30 Best Kid-Friendly Indoor Activities in Toronto: Unleashing Indoor Wonderland
Updated: Jul 17
Toronto, a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural tapestry, offers an array of indoor activities that cater to the imagination, curiosity, and boundless energy of children. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the city has an abundance of kid-friendly options for those rainy or chilly days. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 30 of the best indoor activities in Toronto, organized by categories to suit different interests.
While you can visit all these attractions in Toronto any day regardless of the weather, this list of indoor activities and things to do's is specially useful on a rainy or a cold day, or when your friends are relatives are visiting with a short time in their hands. Not only that these activities are fun, there are learning opportunities for all ages.
Toronto is a city that is impossible to cover in a single article. There are numerous attractions, things to do and see in and around this mega city. Depending on your interest level, you may consider reading the following articles also.
Top and Best Kid-Friendly Things to Do Indoors Toronto
Museums and Educational Adventures:
Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
Website: https://www.rom.on.ca/en
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto stands as a beacon of culture, showcasing over six million artifacts across 40 galleries. Renowned for its diverse collections spanning natural history, art, and civilizations, the ROM captivates visitors with highlights like dinosaur fossils and ancient Egyptian treasures. Its striking architecture, characterized by the futuristic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, makes it a must-visit landmark for both educational insights and architectural appreciation.
Website: Ontario Science Centre
Ignite a love for science at the Ontario Science Centre. With hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive installations, it's an educational playground for kids of all ages.
NOTE: On June 21, 2024, the Ministry of Infrastructure announced the closure of the Ontario Science Centre to visitors, due to the building’s deteriorating infrastructure, including the potential for roof failure due to snow load as early as this winter.
Website: Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), located in Toronto, is one of the largest museums in North America. It boasts a vast collection exceeding 120,000 works, including masterpieces from Canada and around the globe. Renowned for its expansive Canadian collection, the AGO also features significant European, African, and contemporary artworks. The gallery's striking architectural design, notably enhanced by Frank Gehry in 2008, makes it a prominent cultural landmark.
Please click If you want to know about the best art galleries in Toronto.
Read More: Exploring the Art Gallery of Ontario: A Treasure Trove of Art and Activities for All Ages
Website: Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, located in Toronto, offers an immersive underwater experience with over 20,000 aquatic animals. Highlighting nine curated galleries, the aquarium features a breathtaking walk-through tunnel and interactive touch pools. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant jellyfish exhibit, participate in educational dive shows, and even enjoy a close encounter with sharks. It's an enchanting destination for families and marine enthusiasts, providing both entertainment and educational insights into marine biodiversity.
Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:
Entertainment and Play Zones:
Website: Legoland Discovery Centre
Legoland Discovery Centre Toronto is an indoor Lego-themed attraction located in the Vaughan Mills shopping complex, just north of Toronto. It features 10 Lego-themed rides and attractions, including a Miniland exhibit showcasing iconic Toronto landmarks, a 4D cinema, and several interactive building stations. The centre is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for Lego enthusiasts of all ages, offering a range of activities and exhibits that allow visitors to explore their creativity and learn about the iconic toy brand.
6. Playdium:
Website: Playdium
Playdium in Brampton, Ontario is a large indoor entertainment complex that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages. In addition to the rope course, the facility features over 200 arcade games, virtual reality experiences, bowling, and numerous other interactive exhibits. Playdium is a popular destination for birthday parties, team building events, and family outings, providing a diverse range of entertainment options under one roof.
Website: Sky Zone Trampoline Park
SkyZone Trampoline Park in Toronto is an indoor facility that allows visitors to bounce on interconnected trampolines covering the floor, walls, and even the ceiling. This unique experience provides a fun and energetic workout, with various zones for freestyle jumping, dodgeball, and other trampoline-based activities. The park also features foam pits, slam dunk basketball hoops, and a dedicated area for younger children. SkyZone is a popular destination for birthday parties, youth events, and anyone seeking an exhilarating and physically engaging experience.
8. The Rec Room:
Website: The Rec Room
The Rec Room in Toronto is a massive entertainment complex featuring a wide array of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy virtual reality experiences, play the latest arcade games, challenge friends to bowling or billiards, and refuel at the various dining options. The Rec Room offers something for everyone in a high-energy, modern setting.
9. Playtopia:
Website: Playtopia
3 Storey Indoor Playground, Trampoline Zone, Interactive Arcade with Prizes, 8 Spectacular Party Rooms, Café and over 15,000 square feet of Family Fun.
Playtopia in Toronto is a vibrant indoor playground that delights children with its colorful array of play areas, including slides, climbing structures, and ball pits. Ideal for birthdays and casual visits, it offers a safe and entertaining environment for kids to explore and play, ensuring a fun-filled outing for families.
Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:
Interactive Exhibits and Play Spaces:
10. Aga Khan Museum:
Website: Aga Khan Museum
The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto offers a window into the artistic, intellectual, and scientific contributions of Muslim civilizations. With its striking modern architecture and serene landscaped gardens, the museum houses a vast array of artifacts that span centuries, providing a profound cultural and educational experience for visitors.
11. Laser Maze:
Website: Laser Maze
Laser Maze is a thrilling attraction where players navigate through a complex grid of laser beams, aiming to reach the end without breaking any beams. This high-energy challenge tests agility and strategy, making it a perfect activity for families, friends, and team-building events seeking a fun and interactive experience.
12. Hockey Hall of Fame:
The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto is a celebrated shrine to the world of ice hockey, featuring a vast array of memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and the iconic Stanley Cup. It celebrates the sport's legends and history, providing an immersive experience for fans and an inspirational journey through hockey's storied past.
Website: Hockey Hall of Fame
Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:
Nature and Animal Encounters:
13. Toronto Zoo:
Website: Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo, sprawling over 710 acres in Rouge Valley, is one of the world's largest zoos. Home to over 3,000 animals across 300 species, it offers diverse exhibits, conservation programs, and interactive experiences, making it an educational and entertaining destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
14. High Park Zoo:
Website: High Park Zoo
High Park Zoo, located in Toronto's expansive High Park, offers an intimate wildlife experience with animals like bison, llamas, and capybaras. Established in 1893, this free-admission zoo provides educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and seasonal events, making it a beloved community destination for families and animal enthusiasts.
15. Riverdale Farm:
Website: Riverdale Farm
Riverdale Farm, nestled in Toronto’s Cabbagetown, offers a serene escape with its charming rural ambiance. This historic site, featuring various farm animals and beautiful gardens, provides educational programs and interactive experiences, making it a delightful destination for families and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in the city.
Educational Workshops and Classes:
16. MakerKids:
Website: MakerKids
MakerKids in Toronto offers innovative STEM programs for children, focusing on coding, robotics, and digital design. Established in 2010, it provides hands-on, experiential learning that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. With engaging classes and camps, MakerKids inspires young minds to explore technology and develop real-world skills.
Website: Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library offers diverse programs for kids, including storytimes, STEAM workshops, and homework help. These programs foster early literacy, creativity, and academic support. With activities like coding, arts and crafts, and cultural events, TPL engages young minds, promoting a love for reading and learning in a vibrant community setting.
Website: Harbourfront Centre
Harbourfront Centre in Toronto offers dynamic workshops for kids, spanning visual arts, performing arts, and digital media. Led by professional artists, these programs nurture creativity and skill development. With hands-on activities and inclusive cultural experiences, Harbourfront Centre inspires young minds, making it a premier destination for artistic exploration.
19. Home Depot, Canada:
Website: Home Depot, Canada
Home Depot Canada offers free monthly workshops for kids, providing hands-on building projects like birdhouses and toolboxes. These sessions teach basic DIY skills, boost creativity, and offer quality family time. Registration is required, and materials are provided, making it an accessible and educational activity for children aged 5-12.
Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:
Indoor Sports and Recreation:
20. Rock Climbing Gyms:
Toronto's indoor rock climbing gyms provide an exciting and challenging way to stay active year-round. Facilities like Joe Rockhead's, The Rock Oasis, and Boulderz Climbing Centre offer routes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. With expert instruction, state-of-the-art equipment, and a vibrant climbing community, these gyms are perfect for fitness enthusiasts seeking adventure and camaraderie.
Toronto Climbing Academy
The Rock Oasis
Boulderz Climbing Centre
Basecamp Climbing
Joe Rockhead's Indoor Rock Climbing
Website: Toronto Track and Field Centre
The Toronto Track and Field Centre at York University offers world-class facilities, including indoor and outdoor tracks, specialized field event areas, and fitness equipment. It supports athletes of all levels with expert coaching, training programs, and community events, making it a hub for athletic excellence and fitness in Toronto.
22. Trampoline Parks:
Toronto's trampoline parks offer a thrilling blend of fun and fitness. With diverse activities like freestyle jumping, dodgeball, and Ninja courses, parks like Sky Zone, Uplå, and Skyriders cater to all ages. These parks provide a safe, energetic environment perfect for family outings, parties, and adrenaline-pumping adventures.
Sky Zone Toronto
Aerosports Trampoline Park
Air Riderz Trampoline Park
Uplå Trampoline Park
Skyriders Trampoline Place
Performing Arts and Theatre:
Website: Young People's Theatre
Young People’s Theatre in Toronto, Canada’s largest and oldest professional theatre for young audiences, offers captivating performances and educational programs. With diverse productions and engaging workshops, YPT inspires creativity and critical thinking, making theatre accessible and enjoyable for children and families. It's a cultural gem fostering young imaginations
Website: Second City
Second City’s Improv for Kids in Toronto offers engaging classes and camps that boost confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Kids learn the basics of improv comedy in a fun, supportive environment, guided by experienced instructors. These programs foster teamwork and quick thinking, making them perfect for young aspiring performers.
Are you spending some time in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada? Here are some other places to visit nearby:
Specialized Fun and Adventure:
25. The Monkey Vault:
Website: The Monkey Vault
The Monkey Vault in Toronto is a premier parkour and movement training facility. It offers diverse classes and open gym sessions for all ages and skill levels, focusing on agility, strength, and creativity. With its supportive community and dynamic environment, The Monkey Vault is perfect for fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike.
26. Archers Arena:
Website: Archers Arena
Archers Arena in Toronto offers an exciting blend of archery tag and traditional archery. This indoor facility provides a safe, fun environment for all skill levels, perfect for group events or solo adventures. With expert guidance and engaging gameplay, it’s an exhilarating destination for anyone looking to try something new.
27. Epic Planet Fun
Website: https://www.epicplanetfun.ca/
Epic Planet Fun offers an exhilarating experience with thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and captivating shows. Perfect for families and adventure seekers, it combines fun and education, providing a memorable day out. The park's vibrant atmosphere and engaging activities ensure joy and excitement for visitors of all ages.
Culinary Adventures:
28. St. Lawrence Market:
Website: St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market in Toronto offers a variety of kids’ activities, including interactive cooking classes, craft workshops, and seasonal events. Children can explore food stalls, learn about healthy eating, and enjoy hands-on experiences that make the market educational and fun. It's a vibrant destination for family-friendly outings.
Cookie decoration workshops for kids in Toronto provide a fun, creative outlet where children can learn new skills and express their artistic talents. These workshops, offered by places like Le Dolci and Thobors Bakery, teach decorating techniques using icing and fondant, ensuring a sweet and engaging experience for all ages.
Website: Chocolate Tales
Chocolate Tales Workshops in Toronto offer a hands-on chocolate-making experience for all ages. Guided by expert chocolatiers, participants create delicious treats, perfect for parties or unique date nights. With sessions like truffle making, you'll leave with delicious handmade chocolates and sweet memories. Ideal for fun, learning, and indulgence.
31. Bowling for Kids:
Bowling is a timeless activity that offers fun, excitement, and a bit of friendly competition for kids of all ages. In Toronto, several bowling facilities cater specifically to children, providing a safe and engaging environment for young bowlers to enjoy.
32. The CN Tower
Website: https://www.cntower.ca/
The CN Tower, a defining feature of Toronto's skyline, stands at 553.3 meters tall. Offering breathtaking views, a thrilling glass floor, and the daring EdgeWalk, it also features the revolving 360 Restaurant. An engineering marvel, it attracts millions yearly, symbolizing Canadian innovation and adventure.