Best Places for Families to Travel in Canada

Canada is a vast country with a diverse range of cities and towns that are perfect for family vacations. From the bustling streets of its metropolitan cities to the serene landscapes of its small towns, Canada offers a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to children and adults alike. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, dive into the country's rich history, or simply enjoy some family fun, these destinations are sure to create lasting memories for you and your kids.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families. The city is home to Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, where families can enjoy the Vancouver Aquarium, horse-drawn carriage tours, and a miniature train. Granville Island is another family favorite, with its public market, children's market, and numerous art studios. The best time to visit Vancouver with kids is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry. For cost-saving tips, consider purchasing a Vancouver Attractions Pass, which offers discounted entry to many of the city's top attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk or bike along the Seawall in Stanley Park. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Fairmont Waterfront and the Rosellen Suites at Stanley Park are family-friendly hotels that offer spacious accommodations. For dining, try the kid-friendly Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. or The Spaghetti Factory in Gastown.

Toronto, Ontario

As Canada's largest city, Toronto is a hub of culture and entertainment with plenty to offer visiting families. The Toronto Zoo, with its extensive collection of animals and interactive exhibits, is a must-visit. The Ontario Science Centre provides hands-on learning experiences that kids will love. For a unique view of the city, head up to the CN Tower, and if you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the chance to cool off at Canada's Wonderland, a theme park just outside the city. To save money, consider the Toronto CityPASS, which includes admission to several top attractions at a reduced rate.

Travel Tip: At the Toronto Zoo, be sure to check out the Giant Panda Experience and the interactive Kids Zoo.

Where to Stay & Eat: Chelsea Hotel Toronto and Novotel Toronto Centre are great options for families, offering kid-friendly amenities. For meals, The Old Spaghetti Factory and The Rec Room offer a fun atmosphere and menu items for all ages.

Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is like a slice of Europe in Canada, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Families can explore the fortified Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the city's history at the Musée de la civilisation. Montmorency Falls Park, just a short drive from the city, offers stunning natural beauty and a chance to see the falls that are higher than Niagara. The best time to visit Quebec City with kids is during the summer for outdoor activities or during the Winter Carnival if you're up for some cold-weather fun. To save on costs, consider staying just outside the city center and using public transportation.

Travel Tip: Take a funicular ride from Lower Town to Upper Town for an easy and scenic way to explore Old Quebec with kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hôtel Le Concorde Québec and Hôtel Château Laurier Québec are centrally located with family-friendly amenities. For dining, Le Chic Shack offers delicious burgers and poutine, while Chez Ashton is famous for its affordable and tasty fast food.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls is a spectacular natural wonder that is sure to impress visitors of all ages. Beyond the falls themselves, families can enjoy attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory, Clifton Hill's entertainment area, and the Niagara SkyWheel. The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is warm, but the falls are a year-round attraction. To save money, consider purchasing the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass, which includes entry to several attractions and unlimited rides on the WEGO transportation system.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Journey Behind the Falls experience, where you can stand in the heart of the falls and feel the thundering water.

Where to Stay & Eat: Great Wolf Lodge is a family favorite with its indoor waterpark, while the Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls offers rooms with falls views. For family dining, try Boston Pizza or the Rainforest Cafe.

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a family-friendly city with a western flair, known for the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo and festival held every July. Year-round, families can visit the Calgary Zoo or the TELUS Spark Science Centre for educational fun. During the winter, Canada Olympic Park offers skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids. To save on attractions, consider purchasing the Calgary Attractions Pass. The best time to visit with kids is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the Stampede is in full swing.

Travel Tip: At the Calgary Zoo, the Prehistoric Park and Penguin Plunge exhibits are particularly popular with children.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire and the Hotel Arts are both family-friendly with pools and spacious rooms. For dining, families enjoy the interactive experience at Goro + Gun or the casual atmosphere at The Ship & Anchor Pub.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere for family vacations. The city is known for its beautiful gardens, like the famous Butchart Gardens, which are especially vibrant in the spring and summer. The Royal BC Museum provides an educational experience with its natural history exhibits, and Beacon Hill Park is perfect for a family picnic or a visit to the petting zoo. To save on costs, consider visiting attractions on free or donation-based days.

Travel Tip: Take a family-friendly bike tour around the city to see the sights at a leisurely pace while getting some exercise.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Fairmont Empress and the Hotel Grand Pacific offer luxury accommodations with family-friendly amenities. For dining, try the kid-approved Spaghetti Factory or the casual, health-conscious Rebar Modern Food.

Ottawa, Ontario

As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is rich in culture and history, with plenty of family-friendly attractions. The Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children's Museum are great educational stops. During the winter, skating on the Rideau Canal is a must-do activity, and in the summer, the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill is a spectacle to behold. To save on costs, look for the Ottawa Tourism's Value Pass, which offers discounts on multiple attractions.

Travel Tip: Visit the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum to learn about farming and see live animals, which is always a hit with the kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Alt Hotel Ottawa and the Lord Elgin Hotel are centrally located with family-friendly services. For meals, The Works offers a variety of gourmet burgers, and Zak's Diner is a fun, retro spot for classic diner fare.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is a coastal city with a rich maritime history and a friendly, small-town feel. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Discovery Centre are both interactive and engaging for children. Families can also enjoy a walk along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk and visit the historic properties. The best time to visit Halifax with kids is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. To save money, consider purchasing a family pass for the museums and use the ferry for an inexpensive tour of the harbor.

Travel Tip: Take a day trip to Peggy's Cove, a picturesque fishing village with a famous lighthouse, located just a short drive from Halifax.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Westin Nova Scotian and the Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax offer comfortable family accommodations. For dining, The Wooden Monkey is known for its kid-friendly menu and focus on local, organic ingredients, while the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market is great for picking up snacks and local treats.