Check out my recommendations for some of the most popular activities and places to visit with teenagers to keep them happy. My list includes popular ideas and also lesser-known and alternative things to do both in Toronto city centre and the surrounding area.
Also although this list is aimed at families with teenagers, even if you have younger children these activities will also appeal.
1. Go Up the CN Tower
• 290 Bremner Blvd
No trip to Toronto would be complete without going up the CN Tower which looms high on the Toronto skyline.
Buy tickets to the CN Tower and visit the Lower Observation Level where can experience a glass floor and a sneak peek of “Artmosphere”, an immersive, interactive art showcase. This is a really unique experience and it’s scarier than you think!
If you are aren't scared of heights and looking for the ultimate Toronto adventure you might also like try the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower. This is an attraction where you will get dresses suits & harnesses and walk the exposed top of the 356m-high CN Tower.
For a special but expensive treat, you could also go for lunch or dinner at The CN Tower's 350-metre high revolving restaurant. Choose between regional Canadian fare and incredible panoramic views. This is one of the best things to do in Toronto for the first time.
2. Visit Chinatown
• Dundas Street West and Spadina Avenue
Go for a wander in Chinatown. Look for the 'Chinese Bakery'. Yes, that’s the name (yellow sign, red lettering). This bakery has the best dumplings and sesame balls you'll ever try!
3. Visit the Original Post Office
• 260 Adelaide Street East
Get a unique wax stamp at Toronto’s first post office.
4. Dundas Square
From the subway, walk up the stairs into Dundas Square. Spectacular views as you emerge from underground. This is like Times Square in New York City.
5. Go in Search of Antiques
• Southwest corner of Front and Lower Jarvis Streets
For something a little different go antique hunting at the St. Lawrence Market. You never know what you might find.
6. Jump on the Ferry
Ride the ferry to the Toronto Islands. You’ll get a great view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry.
7. Head to the Beach
Go to the beach on the islands and while you’re at it, just act like a kid. This is one of the best things you can do in Tornoto on a sunny day or during summer.
8. Bata Shoe Museum
• 327 Bloor Street West
Witness the history of shoes at the Bata Shoe Museum. Learn about the astounding history of shoes and check out dates for special events.
Admission to the BSM is $14 per adult with children free under 4. Discounted family tickets are also available whilst the museum is free to visit on Sundays - perfect if you are looking to visit Toronto on a budget.
9. Watch a Live Sports Game
If you are a sport fan you might want to search tickets online to watch one of the local teams in Toronto.
You can watch baseball, basketball, football or ice hockey.
The atmosphere on matchdays is electric and this really is one of the best things to do in Canada - teenage sports fans will love it.
10. Join a Walking Tour
Lots of Canada tour operators offer walking tours allowing you to learn more about Toronto, the people, history and also get guided to the best locations in the city.
Some popular tours include
• Free City Sightseeing Tours
• Kensington Market Neighborhood Food Tour
• Haunted Walk of Toronto Ghost Tour
11. Canada's Wonderland
• 9580 Jane Street, Vaughan
If you are planning to visit Toronto during summer and are looking for the ultimate thrills check out Canada's premier amusement park! There are rolercoasters, splash rides, entertainment and much more.
This is one of Toronto's most popular attractions and a visit for one or two days will provide a lot of fun.
12. iFly
Located in Toronto, Whitby & Oakville and other major cities around the world, iFly is indoor skydiving in a safe and fun environment.
Whether you're been skydiving before or you've never stepped foot on a plane, indoor skydiving is one of the most fun adventures to do.
Experience the feeling of freefall as you float on a smooth cushion of air. There's no parachute, no jumping, and nothing attaching you to planet Earth. It's just you FLYING in the air.
Flyers ages 3 to 103 can indoor skydive. From beginners to seasoned pros, people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities can take flight and have the time of their lives.
13. Science Centre
• 770 Don Mills Road
The Ontario Science Centre is one of the first interactive science museums in the world.
The Ontario Science Centre is perfect for visitors of all ages. You can see more than 500 interactive exhibits, take in live science demonstrations, walk through a real-life rainforest, check out meteorites from Mars in the Space Hall—and so much more.
You can easily spend a morning or afternoon here - its also the perfect place to visit if it is raining in Toronto.
14. Treetop Trekking
Treetop Trekking is Ontario's favourite zipline adventure park company. Spend a fun filled day at one of seven Ontario locations with fun forest adventures for all ages.
Treetop Trekking is all about fun! Surround yourself in nature while exploring the forest during one of our unforgettable adventure activities. We’ve got something for all ages and abilities.
Plan the Perfect Break to Toronto
There really are hundreds of things you can do in Toronto, and what you do really comes down to your kids interests and also the time of the year. During winter you probably won't want to head to the beach, but you might want to watch a live ice hockey game.
If you are visiting the Canada for the first time and are short of time but want an amazing day trip from Toronto you could visit Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is around a 1 1/2 hour drive from Toronto and can easily be visited on a day trip. This is one of the spectacular natural sights you must see in your life.
Hopefully my list has given you ideas for places to see in Toronto, now go explore this city for yourself. Or if you want to enjoy another city break, view this guide to Montreal with children.
By Jennifer Petty
