Toronto with kids aged 3 to 6
Islands, museums, and lakeside fun
Toronto is an easy trip from many US cities, with a ferry-ride island park, an aquarium beneath the CN Tower, and great museums. The waterfront is the heart of a family visit.
Best time to go
Late spring through early fall is best for the Toronto Islands and outdoor activities. Winters are cold, but museums and indoor attractions make it work.
Getting around
The TTC subway, streetcars, and buses cover the city. Streetcars along the waterfront are especially handy. Ferries run to the Toronto Islands from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal.
Stroller notes
Downtown and the waterfront are stroller friendly. Not every subway station has an elevator, so check the TTC accessibility map.
Toilets and changing
Museums, malls, and the Harbourfront Centre have restrooms. The Toronto Islands have public restrooms near the main areas.
Nap tips
The ferry ride to the islands and the streetcar along the waterfront are good for short naps.
3 day itinerary
Day 1: Waterfront and the aquarium
- Morning
- Ripley's Aquarium of Canada at the base of the CN Tower has a moving walkway through a shark tunnel.
- Nap window
- Hotel nap.
- Afternoon
- The Ontario Science Centre's interim location at Harbourfront Centre, including KidSpark, the area for young children. The old Don Mills building is closed.
- Evening
- Walk along the waterfront.
- Playground stop
- HTO Park and the Harbourfront Centre area have space to run by the lake.
Day 2: Toronto Islands
- Morning
- Take the ferry to Centre Island.
- Nap window
- Nap on the ferry or in a stroller under the trees.
- Afternoon
- Centreville Amusement Park is designed for young kids, with gentle rides and a petting farm. Check its season before you go.
- Evening
- Ferry back for city skyline views.
- Playground stop
- Centre Island has playgrounds, splash pads, and a beach.
Day 3: Museums and High Park
- Morning
- Royal Ontario Museum, with dinosaur galleries and a hands-on area for kids.
- Nap window
- Nap break.
- Afternoon
- High Park has a small free zoo with animals like bison and llamas.
- Evening
- Pack up.
- Playground stop
- Jamie Bell Adventure Playground in High Park is a huge wooden play structure.
Opening hours, prices, and access change often. Always check official websites before you go.
Rainy-day backup
- Royal Ontario Museum.
- The Ontario Science Centre at Harbourfront Centre, its interim home while a new permanent building is built at Ontario Place.
- Ripley's Aquarium of Canada.
Packing tips
- Layers, since it can be cool by the lake
- Passports for every child
- Winter coats and boots from late fall to spring
- Sunscreen for island days
Plan and book
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FAQ
Do kids need passports for Toronto?
US children flying to Canada need a passport. Rules for land crossings differ, so check current requirements before you travel.
Is the Ontario Science Centre open?
The original building on Don Mills Road is closed. The Science Centre now operates at an interim location at Harbourfront Centre while a new permanent home is built at Ontario Place.
Is Centreville good for small kids?
Yes, it is designed for young children and is a highlight of a Toronto Islands day.
Is Toronto stroller friendly?
Mostly. The waterfront and downtown are easy. Check the TTC elevator map before using the subway.
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