Family Day Weekend Fun with GO Transit

Family Day 2025 is around the corner, and it’s time to start planning a weekend filled with exciting events and memorable moments with your loved ones. This year, GO Transit makes it easier than ever to access family-friendly attractions and events across the region. Even better? PRESTO cardholders can unlock great deals at several destinations with PRESTO Perks. Check out these must-visit spots to make your Family Day weekend unforgettable, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of GO Transit. And don’t forget, kids 12 years old and under always ride for free on GO!

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a way to keep the whole family entertained, the Canadian International AutoShow is a must-visit event. Featuring the latest automotive technology and kid-friendly attractions, this is Canada’s largest automotive exhibition. Immerse yourself in the world of cars while enjoying exclusive deals with PRESTO Perks and get a discount on admission and transit.

• When: February 14–23, 2025
• Cost: PRESTO cardholders get a $7 discount on adult admission tickets with PRESTO Perks and various GO Transit Combo Tickets options available.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, and the Metro Toronto Convention Centre is a short walk away.

Dive into a magical floral world with Alice in Bloomland at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this stunning exhibit combines horticulture, floral designs, and visual art for an immersive experience filled with creativity and wonder. With over 25,000 blooms on display, it’s a feast for the senses that’s perfect for all ages. And don’t forget your camera—this event offers photo opportunities straight out of a dream.

• When: February 1 – March 30, 2025
• Cost: Only $11.50 for children 12 and under and enjoy a 15% discount off general adult admission tickets with PRESTO Perks.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Burlington GO Station and connect with Burlington Transit to the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Get up close and personal with fascinating marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in downtown Toronto. With mesmerizing exhibits, including the Dangerous Lagoon and Rainbow Reef, it’s an experience that combines education and entertainment. Kids will enjoy the Discovery Centre, featuring interactive displays and a crawl-through viewing tunnel. Ripley’s is known for captivating guests of all ages, making it the perfect Family Day destination.

• When: Open daily, year-round
• Cost: Save 15% off general admission when you show your PRESTO card. 
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, and it’s just a short walk to the aquarium.

Hockey fans of all ages will love the Hockey Hall of Fame, a destination filled with interactive exhibits, iconic artifacts, and historic memorabilia. From hands-on games to seeing the coveted Stanley Cup up close, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s an unforgettable experience for hockey lovers, and a fun way to celebrate Family Day weekend together.

• When: Open daily, year-round
• Cost: Save 20% off regular admission when you show your PRESTO card.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, and then it's a short walk.

For a unique and interactive outing, visit the Reptile & Plant Expo at The International Centre. Here, you’ll meet fascinating reptiles and plant enthusiasts ready to share their knowledge. It's a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about biodiversity while adults browse supplies and novelty items for their homes. This expo promises hands-on fun and educational moments for the entire family.

• When: February 16, 2025
• Cost: Save 20% on adult tickets online with PRESTO Perks using the promo code PRESTOREPTILE.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Malton GO Station, and it’s just a 10-minute walk to the venue.

For a musical adventure, don’t miss the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s Young People’s Concert—Hot Hot Hot. This interactive show introduces young audiences to the vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean with a symphonic twist! Families can also enjoy pre-concert activities, including an instrument discovery zone and performances by young musicians. This event is a perfect mix of culture and fun, designed to inspire the love of music in young hearts.

• When: February 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM and 4 PM
• Cost: 20% discount available with PRESTO Perks using the promo code PRESTO25.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station and take a quick less than 10-minute walk.

Bring your little ones to a world of imagination and storytelling at Canada’s largest theatre for young audiences. For Family Day 2025 weekend, Young People’s Theatre will showcase Chris Hadfield's The Darkest Dark, an inspiring story filled with captivating performances. Be sure to check out this theatre, known for engaging and artistic productions that captivate kids and adults alike.

• When: Performances ongoing throughout Family Day weekend – check schedule.
• Cost: Enjoy a 15% discount off tickets on select performances with PRESTO Perks.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, then it's a quick 15-minute walk.

Head to Niagara Falls to visit Bird Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor free-flying aviary. Explore exotic birds in a tropical rainforest setting, and don’t miss the opportunity for hands-on encounters. Bird Kingdom combines education and adventure, making it a great addition to your Family Day weekend activities.

• When: Open daily, year-round
• Cost: General adult admission is discounted by 20% with PRESTO Perks.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Niagara Falls GO Station, then connect with the WEGO bus system for a short ride or enjoy a scenic 25-minute walk along River Road.

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s charming Distillery District, Fireside in The Distillery warmly invites families and friends to revel in a true Canadian winter tradition. This delightful event celebrates the comfort of rich, velvety hot chocolate and the gooey sweetness of perfectly toasted s'mores, offering various flavours and combinations to please everyone. The cozy, fireside atmosphere, paired with the district’s festive charm, creates an inviting escape from the chilly weather. Perfect for gathering with family, it's a heartwarming experience that captures the joy of Canadian winters in a way that’s both nostalgic and delicious.

• When: Saturdays and Sundays, 12–6 PM, from January 18 to March 16, 2025
• Cost: Free admission (cost applies to food and drinks)
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, then transfer to the TTC for a quick streetcar ride to the Distillery District or take a leisurely walk.

Dive into history and culture this Family Day with a visit to Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), one of Canada’s most celebrated institutions. Explore the museum’s world-class galleries, which span natural history, art, and archaeology, making it an enriching experience for both kids and adults. From towering dinosaur skeletons to treasures of ancient civilizations, ROM offers something for everyone. This Family Day, take advantage of free admission to explore the fascinating collections. On the rest of the weekend, enjoy discounted rates with PRESTO Perks, making a trip to ROM both fun and budget-friendly for the family. Be sure to arrive early to take full advantage of the day!

• When: Open daily, year-round
• Cost: General admission is FREE on Family Day 2025. On other days, take advantage of PRESTO Perks and save 15% on general tickets and special exhibitions using the promo code PRESTO or by showing their card or GO Transit ticket in person.
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Union Station, then connect via TTC to Museum Station for easy access.

For an active and scenic Family Day outing, head to Friday Harbour in Innisfil just outside of Barrie. This winter wonderland offers a wide range of outdoor recreation activities, perfect for families looking to enjoy the season to its fullest. Whether you're gliding across the ice on the newly-enhanced skating rink, enjoying groomed trails on cross-country skis, snowshoeing through snow-covered paths, or hiking in the Nature Preserve, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Fat biking is also available for those looking for a unique way to explore this winter destination.

• When: Open all winter, weather permitting
• Cost: Activity costs vary depending on your choice of adventure
• Get there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to Barrie South GO Station, then connect with Innisfil Transit for a short ride to Friday Harbour.

Cheer on the Toronto Marlies, the city’s AHL team, with two action-packed games perfect for families this Family Day weekend. While the Marlies take to the ice at Coca-Cola Coliseum on February 15, 2025, the real highlight is the special Family Day game on February 17 at Scotiabank Arena. This is a unique opportunity to experience Marlies hockey in a big-league atmosphere, surrounded by Toronto’s vibrant downtown energy. Whether you’re a hockey fan or just looking for a lively way to spend quality time with your loved ones, this Family Day game is an experience worth having. Don’t miss the chance to bring your family together for this exciting event!

• When: February 15 & 17, 2025
• Cost: Use code MARLIESPRESTO at checkout to save 30% on admission.
• Getting there with GO Transit: Take GO Transit to either Exhibition Station or Union Station. Both venues are a short walk from the station.

Get to Your Family Day Activities with GO Transit

Wherever you’re headed this Family Day weekend, GO Transit has you covered. With routes connecting you around the Greater Golden Horseshoe and convenient schedules designed around family needs, getting to your destination is stress-free. Plus, the great deals available through PRESTO Perks make it easy to enjoy more fun for less.

Whether you’re uncovering new adventures at events like Alice in Bloomland, exploring the wonders of the Royal Ontario Museum, or experiencing the magic of Young People’s Theatre, GO Transit ensures your travel is smooth, affordable, and accessible. Lastly, a reminder that kids 12 years old and under always ride GO Transit for free, and adults can take advantage of the $10 Weekend Pass!

This Family Day, focus on what matters most—making memories with your loved ones. With GO Transit getting you there, the only thing you’ll need to worry about is deciding which amazing experience to try first!