You guys know I’ve travelled quite a bit, but there’s nothing like home. Home for me is Toronto, Canada and it is hands down one of the best cities in the world! With nearly forty million visitors annually, Toronto is definitely a very popular destination. I don’t always get to share my hometown, but lucky for me I’ve partnered up with JJ Cole to show you a glimpse of this place called home.
We always loved exploring the city and having a baby hasn’t stopped us. It’s made us appreciate the places we’ve been to or can go on our date nights, but we’ve found love for new spaces that take families and little ones into consideration. I always tell new parents to not be afraid to get out and travel. I think Miles has already started to show his appreciation for the outdoors and most days wants to leave home even if it’s just for a short stroll or car ride. Fear not parents, there are family friendly spots in every city, and here are some of my favourites in my own city.
[ E A T ]
Nearly half the population in Toronto was born outside of Canada. So you can imagine how many different food options you have just by this fact alone. From Italian to Korean, you honestly can get anything and everything in between. Here are some of my favourite spots that are great for your family.
Brodflour – fresh bread and spacious setting for your little one to run around while you get to enjoy that hot latte
Sophie’s – for their kid’s menu and cute decor
Lady Marmalade – a newly renovated space and serves the most delicious dishes
The Green Wood – hands down one of my favourite brunch spots in the city
Brett’s Ice Cream – for its unique flavours and coloured cones
Parallel – for its airy space and high chairs that are always available for use
Pizzeria Libretto for their yummy pizzas and options for the whole family. One of my favourites for sure
Terroni – with multiple locations around the city but my favourite is the one on Yonge Street. Best pastas in the city in my opinion!
[ E X P L O R E (OUTDOORS) ]
When winter is finally over, there is so many activities for the little ones (most of them are free too). Here are a few your little ones would love!
Sugar Beach – A little oasis in the city with pretty pink umbrellas and a place where you can rest when visiting Harbourfront.
Centre Island – I’ve pretty gone almost every year to this island just a very short ride from the harbour. Lots of fun activities and rides for the little ones and a beautiful skyline view of the city
Riverdale Farm – a farm right in the heart of the city. Admission is free and is open 365 days a year!
Evergreen Brickworks – on weekends in the summer, they hold farmers markets filled with fresh produce and baked goods. If you’re also looking for another bite to eat head over to Cafe Belong! EGB is beautiful all year round and you can take a walk along the trail!
Moccasin Trail Park – Locals have seen a bright coloured rainbow tunnel off the highway whenever they go on the DVP. This trail will take you straight to the rainbow and give you glimpses of the Don Valley River.
High Park – swamped during cherry blossom season but beautiful all year round! Don’t forget to check out the High Park Zoo!
Toronto Zoo – You can never go wrong with a visit to zoo. It is the largest zoo in Canada and third in the world!
[ P L A Y (INDOORS) ]
Of course sometimes the weather doesn’t always hold up in Toronto and when they don’t there are indoor options throughout the city.
Allan Gardens – with free admission to the public all year round, this place has been around forever. It’s a beautiful place to explore during the winter months when there isn’t much to do outdoors!
Ripley’s Aquarium – one of the best Aquariums if I do say so myself. We’ve taken Miles there and spent hours looking at all the interesting sea creatures. You’ll thoroughly enjoy the jellyfish that constantly emit many colours!
Playtown – an indoor playground that allows kids to explore different roles like a doctor or dancer! Lots of time can be spent here especially on those rainy days.
We all know that preparing in advance is key for a successful adventure. I don’t mean planning things to the tee because we all know that’s almost impossible with little ones especially in my case with a wild toddler! Packing necessities like JJ cole’s changing clutch which I have upgraded to is not bulky and convenient for travel and of course all of Miles’ snacks and water bottle is packed and kept cool in the 2-bottle cooler. We’ve also stuffed all these items into the Caprice Diaper Bag which I might add is wipeable and looks great on both mom and dad! Neutral prints are key for me but also easy accessibility is what matters most.
I’d love to know if you travel with you little ones or adventure to new places? What are some of your go-to essentials when you take a trip?
*This post was in partnership with JJ Cole but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
