5 family-friendly activities to do in toronto this winter

Want to get the kids off social media and have more family fun this winter? Here are our top 5 picks to get busy!

5. Embrace the Elements: Try These Outdoor Winter Classics

Tobogganing

There is nothing more classic on a cold winters’ day than taking a sled out to a snowy hill. The cityscape has several super-fun spots to snow-surf with the entire family. Make sure to pack a thermos with a steady supply of hot chocolate to keep warm.

Our top picks: Trinity Bellwoods Park, Christie Pitts and Centennial Park.

Ice Skating

Take advantage of the winter weather at one of Toronto’s skating rinks. Rent some blades or brush off your old pair and get grooving!

Our top picks: The iconic Nathan Phillips Square, DJ Nights at Harbourfront Centre, the Bentway Skating Trail or play some pick-up hockey at Dufferin Grove.

Urban Snowshoeing

This might surprise you, but Toronto has some great snowshoeing trails. Don’t worry if you don’t have the gear; Mountain Equipment

Co-op rents pairs for $15 a day.

Our top picks: Rouge National Urban Park, High Park or Tommy Thompson Park.

4. Warm-up This Winter: Indoor Physical Fun for the Family

Rock climbing

Does the Netflix-binging hibernation routine have you down? Reach new heights at one of Toronto’s best indoor rock climbing centres.

Our top picks: Joe Rockheads, Basecamp Climbing or True North Climbing.

Trampoline Park

Jump for joy at Sky Zone this winter. Experience the fun of play, soaring into the popular foam pit or fly high at SkySlam with hoops for jumpers of all sizes.

Bowling

Year-round, but always a great choice, bowling is sure to keep the kids entertained while bringing together friends and family.

Our top picks: The Ballroom, and Danforth Bowl.

3. Check Out a Winter Festival

Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival

Be sweet to your sweeties and head to the Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival. Complete with wagon rides, arts and crafts. Tasty flapjacks are available to nibble on with real Canadian maple syrup!

Toronto Light Festival

Toronto’s Historic Distillery District will once again be transformed into awonderland of light sculptures courtesy of the Toronto Light Festival. This winter, over a dozen international artists will decorate the cobblestone walkways with eye-catching interactive installations.

2. Experience Toronto’s Arts and Culture Scene

On those chilly days when you still want to get out of the house; stimulate the right side of the brain with some art and music. Take the entire family to enjoy the beautiful sounds of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. For a peaceful, relaxed day wander any of Toronto’s grand museums and galleries.

Our top picks: The Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum.

1. Home is Paradise

Family Pool Day

Can’t take time away from work? Create your own mini-staycation by the pool. There is nothing like a lounge day with the family to cure the winter blues. There are plenty of places to splash around in the city, just pick one near you!

Our top picks: The Pam McConnell Aquatic Centre and the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre.