Toronto Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Toronto
This itinerary focuses on maximizing fun with a balance of free outdoor spaces and engaging indoor ticketed attractions. Activities are chosen for a family with children aged 3-12, offering a mix of educational, active, and creative experiences. Always check individual venue websites for the most up-to-date hours and specific event details closer to your visit.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Lumière Light Exhibit
Experience Lumière: The Art of Light, a free outdoor light exhibition showcasing bold and imaginative works by talented Ontario-based artists.
This year's theme is 'Rhythms of Light: The Vibrant Pulse of Our City'. It's a magical way to start the weekend.
Suitable for all ages. Dress warmly as it's an outdoor event. The installations are visually captivating for young children. Stroller-friendly paths.
Paid parking is available at Ontario Place. Easily accessible by TTC; take the 509 Harbourfront streetcar or 511 Bathurst streetcar to Exhibition Loop, then walk west.
Distillery District Stroll
Wander through the historic Distillery District, which transforms into a glowing outdoor art gallery during the winter with the Toronto Light Festival.
Enjoy illuminated sculptures and interactive installations. This charming area is also great for a casual family dinner or a hot chocolate treat.
Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy the lights and open space. Many restaurants with diverse cuisines are available for dinner (e.g., pizza, casual dining).
Paid parking lots are available nearby. Accessible via TTC; take the 504 King streetcar to Parliament Street, then walk south, or the 514 Cherry streetcar directly into the district.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21ROM Lunar New Year
Explore the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and celebrate the Lunar New Year with special programming for families.
Activities may include a New Year Wish Tree, Chinese Calligraphy Pop-up, live performances, and exploring permanent galleries like dinosaurs and ancient civilizations. For newcomer families with PR/Convention Refugee status, free entry is available on this date (ages 4-30).
Best for ages 4+. Interactive exhibits and engaging cultural performances. Washrooms, family facilities, and a cafe are available on-site. Allow 2-3 hours.
Accessible via Line 1 (Yonge-University) to Museum or St. George station. Paid underground parking is available. Stroller-friendly.
Casual Museum Lunch
Enjoy a casual lunch at the ROM's Druxy's ROM Cafe or one of the nearby eateries in the Bloor-Yorkville area, offering a range of options suitable for families.
Kid-friendly options available. High chairs and accessible washrooms. Duration approx. 1 hour.
Located within or just outside the ROM, easily walkable.
Evergreen Skating Fun
Head to Evergreen Brick Works for their free public skating on their unique outdoor rink, which weaves through snow-covered gardens under exposed beams.
If skating isn't an option, explore the Children's Garden or enjoy a hike on nearby Don Valley trails.
Suitable for all ages. Skate rentals are available on-site for a fee. The Children's Garden offers nature play for younger kids. Dress in layers for outdoor activity.
Free shuttle bus from Broadview Subway Station. Paid parking available. The site is stroller-friendly with accessible pathways.
Indoor Playground Adventure
Burn off some remaining energy at a local indoor playground like Kids Fun City.
These facilities offer multi-level play structures, slides, and games, perfect for children aged 3-12 to run, climb, and explore in a safe, warm environment.
Ideal for ages 3-12. Parents are usually free. Facilities include play structures, padded floors, and typically a small cafe. Check website for specific age/height restrictions.
Free parking usually available at such venues. May require driving depending on your starting location. Check Google Maps for the most convenient indoor playground.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Aquarium Wonders
Dive into an underwater adventure at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada.
Explore nine galleries with over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sharks gliding overhead in North America's longest underwater tunnel and interactive touch pools. Book timed tickets online in advance to save and skip the line.
Suitable for all ages, especially captivating for children 3-12. Children under 3 are free. Features include touch tanks, dive shows, and accessible pathways. Allow 2-3 hours.
Located next to the CN Tower, easily accessible via Union Station (subway, GO Train, streetcar). Paid parking available nearby.
High Park Playground & Zoo
Enjoy the afternoon at High Park, Toronto's largest public park.
Let the kids explore the famous Jamie Bell Adventure Playground, a large wooden castle-like structure. Afterwards, visit the free High Park Zoo to see animals like bison, llamas, and peacocks.
Ideal for all ages, especially children 3-12. The playground has areas for different age groups. Zoo is open daily and free. Restrooms and picnic areas available.
Accessible via High Park subway station. Limited free parking within the park, but can be crowded. Stroller-friendly paths.
Library Family Time
Conclude your weekend with a relaxing visit to a Toronto Public Library branch for 'Family Time' or 'Preschool Time' programming (for ages 5 and under), offering stories, songs, and rhymes.
Even if no specific program is running, libraries provide a quiet space for kids to read and explore books.
Primarily for children ages 5 and under, but older siblings can enjoy reading. Check the TPL website for exact program schedules at specific branches. Duration approx. 30-60 minutes.
Accessible via public transit (subway/bus). Street parking may be available depending on the branch.
This weekend itinerary for Toronto can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.