The best playgrounds in Toronto for visiting families — High Park adventure playground, Trinity Bellwoods, Dufferin Grove, Riverdale, and more. All free. Updated for 2026.
High Park is the top choice for toddlers — it has a large multi-level adventure playground, three free splash pads in summer, a free zoo with bison and peacocks, and a miniature train ride ($3). Dufferin Grove is excellent for toddlers specifically because of its rare sand play area and the community atmosphere. Riverdale Farm immediately adjacent to Riverdale Park is magical for very young children.
Yes — all of Toronto's public playgrounds are free to use. The splash pads in city parks are also completely free and operate July 1 through Labour Day weekend (9am–8pm). Some parks like High Park charge for optional activities like the miniature train ride ($3) or Centreville Amusement Park rides (separate entry), but the playgrounds themselves are always free.
The most popular splash pads for families include High Park (multiple pads), Sherbourne Common on the Eastern Waterfront (modern design, beautifully maintained), Dufferin Grove (wading pool), and Ashbridges Bay. All operate approximately July 1 to Labour Day weekend, 9am to 8pm daily. No admission charge.
Toronto's playgrounds are accessible year-round during park hours (usually sunrise to 11:30pm). Splash pads operate seasonally from approximately July 1 to Labour Day weekend (first Monday of September), typically 9am–8pm daily. Winter brings toboggan hills and outdoor skating to many of the same parks — High Park, Riverdale Park, and Dufferin Grove all have excellent winter activities.
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