5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Toronto

  • Day 1: Toronto Islands
    15 minutes (4.4 km) from Union Station

    The Toronto Islands are a group of islands in Lake Ontario, just a short ferry ride away from downtown Toronto. With beautiful views of the skyline, beaches, trails, and plenty of playgrounds and attractions, the islands make for a perfect family outing.

  • Day 2: CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
    10 minutes (2.7 km) from Toronto Islands

    Experience Toronto from new heights by visiting the iconic CN Tower, a 553-meter-high observation deck offering breathtaking city views. Next, take a walk to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada to explore thousands of aquatic creatures across 135,000 square feet of exhibits.

  • Day 3: Toronto Zoo and Ontario Science Centre
    25 minutes (19 km) from Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

    Get up close with over 5,000 animals from all over the world at the Toronto Zoo, including lions, tigers, gorillas, and pandas. Afterwards, head to the Ontario Science Centre to explore interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and an IMAX theater with stunning films.

  • Day 4: Royal Ontario Museum and Casa Loma
    20 minutes (8.6 km) from Ontario Science Centre

    Discover art, culture, and nature at the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada's largest museum featuring over six million artifacts from around the world. Next, explore the majestic Casa Loma, an authentic castle with gardens, secret passages, and stunning views of the city.

  • Day 5: Niagara Falls
    1 hour 30 minutes (130 km) from Casa Loma

    Take a day trip to one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders, Niagara Falls. Explore the beautiful falls from above by helicopter or from below by boat, and enjoy attractions such as the Niagara Skywheel and Niagara Butterfly Conservatory.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Toronto Islands (1 day, $20)
  • CN Tower ($40, 2-3 hours)
  • Ripley's Aquarium of Canada ($40, 2-3 hours)
  • Toronto Zoo ($30, 3-4 hours)
  • Ontario Science Centre ($25, 3-4 hours)
  • Royal Ontario Museum ($20, 2-3 hours)
  • Casa Loma ($30, 2-3 hours)
  • Niagara Falls ($150, 6-7 hours)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $355 per person

Transportation

The best way to get around Toronto is by public transit, which includes buses, streetcars, subways, and trains. The fare is $3.10 CAD per trip and a day pass can be purchased for $13 CAD. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but can be more expensive. For the trip to Niagara Falls, consider renting a car, taking a bus or train, or booking a guided tour, all of which have their own advantages and costs.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Art Gallery of Ontario, the High Park, or taking a stroll around the Distillery District. For those with less time, skip the Toronto Zoo or Casa Loma and add an extra day to explore downtown and its diverse neighborhoods.

Airports

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the main airport serving Toronto and is located about 22 km northwest of downtown. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) is a smaller airport located on Toronto Islands, with a short ferry ride to the city. YYZ offers more international flights and amenities but can be more crowded and distant from downtown. YTZ is more convenient and scenic but has fewer options and is restricted to short haul flights from Canada and the US.

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