Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Whitby
★4.0(290 reviews)Activity
🕑 1 to 2 hours👶 Best for all ages, especially families with young children (0-8). The wide open spaces and smooth pathways make it ideal for toddlers learning to walk, preschoolers who need room to move, and stroller-bound babies. Older kids enjoy the seasonal markets and spotting trains.
About
Whitby GO Station is more than just a transit hub. It's a modern waterfront destination with a beautiful public plaza, wide accessible pathways perfect for strollers, and seasonal outdoor markets that bring the community together. The surrounding area offers public art installations that spark kids' curiosity and plenty of open space for little ones to explore safely.
Highlights
- ✓Wide, smooth pathways perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers
- ✓Seasonal outdoor markets with local vendors and fresh treats
- ✓Public art installations that engage children's imagination
- ✓Train spotting opportunities for little transit enthusiasts
- ✓Connection to extensive waterfront trail system for longer adventures
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during the Saturday morning farmers market (seasonal) when local vendors set up kid-friendly activities and fresh snacks.
- 2.The station has clean, modern family washrooms with changing tables, perfect for a pit stop during waterfront exploration.
- 3.Park in the GO Transit lot on weekends when commuter parking is less busy, giving you easy access to the waterfront trails.
- 4.Bring a camera to capture the public art installations scattered around the plaza, which make great photo ops with kids.
- 5.Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby waterfront trail system, which extends for kilometers in both directions and is completely stroller-friendly.
Best Time to Visit
Weekends during spring through fall (April to October) offer the best experience, especially Saturday mornings when seasonal markets are running. Weekday afternoons are quieter if you prefer fewer crowds, and the plaza is less busy than during morning and evening commuter rush hours.
What to Know
The plaza and public spaces are completely free to enjoy. Ample parking is available at the GO station, with reduced rates on weekends. Several family-friendly restaurants and cafes are located within walking distance of the station, and the entire area is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Seasonal Notes
The outdoor markets typically run from late spring through early fall (May to October). Winter visits are still possible as the plaza remains accessible, but outdoor activities are limited. The holiday season may feature special community events and decorations. Summer offers the most activities and longest daylight hours for exploration.
Nearby Eats
The surrounding Brock Street area has several family-friendly chain restaurants within a short drive, including options with kids menus. For a local experience, check out cafes in nearby Port Whitby where you can grab coffee and treats while kids enjoy waterfront views.
More Activities Near Whitby
Ice Cream
SweetWorks Candy Company
$
SweetWorks Candy Company is a delightful old-fashioned candy and ice cream shop that transports families back in time with its nostalgic charm and handmade treats. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful candy displays and unique ice cream flavors, while parents appreciate the quality handcrafted sweets and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a perfect stop for a special treat.
Library
Whitby Public Library - Central Library
★4.7Free❤️104
This modern, highly-rated library is a welcoming haven for families with children, offering dedicated kids' sections filled with books, interactive programs, and regular story times. With excellent digital resources and comfortable spaces, it's the perfect spot for children to explore reading, learning, and creativity in a calm environment, especially on rainy days or when seeking a quieter activity.
Museum
Lynde House Museum
★4.7$❤️27
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 1817 homestead where costumed interpreters bring pioneer life to life for curious young minds. Kids can explore authentic period rooms, learn about early Canadian settlers, and participate in hands-on educational programs that make history tangible and exciting. With its intimate size and interactive approach, this charming museum offers a memorable glimpse into Whitby's past that feels like visiting a real pioneer home.
Adventure
Waterfront Whitby
★4.7❤️14
Waterfront Whitby offers families a stunning multi-kilometer paved pathway along Lake Ontario, perfect for stroller walks, bike rides, and outdoor play. With accessible rest areas, plenty of green space for picnics, and breathtaking water views, it's an ideal spot for burning energy while enjoying the natural beauty of Ontario's lakeshore.