Spring Adventures: Things to Do with Kids

Spring is in the air, and there’s no better time to plan your family activities with your little ones. The flowers are in bloom, the weather invites exploration, and the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) is bursting with family-friendly activities. With so much to do, GO Transit makes it even easier to enjoy these adventures together and discover all the fun things to do with kids. Thanks to Kids GO Free, children 12 and under ride free on GO Transit, making your outings both affordable and stress-free. And with the $10 One-Day Weekend Pass, adults can enjoy unlimited travel all weekend long!

Whether you're headed outdoors to bask in the fresh spring air, exploring indoor cultural attractions, or finding free activities that keep your kids entertained, GO Transit will get you there comfortably and conveniently. Here’s a roundup of some of the best kid-friendly spring activities accessible via GO Transit.

Outdoor Things to Do with Kids

Springtime is all about going outdoors and enjoying nature. The season’s warmer temperatures and vibrant landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for various fun activities your kids will love. Whether it’s a wildlife adventure, a live sports event, or simply a breathtaking view of blooming cherry blossoms, these destinations are all easy to reach with GO Transit.

Centre Island

Centre Island is one of Toronto’s most loved family activities. It offers a peaceful escape from the city, with plenty of attractions to keep everyone entertained. Take GO Transit to Union Station, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Hop on the ferry to Centre Island to kick off your adventure, an experience in itself! Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Toronto’s iconic skyline. Once there, your kids can run free in the expansive green spaces, enjoy mini-train rides at Centreville Amusement Park, or unwind at the beautiful beaches. For a relaxing afternoon, pack a picnic and find a shady spot near the water.

Toronto Zoo

If animals fascinate your little explorers, the Toronto Zoo is a fantastic way to spend a day. With over 5,000 animals from around the world, this family-friendly attraction blends entertainment with education. Wander through exhibits showcasing ecosystems like the African savanna or the Amazon rainforest, and stop at the hands-on Discovery Zone, designed specifically for kids. Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as many of the animals are more active and enjoying the warmer temperatures. Even better, starting April 5, 2025, through August 24, 2025, the new GO Explore bus, Route 96, will conveniently connect you to the Toronto Zoo on weekends! Don’t forget your PRESTO card for great savings – show your card at the gates and you’ll save 20% off general admission or get 10% off an annual membership.

Toronto FC Games

Looking for fun things to do with the kids that the whole family will love? Head to BMO Field and cheer on Toronto FC, the city’s professional soccer team. A live sports experience lets kids see teamwork in action, while soaking up the unbeatable energy of the crowd. With PRESTO Perks, you can enjoy up to 20% off ticket prices for select home matches during the 2025 season—don’t miss out on this fantastic deal!

BMO Field promises a family-friendly outing, complete with concessions and a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for young fans. Getting there is easy too! Take GO Transit’s Lakeshore West line to Exhibition GO Station, and you’ll be just a quick 5-minute walk from all the action.

Toronto Blue Jays Games

For baseball fans, there’s no better spot for a family outing than Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. Little ones will be amazed by the sheer size of the ballpark and captivated by the action on the field. Even better, head to a game on a Sunday to experience Jr. Jays Sundays, every Sunday home game at the Ballpark, apart from Fan Appreciation Weekend. On Jr. Jays Sundays, kids 14 and under can visit the Jr. Jays Zones located in Rogers Centre to participate in various fun games and family activities, and they can even run the bases after the game (advance registration required). You don’t need to worry about Toronto’s unpredictable spring weather, since the stadium features a retractable roof to keep things dry. Union Station is just steps away, making GO Transit an easy and convenient way to get to and from the game.

Embrace Spring at Toronto’s High Park

Nothing says spring quite like cherry blossoms in full bloom, and High Park is one of the best places in the city to take in this natural wonder. Kids will love the beauty of these trees, which provide a stunning (and free!) backdrop for family photos. While at High Park, you can also visit the quaint High Park Zoo. Home to unique animals like capybaras, llamas, and Highland cattle, the zoo offers a close-up experience for curious young minds. GO Transit takes you to Bloor GO Station, and from there, it’s a quick walk to the entrance of High Park.

You can also discover cherry blossoms beyond Toronto – check out the best spots to see cherry blossoms in and around the Greater Golden Horseshoe!

Indoor Things to Do with Kids

While spring often brings sunny days, it’s always a good idea to have indoor family activities on your list for those rainy or chilly afternoons. Here are some incredible indoor attractions where your kids can learn, explore, and have fun, rain or shine.

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

Royal Ontario Museum is a treasure trove of discoveries for kids and adults alike. Step into the awe-inspiring galleries to encounter standing dinosaurs, striking ancient artifacts, and nature exhibits that seem to come to life. The whole family can save 15% off regular Museum admission rates, including: General Admission and Special Exhibitions. With PRESTO Perks, use promo code PRESTO online or show your PRESTO card or GO Transit ticket in person. Children will particularly love the interactive, play-based learning space with activities that focus on families with children 3 to 8 years of age at WonderWorks. Whether it’s a family quest to find the rarest fossils or a stop at seasonal family workshops, there’s always something new to experience here. GO Transit takes you to Union Station, and a quick TTC ride brings you to this beloved institution.

Young People's Theatre

There’s nothing like introducing your child to the magic of live theater, and Young People’s Theatre provides shows crafted specifically for young audiences. With creative performances and storytelling, this is the perfect spot to nurture their artistic curiosity. Courtesy of PRESTO Perks, the whole family can save 15% off tickets on select performances until June 1, 2025, so act soon! Easy to access from Union Station, the theatre showcases everything from musicals to thought-provoking plays, ensuring every visit is both entertaining and inspiring.

Next on stage, Wicked Nix – a whimsical adventure that explores the timeless bonds of family and the joy of finding home in unexpected places. Based on the acclaimed novel by Lena Coakley, this enchanting tale makes for the perfect family weekend outing!

JUNIOR at Harbourfront Centre

JUNIOR at Harbourfront Centre is more than an arts festival, it’s an adventure for young imaginations! It’s one of the largest children’s festivals in Canada for ages 5 to 12. Featuring interactive workshops and stunning productions, this internationally acclaimed event exposes children to creativity and cultures from all over the world. Located just a short walk from Union Station, it’s the perfect destination for sparking your child’s artistic side.

WeeFestival 

WeeFestival is dedicated to bringing inspiring theatre and performing arts to very young children and their families. Through engaging performances tailored specifically for their age group, little ones can explore music, movement, and theatre. With multiple venues across Toronto, it’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce toddlers to the arts. WeeFestival is guided by the belief that regular exposure to the arts during early childhood positively impacts children’s long-term health and well-being. With multiple events around Toronto lined up for this year's event, you can find one suitable for your child!

Bird Kingdom

Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls is truly a magical experience for families. Imagine walking into a living paradise where exotic birds fly freely around lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. This tropical indoor sanctuary offers kids the chance to see up-close interactions with parrots, lorikeets, and other colorful species. For added excitement, there’s a nighttime area where young visitors can learn about nocturnal critters in a fun and safe environment. A GO train trip to Niagara Falls with the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket will bring you close to this one-of-a-kind venue. Don't forget, with PRESTO Perks you get 20% off one general admission ticket when you show your PRESTO card.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Located in Burlington, the Royal Botanical Gardens is a perfect mix of indoor education and outdoor exploration. Even if the weather keeps you indoors, this attraction has vibrant seasonal exhibits and hands-on programming just for kids. Watch their amazement as they learn about pollinators or explore exotic plant exhibits that mimic faraway ecosystems. GO Transit takes you to Burlington GO Station, and a connecting local bus takes you to this vibrant family destination. Adults also save 15% off General Admission with PRESTO Perks when you show your PRESTO card.

Free Things to Do with Kids

Family fun doesn’t have to break the bank. Although many attractions have admission fees, the Greater Golden Horseshoe is home to several free spring activities guaranteed to provide lasting memories for your family.

Doors Open Toronto

If your family loves exploring new places, Doors Open Toronto taking place on May 24-25, 2025, and is a can’t-miss event! It offers free admission to some of the city’s most fascinating buildings, from historic landmarks to sleek modern spaces. Your kids will have the rare chance to peek inside locations not usually open to the public, sparking endless curiosity and conversations. With dozens of offerings accessible from GO Transit stations, it’s a weekend of discovery that won’t cost you a thing.

Barrie Waterfront Festival

The Barrie Waterfront Festival at Centennial Park happening on May 23-25, 2025, combines charm, live entertainment, and endless activities for families. As you stroll along the waterfront, you’ll encounter local acts, unique vendors, and kid-specific entertainment zones. Admission to the festival is entirely free, and its waterfront views are hard to beat. You can take the GO Train to Allandale Waterfront GO Station, which brings you steps away from the event!

Spring Bird Festival

Celebrate the beauty of spring migration at the Spring Bird Festival held in Colonel Samuel Smith Park on May 24, 2025. With guided bird walks and hands-on kids’ activities, this is a chance for your little nature enthusiasts to learn more about local wildlife and conservation. GO Transit’s convenient route to Mimico GO Station and a quick ride share or TTC ride, makes this free event an ease to attend.

Hiking Trails and Waterfronts

Hiking and waterfront explorations are perfect options for families looking for outdoor fun that doesn’t cost a dime. There are many options around the GGH that are accessible by GO Transit, perfect for the whole family to take an adventure. From Rouge National Urban Park, accessible via Rouge Hill GO Station, the Hamilton Waterfront Trail, accessible via West Harbour GO Station to the infamous Niagara Glen accessible via Niagara Falls GO Station, there’s endless natural beauty to experience close to home. Just hop on GO Transit to reach some of the region’s top trails, hikes, and waterfronts and don’t forget to bring an adventurous spirit!

Family Spring Adventures with GO Transit

GO Transit makes family outings easy, affordable, and hassle-free. With the Kids GO Free, you can explore without worrying about extra transportation costs for little ones. The $10 One-Day Weekend Pass ensures parents can enjoy unlimited travel all Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays for one low price. Plus, the spacious seating, onboard washrooms, and scenic views make the ride part of the fun.

Wherever your spring adventures take you, GO Transit is ready to connect you to the Greater Golden Horseshoe’s best family-friendly activities. Plan your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime!