Giving your kids new experiences isn’t just about keeping them entertained—it’s also a healthy way to nurture their development and creativity. Yet, it can be challenging to consistently come up with fresh ideas for things to do. Fortunately, every neighbourhood has hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and the Junction, Toronto stands out for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly activities.
Whether your kids are looking to encounter exotic animals at the zoo, join in on a storytime session at the library or test out their skates in colder seasons, the Junction in Toronto, ON caters to every family’s needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, you can keep your little ones happily occupied with our list of activities and programs.
What Is the Junction?
The Junction has been around since 1884 and was named after the meeting place of two Indigenous trails. Today, it’s one of Toronto’s liveliest neighbourhoods, blending historic charm with a friendly atmosphere. Known for its vibrant arts scene, it’s home to many galleries and studios, and hosts creative events such as the Junction Summer Solstice Festival. It’s also known for its independent shops, boutiques and antique stores. If your family is looking for a place to eat, you’ll be pleased to know that the Junction has a diverse culinary scene of cafes, bakeries and restaurants. With so many options for food and shopping available, there’s a good chance everyone in the family can find something they enjoy.
Getting to the Junction: Practical Tips for Transit and Parking
Whether you plan to drive or take public transportation, the Junction has plenty of convenient parking spots and TTC stations located nearby. Here’s what you can expect:
- Driving: From Mississauga or Downtown Toronto, expect a 35-minute drive to the Junction under normal traffic conditions. Expect longer travel times if you’re coming from further out.
- Parking: There are many affordable parking options in the Junction. A Municipal Green P Carpark at Dundas St West and Roncesvalles Ave charges $4 for two hours. For a more convenient but slightly pricier option, Keele Station parking lot offers parking at $5 for two hours. Parking is available at seven lots in and around High Park, allowing for two hours of free parking if you’re visiting the park.
- Public Transit: If you’re taking the TTC from Downtown Toronto, expect the trip to take about 45 minutes. Keele Station or Dundas West Station are ideal stops if you’re planning to check out the neighbourhood and look for stores or restaurants around the Junction. If you want to stroll through High Park, then High Park Station is your best bet.
Things to Do in The Junction Toronto
Whether your kids want to explore High Park or join community programs, you’ll find opportunities for them to discover new experiences that cater to their interests:
- Encounter exotic wildlife in Toronto’s biggest park
If your family loves the outdoors, then visiting High Park is a must. As Toronto’s largest park, it offers a range of walking trails and stunning natural scenery, and is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season in early Spring. But there’s more: Did you know that High Park is also home to a zoo? At the High Park Zoo, you and your little ones can encounter fascinating animals like bison, llamas and capybara. Perfect for all ages, the zoo is open daily from 9AM to 7PM. Plan a trip and treat your children to a memorable nature experience right in the heart of the Junction.
- Go trainspotting at the local playground
Vine Avenue Playground is a cherished spot for kids in the Junction. The park is shaded by natural greenery and is divided into two sections for different age groups. You’ll find a toddler area complete with a sand pit and wading pool for your youngest kids to splash and play during the summer months. Additionally, there’s a play section for older kids that includes monkey bars, swings, slides and a basketball court. What truly sets this park apart, however, are the trains that occasionally rumble by in the distance. If your little ones love trains, then Vine Avenue Playground is the perfect spot for some outdoor play.
- Engage in storytelling and learning at the local library
If you think the Annette Street Library is just like any other Toronto Public Library branch, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Beyond its extensive collection of children’s books, the library also offers engaging programs for your little ones like STEM Fridays, Computers for Beginners and Printmaking for Kids. Additionally, the library runs Baby Time sessions, where you and your little one can enjoy rhymes, songs, and stories in a session designed for babies from birth to 18 months old. You can also make the trip to the library an opportunity to develop your children’s reading habits.
- Sign up for exciting activities at the community centre
The Junction’s Annette Community Recreation Centre has activities for everyone in the family. The community centre has a variety of programs available, so your little ones can experience arts and crafts, games, sports and more. It also offers swimming lessons, where your youngest kids (six months and above) can learn how to stay safe in the water. The centre has programs for adults, too, including dance and pilates, so you can drop off your children for sports or swimming lessons while you enjoy a refreshing workout.
- Get ready to skate at the local rink
In the winter months, Rennie Park Rink is the perfect ice skating destination in the Junction, Toronto. Conveniently located near Bloor West and South Kingsway, it’s an ideal spot to take your little ones for some ice skating fun. Situated next to High Park, you can top off your outing with a visit to the rink after enjoying a stroll through a natural winter wonderland.
If you still need more family-friendly activities in the Greater Toronto Area, check out our list of 8 things to do in Mississauga.
Have You Seen It? Premium Childcare in The Junction!
We’re excited to announce the neighbourhood’s latest childcare centre, Childventures Junction, to give your child enriching experiences year-round.
Childventures Junction offers premium early childhood education in a spacious, well-lit environment that reflects the neighbourhood’s historic charm. The classrooms are designed for academic, evidence-based learning, complemented by physical activity in the centre’s outdoor play area.
Looking for quality local childcare in The Junction that shares your values as a parent? Spaces will fill up fast, so join our Interest List today to ensure a spot!
Contact us today
Childventures Junction provides your kids with opportunities that combine creativity and learning, guided by our dedicated childhood educators. Visit our website or contact us for more information.
