Top Five Favourite Activities to Do with Our Toddler in Guelph

As a parent of a toddler, finding fun, engaging, and sometimes educational activities can feel like a bit of a challenge. However, Guelph is full of wonderful places and activities that make spending time with your little one both exciting and rewarding.

As a local real estate agent here in Guelph, I’ve discovered some of the best spots around town that not only provide great entertainment but also give us an opportunity to connect with other parents.

Here are my top five favourite activities to enjoy with my toddler:

1. Baby Basquest and Frida’s Friends Programs at The Children’s Art Factory
The Children’s Art Factory is such a treasure! Their Baby Basquest and Frida’s Friends programs are perfect for toddlers to explore art and creativity in a playful and nurturing environment. The Baby Basquest program introduces little ones to basic art concepts through play, movement, and music. Frida’s Friends offers a wonderful sensory experience through painting, clay, and hands-on art projects, helping children build fine motor skills and creativity while having a blast! Both programs have small class sizes and encourage incredible sensory play - the best part is the parents or caregivers don't have to clean up the mess! 

2. Making Waves Swim School – Parent and Tot Swim
Swimming with your toddler can be such a rewarding experience. Making Waves Swim School offers a fantastic Parent and Tot swim program where toddlers can get comfortable in the water while parents enjoy the peace of mind knowing they’re learning in a safe, supportive environment. It’s a great bonding activity and an opportunity for your little one to develop confidence in the water from a young age.

3. Peekaboo Play Centre
If you’re looking for a clean, safe, and fun space for toddlers to play, Peekaboo Play Centre is the place to go. The toddler play area is specifically designed for younger kids, featuring soft play structures, toys, and activities that keep them entertained for hours. The best part? It’s always spotless, so you can let your little one roam freely without worrying about cleanliness.

4. Saltos – Toddler Program and Open Play Time
Saltos is a great place for toddlers to burn off some energy! They offer a wonderful toddler program that focuses on developing basic gymnastics skills, but they also have open play times for kids walking and up throughout the week. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your child to socialize with other kids, and it’s an amazing way for parents—especially mamas on maternity leave—to meet other local families in the community.

5. The Train and Carousel at Riverside Park
Riverside Park is one of Guelph’s best family-friendly spots, and the train and carousel are definitely highlights! There’s something magical about watching your toddler’s eyes light up as they take a ride on the charming train or carousel. Here’s a hot local tip: Get a season pass to save money throughout the year. It’s the perfect way to make the most of the park’s attractions and return again and again.

While there are plenty of fun paid activities in Guelph, I always appreciate the free options too!

Here are three of my favourite free things to do with my toddler around town.

1. Hit Up a Local Park or Splash Pad
Guelph is home to several fantastic parks and splash pads, and they’re an awesome way to get outside and let your toddler run around. Some of our favourites include Eastview Community Park, Dragonfly Park, and the downtown wading pool. The splash pads are especially great for warmer days, as they provide a fun way for toddlers to cool off while playing and splashing around.

2. Early On Centre
If you’re looking for a fantastic free resource, the Early On Centre is a must-visit! They offer a variety of programs and playgroups for toddlers and their caregivers. The best part? It’s all free! We love visiting the Stone Road location, but there are several locations across the city to explore. It’s a great way to connect with other parents and access helpful resources for your child’s development.

3. Park Activation by the City of Guelph
In the summer months, the City of Guelph offers Park Activation programs that alternate between Margaret Greene Park and Exhibition Park. These outdoor events are a fun way to engage with your toddler through free activities such as crafts, games, and music. It’s a wonderful chance to enjoy some quality time outdoors while meeting other families in the community. Keep an eye on the City of Guelph website for the schedule and updates. 

Guelph has no shortage of activities for toddlers, whether you’re looking to get creative, burn off some energy, or explore the outdoors. As a parent, it’s so rewarding to see your child having fun and learning through these experiences, all while making memories that will last a lifetime.