Family Friendly 5-Day December Itinerary in Toronto

Day 1: Festive Downtown Wonders

Toronto, Canada

9:00AM

Explore Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Begin your day at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, admiring the colorful marine life in a warm indoor setting ideal for a December outing.
Take the subway to Union Station (Line 1), then walk to the aquarium.
Adult: $34.00, Child (3-5): $9.00, Child (6-13): $24.00, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at St. Lawrence Market

Enjoy a delightful lunch at St. Lawrence Market, with many options to savor holiday flavors in a festive atmosphere.
A 10-minute walk from the aquarium.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Toronto Christmas Market

Head to the Toronto Christmas Market at the Distillery District to immerse in the holiday spirit with beautiful lights, crafts, and seasonal treats.
Take the streetcar from St. Lawrence Market to the Distillery District.
Free admission (treats and purchases at own expense)., 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Distillery District

Finish your day with a warm dinner at the Distillery District; try the trendy El Catrin for delicious Mexican fare in a festive setting.
Dine at one of the restaurants in the Distillery District.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 2: Magical Downtown Festivities

Toronto, Canada

10:00AM

Royal Ontario Museum

Spend the morning exploring the Royal Ontario Museum, where countless exhibits await, including special winter features, all indoors and comfortable.
Take the subway to St. George Station (Line 1).
General Admission: $23.00, Child (4-14): $18.00, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Annex

Savor a cozy lunch at a café in The Annex, like The Mad Bean Café, well-known for its warm soups and sandwiches for a chilly December day.
A quick 10-minute walk from the museum.
Varies, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Spend the afternoon skating at Nathan Phillips Square, framed by beautiful holiday lights and a festive atmosphere, perfect for creating family memories.
Walk 15 minutes back to City Hall, where the rink is located.
Free admission (skate rental $10.00)., 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Eaton Centre

End your day with dinner at the Eaton Centre, where you can take in holiday decorations while enjoying a bite at one of the many eateries.
A short walk from Nathan Phillips Square.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 3: Island Winter Wonderland

Toronto Islands, Canada

10:00AM

Ferry to Toronto Islands

Embark on a whimsical ferry ride to the Toronto Islands, where you can enjoy stunning winter landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere for family photos.
Catch the ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, about a 20-minute walk or 7-minute streetcar ride from Downtown.
Ferry: Adult: $8.19, Child (2-14): $5.05, Full day

12:30PM

Winter Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a festive picnic lunch on the islands, cozying up with packed warm drinks and treats while surrounded by beautiful winter scenery.
Find a sheltered spot on the islands.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Outdoor Winter Activities

Partake in winter activities on the islands like snowshoeing or perhaps a fun toboggan ride, creating memories while experiencing an outdoor winter paradise.
Look for rental options available on the islands.
Varies., 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Return Ferry and Dinner at Amsterdam BrewHouse

Take the ferry back and enjoy dinner at Amsterdam BrewHouse, known for its cozy vibe and hearty winter meals, reflecting a warm post-island experience.
Catch the ferry from the Toronto Islands.
Varies., 2 hours
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Day 4: North York Cozy Explorations

North York, Canada

10:00AM

Visit Ontario Science Centre

Delve into hands-on science exhibits at the Ontario Science Centre, eagerly engaging your family with multiple learning opportunities while staying warm inside.
Subway from Union Station to Eglinton Station (Line 1), then a 10-minute bus ride.
General Admission: $22.00, Child (3-12): $13.00, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Aga Khan Museum

Warm up with a delicious lunch at the Aga Khan Museum Art and restaurant, serving flavorful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, perfect for the winter chill.
A short 10-minute bus ride from the Science Centre.
Varies., 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Edwards Gardens

Explore Edwards Gardens where winter’s quiet charm enchants as you stroll through its snow-dusted paths, enjoying the beauty of nature even in colder months.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
Free admission., 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yorkdale Shopping Centre

Conclude your day with a warm dinner at one of Yorkdale Shopping Centre's myriad dining options, enjoying warm meals surrounded by festive decorations.
Take the subway or a short taxi ride to Yorkdale.
Varies., 2 hours
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Day 5: Scarborough Holiday Fun

Scarborough, Canada

10:00AM

Visit Toronto Zoo - Winter Exhibit

Head to the Toronto Zoo in Scarborough, which offers unique winter exhibits and activities, showcasing animals who thrive in colder weather.
Take the subway from North York to Scarborough Centre Station then a bus.
Adult: $29.00, Child (3-12): $19.00, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Scarborough Town Centre

Rejuvenate with lunch at Scarborough Town Centre, where you can choose from various restaurants offering warm and comforting meals.
A short bus ride from the zoo.
Varies., 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Scarborough Bluffs

Take in the breathtaking winter views of Lake Ontario at the Scarborough Bluffs, perfect for a peaceful unwind amid nature’s beauty.
Take a bus to Scarborough Bluffs.
Free admission., 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Port Restaurant

End your Toronto adventure with a warm and hearty dinner at Port Restaurant, featuring cozy seasonal dishes for the family.
Just a short drive from Scarborough Bluffs.
Varies., 2 hours
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