is free for children and only $5 for adults. Check out the event page on the AGO website for more information.

2 - Toronto Zoo’s Wildlife Health Centre Tour

The Toronto Zoo’s Wildlife Health Centre Tour offers a unique and educational experience for kids and families. During this behind-the-scenes tour, visitors get to see the inner workings of the zoo’s animal hospital and learn about the care and treatment of its inhabitants.

Description of the event: The tour takes visitors through the various areas of the hospital, including the treatment rooms, laboratory, and radiology department. Participants will have the opportunity to see live procedures and learn about the different techniques used to keep the animals healthy.

Why it’s unique: This tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of animal healthcare and is a great way for kids to learn about the importance of conservation and animal welfare. Participants will be able to ask questions and interact with the knowledgeable and passionate staff who work tirelessly to care for the animals at the zoo.

Cost and location: The Wildlife Health Centre Tour is an add-on experience to general admission and costs $10 per person. The tour runs on weekends and holidays at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm and is approximately 45 minutes long. The Toronto Zoo is located at 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7.

Link to the event page: To book the tour, visitors can go to the Toronto Zoo website and select the date and time they would like to attend. It is recommended to book in advance as spaces are limited.

Tips for a Successful Visit:

Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a lot of walking and standing.
Bring a camera to capture the amazing animals and behind-the-scenes action.
Arrive early to give yourself enough time to explore the rest of the zoo and visit your favorite animals before or after the tour.
Don’t forget to ask questions and engage with the staff to get the most out of this unique experience.

3 - Harbourfront Centre’s Summer Festivals

Harbourfront Centre’s Summer Festivals are one of the best things to do in Toronto with kids during the warmer months. The festival features various events and activities, including music concerts, dance performances, and film screenings. Each festival showcases different cultures and traditions, providing a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
Here are some of the summer festivals to look out for:

Canada Day

Celebrate Canada Day with live music, dance performances, and a grand fireworks display.

Hot & Spicy Food Festival

This festival is perfect for foodies! Enjoy spicy food from around the world and learn how to cook some spicy dishes yourself.

Island Soul Festival

Experience the Caribbean culture with live music, dance performances, and delicious food.

SoundClash Festival

Watch as teams of musicians battle it out to be crowned the champion of SoundClash. Enjoy music from different genres, including hip hop, rock, and reggae.

Beats, Breaks & Culture Festival

This festival celebrates the urban music and arts scene with DJs, breakdancers, and graffiti artists.

The Harbourfront Centre is located at 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8. Admission to the festivals is generally free, but some events may require tickets, which can be purchased online.

4 - Ontario Science Centre’s Sleepovers

Looking for a unique and exciting adventure for your family? Look no further than the Ontario Science Centre’s Sleepovers! This event is perfect for kids who are fascinated by science and space exploration.

Description of the event: During the sleepover, families get to explore the Ontario Science Centre after dark, participate in hands-on science activities, and enjoy an exclusive planetarium show. Kids will love sleeping in the exhibit halls surrounded by fascinating exhibits, including a real-life NASA space shuttle.
Why it’s unique: The Ontario Science Centre’s Sleepovers are a truly unique experience that offer an unforgettable night of learning, fun, and excitement for kids and parents alike. This is a rare opportunity to spend the night at the science centre and explore exhibits in a whole new way.

Cost and location: Tickets for the Ontario Science Centre’s Sleepovers start at $75 per person, and include dinner, late-night snack, breakfast, and all activities. The event takes place at the Ontario Science Centre, located at 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3C 1T3.

Link to the event page: To learn more and book your family’s spot at the next Ontario Science Centre Sleepover, visit their website:

Hands-On Science Activities

During the sleepover, kids can participate in hands-on science activities that will engage and inspire their curiosity. From building their own robots to exploring the mysteries of space, there’s something for every young scientist to enjoy.

Exclusive Planetarium Show

One of the highlights of the Ontario Science Centre Sleepovers is the exclusive planetarium show that is only available to participants. This immersive experience takes visitors on a journey through space, exploring the wonders of the universe and the mysteries that lie beyond.

Sleeping Among the Exhibits

Perhaps the most unique aspect of the Ontario Science Centre Sleepovers is the opportunity to sleep among the exhibits. Kids will love spending the night surrounded by fascinating displays, including a real-life NASA space shuttle. It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that they’ll never forget.

5 - High Park’s Jamie Bell Adventure Playground

If you’re looking for a playground that’s a little more than just swings and slides, check out the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground in High Park. This massive play area is designed to look like a medieval castle, with turrets, drawbridges, and even a moat. Kids will love exploring the castle, climbing up to the lookout towers, and crossing the suspension bridge. There are also plenty of slides, swings, and other play structures to keep them entertained.

What makes the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground unique is its focus on imaginative and creative play. The castle design encourages kids to use their imaginations and engage in role-playing games, whether they’re pretending to be knights defending the castle or princesses locked in a tower. It’s a great way for kids to develop their social and creative skills while having fun.

The best part about the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground is that it’s completely free to visit. High Park is located in the west end of Toronto, and there’s plenty of free parking available. The park is also accessible by public transit, with a streetcar stop located just outside the park’s entrance.

If you’re planning a visit to the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground, be sure to dress your kids in clothes that can get dirty and bring a change of clothes just in case. The playground has sand, dirt, and water features that can be messy, but that’s all part of the fun! There are also picnic tables and BBQ pits nearby, so you can make a day of it and enjoy a family picnic in the park.

Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6P 3K7, Canada

6 - Centreville Amusement Park

Centreville Amusement Park is an amusement park located on Toronto Islands that has been a family favourite for over 50 years. This theme park offers over 30 rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, bumper boats, and a miniature train ride. What makes Centreville Amusement Park unique is its location on the Toronto Islands, which offers a fun and unique way to get to the park by taking a ferry ride. The park also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, such as a petting zoo, pony rides, and a maze.

The cost of admission to Centreville Amusement Park varies based on age and season. The park also offers all-day ride passes, individual ride tickets, and group rates.
Centreville Amusement Park is located on Centre Island, a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. The park is open seasonally from May to October, weather permitting.

7 - Toronto Islands’ Franklin Children’s Garden

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor activity to enjoy with your kids, the Franklin Children’s Garden on Toronto Islands is a great choice. This playful garden is designed with children in mind and features a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that allow kids to explore nature in a fun and engaging way.

The garden is home to a variety of themed areas, including a waterplay area, a sensory garden, and a rock and fossil garden. Kids can learn about plants and animals, as well as the importance of conserving and protecting our natural resources. There are also plenty of spots for picnicking and relaxation.

What makes the Franklin Children’s Garden unique is its focus on play-based learning. It encourages kids to explore, experiment, and engage with the natural world around them. It’s a great way to get your kids excited about nature and the environment.
Admission to the Toronto Islands is free, but there is a small fee to take the ferry to the islands. The garden is located on the west side of Centre Island, near the pier. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

8 - Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Description of the event: Experience a dinner like no other at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament! Watch knights joust, sword fight and compete while you enjoy a four-course meal fit for royalty.
Why it’s unique: This dinner show is a unique and immersive experience that takes you back in time to the Middle Ages. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval castle complete with knights, horses, and a queen!

Cost and location: Prices start at $62.95 per adult and $42.95 per child (ages 12 and under). The show is located at 10 Dufferin Street, Exhibition Place.

9 - The Distillery District’s Kid’s Walking Tour

Description of the tour: Explore the historic Distillery District with your family on this kid-friendly walking tour. Learn about the history of the district, the art installations, and the culture of Toronto.

Why it’s unique: This tour is designed specifically for kids and is a great way to get them excited about history and learning. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making it a fun experience for the whole family.

Cost and location: The tour costs $20 per person and meets at 55 Mill Street.

10 - Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada’s Sleep with the Sharks

Description of the tour: Spend a night at the aquarium with the Sleep with the Sharks program at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Explore the aquarium after hours, participate in a variety of activities, and sleep in a tunnel with sharks swimming overhead.

Why it’s unique: This overnight adventure is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows families to get up close and personal with marine life. It’s a great way to learn about sea creatures and their habitats.

Cost and location: Prices start at $62.95 per adult and $42.95 per child (ages 12 and under). The show is located at 10 Dufferin Street, Exhibition Place.

FAQs for Families Visiting Toronto: Is It Worth the Trip? Entertainment Options and More

Is Toronto worth visiting with kids?

Absolutely! Toronto has so much to offer for families with children of all ages. From the CN Tower to the Toronto Zoo, there are plenty of attractions that are sure to please kids and parents alike.

Is Toronto a good place to visit with family?

Yes, Toronto is a great place to visit with family! In addition to the many attractions and activities that are perfect for kids, Toronto is a safe and family-friendly city with a welcoming and diverse community.

How can I entertain my kids for free?

There are plenty of free activities and attractions in Toronto that are perfect for kids. Here are a few ideas:

Visit the Toronto Public Library and check out some books or attend a free event
Explore the city’s many parks and playgrounds
Take a stroll through the Distillery District or Kensington Market
Visit the Harbourfront Centre for free concerts and events
Check out the Street Art and Graffiti walking tour in Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods

Remember, there are also many paid activities and attractions that offer discounts for children, such as the ones mentioned in this article.

Bonus Experiences for Kids in Toronto

Looking for something extra special to do with your kids in Toronto? Check out The Fun Master’s unique experiences:

Pixel Art Show by a World-Class Artist

Watch in awe as a world-class artist creates a stunning work of pixel art right before your eyes. Perfect for kids who love art, technology, and innovation. The Fun Master’s Pixel Art Show is a truly unique and unforgettable experience that will leave your kids inspired and amazed.

At-Home Escape Game

Bring the excitement of an escape game right into your home with The Fun Master’s At-Home Escape Game. With challenging puzzles, thrilling storylines, and immersive gameplay, this game is perfect for families looking for a fun and unique way to spend time together. Plus, you can play at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Experience the Best of Toronto with Your Kids: Unforgettable Memories Await!

In conclusion, Toronto offers a vast array of unique experiences for kids that are sure to create lasting memories. From exploring nature at High Park’s Jamie Bell Adventure Playground to the interactive exhibits at the Ontario Science Centre’s Sleepovers, there’s something for every age group and interest. Parents can also take advantage of the numerous free attractions like the Franklin Children’s Garden on Toronto Islands and the Art Gallery of Ontario’s Family Sundays. And let’s not forget about the thrilling entertainment options like the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada’s Sleep with the Sharks.
At The Fun Master, we believe that every child deserves a unique and unforgettable experience, which is why we offer our Pixel Art Show and At-Home Escape Game as bonus experiences for kids. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore all that Toronto has to offer and create unforgettable memories with your family. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure in Toronto today!