Top 40 Family-Friendly Destinations in Canada to Explore with Kids

Children mature rapidly, and their preferences can change just as quickly. Nonetheless, Canada remains a constant and offers an abundance of extraordinary locations that cater to families.

Among these are attractions and destinations that every child should experience.

For those eager to inspire their children and provide unforgettable experiences, the following list outlines 40 remarkable places in Canada to visit with your children before they reach adulthood.

1. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Why you should visit: This iconic waterfall is truly awe-inspiring, featuring three distinct cascades that plunge over 50 meters at approximately 2,400 m³ per second.

Activities: Take a ride on the ‘Maid of the Mist’ (www.maidofthemist.com) for an exhilarating journey into the curve of the Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three cascades. Alternatively, experience the ‘Whirlpool Aero Car’ soaring 61 meters above the Niagara Whirlpool. You can also enjoy marvelous views from Queen Victoria Park or get closer by visiting one of the observation decks included in the ‘Journey Behind the Falls’ attraction. It is undoubtedly one of the ideal locations to explore with children.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.niagara-usa.com; www.niagarafallstourism.com

2. Canadian Children’s Museum

Gatineau, Quebec

Why you should visit: This is the largest museum in Canada specifically designed for children, housing over 15,000 items within its exhibits.

Activities: Navigate through the interactive ‘The Great Adventure,’ using a museum passport to explore countries such as Japan, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, and others, while enjoying hands-on activities throughout. Children can board a colorful bus from Pakistan, take a rickshaw ride in Thailand, or walk through a market in Mexico.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.historymuseum.ca/visit/childrens-museum

3. Royal Tyrrell Museum

Drumheller, Alberta

Why you should visit: Children are intrigued by dinosaurs, and this museum boasts an impressive collection of over 130,000 fossils discovered in the Dinosaur Provincial Park.

Activities: Experience an expedition to excavate bones and fossils in an authentic quarry, enable the children to create their own fossils, or stroll through the stunning ‘Dinosaur Hall,’ which showcases over 40 dinosaur skeletons.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: http://www.tyrrellmuseum.com

4. Kids Market

Granville Island, British Columbia

Why you should visit: The Kid’s Market has been recognized as one of the premier family-friendly attractions in the province, featuring stores, activities, and amenities tailored specifically for children.

Activities: Enjoy the four-level indoor playground known as ‘The Adventure Zone’ (theadventurezone.ca), engage in games at the ‘Circus Circus’ arcade, or experience virtual reality at ‘Virtual Ride’ (www.vrfuntasticworld.com).

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.kidsmarket.ca

5. Churchill

Manitoba

Why you should visit: This location is renowned as the polar bear capital of the world, alongside harboring beluga whales.

Activities: Take a ride on tundra buggies in the Cape Churchill Wildlife Management Area to observe and photograph the magnificent polar bears or embark on a boat trip along the Churchill River to see beluga whales. It is also a prime spot for witnessing the aurora borealis on a clear summer night. Consistently regarded as one of the top spots to visit with children.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.churchill.ca

6. Fundy National Park

New Brunswick

Why you should visit: The park features the highest tides in the world, along with more than 25 waterfalls, three campgrounds, and over 100 kilometers of hiking and biking trails.

Activities: Engage in camping, swim with salmon, or traverse its scenic trails. During the summer months, enjoy fishing, birdwatching, and mountain biking, or take a dip in the saltwater pool. The park also offers beaches, picnic areas, tennis courts, and playgrounds.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nb/fundy/index.aspx

7. Quebec City

Quebec

Why you should visit: The city offers an abundance of activities for the entire family, with numerous annual events, and its Old Town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

Activities: Discover the 10,000 colorful fish at the Aquarium du Québec, bounce on trampolines at iSaute Quebec (www.isaute.ca/fr), or spend a summer day at Baie de Beauport. In winter, don’t miss the spectacular Winter Carnival, featuring three parades, an international ice sculpture competition, and varied festivities. During summer, enjoy the Saint-Jean Baptiste Celebration which includes musical performances, fireworks, bonfires, and various activities.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.quebecregion.com/en/what-to-do/activities-attractions/family/

8. Toronto Zoo

Toronto, Ontario

Why you should visit: It is the largest zoo in Canada, encompassing around 5,000 animals representing 450 species.

Activities: Explore the zoo’s seven distinct regions, each exhibiting different animals. Roam through the Indo-Malayan region to admire Indian rhinos, Sumatran orangutans, Sumatran tigers and clouded leopards. Stroll around the African Savannah to spot lions, Grévy’s zebras, river hippopotamuses, and Masai giraffes, or observe red pandas, snow leopards, and giant pandas in the Eurasia Wilds section. The zoo also features grizzly bears, kangaroos, and Arctic wolves.

Recommended age for children: Under 12

Further information: www.torontozoo.com

9. Gros Morne National Park

Newfoundland

Why you should visit: It is the second-largest national park in Atlantic Canada and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Activities: Hike through the Long Range Mountains and observe wildlife such as caribou, arctic hares, moose, and black bears. Alternatively, trek to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views. In winter, partake in cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

Recommended age for children: Secondary school age

Further information: www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/index.aspx

10. Cavendish Beach

Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Why you should visit: It presents a stunning eight-kilometer stretch of beach set against picturesque red sandstone cliffs.

Activities: Swim, parasail, or engage in deep-sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoy a round of mini-golf. For children, you can meet dinosaurs and pet animals at the Jurassic Bart’s Dinosaur Museum and Petting Farm (www.cavendishsavings.com) or plunge down waterslides at the Shining Waters Family Fun Park (www.maritimefun.com).

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: www.cavendishbeachpei.com

11. Pacific National Exhibition

Vancouver, British Columbia

Why you should visit: This two-week annual event ranks among the oldest fairs in Canada.

Activities: Explore Playland, Canada’s oldest amusement park, featuring three roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a massive jungle gym, and numerous other thrilling rides. There is also a dedicated area for younger children, restricted to a maximum height of 150 cm.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.pne.ca

12. Canada’s Wonderland

Vaughan, Ontario

Why you should visit: It is the largest amusement park in Canada, situated just 40 kilometers north of Downtown Toronto.

Activities: Experience the thrilling roller coasters, carousels, Ferris wheels, or giant swings. For younger children, there is a designated area featuring rides and games exclusively for them. Cool off and enjoy playtime at the park’s extensive water park. Canada’s Wonderland also offers live entertainment, dining options, and shopping facilities.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.canadaswonderland.com

13. Whistler

Whistler, British Columbia

Why you should visit: This location is renowned as one of the most celebrated ski resorts in Canada and has been recognized as one of North America’s top ski destinations. It also served as a host for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Activities: Whistler is primarily known for its alpine skiing and snowboarding. During the summer months, it becomes an excellent destination for mountain biking and hiking. The village offers a picturesque environment with a variety of indoor activities for children, such as indoor playgrounds, scavenger hunts, ice skating, or trampoline jumping.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.whistler.com

14. La Ronde

Montreal, Quebec

Why you should visit: It is the largest amusement park in Quebec and the second largest in Canada, operated by Six Flags.

Activities: Experience the thrill of its numerous roller coasters and rides that will get your adrenaline racing, while enjoying panoramic views from the Ferris wheel. Younger children can enjoy gentle rides such as a boat ride, a train ride, a tea-cup ride, or a carousel. The park also features live entertainment, shops, dining options, and hosts annual events.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.sixflags.com/larondeen

15. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Why you should visit: This award-winning facility boasts over 760,000 liters of water.

Activities: Experience the thrill of one of the 16 water slides, ride the waves in the expansive wave pool, or unwind on its artificially created jungle-style beach. Additional amenities include swimming pools, spas, and a beach club complete with a bar.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.fallsviewwaterpark.com

16. Murray Beach Provincial Park

Murray Corner, New Brunswick

Why you should visit: The pristine beach offers stunning sunsets and a tranquil stretch of sandy shore.

Activities: Walk along the beach and relish the breathtaking views, relax while building sandcastles, swim, or enjoy a picnic. Visit the Cape Jourimain Lighthouse for amazing vistas, or engage in boating, kayaking, or horseback riding.

Recommended age for children: Under 12

Further information: www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/Parks/MurrayBeachProvincialPark

17. Belair

Manitoba

Why you should visit: This beautiful retreat is situated on the shores of Lake Winnipeg.

Activities: Enjoy spectacular views across the lake while relaxing in a deck chair. For a complete experience, rent a lakeside cottage for a few days and partake in swimming, fishing, or canoeing. Additionally, consider hiking around the Belair Provincial Forest.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.eastern-beaches.mb.ca/the-beaches/belair

18. The Bruce Trail

Tobermory & Queenston, Ontario

Why you should visit: With over 440 kilometers of pathways, it is the largest network of hiking trails in Canada and is also the oldest.

Activities: Hike along one of the various routes, stopping to admire waterfalls, rivers, streams, and wildlife. Opt for one of the more extended trails and camp at one of the designated camping areas.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.brucetrail.org

19. West Edmonton Mall

Edmonton, Alberta

Why you should visit: This mall ranks among the largest globally and holds several world records, including the world’s largest indoor amusement park, the world’s largest indoor lake, and North America’s largest indoor waterpark.

Activities: Experience the world’s largest indoor roller coaster, play at the waterpark, practice tricks at the skate park, or skate on an ice rink. The mall is also home to over 800 shops and services, making it an ideal place for an extended visit.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.wem.ca

20. Forestry Farm Park and Zoo

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Why you should visit: This location is a National Historic Site of Canada, combining a zoo with a forest experience.

Activities: Observe red pandas, cougars, white Bengal tigers, snow leopards, and African lions. Watch grizzly bears at play or get close to rabbits, snakes, and pygmy goats at the Kinsmen’s Children’s Zoo. Spend time in the forestry area while enjoying the playground, lovely gardens, and the fishing pond. You can bring a picnic or meat for a barbecue and prepare lunch at one of the designated picnic spots.

Recommended age for children: Under 12

Further information: www.saskatoon.ca/parks-recreation-attractions/events-attractions/saskatoon-forestry-farm-park-zoo

21. White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Whitehorse, Yukon

Why you should visit: Known as the ‘Scenic Railway of the World,’ it traces its origins back to the Klondike Gold Rush.

Activities: Bring your passport to board this historic train for an enchanting 45-kilometer journey from Whitehorse to Skagway, Alaska. The landscape is breathtaking, and it’s an experience children will cherish forever.

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: https://wpyr.com/

22. Peggys Cove

St. Margarets Bay, Nova Scotia

Why you should visit: This tranquil community has historical roots dating back to 1766 and is known for its fishing industry and iconic lighthouse.

Activities: Bring your camera to capture images of the renowned Peggy Cove Lighthouse, a symbol of Canadian heritage. The sunsets here are remarkably beautiful, particularly on clear summer evenings. Be sure to snap photos of St. John’s Anglican Church, the only church in the area. Do not leave without enjoying a bowl of fresh chowder at one of the local restaurants.

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: www.peggyscoveregion.com

23. Wood Buffalo National Park

Fort Smith, Northwest Territories

Why you should visit: It is recognized as Canada’s largest national park, surpassing the size of Switzerland.

Activities: Watch for wild bison, whooping cranes, moose, black bears, and lynxes, canoe through the Peace-Athabasca Delta to spot countless birds, or swim in a sinkhole. Additionally, it is a great venue to observe the marvelous Northern Lights.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nt/woodbuffalo/index.aspx

24. Mill River Fun Park

Mill River, Prince Edward Island

Why you should visit: This amusement park operates throughout the summer season.

Activities: Slide down waterslides, swim in the pool, enjoy a ride on bumper boats, or embark on a pirate ship adventure. Additionally, there’s a dedicated pool for younger children and a playground suitable for ages 5 to 12.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.tourismpei.com/search/OperatorDetails/op_id/5178

25. Magnetic Hill Zoo

Moncton, New Brunswick

Why you should visit: This zoo holds the title of the largest in Atlantic Canada and ranks among Canada’s top ten zoos.

Activities: Observe a diverse array of over 600 animals, including ring-tailed lemurs, Siberian tigers, Burchelli’s zebras, jaguars, red-eared slider turtles, and African lions. Check feeding schedules to witness some animals being fed.

Recommended age for children: Under 14

Further information: www.moncton.ca/visitors/city_attractions/magnetic_hill_zoo.htm

26. Ontario Science Centre

Toronto, Ontario

Why you should visit: This facility offers interactive and hands-on science exhibits appealing to all ages.

Activities: Let the younger children visit KidSpark to construct their own rollercoaster, create a music video, and blow giant bubbles. Teens can tackle problem-solving challenges, explore a rainforest, and engage in dialogues with radio operators worldwide. Additionally, the center features a planetarium, artistic installations, and an IMAX theatre.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.ontariosciencecentre.ca

27. The Enchanted Forest

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Why you should visit: This captivating site is filled with fairies, dwarfs, castles, and even dragons!

Activities: Wander along the path through the magical forest, encountering over 350 figurines, along with treehouses, stump houses, and castles. Meet familiar characters like Snow White, Winnie-the-Pooh, the Three Little Pigs, and Captain Hook during your adventure.

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: www.enchantedforestbc.com

28. Telus Spark Science Museum

Calgary, Alberta

Why you should visit: The 15-acre museum features numerous interactive exhibits and digital media workshops designed with children in mind.

Activities: Encourage children to play in an outdoor adventure space tailored for cognitive development, learn about captivating individuals globally, explore earthly and celestial knowledge, or engage their creativity in the Open Studio. The museum frequently hosts live science presentations and has a dome theatre. Families with younger children should visit the Creative Kids Museum, tailored for kids under 9 years old.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.sparkscience.ca

29. Cap-Saint-Jacques Outdoor Centre

Pierrefonds, Quebec

Why you should visit: This park offers a recreational adventure on the shores of Lake Deux Montagnes within the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park.

Activities: Participate in treasure hunts, navigate an obstacle course, learn compass skills, and gather around a campfire. Visit in summer for swimming and canoeing, or in winter for sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: ville.montreal.qc.ca/portal/page?_pageid=2979,3118126&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

30. Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre

Whitehorse, Yukon

Why you should visit: This center provides an interpretive exploration of Beringia, a vast landform that stretched from the Mackenzie River in Canada to the Kolyma River in Siberia.

Activities: View skeleton casts of Ice Age creatures like the woolly mammoth, Beringian lion, steppe bison, and giant short-faced bears, along with insights into human life during that era.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.beringia.com

31. Manitoba Children’s Museum

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Why you should visit: This non-profit museum for children features 12 permanent galleries.

Activities: Climb aboard a 1952 diesel locomotive, conduct water experiments, traverse the giant Illusion Tunnel, scale the Lasagna Lookout, and engage in cow milking.

Recommended age for children: Primary school age

Further information: childrensmuseum.com/

32. Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Pointe-du-Chêne, New Brunswick

Why you should visit: It is recognized as one of Canada’s finest beaches, featuring the warmest saltwater.

Activities: Visit in the summer to take advantage of various beach amenities. In addition to camping facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, and restaurants, the park provides ample recreational activities such as beach volleyball, football, ultimate Frisbee, and swimming. There are also daily sand sculpture competitions and sports contests.

Recommended age for children: Any age

Further information: www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/Parks/ParleeBeachProvincialPark

33. CN Tower

Toronto, Ontario

Why you should visit: It is one of the tallest structures globally and stands as a Canadian landmark.

Activities: Take a glass-fronted elevator to the Glass Floor for a view of the city from 342 meters above. If children lack the courage for this, they can ascend one level to the LookOut Level to admire