Head to Toronto for downtown city vibes and an added touch of international flair for a summer stay with the kids or a couple’s trip without breaking the bank. Affectionately known as the downtown of Canada, Toronto offers all the eclectic dining, vibrant nightlife and cultural excitement you need, with the growing live music scene you want.
Save your pennies for a great family dinner in a swanky restaurant, a live sporting event or cocktails on the town by hitting up all the free activities you can throughout the day. Check out what’s on in Toronto before heading into the city this summer, or use this handy list to plan your trip.
Skip the expense of planning a touristy jaunt around town with the kids and book a free one instead. Tour the city on a free, 90-minute walking tour with Tour Guys. It’s a great way to get your bearings of the city, take in the sites, get a little background information and plot your next move in the city — all for free. Tour Guys offer free walking tours through Toronto’s downtown, or with a fun theme. Mix it up with a scenic tour of the waterfront, Old Town Toronto, mural and graffiti tour, or spooky ghost tour.

Walking Tour of Old City Toronto. Photo: Harold Stiver | Dreamstime.com
Depending on the time of year, Toronto has a few fun and free film festivals to check out. Fill time between activities, or use a free feature film as an excuse to rest your feet and entertain the kids with a classic flick after a long day of walking. During the summer, locals and travelers head to the open-air Christie Pits Film Festival held Sundays June 30–Aug. 25. For those traveling later in the fall, the Regent Park Film Festival takes place Nov. 20–23, showing lesser-known films.
What’s the summer without an open-air music festival? Check out some fun live music and entertainment July 5–28, at the Beaches Jazz Festival in the heart of the city. Head to the lawn for this free and wholesome event, showcasing live performances for a month-long event. Check out free workshops and live concerts and plan your stay alongside your favorites.
Take advantage of all the free fun in the city by day, and splurge on family fun and activities by night.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Feb 11, 2025National Civil Rights Museum Announces Acquisition of Collection, Opening of Exhibition
A powerful new exhibit is coming to National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel for family travelers to Memphis. The museum has acquired the archive of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Museum and an advocate for non-violence, human rights and equality. To honor the collection, the Speaking Truth to Power: The Life of Bayard Rustin exhibit opens March 28, for eight months, in the State of Tennessee Gallery.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway
East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.
Hotels
Feb 11, 2025Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Debuts Winter Getaway Experience
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina, a stunning waterfront resort on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, announced a winter getaway experience for family travelers planning some last-minute fun in the cold. With this new promotion, guests can participate in the resort’s top winter experiences.
Destinations / North America
Feb 10, 2025Beverly Hills Offers Attainable Luxury for Families
Family travelers to California’s Southland are often overwhelmed by one major issue: Where to stay? Let’s face it, the options are legion. You can stay near the beach for the quintessential SoCal experience, head to Hollywood for an entertainment-heavy stay or book a room downtown for a trendy experience. While each location has something unique to offer, one beautiful destination is ideally located so you can visit all of these Los Angeles areas while enjoying a life of luxury during your stay.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: A Destination for All Ages
However one is traveling, what matters is having fun and creating unforgettable memories. Among many ways to travel, multigenerational trips — on which grandparents, parents and children get to spend quality time together — are gaining popularity. Setting out on this sort of adventure? Madrid has something to offer everyone!
Destinations / North America
Feb 10, 2025Frost-Free Winter Outdoor Adventures in Mississippi
Travel with your family to Mississippi for frost-free outdoor adventure. Beat the winter blues by exploring Mississippi’s diverse landscapes in mild spring temperatures.
ShareThis