Come and discover Canada, a sprawling land of diverse landscapes and exhilarating adventures that beckon families to explore its captivating destinations. From the serene eastern beaches to the awe-inspiring northern lakes, and the adrenaline-pumping ziplining to tranquil horseback riding experiences, Explore these incredible places to visit in Canada with family and create cherished memories together.
Here are family getaways across Canada that promise an unforgettable experience:
Banff, Alberta
Banff, an epitome of Canadian postcards, welcomes families with its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and sprawling old-growth forests. It’s a haven for exploring the Rocky Mountains all year round. From invigorating hikes to encounters with wildlife at Banff National Park, there’s an adventure at every turn. Take the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views from Sulphur Mountain’s summit and bask in the heritage of the Banff Springs Hotel. Let the kids frolic in the Banff Upper Hot Springs and explore nearby Lake Louise for more outdoor escapades—canoeing, ice skating, and skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort offer thrills for all seasons.
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Embark on a ferry journey across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island from Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver. Keep an eye out for magnificent whales along the way. Begin your family escapade in Nanaimo and trace the coastline, indulging in adventures like cave explorations at Horne Lake and spotting “goats on the roof” in Coombs. Delight the kids with beachcombing for sea stars at Beachcomber Regional Park or Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville. Refuel with delectable cheese curds at Morningstar Farm and meet adorable rescued bear cubs at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre.
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, a bustling metropolis, offers an array of attractions perfect for families. Explore the Science Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, but don’t miss the real essence of Toronto—its diverse neighborhoods. Hop on a streetcar or subway with a day pass to traverse spots like Little India, where kids can relish Pakistani cuisine at Lahore Tikka House or explore the vibrant Kensington Market, capturing colorful street art and savoring dim sum in Chinatown.
Plan your visit around the city’s numerous festivals to elevate the experience. Food enthusiasts will revel in Toronto’s culinary diversity, from gourmet hotdogs to Ethiopian delicacies, thanks to the city’s acclaimed chefs. For a more relaxed pace, enjoy ice cream in one of Toronto’s many parks or venture to the Toronto Islands, hosting an amusement park for younger kids. Craft beer aficionados will find solace in Toronto’s kid-friendly breweries. Toronto blends big city amenities with a welcoming community vibe, making it an ideal family destination.
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
Nestled in the southwest corner, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park stands proud as one of the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserves. Just a four-hour journey from Regina or Calgary, this destination offers an array of family activities, from stargazing to ziplining. At the park’s south end lies the National Heritage Site of Fort Walsh, allowing families to step back into the 1870s alongside red-clad North West Mounted Police. Immerse yourself in Métis legends, learn about Sitting Bull’s arrival after the Battle of Little Big Horn, and experience a western adventure at the Historic Reesor Ranch with horseback tours into the grasslands, where little ones can enjoy pony rides.
Avalon Peninsula from St. John’s
Embark on a multi-day wildlife escapade along the Avalon Peninsula’s coast, just south of St. John’s. Explore the wonders of Witless Bay Ecological Reserve through a family boat tour, encountering whales, seabirds, and charming puffins. Visit Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve to witness North America’s easily accessible seabird colony at Bird Rock, where thousands of nesting gannets create a stunning spectacle. Head to St. Vincent’s cobblestone beach to catch glimpses of humpback whales and migrating icebergs. At Mistaken Point, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvel at the world’s oldest deep-sea fossils, captivating budding naturalists and children alike.
Qaummaarviit Territorial Park
Journey to the far north of Iqaluit, nestled on Frobisher Bay, a thrilling base for adventurous family vacations. Enjoy kayaking, hiking, and camping amid the Arctic landscape, introducing children to the ways of a musher and the fascinating Inuktitut language at Inukpak’s dogsled yard. While currently closed to visitors (as of September 2020), Qaummaarviit Territorial Historic Park beckons as a future bucket list destination, offering children the chance to discover the remains of semi-buried sod houses belonging to the Thule people.
New Brunswick: Bay of Fundy
East of Saint John lies the Fundy Trail Parkway, leading families along the Bay of Fundy’s captivating coast. Witness the world’s highest tides and explore iconic sites like Flowerpot Rock, sculpted by the sea. Trek to Point Wolfe Beach in Fundy National Park and venture further east to Hopewell Rocks, an exhilarating experience walking the ocean floor during low tide. Wrap up the adventure with a camping retreat at New River Beach Provincial Park, where kids can indulge in sand sculpting and thrilling treasure hunts.
Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City offers a slice of Europe within North America, making it an ideal family vacation spot for both Canadian and U.S. travelers. The upper and lower old towns boast picturesque streets perfect for wandering, capturing moments, and indulging in treats from patisseries and candy shops. Family-friendly eateries like Lapin Sauté offer delightful prix fixe lunches. Kids will adore the Funicular ride and exploring inside Chateau Frontenac, especially during off-season deals. Street performers in the warmer months and stunning year-round views in the upper town add to the charm.
Venture beyond the Old Town to neighborhoods around the Plains of Abraham for a retro vibe, local markets, and less touristy dining spots. While lacking in playgrounds, the Plains provide ample space for running around. Renting a car opens doors to nearby wonders like the impressive Montmorency Falls and picturesque Ile d’Orleans. Experience the falls from a cable car, cross the bridge spanning them, and enjoy a play break at the top if you have young children. Ile d’Orleans’ Loop Road offers scenic stops, chocolate shops, and stands selling homemade delights.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Despite its remote and wintry reputation, Yellowknife surprises families with a wealth of activities. Known as one of the world’s best spots to witness the Northern Lights, visitors have a 95% chance of viewing this breathtaking phenomenon in just three days. Explore the iconic ice highways by driving across Great Slave Lake to Dettah. Embrace winter activities like dog-sledding, kite-skiing, and winter hiking amid the beautiful wilderness. Delve into the town’s cultural offerings such as the Ice King Festival and the fascinating hangar of Buffalo Airways.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax stands out as a favorite Canadian city to explore with its rich offerings. From the Alexander Keith’s Brewery tour to the historical wonders of The Citadel and Pier 21, there’s a plethora of engaging experiences for families. Take in the stunning harbor view while strolling along the marina, discovering parks for kids, and relishing reasonably priced yet high-quality food. Consider day trips to Annapolis Royal, Port Royal, Lunenburg, Peggys Cove, and Goffs for more historical and scenic marvels, including railway museums, historic sites, and aviation museums.
These diverse Canadian destinations promise enchanting experiences, historical richness, and memorable adventures for families seeking unique and captivating vacations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canada for Families
Is Canada a good place to take kids?
Family-Friendly Destination
- Canada is an excellent destination for family vacations, offering a diverse range of activities for all generations, from zoos and aquariums to amusement parks and cultural experiences.
Is Canada a good family holiday destination?
Safe and Accessible
- Canada stands out as a safe and accessible family holiday destination, providing abundant opportunities for exploration in the great outdoors and a wide array of attractions suitable for families.
What is the best city to visit in Canada for the first time?
Top Cities for First-Time Visitors
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- Toronto: Known for multicultural experiences.
- The Canadian Rockies: Renowned for breathtaking mountain views.
- Manitoulin Island: Ideal for celebrating Canada’s First Nations culture.
- Vancouver: Perfect for a blend of city life and nature.
- Baffin Island, Vancouver Island, Whistler, and Montréal Jazz Festival are also recommended.
Where is the best place to raise a family in Canada?
Ideal Family Location
- Toronto is an exceptional place to raise a family in Canada, offering rich cultural diversity, a plethora of experiences, events, and culinary delights. The city provides a robust education system with top-ranking schools and universities, ensuring a strong foundation for children’s development.
Are kids expensive in Canada?
Cost of Raising Children
- Raising children in Canada can be costly, with middle-income families spending an average of $293,000 to raise one child until the age of 17. The high cost of living contributes to the financial aspects of childcare.
What is the capital of Canada for kids?
Canada’s Capital
- The capital of Canada is Ottawa, located on the south bank of the Ottawa River in southeastern Ontario. Ottawa offers a mix of historical sites and cultural attractions suitable for families.
Where is the safest place to live in Canada with kids?
Safest Places for Families
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- Trois-Rivières, Quebec
- Quebec City, Quebec
- Sherbrooke, Quebec
- Ottawa, Ontario
- Charlottetown, PEI
- Montreal, Quebec
- Guelph, Ontario
- Gatineau, Quebec
What is the best age to go to Canada?
No Age Limit for Immigration
- There is no specific age limit for any Canadian immigration program. However, applicants between the ages of 25 and 35 often receive maximum points in most economic immigration categories.
Is there any family visa in Canada?
Family Sponsorship Programs
- Family sponsorship programs in Canada allow individuals to include the spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, and dependent children in the sponsored person’s application for a Canada immigration visa.
Which part of Canada is cheapest to live?
Affordable Provinces
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- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Manitoba
- Saskatchewan
- Alberta
Is it better to raise kids in Canada or the US?
Family Life Comparison
- Overall, families in Canada experience lower out-of-pocket expenses for having and raising children. Generous parental leave, government subsidies, tax deductions, and free healthcare contribute to enhanced financial security and support for families.
What country is close to Canada?
Canada’s Borders
- Canada shares borders with Greenland (part of the Danish kingdom) to the northeast, the United States to the south, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the east, and the Pacific Ocean and Alaska border Canada to the west.