Looking for fun things to do in and around Toronto this summer? Check out these kid-friendly options. Whether you’re planning weekend adventures or easy day trips, there’s no shortage of family activities within Toronto or nearby. Here are my top picks to fill your summer with laughter, sunshine, and sweet memories.
1. Farm Visits
Visit a flower farm and enjoy the lavender, sunflowers, or wildflowers that grow during the summertime in Ontario. Double it as a snack time and visit a farm for picking fresh strawberries, green snap peas, raspberries or apples. Most of these farms also have play areas for kids, weekly events, live music, food, and markets with fresh baked treats.
Popular Farms to check out this Summer
- Watson Farms (Bowmanville)
- Pingles Farm (Hampton)
- Downey’s Farm (Caledon)
2. Splash Pad Adventures Across Toronto
Cool off at one of Toronto’s many splash pads and water play zones. These are perfect for toddlers and younger kids on a hot day. For older kids bring some toys like water guns. It’s a great opportunity to show off those adult hand eye coordination and motor skills.
Top Splash Pads in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA):
- Adams Park – great for shaded areas, ample parking
- Centre Island Splash Pad – part of Centreville Amusement Park
- Wading Pool at Christie Pits – shaded seating, green space, and a community pool if you’re looking for a bigger splash
- Ajax Rotary Park – Right off the lake, huge playground, lots of space
- Hendon Park – close to the subway station + large playground
- Toronto Zoo – cool off after checking out the zoo at their huge splash pad
- Port Union Village Park – opt in for a cool running water stream versus a splash pad + ice cream truck usually always in the parking lot
3. Spend the Day at the Beach
Have a beach day near Toronto. These sandy spots are all family-friendly:
- Bluffer’s Park Beach – calm water, cliffs, and sandcastle-ready
- Cobourg Beach – shallow water and ice cream stands
- Woodbine Beach – boardwalk and lots of sand real estate
- Marie Curtis Park – scenic views, playground, splash pad, and parking
5. Bike the Waterfront Trail
The Waterfront Trail stretches from Etobicoke to Pickering. The waterfront trail offers family-friendly bike paths with views, shaded rest areas, and places to grab snacks or ice cream. Also check out these other biking trails for your family in the city of Toronto.
6. Explore a Conservation Area or Urban Park
Trade city noise for birdsong and breeze. Pack a backpack and explore:
- Rouge National Urban Park – Toronto’s own wild forest
- High Park – zoo, trails, splash pad, and huge playgrounds
- Sibbald Point – beaches, trails, and so much more
- Lynde Shores (Whitby) – stroller-friendly and wildlife-rich
7. Picnic + Play in Toronto Parks
Sometimes simple is best. Pack a blanket and snacks and visit:
- Riverdale Park East – views, playground, and splash pad
- Kew Gardens – beach access + gardens
- Guildwood Park – a little bit of history + gardens
- Jack Darling Park (Mississauga) – beach + trails + water play
- High Park – Because this park is huge so it gets to be mentioned twice.
8. Summer Sweet Treat
Visit some local favourites:
- Dutch Dreams – downtown
- Ed’s Real Scoop – several GTA locations
- Jac and Jill’s Bakeshop – Scarborough
Or DIY your own sundae bar at home. My kids always enjoy this activity. Bonus that it’s way more economical and you can make an extra bowl for yourself after the kids are asleep.
Final Thoughts
Summer in Ontario is short, so I try to make the most of it. With so many kid-friendly activities in and around Toronto, you don’t have to go far (or spend a lot) to make meaningful memories together.
PS: Capture the summer glow forever with a beach mini session that are being offered all summer long.
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