Guest Blog: Family Saturdays in Toronto
In honour of Canada’s 150th anniversary on July 1, we’re bringing you 150 Travelzoo Tips — one per day until July 1 — to help you explore and enjoy this great land. Tip 31 comes from freelance travel writer Sarah Pittard, creator of the website Solo Mom Takes Flight. She's called Toronto home since 2007 and spends Saturdays exploring the city with her two kids. You can follow Sarah on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
Toronto is known for its vibrant nightlife and exciting food scene -- but it's also incredibly family-friendly. Depending on the season, Toronto offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages. Here are three of the best activities for families visiting on any given Saturday.
Tip 1: In winter, families love to head to Toronto's free ice rinks. Nathan Phillips Square, home to City Hall, transforms into a majestic rink with DJ parties and a snack bar. Families can rent skates at a minimal cost. Before wrapping up for the day, make sure to take a photo in front of the iconic Toronto sign that has been updated with a maple leaf in celebration of Canada's 150th Anniversary.
Tip 2: Torontonians are known to flock to outdoor patios as soon as spring arrives.
On Saturdays, many families head to El Catrin, an exquisite Mexican restaurant in the Distillery District. Kids love the playful atmosphere, from the bright yellow decor, giant outdoor light fixtures and many fire pits. The Young Amigos menu offers a variety of real Mexican food that kids tend to devour.
Tip 3: There is no better way to spend a sunny Saturday in Toronto than at the ballpark.
For every Saturday home game, the Toronto Blue Jays welcome kids to the Rogers Centre for Junior Jays Saturdays. Before the game, youngsters can play in a variety of baseball-themed bouncy houses and even dance and cheer with Ace, the Blue Jays Mascot. Once the game begins, the action is interspersed with games and activities for children, with a variety of Blue Jays prizes to be won.
While Toronto may not be the first city you think of for family-friendly fun, it is one of the best. When planning a trip to Toronto, rest assured that no matter the season, Saturdays are full of family fun.