Ontario is no doubt a rich and abundant province filled up with fun and thrilling family destinations. There are many fun places including adventure parks and cultural places to visit and explore within the province. If it’s adrenaline pumping adventure you want or if it’s just mellow indoor attractions, Ontario has it all. With this in mind, let’s take a look at the top 23 family-friendly activities in Ontario that parents can enjoy with kids of all ages – also making sure that plenty of fun and thrill are guaranteed on each family outing in the future.
For the little ones up to the older ones there is definitely no dearth of options for things to do in Ontario with kids. So, get your thinking caps on and plan your next impressive family fun filled day!
Family-Friendly Activities in Ontario
Best Outdoor Adventures in Ontario
Considering the great outdoors, Ontario is a perfect place for families to step out together for some adventure and enjoy the refreshing breeze. Whether it is about hitting the spectacular hiking trails or sunbathing on picturesque beaches, these activities are excellent for family bonding amidst nature.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Hiking at Bruce Peninsula National Park is one of the most stunning and family-friendly activities in Ontario. Offering families natural beauty with its clear blue waters, rugged cliffs as well as breathtaking sights, this park is amazing for nature-loving families. The easy-to –moderate trails are apt for the pleasant walkers of all ages.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Among the best places in Ontario to enjoy family-friendly activities surrounded by a more immersive outdoorsy feeling is Algonquin Provincial Park. You get to hike, canoe, camp, and enjoy the vibrant wildlife-a memorable family trip indeed.
Dundas Peak, Hamilton
Dundas Peak has a number of trails that offer picturesque beauty from above Hamilton’s beautiful waterfalls, and thus, it is among the most enjoyable day trips for all age groups in Ontario. These types of facilities provide families with opportunities to enjoy hiking as well as enjoying nature photography.
Ontario’s Family-Friendly Beaches
Wasaga Beach
As the world’s longest freshwater beach, Wasaga Beach has ample room for families to stretch out and enjoy some swimming, sandcastle-building, and a bit of beach volleyball. It is a sure place to have an Ontario family attraction that can be enjoyed on any day meant just for relaxation in the sun.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Offering some of the nicest family beaches in all of Ontario, shallow waters will keep the younger children safe, yet fun, and the large-sized sand dunes can provide the excitement for older kids and teenagers.
Outdoor Sports and Adventures
Treetop Trekking, Ganaraska
The family’s looking for a great heart-pumping Ontario outdoor activity can also be found with ziplines, suspension bridges, and more obstacle courses courtesy of Treetop Trekking. Great for older kids and parents who love adventure.
Blue Mountain Resort, Collingwood
Other than skiing during winter, Blue Mountain offers a lot of family-friendly activities throughout the year in Ontario. Families can engage in mountain biking, the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, or scenic gondola rides provided within summer.
Educational and Cultural Family Activities in Ontario
Besides outdoor adventures, Ontario is teeming with experiences in culture and education that will amuse yet educate the kids in equal measure-perfect for anyone looking to blend fun with learning.
Museums and Science Centers
Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto
One of the finest Ontario family attractions is the Royal Ontario Museum. ROM contains something for all age groups, starting from the dinosaurs to civilization and natural history. Kids love its interactive learning areas, whereas parents are fascinated by rich cultural displays.
Ontario Science Centre, Toronto
The Ontario Science Centre is one of the best Ontario family activities when it comes to curiosity in children; it’s filled with hands-on exhibits. There is always something more to see with a planetarium, science demonstrations, and changing special exhibits.
Historic Sites
Fort Henry, Kingston
The Fort Henry is an interactive way to travel back in history within Ontario. Re-enactment, guided tours, and the opportunity for children to take part in a drill just like that of a regular soldier will get your kids fascinated with history in a snap.
Black Creek Pioneer Village, Toronto
Take a step back in time at the Black Creek Pioneer Village, where families can experience life in the 19th century. Kids can go around this Ontario family attraction and interact with historical reenactors who will teach them some old-time trades like blacksmithing and baking.
Fun Amusement Parks and Family-Friendly Attractions
From iconic amusement parks to smaller attractions, Ontario is a hotbed for some of Canada’s best entertainment hotspots for families of all ages.
Amusement Parks
Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan
Family-friendly activities in Ontario couldn’t be counted without the inclusion of Canada’s Wonderland. This park consists of an amusement park with spine-tingling roller coasters, splash zones, and live entertainment-a bit of something for every member of the family.
Storybook Gardens, London
Storybook Gardens is home to a few gentle rides, some playgrounds, and even petting zoos designed around traditional fairy tales for the more gentle souls among younger children. This is highly recommended with families with toddlers and preschoolers as part of the best things to do with kids in Ontario.
Water Parks
Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls
Great Wolf Lodge truly stands out among the many Ontario family attractions with its giant indoor water park, themed rooms, and an abundance of activities to keep your kids occupied. Your family can enjoy water slides, lazy rivers, and meet-and-greets with its characters throughout for an unforgettable stay.
Wet’n’Wild Toronto
If your family enjoys water parks, Wet’n’Wild Toronto is among the best outdoor activities for families to experience in Ontario during summertime. Equipped with a wave pool, several water slides, and a children’s zone, it is fun for all ages across Ontario.
Family-Friendly Wildlife and Nature Encounters
In Ontario, there are various ways that families can get up close and personal with wildlife-meaning these activities are simply perfect for any animal lovers.
Zoos and Wildlife Parks
Toronto Zoo
Among the top most popular activities to do with a family in Ontario, a visit to the Toronto Zoo is included. Inhabited by over 5,000 animals, different special exhibitions, and an assured conservation program, this zoo is all about children having an educative day of fun.
African Lion Safari, Cambridge
One of the most fun activities families can enjoy in Ontario is driving through African Lion Safari in the safety of their own vehicle and viewing lions, giraffes, and zebras. That alone would put this on the list of top family activities in the region; there are few other places where families get to see animals in a semi-natural habitat.
Aquariums & Conservatory
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Toronto
Come and experience the underwater magic waiting for you at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, complete with shark tunnels and interactive touch tanks that both kids and adults will enjoy in this Ontario family attraction.
Butterfly Conservatory, Niagara Falls
Enter the realm of tropical splendor at the Butterfly Conservatory and discover over 2,000 free-flying butterflies flittering everywhere around you. The serene surroundings guarantee some of the most peaceful fun for all ages in Ontario.
Best Indoor Family Activities for Rainy Days
Not every day is sunny, but that does not mean the fun has to stop! Throughout Ontario, there are a number of indoor attractions that are perfect during those rainy days or winter outings.
Indoor Playgrounds and Activity Centers
Playdium, Mississauga
Playdium is a great destination for families in search of indoor amusement. From arcade games and bowling alley action to a go-kart track, this is one of the best Ontario family attractions if your kids are into active play.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, Vaughan
Great for the younger kids, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre features everything from interactive LEGO exhibits and building workshops to small rides. It is one of the top things to do in Ontario on a rainy day with kids.
Trampoline Parks and Climbing Centers
Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Toronto
Sky Zone has endless indoor fun, from trampoline dodgeball to freestyle bouncing. It is actually one of the best family-friendly activities in Ontario for you just to get out there and burn off some energy on a rainy day.
The Rock Oasis, Toronto
Families with more active teenagers can try indoor climbing walls at The Rock Oasis, a course designed for all ages and abilities. It’s fun for all ages in Ontario, helping with fitness and teamwork.
Travel Essentials for Families
Planning a family trip to Ontario can be quite an adventure, but having all you need is tantamount to ensuring your journey is smooth and comfortable. Here is a checklist of what every family must consider bringing for proper equipment, comfort, and amusement:
Kid-Friendly Snacks
Hungry kids can quickly turn into travel companions. Packing an array of healthy, easy-to-carry snacks means everyone is going to stay happy on those long drives, flights, or while waiting in lines at attractions. Healthy snack options include:
- Pre-cut fruits and veggies
- Granola bars
- Crackers and cheese
- Trail mix or dried fruits
- Reusable water bottles
Comfortable Clothing and Footwear
Weather is very different in Ontario depending on the season, so it is necessary to put versatile clothes in your luggage for any kind of weather. It is always good to wear something in layers to help your family members warm up in the morning and cool down in the afternoon. Let’s not forget:
- Light jackets or sweaters
- Comfort shoes for walking
- Raincoats or ponchos
- Sun hats and sunglasses during summer
Entertainment for the Journey
Entertaining kids during travel is always a challenge. Make sure you pack items to keep your child occupied and the time passing, be it on road trips or waiting at the airport for a flight, for example:
- Tablets or smartphones loaded with movies, games, and educational apps
- Color books, crayons, and activity pad
- Card games/ Portable games
- Headphones for each child
Travel-Friendly First Aid Kit
It’s not uncommon to experience minor bumps and scrapes while traveling, especially when you plan to make the most of the great outdoors in Ontario. A well-stocked first-aid kit will help you deal with small injuries. Be sure to include:
- Adhesive bandages assorted sizes
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tweezers and scissors
- Pain relievers – for kids and adults
- Motion sickness tablets
Stroller or Baby Carrier
For families with young children, a stroller or baby carrier is a must for larger attractions, such as zoos, parks, or museums. Look for a stroller that can be folded up and transported easily. Or else, a baby carrier would serve great for hands-free exploration in rugged areas like hiking trails.
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Sun Protection
Whether it’s a day at one of Ontario’s famous beaches or a hike, sun protection is important to keeping the family safe. Bring along:
- Sunscreen (at least SPF 30 – and reapply throughout the day)
- Sunglasses – UV protection
- Wide-brimmed hats for kids and adults
- Dri-fit Lightweight Long sleeve shirts for extra cover.
Identification and Travel Documents
Ensure that all participants have identification documents, especially if crossing borders or hot tourist destinations. This will include:
- Passports or any other travel documentation, where applicable
- Copies of identification cards and health insurance
- Emergency contact numbers
Reusable Bags
Bringing along a few reusable bags will be a good thing; they can store snacks, wet clothes, or souvenirs when going on your escapades. They are lightweight, eco-friendly, and minimize plastic waste when on tour.
Portable Chargers and Power Banks
From capturing the special moments of your family on a phone to keeping the devices alive with entertainment, portable chargers and power banks ensure that you never run out of batteries on the go.
Travel Guidebooks and Maps
While smartphones make it easy to get around, it is still a good idea to bring along physical maps and guidebooks, especially in more remote areas where cell phone reception can be very bad. Ontario has many visitor centers with free maps and brochures.
Taking these essentials along will duly prepare your family for a lifelong memory-journey as you try to experience the family-friendly activities Ontario has in store.
Final Thoughts
Ontario is really one of those fantastic places one could ever imagine when it comes to family fun, offering something for everyone and of every age. From outdoor adventures in beautiful parks to indoor play centers and cultural attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do with the family in Ontario. Whether you are a local in search of new places to explore or a visitor who plans on visiting, these 23 activities ensure fun and memories for the whole family.
Have you ever taken part in any of these activities? Do you have any other favorite family-friendly spots in Ontario that we didn’t list? Let us know in the comments below-we’d love to hear about your experiences and suggestions!
