Toronto is a world-class city and those of us lucky enough to own real estate within its borders, know of the many places to go, attractions to see, and foods to sample. The city has something for everyone–the financial district for business, the downtown core for entertainment, numerous pockets that feature specialty foods of the world, and artsy boroughs dedicated to the creative.
Another great feature of Toronto that can be overlooked, is that it’s also a wonderful place to raise a family. There are stunning family homes, top schools and endless extracurricular activities. A quick trip here will show that Toronto caters to the Canadian family. As a Toronto real estate agent, it’s my job to know about the things to do around the city and the best places to live! Let’s get into it.
For those thinking of visiting our great city, or better yet, thinking of becoming a true Torontonian, we have a list of must-see family attractions that aren’t to be missed. Here are our 6 suggested places to go when in Toronto:
- The CN Tower: we’ll start with the iconic tower that distinguishes Toronto’s skyline from any other city’s. Take a trip up 11 elevators or walk the 1,776 steps to reach the viewing deck of the 1815.5 foot tower. Check out the city from the SkyPod, boasting the title of the “highest observation platform in the Western Hemisphere”. It’s an additional 33 stories higher than the main observation deck, and 1,465 feet off the ground. As you look out on a clear day you can see as far as Niagara Falls, and you may even spot the perfect piece of real estate to move your family into! For those brave and daring, try walking the Edgewalk, 116 stories up on the outside perimeter of the main pod. If fine dining is more your style, enjoy dinner at the rotating 360 Restaurant, offering as many degrees of city viewing. Enjoy the views from the glass windows and glass floor, learn about the tower’s history, and take a ride in the high-speed elevators, the CN Tower has something for everyone.
- Rogers Centre: Take part in a Toronto family tradition, and enjoy a Toronto Blue Jays game at their home field of the Rogers Centre. The newly renovated ballpark offers, even more, family-friendly zones to take in a game, grab some ballpark snacks and cheer on our Jays. Kids under 14 can take advantage of the Jr. Jays Club with perks including merchandise, discounted tickets, challenges, access to run the bases, and great in-game experiences! If you’re looking for additional entertainment, check out the great concerts held at Rogers Centre year-round!
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: One of our favourite places to visit with little ones is definitely Ripley’s Aquarium. Walk through a number of galleries dedicated to different species of aquatic life and see them interacting with others in their underwater environment. Don’t miss the beauty of Rainbow Reef with its many colourful fish, visit the sharks of Dangerous Lagoon, pet the rays in Ray Bay, and prepare to be mesmerized by the jellyfish of Planet Jellies. There is lots to read and learn and places to play throughout the aquarium.
- Hockey Time: Hockey Fans can catch a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Scotiabank Arena or explore the exhibits of The Hockey Hall of Fame. Check out their display of NHL trophies, including the original Stanley Cup and collection of Stanley Cup championship rings. Another great exhibit is a to-scale replica of the Montreal Canadiens dressing circa 1924 to 1996 in the Montreal Forum. Reflect of the greats including Beliveau, Lafleur, Plante and others. Check out vintage memorabilia such as a variety of jerseys and 90 iconic goalie masks demonstrating the evolution of the mask. Get in the game by interacting with some of the NHL greats, practice your shot, try for a shutout, or test your knowledge in the TSN broadcast zone.
- Casa Loma: Travel back in time and explore the wonders of Toronto’s own 200,000 square foot European-style castle situated on 5 acres of land. The once-private residence features 98 rooms, secret passageways, and stunning period decor. Check out exhibits featuring the Queen’s rifles, the stunning Canadian Group of Seven art collection, the Antique Car display, the Hollywood Film Gallery, and more. Enjoy a snack at The Liberty Caffé or a meal al fresco in The Gardens of Casa Loma in the summer months.
- Medieval Times: If your Castle-loving family is ready for the next experience, a trip to Medieval Times is bound to entertain! Venture to the CNE fairgrounds for dinner and a show. Explore the hall of arms, Cheer on your assigned Knight as he jousts his opponents, visit with the King and Queen, watch the majestic flight of the falcons, and the beauty of the horses. Feast on a delicious muli-course medieval meal, with vegan options to appeal to every prince and princess.
These are but a few venues in a city of many family-friendly attractions. If you are looking to be entertained, explore, or even relocate to the GTA, we would be more than happy to discuss this with you!
Have we left out your favourite attraction? Let us know and we will be sure to include it in our next blog on Family-Friendly Toronto Attractions! In the meantime, enjoy this spring weather and check out some local venues in your own neighbourhood.
