Not every birthday needs a party. Some families prefer a simple outing with a few friends or just the immediate family. A well-chosen outing can feel just as special, with far less planning. Here are ideas for ages 2 to 9 and a few tips to make the day feel like a birthday.
Why an outing works
An outing has no guest list to manage, no room to book and no cleanup at home. The birthday child chooses the activity, and the day centres on them. It also suits families with little time, tight budgets or busy December and summer calendars.
Birthday outing ideas
Indoor play and go-karts
A place with a playground, a bouncy castle and a track gives the birthday child and a few friends plenty to do. It works in any weather.
Favourite meal out
Let the birthday child choose the restaurant. Add a candle on a dessert and sing quietly at the table.
Park day with a picnic
Pack their favourite snacks and bring a ball or a kite. Add a birthday banner on a tree or bench.
Craft and baking day
Decorate cupcakes at home. It is a good option for younger children and costs very little.
Library and treat
Choose new books and then pick up a treat. It is a gentle outing for 2- and 3-year-olds.
A birthday outing at Kart Town
Kart Town is inside Parkway Mall at 85 Ellesmere Rd Unit 102, Scarborough. It welcomes walk-ins, first come, first served, so you can decide on the morning of the birthday. 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, which makes it easy to bring two friends along without planning a full party. Up to two adults per child can enter with the bundle, and each additional adult is $5. Adults are not allowed in the playground or bouncy castle, but they can watch from the seating area.
Ride rules to know
- Kids must be 2 to 9 years old and at least 31 inches (80 cm) tall to ride.
- Children 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).
The track uses Classic Karts and is shared with the public.
Make an outing feel like a birthday
- Bring a small cake or cupcakes for after the outing.
- Wear a birthday badge or a favourite outfit.
- Take a photo at the start and the end of the day.
- Let the child make one decision at every stop.
- Keep a small gift ready for the end of the day.
When a party is the better choice
If the guest list grows to eight or more, a party package may be easier. Kart Town packages run 2 hours and include pizza, juice boxes, a party room and an activity coordinator, with a custom email invitation and a blank invitation PDF. See the birthday packages if you change your mind.
More ideas
For more outing ideas, read weekend kids activities in Toronto, best kids activities near Parkway Mall and where to take kids on rainy days. If you are watching your budget, see cheap things to do with kids in Toronto under $20 and weekday things to do with toddlers. For a last-minute plan, last-minute birthday ideas may help.
Plan a birthday outing
Pick your day and bring the birthday child and a few friends. See walk-in options on the Kart Town packages page.
Choosing the right bundle
If you are visiting on a walk-in, the bundle you pick shapes the day. Basic at $20 is a good fit for a first visit or a younger child who mostly wants to play. Value at $25 adds a little more for those who plan to ride and play for the full two hours. VIP at $30 suits the child who wants the full experience. Track only, at $15 for a single ride or $20 for a double, is for the keen driver who wants a quick turn.
For a birthday, many families choose Value or VIP so the child has a bit more to enjoy. If you have three or more children, remember the 10% group saving.
Arrive a few minutes early, especially on weekends, since walk-ins are first come, first served. Let the team know it is a birthday when you arrive, and take your photos near the entrance before the play begins.
Finally, pack water and a small snack for afterward, and keep a change of clothes in the car. Two hours of play makes for hungry, happy children.
Birthday outing FAQ
Do I need to book a walk-in outing?
No. Walk-ins are welcome, first come, first served.
Is there a discount for a few friends?
Yes. Groups of 3 or more children get 10% off.
How long is a walk-in visit?
Walk-in bundles are for 2 hours per child.
Can parents join the fun?
Up to two adults per child can enter with the bundle, and additional adults are $5 each. Adults are not allowed in the playground or bouncy castle.
What is the age range?
Ages 2 to 9. Children must be at least 31 inches (80 cm) tall to ride.
