Stack your trip with these unique all-ages Toronto experiences. But hurry: some of them won’t be here past summer 2023!
Ready for the best family weekend getaway ever? Pack up your sense of adventure and head to Toronto for the best family weekend trip. The CN Tower and Toronto Zoo are probably already on your list, but we’ve found 10 brand-new and limited-time-only attractions and events for extra summer in Toronto magic.
From wild roller thrill rides to augmented-reality art exhibits, these blink-and-you’ll-miss-them experiences will make any birthday weekend getaway or family getaway an unforgettable blast.
Get terrified on a one-of-a-kind thrill ride at Canada’s Wonderland
Send your adrenaline flying sky-high on the Tundra Twister, a brand-new-for-2023 ride at Canada’s Wonderland (regular season runs to October 29, 2023). The only one of its kind globally, this 360-degree spinning swing ride twists and swoops upside-down at 75 km/h (47 mph) for a guaranteed hair-raising adventure.
Smaller thrill-seekers will love the speedy dips and turns on the exhilarating Snoopy Racing Railway, a brand-new 50 km/h (31 mph) launch coaster.
Immerse yourself in your fave Disney movies
Looking for family-friendly activities in Toronto? Dive under the sea with the Little Mermaid and be surrounded by a gazillion bubbles, or twirl into Mirabel’s enchanted casita in Encanto at the Immersive Disney Animation exhibition (now through September 4, 2023).
Larger-than-life screens and special effects will mesmerize your littles with much-loved footage of their fave Disney hits, while original sketches, backstories and concept art will captivate grown-ups. This is the perfect
Go wild at the ultimate dinosaur exhibition
The Royal Ontario Museum is full of family-friendly things to do. An epic Tyrannosaurus Rex journey awaits when you roar your way to T-rex: The Ultimate Predator (now through September 4, 2023) at the ROM.
Through 40 models and casts, this exhibit traces T. Rex’s development from baby to fearsome beast. Take in the huge video projections, interactive elements and hands-on activities—and don’t forget to visit the T. Rex skeleton, part of the permanent dinosaur collection.
Explore an augmented reality art exhibit
Seeing the Invisible: An Outdoor Augmented Reality Exhibition (now through September 4, 2023) is a stunning augmented reality (AR) exhibition featuring virtual art from some of the world’s most prominent artists, including Ai WeiWei.
Start by downloading Seeing The Invisible’s free smartphone app, which will guide you to digital installations at the Museum Of Contemporary Art (MOCA). The app operates much like Pokémon Go by overlaying graphics within real-life settings using AR.
Once you’re done exploring MOCA, stroll outdoors to nearby Sorauren Park and High Park, where it will lead you to more breathtaking digital art installations.
Be amazed by the traditional circus arts
Spines will tingle at the Royal Canadian International Circus (June 29 to July 2, 2023) in west-end Etobicoke. This traditional-style circus features death-defying leaping acrobats and tightrope walkers under a big top tent.
Meanwhile, at the Toronto Botanical Garden, BLOOM: Dance + Circus in the Garden (July 10, 11, 12 and July 16, 18 & 19, 2023) showcases storytelling, aerial tricks and high-flying acrobatics in a lush, verdant outdoor setting.
Both events rely entirely on human talent and work their magic without the use of animals.
Experience storytelling and performances by a Greek-style theatre
Join the free fun at The Guild Festival Theatre’s Family Fest (July 7–9, 2023), with storytelling, live music, performances and workshops for all ages in scenic Guild Park.
Scarborough’s photogenic Guild Park is chockablock with classical statues and architectural remnants alongside jaw-dropping lake views from atop the Bluffs. Be sure to return for the theatre company’s Dora-winning production of Alice in Wonderland (July 12–22, 2023), staged in Guild Park’s open-air, marble-pillared Greek Theatre.
Also see nearby: Scarborough Bluffs: Pick the Best Park for Your Interests
Splash into the children’s theatre scene
Transport your family to the fabulous amphibious world of Frog and Toad. A Year With Frog and Toad (July 15, 16 & 23, 2023) is a Tony-nominated Broadway musical chronicling the odd-couple dynamic between these animal pals with a charming score and a touching message about friendship.
Pro tip: Pack swimwear! Once kids spy the nearby splash pad with water jets and sandy playground outside Wychwood Theatre, they’ll pester you to stay.
Learn incredible tricks at a skateboarding drop-in
Ever wanted to learn how to do an ollie, powerslide or tic-tac? Head to Evergreen Brickworks to meet other skateboard enthusiasts of all ages at its free Skateboarding Drop-In Program (July 18 and August 15, 2023).
With expert advice, no-fee repairs with complementary loaner boards and safety gear courtesy of Impact Skate Club, these supportive drop-in sessions take place on select Tuesday evenings to avoid peak heat. (And yes, there will be ramps so you can practice that noseblunt stall you’ve been dreaming about since forever!)
Also see: 3 Family-Friendly Ways to Explore the Evergreen Brick Works
Catch the next generation of talent at a junior carnival
Jump up and cheer on junior masqueraders at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival’s Junior Carnival & Family Day (July 22, 2023) in Scarborough. Can’t-miss events include the King and Queen competition and Junior Carnival Parade.
Prepare to be dazzled by the brightly coloured costumes and boss dance moves that will be on display. Island beats, including R&B, soca and calypso, will get everyone moving at this free event celebrating Caribbean culture.
Also see: 10 Must-Sees at Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Get creative with other young people at the Youth Day Festival
Soak up the buzzing vibes of downtown’s Yonge-Dundas Square at Toronto’s Youth Day Festival (July 23, 2023), part of a global celebration of young creatives. Performers will take the stage to showcase music and dance, with wildly talented youth artists exhibiting their fashion, photography and film projects.
Need to take a break with air conditioning? Hit up the huge CF Toronto Eaton Centre mall next door for food court snacks or mango bubble tea.
