Summer in Canada offers endless opportunities for family fun, with destinations that cater to all ages and interests. From coastal adventures to exploring vibrant cities, here are more incredible places to visit in Canada during summer with family:
1. Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a family-friendly city brimming with outdoor activities and attractions. Stanley Park is a must-visit, with its scenic seawall, cycling paths, and the famous Vancouver Aquarium. Families can spend time at Kitsilano Beach, take a boat tour around the harbor, or explore Granville Island, home to a public market, artisans, and kid-friendly attractions like the Kids Market and Aquabus. For a thrilling outdoor experience, head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge or ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride for panoramic views of the city.
2. Banff National Park, Alberta
One of the top summer destinations in Canada, Banff National Park is perfect for families who love nature and adventure. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers breathtaking scenery, from turquoise lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to lush forests and towering mountain peaks. Families can enjoy a range of outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. Don’t miss a ride on the Banff Gondola, which provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Johnston Canyon is another family-friendly hike, offering safe paths and catwalks leading to waterfalls.
3. Prince Edward County, Ontario
If your family enjoys beaches, food, and relaxed summer vibes, Prince Edward County is an excellent choice. Known for its beautiful Sandbanks Provincial Park, which boasts some of the best beaches in Ontario, it’s a popular spot for swimming, sandcastle building, and picnics. The county is also home to charming small towns with farmers’ markets, local shops, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Families can tour local apple orchards, visit petting zoos, and enjoy outdoor movie nights at the Drive-In Theatre.
4. Whistler, British Columbia
While Whistler is famous for skiing, it’s also a fantastic summer destination filled with family activities. The Whistler Bike Park offers a fun mountain biking experience, with trails for all skill levels. Lost Lake provides a peaceful place to swim, paddleboard, or hike. Don’t miss the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the longest and highest lift in the world, offering stunning views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Whistler’s Family Adventure Zone also provides mini-golf, bungee trampolines, and other attractions kids will love.
5. Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital city is an exciting summer destination for families. The city is home to the world-famous Rideau Canal, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, or take a boat cruise to explore the city’s waterways. Families can also visit Parliament Hill and watch the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony. Ottawa is packed with museums like the Canadian Museum of Nature and Canada Aviation and Space Museum, which offer interactive exhibits perfect for kids. During the summer, the city hosts numerous festivals, including the Ottawa Bluesfest and Ribfest, which are fun for the whole family.
6. Cavendish, Prince Edward Island
Cavendish is a gem for families traveling to Prince Edward Island, especially for fans of Anne of Green Gables. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the Green Gables Heritage Place and wandering through the Avonlea Village, where characters from the story come to life. Beyond literary attractions, Cavendish is home to Shining Waters Family Fun Park, which features water slides, swimming pools, and adventure playgrounds. Families can also relax on the island’s sandy beaches or go kayaking and paddleboarding along the coastline.
7. Toronto, Ontario
Toronto offers a mix of cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions. Take the kids to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, where they can marvel at marine life, or head to the Toronto Zoo to see exotic animals from around the world. A visit to Canada’s Wonderland, the country’s largest theme park, is a must for families seeking thrilling rides and water park fun. For a cultural experience, visit the Royal Ontario Museum or Toronto Islands, where you can bike, hike, or enjoy beachside activities. Toronto’s neighborhoods, like the Distillery District and Harbourfront Centre, also offer plenty of family-oriented festivals and events during the summer.
8. Charlevoix, Quebec
If you’re looking for a destination that combines nature and culture, Charlevoix is the perfect spot. This region, located along the St. Lawrence River, offers breathtaking landscapes, whale-watching tours, and family-friendly hiking trails. Take a ride on the Train de Charlevoix, which runs along the coast and provides stunning views of the river and mountains. Charlevoix is also known for its culinary scene, so families can enjoy farm-to-table meals at local restaurants or visit the La Malbaie farmer’s markets.
9. Kelowna, British Columbia
Located in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities. With warm summer temperatures, families can enjoy swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding on Okanagan Lake. The area is also known for its fruit orchards, so families can take a tour and pick fresh apples, cherries, or peaches. Myra Canyon offers an easy yet scenic bike trail along a historic railway route, complete with tunnels and trestle bridges. The city’s many parks, like Mission Creek Regional Park, provide playgrounds, picnic areas, and nature trails for a relaxing family outing.
10. Victoria, British Columbia
For a more laid-back summer family vacation, head to Victoria on Vancouver Island. This charming city is home to the famous Butchart Gardens, a stunning place for families to explore vibrant flowers and walking paths. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Royal BC Museum, featuring interactive exhibits on natural history and Indigenous cultures. Beacon Hill Park offers playgrounds, splash pads, and a petting zoo, making it perfect for younger children. Families can also take whale-watching tours from Victoria’s harbor or enjoy afternoon tea at the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s diverse landscape and cities offer endless family-friendly activities during the summer, whether you’re exploring national parks, and cultural landmarks, or indulging in outdoor adventures. From the bustling streets of Toronto and Quebec City to the serene beauty of Prince Edward Island and Banff, there’s no shortage of destinations that promise memorable summer vacations for families.
