All kids love summer, but without a vacation planned or friends to see, even summer break can get boring. However, as a busy parent, keeping your kids occupied all summer long is a huge task to undertake. The good news: Our list of summer activities for kids in Ontario provides you with the most exciting things to do throughout the province this season. Regardless of whether you live in Ontario or you’re visiting from abroad, you’ll want to check out our list of fun summer activities for kids.
Why Staying Active Is Great for Kids
Keeping your kids active supports their health and development:
- Physical activity: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthen bones and muscles and develop motor skills.
- Mental activity: Learning throughout the summer fosters creativity, problem-solving skills and cognitive development. Childcare programs can also help prepare them for school.
- Social activity: Encourage social development by participating in activities with family and friends, such as summer camps, community events and family trips.
10 Fun Summer Activities for Kids
Whether your family wants to explore the great outdoors, visit a theme park, pick fruits and more, our list of summer activities for kids offers something for everyone:
- Join the fun at Canada’s largest theme park
If your kids love theme parks, then you can’t miss Canada’s Wonderland. While it’s famous for its massive roller coasters, even toddlers and children who prefer less thrilling experiences can find joy in KidZville. There, your kids can find shops selling candy and treats, and even a miniature train ride for all ages. Located in Vaughan, the park typically runs from 10AM to 10PM and is easily accessible via car or public transportation. Additionally, your family may be able to nab a great deal through the park’s group ticket bundles.
- Visit a magical garden straight out of a children’s story
If your little ones are obsessed with fairy tales and magic castles, then be sure to check out Storybook Gardens this summer. The gardens offer a range of charming activities like carousels and mechanical elephants designed for littler kids with the company of an adult. The best part? Each summer, Storybook Gardens hosts Friday Night Festivals, offering free admission for all children after 5:30PM. Located in London, Ontario, the park is easily accessible by car and offers ample parking. Enjoy a magical day out with the whole family at Storybook Gardens.
- Head out for a fruit picking trip
Fruit picking is a cherished summertime activity throughout Canada, and Puddicombe Estate is one of the best places to pick fresh fruit in Ontario. And here’s a hot tip: Letting your kids choose their own produce might even encourage them to eat more fruit, especially if they’re picky eaters. The estate can be found in Stoney Creek, which is about a 30 minute drive from Hamilton. Note that operating hours can vary depending on weather conditions, so be sure to check ahead of time. Once there, you and your little ones can have a taste of rural charm.
- Dive into Canada’s biggest waterpark
When the summer gets unbearably hot, it might be time to take your kids to Calypso Waterpark. Splash around in kid-friendly zones like the FUNTANA water castle, or enjoy the gentle currents of the Jungle Run lazy river. Found in Limoges, Ontario, the park is best accessed via car if you’re driving in from Ottawa and is open from 10AM to 5PM or 6PM. Cool-off and enjoy a fun-filled day with your loved ones at the waterpark.
- Go on an island adventure
If you’re in or around Toronto, then Centre Island is a must-visit destination during the summer months. The island’s green spaces and sandy beaches provide ample room for picnics, games and relaxation in the waters of Lake Ontario. And don’t forget Centreville, which offers over 30 rides and attractions for kids. The island is open daily from 8AM to 11:30PM, and can be reached via the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in downtown Toronto. Take a break from the city and take your little ones on an island adventure this summer.
- Learn about science in exciting new ways
There’s nothing quite like a trip to Science North for aspiring little scientists. Let your children explore space in a digital planetarium, interact with tropical insects at the butterfly gallery and learn about Ontario’s biodiversity in the Northern Ecosystems exhibit. Located in Sudbury, the science centre is best accessed via car or public transit and is open from 9AM to 5PM. Additionally, kids under 4-years-old get to enter for free.
- Make your kids’ LEGO dreams come true
If your kids love LEGO then you’ll want to check out the LEGOland Discovery Centre in Toronto. The centre is fully enclosed, making it a perfect indoor activity for rainy days. Your little ones can engage in hands-on activities that promote problem-solving, join in on LEGO building contests and attend workshops to learn new building techniques. You can find the centre in Vaughan, and it’s best accessed via car if you’re driving in from Toronto or other nearby areas. Open from 10AM to 6PM, plan a visit to the discovery centre for a day of LEGO-themed fun.
- Camp out beneath a starry night sky
For families who love the outdoors, Killarney Provincial Park is a must-visit destination. Not only is it perfect for hiking and camping, the park is also one of Ontario’s last dark sky preserves. That means it offers the best conditions for stargazing, learning about constellations in the night sky and viewing the Northern Lights. Open year-round, the park is located near Georgian Bay and can be accessed via Highway 637. But if you’re too busy to go on a field trip as a family, your kids can still experience the joys of summer camp.
- Experience the natural beauty of the Tulip Festival
The Canadian Tulip Festival provides a vibrant display of colourful tulips across various parks and gardens throughout Ottawa. Your family can enjoy exploring and learning about the various tulip displays, which are completely free to view. Located at Commissioners Park and other venues across Ottawa, the festival is easily accessible by the city’s public transit. Enjoy this floral extravaganza with your little ones in the heart of Canada’s capital city.
- Cap off the summer at the CNE
For many kids in Toronto, going to the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is a beloved yearly tradition. Open from August to September, a visit to the CNE is the perfect way to cap off a wonderful summer for the entire family. From thrilling amusement rides to interactive games and educational exhibits, the CNE has it all. The Kids’ World area is particularly suitable for younger children, featuring kid-friendly rides, shows and workshops. Located at Exhibition Place, the CNE can be reached by car or public transit via the TTC. And don’t forget to book your tickets in advance for a special discount!
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Childventures provides your kids with opportunities that combine creativity and learning, guided by our dedicated childhood educators. Visit our website or contact us for more information.
