Toronto City Hall (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Toronto City Hall?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can skate for free with their own gear, chase fountains, attend music shows, and hunt sculptures, but heavy crowds and zero playground equipment mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Free Access: No admission fee for the square or City Hall lobby, ideal for families on a budget.
- Central Location: Steps from Queen Street transit, with nearby washrooms and cafés for breaks.
Challenges:
- Weather Dependent Activities: Ice skating and fountain play require cold or warm weather; plan around the season.
- Crowd Peaks: Evenings and weekends can be busy; expect lines for skate rentals and photo spots.
What is Toronto City Hall?
- A modernist municipal complex housing Toronto's mayoral offices and city council chambers
- Two asymmetrical, crescent-shaped towers framing a saucer-shaped council chamber known as the "Eye of the City"
- Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell and completed in 1965, it stands as a civic landmark above Nathan Phillips Square
What is so special about Toronto City Hall for with kids?
- Enjoy free outdoor ice skating under the iconic Freedom Arches.
- Kids love splashing in the seasonal fountain pool.
- Discover unique curved towers with a self-guided architecture walk.
- Capture family photos at the LED TORONTO sign.
- Explore public sculptures with a fun scavenger hunt.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore the main square, try ice skating or the fountain, and view the architecture without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Toronto City Hall
Ice Skating at Nathan Phillips Square:
Glide under the Freedom Arches on the winter ice rink.
Tip: Bring your own skates to skate free if you can; rental is Adults $15, Kids $10.
Splash at the Centennial Fountain:
Kids can play in the shallow summer fountain pool.
Tip: Pack a change of clothes and towels for wet feet.
Architectural Self-Guided Tour:
Walk the lobby to see the twin curved towers and council chamber dome.
Tip: Pick up a free info leaflet at the info desk for kids’ fun facts.
Photo with TORONTO Sign:
Snap family photos by the LED-lit letters in the square.
Tip: Visit at dusk for best lighting without large crowds.
Public Art Scavenger Hunt:
Find The Archer, the Berlin Wall piece, and other sculptures.
Tip: Download a square map online and turn it into a game.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Toronto City Hall
- Bring Your Own Skates: Skip rental fees by packing skates for older kids and adults.
- Early Arrival: Visit when the square opens to avoid crowds and get good photo spots.
Reviews of Toronto City Hall
Bill Greer
Our Toronto City Hall is in the shape of a UFO! 🛸 That alone puts it on the map for a destination location. 🍁 Nathan Philip Square boasts the public skating rink ⛸️ in the winter as well as a huge Christmas Tree 🎄, which has been a holiday tradition for as long as I can remember. In the summertime, NPS hosts numerous events and on Queen Street you’ll find a vast array of food trucks 🌭🌮🍔🍕....
Sandi Cole
Smashing IT!👒 Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillip Square Garden. Historical Landmark home of the mayor and city council members. Also the place where one obtains permits for various requests and requirements. The city staffing clerks are extremely friendly and knowledgeable. "Designed by Viljo Revell and engineered by Hannskarl Bandel, the building opened in 1965. The building is located a...
Tati Tad
Wish to have more flowers around and make it more inviting. Your old benches should be updated. Will be a good ideas to install umbrellas with chairs around fountains( for some reason I didn’t see them working this summer 2024) 📍New Indigenous spirit garden opens outside Toronto city hall. October 1, 2024 Looks beautiful and inviting
Justin Greaves
I’m a wedding photographer, and there’s something special about a Toronto City Hall wedding. No frills, no fuss, just two people, a few loved ones, and the city humming in the background. The quiet moments before, the celebratory walk out, the way the city streets become part of the story. For couples who want something intimate but iconic, this place just works.
Kenneth Lai
Downtown Toronto City Hall is a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. It's the perfect place to capture stunning photos with its iconic architecture as a backdrop. Conveniently located near a subway station, it’s easily accessible. The area is bustling with a variety of fast-food options, making it easy to grab a quick bite. Plus, it's just a short walk from the Eaton Centre, making it an ...
When is the best time to visit Toronto City Hall (Toronto, Canada)?
In summer, the fountain activates daily at 10 AM; bring water shoes. In winter (late Nov–Mar), the rink opens at 10 AM; check rink conditions before visiting. Watch the December Cavalcade of Lights shows after sunset.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ice skate rentals (4 pairs) | CAD 50 |
| Underground parking (2 hours) | CAD 20 |
| Snacks from food trucks | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 90 |
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 Toronto City Hall
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N2, Canada
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About Toronto City Hall
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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