When choosing the perfect spot for your next family vacation abroad, think about Canada with its variety of multigenerational attractions – from zoos and aquariums to theme parks and rodeos. Canada’s varied landscapes, untouched nature, modern cities, and welcoming people make it an excellent choice for families. Best of all, you can enjoy vastly different experiences depending on whether you visit in winter or summer.
Here are the top 5 attractions in Canada for you and your family to explore.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Niagara Falls is a top Canadian destination because there’s nothing quite like it. It’s best to visit the Canadian side for a better view of the stunning falls. In short, you see more in Canada as most of the water falls from the American side.
The best time to see the falls is in the evening when lights illuminate the falls and there’s a spectacular firework show if you visit at the right time. Our absolute favorite view is from the boats. You can see it, feel it, hear it, and even taste it. You can get this unique experience from either the Maid of the Mist or the Hornblower Boat Tours.
Besides a better view of the falls, there was more entertainment. There is plenty of space for the kids to run around and play tag in the park. So take a stroll, enjoy live music, grab some food, and bask in the beauty of Niagara Falls, Canada!
Muskoka, Ontario
Muskoka, situated in Central Ontario, Canada, exemplifies both adventure and serenity. Spanning from Algonquin Park to Georgian Bay, its expansive wilderness caters to all. Just two hours north of Toronto, it presents a plethora of outdoor activities, cultural richness, and quaint towns. Muskoka, hailed as Canada’s top tourist spot multiple times, also tops Ontario as a prime retirement and cottage-buying locale.
With over 1000 lakes, it’s a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, deeply rooted in the ancient Canadian Shield’s geological heritage. Whether lakeside relaxation or thrilling escapades, Muskoka offers an unparalleled blend of beauty and history.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a fantastic year-round family destination with activities for all ages. Granville Island and Stanley Park offer kid-friendly attractions like the Vancouver Aquarium, playgrounds, an outdoor water park, and a model train. The city boasts many green spaces, with Stanley Park being the largest. Smaller parks include Queen Elizabeth Park and Van Dusen Botanical Garden. For a thrill, teens can visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Enjoy markets at Granville Island and Lonsdale Quay or a Vancouver food tour.
Ideal weather from June to October allows for biking and swimming. Winter activities include skiing on Grouse, Seymour, or Cyprus mountains. Even on rainy days, explore the city’s neighborhoods with rain gear.
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is an ideal Canadian home base for families, offering numerous attractions like the Science Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium. Exploring neighborhoods is a highlight, with kids enjoying streetcar rides to spots like Little India and Kensington Market for tuktuk rides, street art, and diverse foods. Time your visit with a festival for added fun.
Food-loving families will delight in the city’s diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from gourmet hotdogs to Ethiopian dishes. For a relaxed pace, visit parks, playgrounds, or the Toronto Islands’ amusement park. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the kid-friendly breweries. Toronto combines big-city amenities with a friendly vibe.
Banff, Alberta
Banff is Canada’s postcard-perfect destination, boasting lakes, old-growth forests, mountains, and wilderness. Ideal for families, Banff offers a range of outdoor activities year-round. In summer, kayak on Moraine Lake, hike to the Hoodoos, or bike along Healy Creek. Winter brings skiing on Mount Norquay and snow tubing down mountains.
The Banff Gondola provides panoramic views, while Banff Upper Hot Springs is perfect for kids. Nearby Lake Louise offers canoeing and hiking in summer, ice skating, and skiing in winter. Downtown Banff, the highest town in Canada, offers shops and eateries, making it perfect for a family road trip.