A place for families to get active in downtown Toronto: The McDonald Family YMCA

Toronto has a lot to offer families. The city is home to enriching cultural destinations and experiences for children, including museums, musical performances, and zoos. There are plenty of parks for running around and libraries with children’s programming in every neighbourhood.

Yet living in downtown Toronto with kids also comes with challenges. Activities can be expensive, and living spaces can feel cramped.

But there’s a place in the heart of the city that can help.  

The McDonald Family YMCA is an affordable health and fitness centre where families are welcome and kids have room to be active. Located in the historic Waterworks building on Richmond Street West, near Spadina Avenue, the Y’s newest health and fitness centre offers programs and a sense of community for all ages, helping you and your children build healthy habits.

 Here’s what you’ll find at The McDonald Family YMCA:

Downtown drop-in activities for children, teens, and families

 The McDonald Family YMCA offers fun drop-in activities for children of all ages, from babies to teens. And because they’re indoors, families can stay active year-round, whatever the weather.

 Family gym: Every day, we open our gym for children under 5 and their families to enjoy a safe, engaging space for active play. There are soft mats for tumbling, trikes for zooming, and all sorts of toys and balls to keep little ones entertained and moving.

 Family pickleball: Bring the whole family for fun on the court. Children as young as 6 can learn and practise serves, volleys, and dinks together in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. There are no formal matches or scorekeepers — just a chance to have fun, stay active, and enjoy some quality family time.

Teen basketball: Youth ages 14 to 17 can drop in before or after school and on weekends to shoot hoops, whatever their skill level. There are no formal teams or scorekeepers, just a chance to play with others who share their love of the game. 

Family basketball: Teach your 10-year-old how to dribble, perfect passing with your teen, or play a pickup game with other families. Kids as young as 6 can take part in this relaxed environment. 

Family badminton: Everyone from age 6 to 106 can practise their serves, volleys, and smashes together. It’s a fun way to stay active, spend time together, and make memories on the court. 

Teen Night: Every Friday from 4 pm–7 pm, teens ages 13 to 18 can enjoy the McDonald Y for free! Play sports, join a dance group, go for a swim, work out in the weight room, take a music or art class, or just hang out with friends. No membership necessary — just bring photo ID. Read more about Teen Nights here. 

View the full schedule for the McDonald Family YMCA here.

Indoor swimming for families in downtown Toronto 

Our four-lane, 25m indoor pool gives downtown families an affordable place to take their children swimming. A family locker room makes it easier to get everyone into their swimsuits and a ramp provides accessible entry to the pool. 

Our aquatics programming, overseen by certified lifeguards, includes:

• Recreational swim
• Family swim
• Swim lessons (group and private)
• Lifeguard training and certification

 Older kids, parents, and guardians can also take part in lane swim or sign up for AquaFit classes. 

Parent and tot fitness at the Y 

It can be tough to fit in gym time when your child is under 2. That’s why we created Parent and Tot Fitness, a group class where parents can bring their little ones along. While you enjoy a full-body workout led by a certified instructor, your baby can watch or play nearby. Check the schedule for class times. 

Registered programs for children in Toronto 

Like all YMCA of Greater Toronto locations, The McDonald Family YMCA offers registered children’s programs that help equip your kids with life skills, boost their confidence, and keep them active.  

In addition to swim lessons at this location, you can also register children ages 3 to 13 for karate, basketball, or soccer. While they’re in their lessons, you can take time for yourself and fit in your own workout in the centre’s conditioning area. 

View our Children’s Registered Programs to learn more and register. 

A location that can’t be beat

On top of our programs and welcoming facilities, The McDonald Family YMCA is located in one of Toronto’s most exciting urban neighbourhoods.  

We’re upstairs at 501 Richmond Street West, right above the historic Waterworks Food Hall, where families can stop for lunch, a snack, or ice cream. Right outside the building is St. Andrew’s Park, with outdoor seating and a playground for children. 

The Y is also close to several streetcar routes, making it easy to reach by transit. Paid underground parking is available for families who prefer to drive. 

Find your family’s healthy place at The McDonald Family YMCA

Whether you’re looking to keep your kids active on weekends, enrol them in fun programs, or spend time together as a family, The McDonald Family YMCA has something for everyone. 

With a family membership to the YMCA, you, another adult, and any children 21 and younger who live in the same household have unlimited access to all our amenities and program areas. 

You also get:

• Unlimited access to drop-in sports
• Access to indoor swimming pools
• Preferred pricing on registered children’s programs
• Unlimited access to group fitness classes
• Full access to state-of-the-art conditioning facilities (age 10+)
• Preferred pricing on Personal Training
• Access to all YMCA locations in the Greater Toronto Area 

Come for a free tour and sign up for a family membership today! 

Find us at 501 Richmond Street West, Toronto.