Centre Island (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Centre Island?
What makes it 89% Kids-Friendly: Centreville rides, splash pads, farm animals, sandy beach and shady picnic lawns keep ages 3-12 busy all day; ferry ride is safe, washrooms have changers, but weekend queues can be long.
Positives:
- Short ferry ride: 15-minute ferry gives kids an exciting start with skyline views.
- Family facilities: Free baby changing tables and splash pads make breaks easy.
Challenges:
- Peak season crowds: Ferry lines and ride queues grow after mid-morning on summer weekends.
- Limited shade: Most park areas lack large shade; bring hats and sunscreen.
- Ride height limits: Some rides require minimum height; check restrictions before lining up.
What is Centre Island?
- The city of Toronto owns Centre Island, a car-free parkland island in Lake Ontario that forms the central section of the Toronto Islands archipelago
- The island comprises an L-shaped landmass of parkland, heritage residences and several early 20th-century buildings
- Centre Island acts as a natural breakwater for Toronto's harbour and connects to downtown via year-round ferry service
What is so special about Centre Island for with kids?
- Turn-of-the-century rides at Centreville appeal to ages 3–12 and adults alike
- Hands-on farm visits let kids feed friendly animals
- Pedal and swan boats offer lake views of the Toronto skyline
- Sandy beach and splash pads provide safe water play
- Short ferry ride from downtown adds scenic fun
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for with kids: Visiting over one or two days lets you enjoy Centreville rides, farm visits, beach time and boat rentals at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Centre Island
Centreville Amusement Park:
Ride classic carousel, mini-coaster, log flume and bumper boats in a turn-of-the-century village.
Tip: Buy All-Day Pass online to skip ticket lines and check height requirements before queuing.
Far Enough Farm:
Meet and feed rabbits, goats, pigs and peacocks just steps from the amusement park.
Tip: Bring carrot sticks to feed animals and visit mid-morning when the animals are most active.
Mini-Golf & Wading Pool:
Play a round of mini-golf then cool off in the adjacent kiddie wading pool.
Tip: Go early to avoid midday sun and pack towels for the pool.
Pedal Boats or Swan Boats:
Rent a pedal or swan boat for lake fun with skyline views.
Tip: Arrive by mid-afternoon to avoid long waits and life jackets are included.
Beach Picnic & Sand Play:
Relax at Centre Island Beach with picnic spots and shallow waters for building sandcastles.
Tip: Bring picnic supplies and sand toys; shade is limited so pack a beach umbrella.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Centre Island
- Buy passes online: Purchase Centreville All-Day Passes before visiting to save money and skip ticket lines.
- Catch the first ferry: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy quieter beaches and rides.
- Pack picnic snacks: Bring food and drinks to use picnic tables and avoid restaurant waits.
- Bring a stroller: Use a lightweight stroller for younger kids to ease walking between attractions.
When is the best time to visit Centre Island (Toronto, Canada)?
In summer, take the first ferry to beat lines and pack sunscreen. Beaches and splash pads operate June to September. In spring and fall, check weekend ferry schedules as service is reduced.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip ferry tickets for 4 | CAD 25 |
| Centreville All-Day Pass (4) | CAD 100 |
| Pedal boat rental (30 min) | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 140 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Centre Island
Address: Centre Island, Toronto, ON, Canada
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