Family-Friendly Adventures in Canada
Oh, Canada – the country known for politeness and poutine, majestic mountains and maple syrup. Canada offers an abundance of wide-open spaces to explore, and bustling metropolitan areas to discover, with people, places, and provisions that are sure to surprise and delight the kids who visit – and their parents, too.
Is Canada a Good Place to Travel with Kids?
Yes! Offering outdoor adventures fit for all ages, safe cities, and friendly faces in every region, Canada makes for an unforgettable family vacation destination. Additionally, it showcases an incredibly diverse landscape. From the peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the plains of the prairies and warm sandy beaches to chilly glaciers, this vast country is an outdoor playground suitable for lovers of all landscapes.
Moreover, you will find epic hikes and beautiful beaches suitable for children of all ages, no matter where you are in the country.
Best Things to Do in Canada with Kids
1. Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia
Located less than two hours by car from Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs offers a wide range of activities to satisfy kids of all ages. Families can stroll along the Spirit Trail, seeking out hand-carved cedar masks, or walk the Sasquatch Trail while learning about the mythical creature said to inhabit the area.
For fun on the water, the floating water park is sure to impress, alongside bumper boats and Sea-Doo rentals. Younger kids will enjoy the sandy beach and waterfront playground, ideal for picnicking on warm days.
2. Northern Lights Wolf Centre, British Columbia
The Northern Lights Wolf Centre, located in Golden, BC, is a great destination for wildlife lovers. You can learn about wolves and watch them roam free. Budding photographers can capture these majestic creatures on the Blackwolf Photography Walk, or families can partake in engaging tours through their natural habitat.
3. Indigenous Experiences Tours, Ontario
Learn about Canada’s Indigenous heritage through interactive displays, workshops, performances, and hands-on experiences in Ottawa. Paddle down the Ottawa River in a canoe, sip traditional tea, or explore the Indigenous Peoples display at the Canadian Museum of History.
4. Prince Edward Island
Home to the fictional Anne of Green Gables stories, Prince Edward Island is a picturesque paradise. From red stone cliffs to sandy beaches, PEI offers cycling, hiking, swimming, and paddling opportunities. Engage in a sand sculpture class and sleep under the stars in rustic campsites.
5. Hiking in Whitehorse, Yukon
Slip on your hiking boots and explore Whitehorse with easy family-friendly trails featuring waterfalls, artifacts, glaciers, caves, and canyons. It’s also an excellent location for stargazing – no special equipment needed, just look up at the aurora borealis.
6. Calgary Bow River, Alberta
Experience Calgary from the Bow River on a family raft ride, winding through the city’s downtown area and exploring St. Patrick’s Island for a day filled with adventure.
7. Niagara Falls, Ontario
Known for its majestic waterfalls, Niagara Falls offers many ways to appreciate this natural wonder, from the White Water Walk to unique ziplining experiences that provide stunning views.
8. Granville Island, British Columbia
Granville Island is the perfect destination for a full day of activities. Adventurous families can enjoy exploring the Public Market for gourmet goodies, visiting toy shops, and playing at an expansive spray park during the summer.
9. Stanley Park, British Columbia
A visit to Vancouver would be incomplete without a stroll through Stanley Park. Opt for a guided Indigenous-led tour to discover the stories behind the towering totem poles and captivating carvings.
10. Jasper Wildlife Adventure Tour, Alberta
The Jasper Tour Company offers adventurous wildlife tours through the Athabasca Valley where families can encounter bears, elk, coyotes, and more, all while learning about the terrain and its inhabitants.
11. Au Diable Vert, Québec
Au Diable Vert, known as “The Green Devil,” provides exciting summer outdoor activities, including water sliding, tubing, and stargazing. Accommodations include treehouses and sustainably built pods, perfect for enjoying nature’s beauty.
12. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Known for stunning sea views and wildlife spotting along the Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park invites families to hike its trails and camp to fully experience the rich nature.
13. West Edmonton Mall, Alberta
The largest mall in North America, West Edmonton Mall, is not just a shopping destination; it also features an indoor amusement park, a water park, and a zoo, suitable for family enjoyment throughout the weekend.
14. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Ontario
As Canada’s largest aquarium, Ripley’s Aquarium is a must-visit for marine enthusiasts. With over 15,000 sea creatures, visitors can experience an underwater tunnel and explore the wonders of marine life.
Planning Tip
Children traveling to Canada without both parents may need authorization from the non-accompanying parent. To avoid potential issues, carry a notarized letter. Divorced parents should keep copies of legal custody documents for travel.
