A playdate with two kids is easy. A playdate with five or six is a different job. You need space, something to do for different ages and a plan that still works when the weather turns. This guide covers how to plan a group playdate in Toronto and where an indoor playground fits in.
What makes a good group playdate
The best group outings have three things. There is enough room for kids to move around, there are several activities so nobody waits long, and there is a place for adults to sit and talk. Add a clear start and end time and most of the stress disappears.
For kids aged 2 to 9, mixed ages are the challenge. A toddler and a 9-year-old want different things. A venue with a playground, a bouncy castle and a track gives every age something to enjoy.
Playdate ideas for any season
Indoor playground
An indoor playground is the easiest way to host a group when it is cold, wet or hot. Kids burn energy, parents stay dry, and nobody has to plan games.
Library and craft hour
A quiet start at the library followed by a craft at home suits smaller children and shorter attention spans.
Park and picnic
A park with a packed lunch works well in good weather. Bring a backup plan for rain.
Walk and treat
A neighbourhood walk that ends with a treat is a calm option for younger groups.
For more ideas by season, see our guides to where to take kids on rainy days in Toronto, weekend kids activities in Toronto and keeping kids busy indoors this fall.
Playdates at Kart Town
Kart Town is an indoor playground and go-kart track inside Parkway Mall at 85 Ellesmere Rd Unit 102, Scarborough. It is built for groups of kids aged 2 to 9, with a playground, a bouncy castle, a toy car area and a track with Classic Karts.
Walk-ins are welcome, first come, first served. Pricing is per child for 2 hours:
- Basic: $20
- Value: $25
- VIP: $30
- Track only: $15 for a single ride or $20 for a double ride
Groups of 3 or more children get 10% off. Ask the team at the counter how the discount applies to your group.
Weekday walk-in savings
On weekdays, walk-in prices are 20% off, Monday to Friday. The weekday special excludes school holidays, public holidays and TDSB PA days. That makes a weekday afternoon a smart choice for a playdate when the group is small and the schedule is flexible.
Rules that help a group playdate run smoothly
- Children must be at least 31 inches (80 cm) tall to ride.
- Kids over 42 inches (107 cm) drive alone. For 31 to 42 inches, ask staff about riding with a parent.
- Combined weight in a kart is limited to 220 lb (100 kg).
- Up to two adults per child can enter with a bundle, and each additional adult is $5.
- Adults are not allowed in the playground or bouncy castle.
The track is shared with the public, so riders will see other families around them.
Tips for hosting a group
Agree on a time and a meeting point so nobody is waiting at the door. Ask each parent to tell you about allergies or a nervous rider. Pack water bottles and a few snacks for afterward. Bring cash or a card for anyone who wants an extra ride.
If you are planning around a budget, our guide to cheap things to do with kids in Toronto under $20 and the post on weekday things to do with toddlers help you pick the right day. If your group is near Scarborough, best kids activities near Parkway Mall has ideas for before or after.
Plan your playdate
Pick your day, gather the group and head to Parkway Mall. See walk-in options on the Kart Town packages page.
A sample group playdate plan
Here is a simple plan for a group of four to six kids that keeps parents and children happy.
- Meet at the entrance at the agreed time and have every child pick a bundle.
- Let the kids start on the playground and bouncy castle while parents settle in the seating area.
- Take a break halfway through for water and a snack, then send the older kids to the track.
- Finish with a few minutes of free play and a group goodbye so pickups are orderly.
If one child is shy, pair them with a friend for their first ride. If one is under 42 inches, ask staff about riding with a parent. Little things like these keep the group together and the afternoon relaxed.
For regular playdate groups, rotate who organizes the outing each month. It spreads the planning across families and gives the kids a new routine to look forward to.
Playdate FAQ
Do I need to book a playdate in advance?
No. Walk-ins are welcome, first come, first served.
Is there a discount for groups?
Yes. Groups of 3 or more children get 10% off.
Is the weekday discount available every weekday?
Weekday walk-in prices are 20% off Monday to Friday, but the special excludes school holidays, public holidays and TDSB PA days.
What ages is Kart Town for?
Ages 2 to 9. Children must be at least 31 inches (80 cm) tall to ride.
Can parents play too?
Adults are not allowed in the playground or bouncy castle. Up to two adults per child can enter with a bundle, and additional adults are $5 each.
