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.
Have never been to Toronto but it does have so many things to do! I would really enjoy The Illusionists show & Graffiti Alley.
Taking a weekend isn’t a big time commitment, but it’s still enough time to make great memories.. It’s smart to do trips like this now, before children become too busy with their adult lives.
I’ve been to Toronto once, but would love to come back for a visit !
Oh wow what a fun place to bring kids!
I took my girls on a trip to TO when they were five and we had such a great time. I would love to do it again now that they are tween-aged.
Great list! The Hockey Hall of Fame and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada would be a lot of fun!
I’ve never been to Toronto but I do for sure want to see it soon. I know there are many things to check out.
Been a long time since we went to Toronto for a getaway, will have to plan one at some point. So much to see and do.
I love doing fun stuff in Toronto! I love the Eaton Centre and Medieval Times. I’ve yet to go Ripley’s Aquarium but have heard good things about it. I love the distillery district too and really want to go to the Christmas Festival there. Glad you had a fun day/weekend!
Ripleys is so amazing! We always have a great time there. It’s often very crowded though. I haven’t been to the top of the CN tower in over 20 years. It’s definitely something I need to do again soon. I would love for my kids to experience it!
Toronto is one of my favourite places to be. I lived there for a year when I was younger, and miss it!
We love the aquarium! The trick is to try and get their early before it’s too crowded
Thank you for sharing this list with us. I’m sure any teen and out of town we would love these activities. Even I would love them and I’m no longer a teen. I’ll keep them in mind next time I’m planning an adventure. Thank you!
I’ve been to Toronto many times, but have yet to do the CN tower. On the list for next time.
I live 2 hours from Toronto and I’m always shocked by how many different things there are to do for people of every age
It’s a different trip every time we head into the city!