Life with Teens NEVER slows down. Like ever. So if you are craving family time, feel the need to make some memories, or are just looking for an excuse to go and have some fun in the big city of Toronto, there is only one thing to do. Just make it happen. Grab your kids, your calendar, your Husband and carve out that time. Pick two days to clear and commit. Write it in ink and then go for it! Here are our suggestions for top things to do in Toronto this winter. (or anytime!)
The Eaton Centre Located in the heart of the city, this is where you must go to get your shop on! With over 250 retailers including boutique style stores, big brand name stores, and restaurants, there’s sure to be something to entertain every teen.
The Theatre. Toronto has all kinds of incredible theatrical experiences that will appeal to the entire family. Our top choices from those currently playing include; Bat Out Of Hell The Musical, Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax, and the show we ultimately choose The Illusionists! Seven magicians ready to dazzle and maybe even scare us with their mystical abilities.
Medieval Times: Dinner and a show! Take a walk back in time and allow yourself to be entertained like a King or Queen. Knights perform their acts of jousting, horsemanship, and falconry all taking place during your 4-course, utensil-free meal served in a castle-like space.
CN Tower: The icon of Toronto’s skyline and a symbol of Canada, the CN Tower. Spectacular views include floor-to-ceiling panoramic window walls and the world-famous glass floor. Thrill seekers must check out EdgeWalk, the world’s highest ‘hands-free’ external walk, 356m/1168ft (116 stories) above the ground.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Located at the base of the CN Tower in the heart of the entertainment district, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is the country’s largest indoor aquarium and a must see while in Toronto. This amazing aquarium is home to jellyfish, barracudas, rays, octopi, turtles, moray eels, giant sharks and so much more! It’s an almost immersive experience allowing you to wander from tank to tank and even “under” the sea life as they swim above and around you with incredible grace and beauty. There is also an interactive play area for the little ones! The Aquarium is suitable for everyone from toddlers to seniors and packs in those “awe” worthy moments. Fun for all. WIth a small group, it takes about 2 – 2 1/2 hours to wander through the aquarium and allow yourself to be properly amazed. Worthy of note: There is a coat check available for an additional charge.
The Hockey Hall of Fame: Sports lovers unite. The Hockey Hall of Fame displays hockey artifacts from around the world and offers state-of-the-art games, exhibits dedicated to the game’s greatest players, an array of multimedia stations; and access to The Stanley Cup.
Walk through Distillery District: Located at 9 Trinity St, The Distillery District is a charming historic site which includes 44 heritage buildings and numerous brick-lined courtyards. A wonderful place to offering an opportunity to discover unique artisan boutique stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Not to be missed. SOMA Chocolatmaker – they have 5 different flavours of Hot Chocolate! Oh my yum.
Take Some Pictures: The Instagrammers in your group will not want to miss the chance to have their picture taken in front of THE Toronto Sign. Find it in Nathan Phillips Square in front of City Hall. A second choice for the photo bug, Graffiti Alley. Worth a trip for the street art alone. Your teens will thank you.
So are you ready? Grab the calendar, grab the kids, hop in the car and set out on that next adventure. There’s no better time than the present to get out there and make some memories.
Happy Travels!
Disclosure: Some passes to events were provided in order to faciliate this review, as always all opinions on the blog remain my own.
I think the aquarium is such a great place to go for all ages!
I’ve been with my Mom (in her 70’s and my nephew when he was under 4) Ripley’s Aquarium really is great for all ages!
I would like to visit Ripleys.
You really should add it to your must-see list. It’s a wonderful afternoon.
Favourite thing to do with my family is to visit Toronto!
There’s so much to do! I’m already thinking it’s time to go back!
There are so many neat things to have fun with in Toronto.
And the restaurants! So many good eats too 🙂
These are some great ideas for youngers too. I want to go to the aquarium so bad
Oh, I hope you get the chance to. The Aquarium is an incredible experience for the little ones!
My daughters want to go to Toronto so bad. One day I hope 🙂
I hope you have the chance to go one day soon! I’m not sure where you live, but sometimes the train offers some incredible deals.
Love visiting Toronto! We went in August and had a great time, still haven’t been to Medieval Times or the distillery district but I’ll be back! There is just so much to see and do in Toronto!
Medieval Times is an experience like no other. Dinner and a show! Hope you have a chance to get back to Toronto soon!
Me too!
I plan on going to Ripley’s this summer with my kids looks awesome
That is so exciting! Insider Tip: If you purchase your tickets via their website you can often find deals that will include coatcheck etc.
My teenage daughter will sure enjoy it!!
My teens loved it!
Great info on Ripleys aquarium and hockey hall of fame
Thanks! I’m so happy to hear you liked it!
I have never been to Toronto other then to switch plane. I would love to visit one day.
I hope you have the chance to do a layover next time you fly through!
I was born and raised in T.O. We now live in a town up North. We still go back about 1 a month. There is a great bakery on Royal York south of Evens. Sanramo. We used to go there when we lived down there and it was the parents that ran it. Now it is their children and they have taken over 2 other stores and it is huge now. Great food and baked goods. Do yourself a favor and try it out.
Ohhh thanks for the tip! I will absolutely add this to my list!
A weekend in Toronto would be perfect for my 13 year old granddaughter. She would love Medieval Times and Ripley’s.
That sounds like a wonderful weekend!
I loved the Hockey Hall of Fame!
Isn’t amazing. Canada has so many incredible athletes.
Ripley’s is a blast!!! we only live an hour away from T.O but went to Ripley’s for the first time in October and we had such a great time. Definitely made for a perfect family outing
Such a fabulous family adventure.