Toronto Metropolitan University Recreation and Athletic Centre.
Rating
Family of 4
CAD $10-$30 per visit during community access hours; check current rates
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 8-17 (with parental supervision)
About
Toronto Metropolitan University's Recreation and Athletic Centre (formerly Ryerson) is a large indoor sports facility in downtown Toronto. While primarily serving university students, it offers community access programs and swimming that families can use.
The facility is significant -- a proper university athletic centre with gymnasiums, swimming pools, weight rooms, and multi-purpose spaces. For families with older kids (8+) and teens who want to swim laps, shoot hoops, or use a real gym, the community access times make this available.
Community access hours and policies change, so check TMU's recreation website for current information. University facilities typically have more open time during summer when fewer students are on campus. During the school year, community access may be more limited.
The downtown Yonge and Dundas location is extremely central, making it easy to reach from most Toronto hotels and transit routes. The Eaton Centre is right next door for pre or post-visit shopping or eating.
This isn't a typical family recreation destination -- it's a university gym that allows community access. Don't expect family-oriented programming or kid-specific amenities. But for families with active teens who want to swim, play basketball, or work out during a Toronto visit, it's a solid option in an unbeatable location.
Parental supervision is required for children under 16. Some areas may have minimum age requirements (like the weight room). Always check current policies before visiting with kids.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Limited
Nursing / Changing
Limited
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Check community access hours; summer has more availability
Wait Times
Minimal during community access hours
Nearby Food
Eaton Centre food court is adjacent. Yonge-Dundas area has dozens of restaurants. Salad King, Banh Mi Boys, and Pai Northern Thai are nearby and kid-friendly.
Why Kids Love It
The university athletic centre has full-size courts, a pool, and real sports facilities that feel more serious than a community centre. Older kids and teens love playing on regulation courts and using proper gym equipment.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Check community access hours on TMU's website -- they vary seasonally
- Summer offers more community access when fewer students are on campus
- Best for older kids and teens, not young children
- Ultra-central location at Yonge and Dundas
- Parental supervision required for children under 16
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and towel
- Athletic clothes and shoes
- Lock for lockers
- Photo ID for adults
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
CAD $10-$30 per visit during community access hours; check current rates
Tips to Save
- Community access hours offer the cheapest rates.
- TMU students and alumni get discounted or free access.
- Check for family swim or open gym times.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Monday
- 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday
- 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
