When it’s summer in the city everyone’s on the hunt for the perfect spot to bask in the sun, and Centre Island is just the place to do that. Escape to the Toronto Islands for a refreshing nature retreat. Although the Toronto Islands are made up of three islands, Centre Island is a popular destination because of its attractions. Whether you’re going with your family or friends we think visiting the islands is a must every summer. Curious about how to make the most of your day at Centre Island? Look no further; we’ve got you covered!
Here’s everything you need to know about before going to Centre Island:
Things to do at Centre Island
Centreville Amusement Park
To start off, the park has over 30 rides and attractions. This includes bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, a carousel ride, a miniature golf course, cable rides, and more. Most of the rides are meant for children, however, if you’re older you should definitely go on the sky ride. Relax on the chair lift and take in the scenic views of the island and the city’s skyline. The Swan Ride is also nice and relaxing for adults.
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The hours for the amusement park are different. It opens at 10:30 am each day but when it closes depends on the day. Some days it closes at 6 pm, other days at 7 pm, and on weekends it sometimes closes at 8 pm.
For the amusement park, you can buy an All Day Ride Pass, Season Pass, or Family Pass. If you don’t want to buy a pass you can just buy tickets for the day. The amusement park also has regular ongoing events for the season. You can buy tickets online or at the park.
Visit the animals at Far Enough Farm
If you love animals you need to check out their farm. The farm is home to 40 species of farmyard animals and birds. Visitors can pet and interact with the animals.
Take a hike
Want to go for a quick hike, walk or run? The hiking trail across the islands gives visitors the chance to not only spend some time with nature but enjoy some good views while they’re at it. There’s also the option to rent a bike or a paddle boat with Toronto Island SUP.
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Picnic at Centre Island Beach
Soak up some sun and enjoy the waves at Centre Island Beach. It’s located on the south side of the island and there’s also a notably sized pier that serves as a functional lookout point for water views. You can go for a swim or grab something to eat and picnic by the water.
Where to dine
If you’re looking for a sit-down restaurant option, there’s the Carousel Café and Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co (which features a patio overlooking the skyline). For something more casual, you can check out some of the Centre Island food outlets.
This includes:
- Scoops Ice Cream Wagon
- Uncle Al’s Smokehouse Grill
- Pizza Pizza
- Cider Bar
- Funnel Cake Shop
- O’Bumble’s Ice Cream Parlor
- Sister Sara’s Cake Shoppe
- Mr. Fipp’s Popcorn Wagon
- Floss Factory
- Subway
- Beaver Tail
How to get to Centre Island
They are three ferry routes, that take you to the Toronto Islands. The first route leads to Centre Island, which includes the amusement park. The second route takes you to Hanlan’s Point, home to a clothing-optional beach. Finally, the third route takes you to Ward’s Island, a residential neighbourhood with a charming cafe and a serene beach. Departures for Centre Island and Ward’s Island occur every 40min to an hour, while Hanlan’s Point ferries set sail every hour. Check out the ferry schedule here.
The Ferry
Access to Toronto Island Park, including Centre Island, is through the ferry. The ferries leave from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal every day starting from 8 am. The last one is at 11:20 pm and the last one to leave from Centre Island is at 11:40 pm. The ferry is located at 9 Queen’s Quay West. You’ll find the terminal at Queen’s Quay West, just west of the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel. Ticket prices for the ferry vary according to your age. You can buy them online or at the terminal.
Water Taxi
If you prefer a less crowded way of getting to the island you can take a water taxi. The water taxis open at 10 am and cost $12.50 for a one-way trip. The taxis can take you to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island.
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How to get to the terminal:
If you’re driving your car to the terminal they are various parking lots near Queens Quay and Bay Street. The fees for the parking lots closest to the ferry are $20 and more. Here are a few parking lots you can park your car at:
- 7 Queens Quay East
- 5 Queens Quay West
- 39 Queens Quay East
- Pinnacle Centre
- 30 Bay Street
If you are taking the subway Union Station is only a 17-minute walk. You can also take the 509 or 510 street car which will drop you closer to the terminal.
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