Jurassic Park

Jurassic Park is the nickname for the public plaza at Maple Leaf Square, right outside Scotiabank Arena at 15 York Street in downtown Toronto. It became famous during the Toronto Raptors' 2019 championship run when tens of thousands of fans packed the area to watch games on the massive outdoor screen. The name stuck, and now it's an iconic Toronto gathering spot.

For families, Jurassic Park is most exciting during basketball season, especially playoff games. The outdoor screen broadcasts live, and the atmosphere is electric — kids get swept up in the cheering, chanting, and energy of thousands of fans. It's a way to experience the thrill of a Raptors game without buying tickets.

Outside of game nights, the plaza is a wide-open public space where kids can run around freely.

The square is fully paved and flat, making it easy to navigate with strollers. There are no formal playground structures, but the open layout gives younger kids room to move. During events, food trucks sometimes set up nearby. Year-round, you're steps from the restaurants and shops inside the PATH underground network and along York Street.

Getting here is straightforward — Union Station is a short walk away, served by the subway, GO Transit, and the UP Express. If you're driving, expect to pay $20-$30 for parking in nearby garages. The plaza is open 24/7, but there's really only a reason to come during Raptors games, special screenings, or when passing through the waterfront area.

Keep in mind that during major games, the crowds get extremely dense. With young children, you'll want to arrive early to stake out a spot near the edges rather than getting trapped in the middle. Bring ear protection for babies and toddlers — the crowd noise during big plays is genuinely loud.