Toronto rivals Chicago in size, scenic views and cultural diversity. There are so many interesting attractions for families to explore, you’ll never tire of choices.
Here is a snapshot of what you can find in this bustling, family-friendly city.
Read more: Plan Your Family’s Visit to the Culturally-Diverse City of Toronto
CN Tower Observation Decks provide 360-degree views of Toronto
You can’t go to Toronto and not see the CN Tower. It was built by Canadian National, the railway company, to broadcast radio and television signals, and looks akin to Seattle’s Space Need, but is in fact 3 times larger. Similar to the sky-high sightseeing you would do at the Willis Tower in Chicago, you can travel up to the top of the CN Tower to walk around two observation decks. One features a glass floor that might make you squeal when you walk over it. You can dine at rotating restaurant, where 360-degree views of the city can be savored as much as the delicious, local and sustainable cuisine. There’s also a cafe and bistro, if you want to grab a quick bite.
If you’re brave and aged 13 or older, you can walk handsfree 116 stories over Toronto on the CN Tower’s Edgewalk. You’ll be harnessed in and follow a guide around the circumference of the building. It could make a memorable birthday or graduation present.
Little Canada is a miniature museum that can “littlize” you too
See most of Canada in miniature at Little Canada, a large, miniature museum located in the heart of Toronto. View replicas of Canadian cities and landscapes, such as snowy Quebec City, soccer stadiums or a hot air balloon festival. Search for places you’ve visited and discover all sorts of hidden gems. My daughter and I were fascinated to meet the makers who were painting whimsical parts for a new exhibit.
Get “littlized” by creating a 3/4 version of yourself. Step inside the Littlization Station and have 128 cameras capture your pose. Your 3D-printed Little Me can either be sent to your home or live in Little Canada. How cool is that!
Toronto boasts the third largest English-speaking theater district in the world
Just like New York City’s Broadway and London’s West End, Toronto features a thriving theater district. My 13-year-old daughter and I saw Life of Pi at the Mirvish Theatre. The acting and puppetry were outstanding.
Toronto is home to a The Second City location as well as Young People’s Theatre, which produces high-quality productions for children. Go see award-winning Disney’s The Lion King or perhaps a holiday show in Toronto.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada attracts more than 2 million visitors per year
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a popular attraction located near the CN Tower. You can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, touch stingrays and learn about Canadian waterways. Dragons is their newest exhibit, where you can learn about the Gila Monster and green tree python.
Take a bicycle tour to a chain of interconnected islands
The Toronto Islands, North America’s largest car-free community, are a 13-minute ferry ride from Toronto. My daughter and I took a morning bike ride around them with Toronto Bicycle Tours. It was peaceful and perfect for a cool weather day. We enjoyed seeing the LGBTQ-friendly Rainbow Road and hearing the spooky story about the lighthouse. The million-dollar views of Toronto are worth the visit alone.
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