Are you looking for the perfect way to spend quality time with your family this summer? Look no further than Canada! From national parks to the sprawling metropolis of Toronto, Canada is a great place to explore and create unforgettable family memories.
Canada is home to an incredible array of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, quaint small towns, and dynamic cities—all just a short flight away from many U.S.-based travelers. With events and attractions ranging from outdoor activities such as ice fishing and river rafting to exciting things like whale watching tours and indoor amusement parks, there’s something for everyone in Canada.
Whether you have one week or two months to spare, get ready for the best family vacation in Canada you’ve ever had! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best destinations that will offer your family an unforgettable experience with lasting memories—so read on for our suggestions on amazing vacations that your entire clan can enjoy together.
Why A Family Vacation in Canada?:
- Canada is a great destination for family vacations, with a range of activities for kids and adults.
- It’s home to stunning national parks like Banff National Park, as well as cities such as Vancouver and Calgary that offer plenty of entertainment from outdoor activities to cultural experiences.
- Travelers have the option of planning a one-week or two-month-long trip and are sure to create unforgettable memories with their families.
The Best Adventure Escapes For Families Across Canada
Canada is an ideal destination for families looking to explore and experience something new. With its diverse landscapes, friendly people, and wide range of attractions, Canada has something for everyone. From the bustling city of Toronto to the majestic mountains of Banff, there are 14 incredible destinations for families in Canada that are recommended by family travel bloggers.
1. Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park is a stunning summer destination located near Calgary, Alberta. With its alpine lakes and forests, it’s the perfect place for family getaways. Visitors can explore the area by taking a scenic drive, biking, canoeing, kayaking on Lake Louise, or going on a gondola ride to Sulfur Mountain for breathtaking views of the area.
The park also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife spotting opportunities like grizzly bears, lynx, elk, and bighorn sheep. Popular destinations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are accessible only by transit or shuttle. The Cave and Basin National Historic Site provides an educational experience with scavenger hunts, multimedia displays, and interactive exhibits. Banff National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
2. British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia is a beautiful province in Canada that offers something for everyone. Vancouver is the perfect year-round family travel destination with plenty of activities for all ages. Popular attractions include skiing/snowboarding/snowshoeing at local mountains, cycling around the Stanley Park seawall, Capilano Suspension Bridge/Lynn Canyon, and the Vancouver Aquarium. Rainy days are no problem – just layer up and explore the city’s many neighborhoods.
Take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island for more adventure. Enjoy activities such as spelunking, spotting goats on the roof, and searching for sea stars in tidal pools. Visit Morningstar Farm for cheese curds and the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre to meet rescued bear cubs. British Columbia has something to offer everyone – from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences – making it an ideal destination for families looking to explore Canada’s great outdoors.
3. Calgary, Canada
Calgary is a vibrant city located in the Canadian province of Alberta. It is the third-largest municipality in Canada and offers a unique mix of big city skyscrapers and western culture. Calgary is an ideal destination for summer family vacations, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. The Canada Olympic Park, which hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, is a popular attraction for visitors to Calgary. Here you can enjoy activities year-round such as ice skating, cross-country skiing, zip-lining, mini golf, and summer luge. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, bobsleighing is also available at the park with an age requirement of 14 and all safety equipment provided.
ExploreWithErin is a great resource for anyone planning a trip to Calgary. They provide helpful tips on where to stay, what to do and how to get around the city. From outdoor adventures in the Rockies to urban exploration in downtown Calgary, there’s something for everyone here.
4. Edmonton, Canada
Edmonton, Canada is a great destination for family vacations. It is home to North America’s largest mall and is known as “Canada’s Festival City” due to the year-round festivals it hosts. Popular attractions include the Prairie Gardens Pumpkin event, which is perfect for families looking for something fun to do in the summertime. Edmonton also offers plenty of other activities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The city of Edmonton is also close to other attractions in Canada, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Calgary is just a short drive away and offers its own unique western culture with skyscrapers and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled escape, Edmonton has something for everyone.
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax, Nova Scotia is a charming coastal city that offers visitors plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. In the summer months, tourists come from around the world to experience its beaches, seafood, festivals, and hospitality. Halifax is known for its maritime culture and has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an exciting night out, Halifax has it all.
Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a great city to visit with kids. It is known for being kid-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Popular attractions include the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and Beaver Tail stands. Ottawa also offers plenty of museums and galleries to explore as well as outdoor activities like biking and hiking in Gatineau Park. With so much to do in both cities, Halifax and Ottawa are sure to provide an unforgettable Canadian experience.
6. Lake Louise, Canada
Lake Louise, Canada is a stunning destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter months to hiking and biking in the summer, there’s something for everyone. The lake itself is a stunning turquoise color, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake or rent kayaks and canoes to explore its many coves.
In addition to outdoor activities, Lake Louise also offers plenty of cultural attractions. Take a self-guided cruise along the 202 km Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa or visit historic sites such as Fort George National Historic Site and Shaw Festival Theater. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on trying some of Hokey Pokey ice cream’s 100 flavors! Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in nature’s beauty.
7. Mont Tremblant, Canada
Mont Tremblant National Park is a popular destination for visitors, located 80 miles Northwest of Montreal, Quebec. With mild temperatures in the summer, it’s an easy weekend excursion from Montreal and offers a variety of outdoor activities. Families can enjoy biking, hiking, horseback riding, and the Night Walk. The Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort also offers a variety of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
The Mont-Tremblant Activities Center and Brind’O Aquaclub offer additional attractions such as mini-golf, birds of prey show, and euro-bungy. Visitors can also take advantage of the many restaurants in the area or explore the local shops for souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for an active vacation or just want to relax in nature, Mont Tremblant National Park has something for everyone.
8. Montreal, Canada
Montreal is a vibrant city in Canada that offers a unique blend of European culture and North American charm. With its bilingual population, Montreal is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the best of both worlds. From festivals to culinary events, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during the summer months. Music lovers can attend the International Jazz Festival or other local concerts for an unforgettable experience.
Families visiting Montreal will find plenty of attractions suitable for children. La Grande Roue de Montréal, Parc du Mont-Royal, La Ronde, Jardin Botanique de Montréal, and Parc Aquazilla are just some of the popular destinations that offer fun and educational activities for kids. Tourists can book Montreal tours from Viator and pay later so they can explore all that this beautiful city has to offer without breaking their budget.
9. Niagara Falls, Canada
Niagara Falls, Ontario is a stunning destination for travelers of all ages. Located on the border between Canada and the United States, Niagara Falls offers awe-inspiring views of the falls at night when lit up with different colored lights. Couples can enjoy the many wineries in the area for a romantic getaway, while families can stay at the Great Wolf Lodge for access to a huge waterpark. There are various small shops and restaurants to explore, as well as spa days, shows, casinos, ziplining over the falls, and Skylon Tower.
The city also offers kid-friendly attractions such as golf courses and breweries. Popular attractions include the Niagara Parks Power Station, Niagara Skywheel, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!, and Upside Down House. Visitors can also take a cruise under the falls for a unique perspective of this world’s wonder. Adventure City is another great attraction that features an array of activities such as Ax Throwing and Big Top Amazing Mirror and Laser.
10. Nova Scotia, Canada
Nova Scotia, Canada is a beautiful province located on the east coast of the country. The capital city of Halifax is a charming coastal city with an affordable cost of living and plenty of activities to explore. Tourists come from around the world to experience its beaches, seafood, festivals, and hospitality. Summer is the best time to visit Halifax for all it has to offer. There are plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking, whale watching, and hiking trails that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Ottawa (see number 13 on the list) is another great city in Canada to visit. It is known for being kid-friendly with plenty of attractions and activities to explore. A must-try when visiting Ottawa is the famous Beaver Tail pastry! This delicious treat can be found at many local bakeries and cafes throughout the city. Other popular attractions include Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, Byward Market, and the National Gallery of Canada. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or just a weekend getaway.
11. Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy and Annapolis Valley
The Bay of Fundy and Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia is a must-see for any traveler. The Fundy Trail Parkway is a great way to explore the area, tracking the world’s highest tides and visiting sites like Flowerpot Rock. Hopewell Rocks is also a popular destination, where visitors can walk on the ocean floor during low tide. For those looking to camp, New River Beach Provincial Park offers activities such as sand sculpting and treasure hunting.
Halifax is another great destination in Nova Scotia. This charming coastal city offers city life at an affordable cost, making it a popular tourist destination in the summer months. Visitors come to Halifax for its beaches, seafood, festivals, and hospitality. Destination Halifax provides visitors with information on attractions and activities in the area so they can make the most of their trip. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy and Annapolis Valley has something for everyone.
12. Ontario, Canada
Ontario, Canada is a great place to visit for a summer vacation. Toronto is the largest city in Ontario and offers plenty of activities for visitors. The Blue Jays baseball team plays at the Rogers Centre, and there are many food festivals throughout the summer. For those looking for outdoor dining, the Distillery District has lots of restaurants with patios.
For those who enjoy nature, Bruce Trail and Niagara Parks are great spots for hiking and biking. Ottawa is also worth visiting as it is the capital of Canada and has plenty of kid-friendly activities. A popular local treat to try while in Ontario is Beaver Tail, a fried dough pastry that can be found in many places around the province. With so much to do and see, Ontario makes an ideal destination for a summer getaway.
13. Ottawa, Canada
Ottawa is a great city to visit, with its kid-friendly atmosphere and activities. It has a distinctly European feel, with its busy canal and daily changing of the guard. Popular attractions include Beaver Tail, a pastry treat found in many locations around the city. There are many festivals and activities to enjoy in the summertime, such as the Dragon Boat and busker festival, Northern Lights Sound and Light show, and kid-friendly museums. Visitors can rent bikes to explore the Rideau Canal and Rideau River which both cut through the city.
The Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa’s most popular attractions. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches 202 kilometers from Ottawa to Kingston, Ontario. The canal was built in 1832 as a military defense system for British North America but now serves as an important recreational waterway for locals and tourists alike. Along the canal, you can find beautiful parks, restaurants, shops, and more.
14. Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island is a popular summer destination in Canada, known for its beautiful Cavendish Beach. Visitors can enjoy parasailing, golf, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. There are also plenty of historic sites to explore, such as the Anne of Green Gables Museum and L.M. Montgomery’s birthplace. For those looking for a more active experience, Prince Edward Island offers a variety of maritime activities such as paddleboarding, SUP, canoeing, and kiteboarding.
In addition to the outdoor activities available on Prince Edward Island, visitors should also take a walking tour of Charlottetown to learn about local history and see a production of Anne of Green Gables. Foodies will love sampling the local seafood delicacies like lobster and mussels that are freshly caught from the island’s waters. With so much to do and see on Prince Edward Island, it’s no wonder why it is one of Canada’s most popular summer destinations.
15. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is a uniquely North American city with a blend of English and French-speaking residents. It offers visitors the chance to experience the local French-Canadian culture and explore its many attractions. The Old Quebec District is a must-see, with its walled city, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops. Visitors can also take in Montmorency Falls or sample some local wine at Ile D’ Orleans.
Nature lovers will find plenty to do in Quebec City as well, such as snowshoeing, mountain biking, kayaking, and more. Cultural attractions include Place Royale, Notre-Dame des Victoires, Musée de la Civilisation, La Citadelle de Québec and Musée de l’Amérique Francophone. Popular landmarks include Chateau Frontenac, Grand Thé’tre, Palais des Congrès, and Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
16. Thousand Islands, Canada
The Thousand Islands region of Ontario is a stunningly beautiful area that offers visitors a variety of activities at an affordable price. From skydiving to shopping, there is something for everyone in this picturesque part of Canada. Located in ON, Canada, the 1000 Islands region can be accessed via Rockport Boat Line from Horseshoe Bay in Vancouver to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island.
Once you arrive at the island, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can explore the area by spelunking or spotting goats on the roof and searching for sea stars in tidal pools. If you’re looking for something more educational, visit Morningstar Farm and North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre to meet rescued bear cubs and learn about conservation efforts in the area. With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder why people flock to the Thousand Islands region each year.
17. Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Tofino, British Columbia is a stunning destination for summer trips. With activities such as surfing, hiking, whale-watching, kayaking, bear-watching, and deep-sea fishing, there’s something for everyone. Pacific Rim National Park offers breathtaking views of the mountains and boat tours to explore the area. Accommodations range from charming inns to campgrounds for those looking to rough it.
Vancouver is also a great year-round family travel destination with activities for all ages. Popular attractions include skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter; cycling around Stanley Park seawall and swimming at the 3rd Beach Pool in summer; Capilano Suspension Bridge and Vancouver Aquarium any time of year; and Sea Bus public transport boat. Even on rainy days, there’s plenty to do – just layer up and explore Vancouver’s many neighborhoods.
18. Toronto, Canada
Toronto is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the Distillery District to cultural attractions like the CN Tower and Edge Walk, there are plenty of ways to explore this Canadian metropolis. Nature lovers can enjoy Fundy National Park in New Brunswick or take advantage of Toronto’s many beaches, parks, and islands. There are also numerous museums to explore, including the Royal Ontario Museum, Hockey Hall of Fame, and Aga Khan Museum.
For those looking for entertainment options, Toronto has plenty to offer. The Toronto Zoo and Ripley’s Aquarium are great spots for family fun while the Royal Alexandra Theater provides an evening of culture. With its many attractions and activities, Toronto is reminiscent of New York City and is sure to provide an exciting visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or cultural exploration, Toronto has something for everyone.
19. Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is a great destination for families looking to explore the outdoors and take in some of British Columbia’s most beautiful scenery. Take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island and explore Horne Lake Caves, Coombs’ “Goats on the Roof”, and Beachcomber Regional Park or Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville. Visit Morningstar Farm for cheese curds and North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre to meet rescued bear cubs.
Vancouver is also a great year-round family travel destination with activities for all ages. Popular attractions include skiing/snowboarding/snowshoeing in the winter, cycling around Stanley Park seawall, and swimming at 3rd Beach Pool in summer, and Capilano Suspension Bridge and Vancouver Aquarium any time of year. Rainy days can be enjoyed by layering up and exploring Vancouver’s many neighborhoods.
20. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a great year-round destination for families looking to explore the outdoors. With activities ranging from skiing/snowboarding/snowshoeing at local mountains, cycling around Stanley Park seawall, and exploring the city’s many neighborhoods, there is something for everyone. Nature activities such as kayaking, camping, ziplining, and mountain biking are also popular in Vancouver. The city also offers over 25 outdoor pools that are available to the public during the summer months.
Visitors can take advantage of Vancouver’s attractions such as whale watching, grizzly bear habitats, bird watching, logger shows, and more. Popular attractions include the Vancouver Aquarium, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Granville Island Public Market, Queen Elizabeth Park, and more. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Vancouver including the Aquabus, Museum of Anthropology, Chinatown, English Bay, and Science World. With its great restaurants and other activities for a memorable experience.
What Types Of Accommodations Are Available For Families Planning Vacations In Canada?
Canada is a great vacation spot for families. Accommodations range from budget to luxury, so there is something to suit everyone’s budget. For those looking to save money on their trip, camping and RV sites are available throughout Alberta and other provinces.
These spots provide basic amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables, so you can enjoy the great outdoors without spending too much. If you want more comfort and convenience during your travels, hotels are in abundance across the country. Some even offer family suites or bunk beds that kids will love.
Canada also offers family-friendly resorts which allow access to pools, entertainment centers, children’s activities, and more. No matter what type of accommodations you choose, you’ll find plenty of options when planning vacations in Canada.
Article Conclusion
Canada is a great destination for families looking to explore the outdoors and take in some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. From camping and RV sites to hotels and resorts, there are plenty of accommodation options available for those planning vacations in Canada. Popular attractions include skiing/snowboarding/snowshoeing in the winter, cycling around Stanley Park seawall, and exploring Vancouver’s many neighborhoods.
