5 Great Places to Take Toddlers in Toledo, OH

Toledo has one of the most comprehensive family activity lineups of any mid-size Midwest city — built around a large zoo with a built-in splash pad, a free art museum, and a MetroPark system with playgrounds along the Maumee River.

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609

One of the top-rated zoos in the US, over 100 years old, with an aquarium, museum of natural history, conservatory, and splash pad all on-site. The zoo's scale and variety make it a genuine all-day destination for families. Admission varies; check toledozoo.org for current pricing. Open daily. Summer visits: bring swimsuits for the splash pad. The Arctic Encounter and African Savanna sections are perennial highlights for young kids.

Imagination Station

1 Discovery Way, Toledo, OH 43604

Toledo's science center downtown with hundreds of hands-on STEM exhibits, an IMAX/dome theater, and a dedicated section for younger children. Admission around $15–20 per person; kids under 2 are free. Open Tuesday–Sunday. A solid indoor option when the zoo isn't the right call — particularly good for rainy days when toddlers need somewhere to run and explore indoors.

Glass City Metropark

400 Grasser St., Toledo, OH 43605

The newest and most family-focused park in the Toledo Metroparks system, with a large playground, splash pad (seasonal), the Ribbon (a paved loop used for roller skating in summer and ice skating in winter), and open riverfront green space. Free to access. One of the best free family parks in Toledo — the splash pad and playground together make a strong summer morning outing.

Toledo Museum of Art

2445 Monroe St., Toledo, OH 43620

One of the finest art museums in the country — and completely free. The museum runs a Family Art Club program with hands-on art-making activities designed for young children. Free admission, free parking. Open Tuesday–Sunday. A genuinely exceptional free family destination that rewards repeated visits as kids grow.

Toledo Metroparks

Multiple locations, Toledo metro area

The Toledo Metroparks system has 18 parks throughout Lucas County, many with playgrounds, nature centers, and walking trails. Wildwood Preserve Metropark (5100 W. Central Ave.) has a nature center with live animals and family programming. All parks free to access. Check metroparkstoledo.com for current nature center hours and splash pad locations near you.