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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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10 best places for Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

10 Best Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

Looking for a perfect weekend escape with your family? Toronto, the vibrant city in Ontario, Canada, offers a plethora of options for a memorable family getaway. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, educational experiences, or peaceful natural landscapes, there's something for everyone just a short distance away from the bustling city.

Here are our top 10 recommendations for family weekend getaways from Toronto:

1. Toronto Zoo: Embark on an exciting journey through one of the largest zoos in the world, with over 5,000 animals and various interactive exhibits.

2. Royal Ontario Museum: Step into the world of art, culture, and natural history at Canada's largest museum, featuring exceptional exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.

3. Canada's Wonderland: Experience the ultimate amusement park adventure with thrilling roller coasters, water slides, and live entertainment shows.

4. Niagara Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls, a natural wonder that will leave you and your family in utter amazement.

5. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: Dive into an underwater paradise complete with mesmerizing marine life exhibits and interactive experiences.

6. Blue Mountain Resort: Enjoy a fun-filled outdoor adventure with skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and biking amidst stunning natural landscapes.

7. Toronto Islands: Escape the city and relax on these picturesque islands with beautiful beaches, bike rentals, and panoramic views of the Toronto skyline.

8. Royal Botanical Gardens: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with extensive gardens, hiking trails, and educational exhibits.

9. African Lion Safari: Embark on a thrilling safari tour and get up close to majestic lions, giraffes, zebras, and more at this captivating wildlife park.

10. Ontario Science Centre: Engage in interactive science exhibits and hands-on activities that educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

These family weekend getaways from Toronto offer a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. Pack your bags, gather the family, and embark on unforgettable experiences just a short distance away from the bustling city.


Recommended Activities

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    Toronto Zoo

    Toronto Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world with over 5,000 animals. It offers a unique opportunity for families to learn about wildlife and conservation in a fun and interactive environment.
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    Royal Ontario Museum

    The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada's largest museum of art, culture, and natural history. It offers a wide range of exhibits, including ancient artifacts, dinosaur skeletons, and interactive displays that cater to both kids and adults.
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    Canada's Wonderland

    Canada's Wonderland is a thrilling amusement park with a wide range of rides, attractions, and live entertainment. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly shows, it offers endless fun and excitement for all ages.
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    Niagara Falls

    Niagara Falls is a world-renowned natural wonder, offering breathtaking views of the enormous cascades. It's a spectacular sight that guarantees a memorable experience for the whole family.
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    Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

    Ripley's Aquarium of Canada is a mesmerizing underwater world that allows visitors to explore and learn about various marine life. With interactive exhibits and thrilling underwater tunnels, it's an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
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    Blue Mountain Resort

    Blue Mountain Resort is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it's skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking and mountain biking in the summer, the resort offers activities that cater to all skill levels and provide an opportunity for family bonding amidst stunning natural surroundings.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Canada's Wonderland

    Canada's Wonderland is a thrilling amusement park with a wide range of rides, attractions, and live entertainment. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly shows, it offers endless fun and excitement for all ages.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Toronto Islands

    Toronto Islands are a group of small islands located just off the coast of downtown Toronto. They offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with beautiful beaches, picnic areas, bike rentals, and stunning views of the skyline. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing family day out.
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Royal Botanical Gardens

    The Royal Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers with extensive gardens, hiking trails, and educational exhibits. It boasts a diverse collection of plants and flowers, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely family stroll or a picnic amidst picturesque surroundings.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    African Lion Safari

    African Lion Safari is an immersive wildlife park where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and elephants. You can experience a thrilling safari tour and witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. It's a unique and unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
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Restaurants

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    The Lockhart

    The Lockhart

    Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at The Lockhart. This quirky Toronto restaurant offers a unique dining experience inspired by the beloved book series. From creative cocktails to wizard-themed dishes, it's a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan.
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  • O.NOIR

    Prepare for a sensory adventure at O.NOIR. This extraordinary dining experience takes place in complete darkness, allowing you to rely on your other senses to savor the flavors and enjoy a meal like never before.
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    The Poop Café

    The Poop Café

    For a truly unique and quirky experience, visit The Poop Café. As the name suggests, this Toronto eatery is themed around toilets, serving dishes and drinks in toilet-shaped bowls and mugs. It's a place that will certainly leave a lasting impression.
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    Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre

    Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre

    Combine dinner and entertainment at the Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre. Enjoy a delicious meal while being immersed in a thrilling murder mystery performance, where you can be both a detective and a diner.
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    The Sultan's Tent

    The Sultan's Tent

    Transport yourself to the exotic world of Morocco at The Sultan's Tent. This Moroccan-inspired restaurant offers a dining experience filled with vibrant decor, belly dancers, and flavorful North African cuisine.
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    The Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL)

    The Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL)

    Unleash your inner lumberjack at The Backyard Axe Throwing League. This unique venue allows you to dine and compete in axe-throwing games, providing a fun and unconventional dining experience.
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    Signs Restaurant & Bar

    Signs Restaurant & Bar

    Experience dining in a whole new way at Signs Restaurant & Bar. This Toronto eatery is staffed by deaf servers who communicate using sign language. It's a memorable and inclusive dining experience that promotes understanding and awareness.
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    El Catrin Destileria

    El Catrin Destileria

    Indulge in Mexican cuisine surrounded by stunning artwork at El Catrin Destileria. This visually striking restaurant features a vibrant and colorful decor, providing a feast for both your taste buds and your eyes.
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Hotels

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    The Gladstone Hotel

    The Gladstone Hotel

    Immerse yourself in art and culture at The Gladstone Hotel. This boutique hotel showcases unique art installations in each of its rooms, providing a truly immersive and creative experience for guests.
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  • Hotel Ocho

    Step into a historic building transformed into a modern and stylish boutique hotel at Hotel Ocho. This trendy spot offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of elegance in the heart of Toronto.
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    The Drake Hotel

    The Drake Hotel

    Discover a vibrant blend of art, music, and culture at The Drake Hotel. This boutique hotel features contemporary design, live music performances, and art exhibitions, creating a dynamic and lively atmosphere.
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    Gibson's Suites

    Gibson's Suites

    Experience the charm of yesteryears at Gibson's Suites. Located in a restored heritage building, this unique hotel offers spacious suites with vintage-inspired decor, providing a nostalgic and cozy atmosphere.
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    The Broadview Hotel

    The Broadview Hotel

    Enjoy a blend of history and modern luxury at The Broadview Hotel. Housed in a beautifully restored building from the 1890s, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop bar, and breathtaking views of Toronto's skyline.
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    The Drake Motor Inn

    The Drake Motor Inn

    For a unique accommodation experience, check out The Drake Motor Inn. This retro-chic motel-style hotel offers funky rooms, an outdoor pool, and a vintage-inspired diner, providing a fun and nostalgic stay.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Suite Rental

    Suite Rental

    For directions or venue information
    Map IconParamount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga (2.81 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jan 2025
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    Dead Romantic, Phear

    Dead Romantic, Phear

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Jun 2024
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    Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch

    Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Jun 2024
    Picture for Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch
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    The Blushing Brides / Tribute to The Rolling Stones

    The Blushing Brides / Tribute to The Rolling Stones

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Jul 2024
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  • Event Icon

    80's Gone Wild - Tribute to Hair Bands

    80's Gone Wild - Tribute to Hair Bands

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Jul 2024
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    Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica

    Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Jul 2024
    Picture for Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica
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    Shania Twin

    Shania Twin

    The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
    Map IconThe Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Jul 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    You could follow the Parkway north from the Falls and end in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a wine district and old-timey town, and have a nice glass of wine for the adults in the famil...

    Taking the family to Toronto (from the US) for a couple of ...

    You could follow the Parkway north from the Falls and end in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a wine district and old-timey town, and have a nice glass of wine for the adults in the famil...

    /r/askTO
  • Reddit Icon

    Me and my girlfriends anniversary is coming up in November and I wanted to have a relaxing weekend getaway with her. Maybe a nice resort with a spa and some nearby hiking trai...

    Suggestions for a weekend getaway 2 hours or less away from Toronto ...

    Me and my girlfriends anniversary is coming up in November and I wanted to have a relaxing weekend getaway with her. Maybe a nice resort with a spa and some nearby hiking trai...

    /r/askTO
  • Reddit Icon

    In Toronto you can go to the Toronto Zoo or Toronto's Ripley's Aquarium. The Zoo is a whole day affair whereas Ripley's Aquarium is a few hours. I would recommend Aquarium. Th...

    Family Trip to Toronto / Niagara Falls

    In Toronto you can go to the Toronto Zoo or Toronto's Ripley's Aquarium. The Zoo is a whole day affair whereas Ripley's Aquarium is a few hours. I would recommend Aquarium. Th...

    /r/ontario
  • Reddit Icon

    News, People, Places, Events, Pictures, and Discussions on Toronto; Canada's Business and Financial capital, and the Provincial capital of Ontario. Members Online Newly uneart...

    Visiting Toronto for a weekend trip, any suggestions on what to do?

    News, People, Places, Events, Pictures, and Discussions on Toronto; Canada's Business and Financial capital, and the Provincial capital of Ontario. Members Online Newly uneart...

    /r/askTO
  • Reddit Icon

    When my kids were toddlers, I'd either walk in my neighbourhood in Midtown - they on a balance bike and me walking. A lot of Toronto neighbourhoods are very walkable. Lots of ...

    Any fun outing recommendations for weekend in Toronto with toddler

    When my kids were toddlers, I'd either walk in my neighbourhood in Midtown - they on a balance bike and me walking. A lot of Toronto neighbourhoods are very walkable. Lots of ...

    /r/askTO
  • Reddit Icon

    Toronto FC (MLS) or the Toronto Argonauts (CFL) could be a fun alternative to the Blue Jays if your kids are into those sports. Beyond that, the standard array of Toronto attr...

    Family Trip to Toronto / Niagara Falls

    Toronto FC (MLS) or the Toronto Argonauts (CFL) could be a fun alternative to the Blue Jays if your kids are into those sports. Beyond that, the standard array of Toronto attr...

    /r/canadatravel
  • Reddit Icon

    We're off to Niagara this weekend with our daughters. Clifton hill, butterfly museum, hotel with a pool etc. Most vacations from Toronto are so madly expensive, that it's chea...

    inexpensive vacation within 2-3 hours of Toronto

    We're off to Niagara this weekend with our daughters. Clifton hill, butterfly museum, hotel with a pool etc. Most vacations from Toronto are so madly expensive, that it's chea...

    /r/askTO

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    The Beatles - Here Comes The Sun - Remastered 2009

    The Beatles - Here Comes The Sun - Remastered 2009

    This uplifting song by The Beatles is the perfect choice for a road trip. Its cheerful melody and lyrics about the arrival of a new day will set a positive and energetic mood for your journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)

    Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)

    Get ready to groove with this infectious dance-pop anthem by Whitney Houston. Its catchy beats and empowering lyrics will make everyone in the car want to sing along and dance in their seats.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)
  • Music Icon

    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    Escape to a tropical paradise with this feel-good song by Weezer. Its laid-back vibes and sunny lyrics will transport you to a relaxed and carefree state of mind, perfect for a weekend getaway.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • NF - HAPPY

    Pharrell Williams' upbeat and catchy hit song is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Its infectious rhythm and joyful lyrics will create a positive and happy atmosphere during your trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Journey - Don't Stop Believin'

    Journey - Don't Stop Believin'

    Rock out to this timeless classic by Journey. Its anthemic chorus and motivational lyrics about never giving up will inspire and uplift you as you embark on your family weekend getaway.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine

    Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine

    Feel the sun on your face and the wind in your hair with this cheerful song by Katrina and The Waves. Its catchy melody and optimistic lyrics will brighten up your journey and put everyone in a good mood.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Katrina & The Waves - Walking On Sunshine
  • Music Icon

    Bob Marley & The Wailers - Three Little Birds

    Bob Marley & The Wailers - Three Little Birds

    Bob Marley's reggae masterpiece is a soothing and calming song that reminds us not to worry about a thing. Its laid-back rhythm and positive lyrics will create a relaxing and chill vibe for your trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Bob Marley & The Wailers - Three Little Birds
  • Music Icon

    Jason Mraz - I'm Yours

    Jason Mraz - I'm Yours

    Jason Mraz's acoustic-pop hit is a feel-good song about love and happiness. Its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics will create a warm and joyful atmosphere during your family weekend getaway.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    This iconic song by Willie Nelson is a perfect companion for a road trip. Its country charm and lyrics about going on new adventures will make you want to sing along and enjoy the journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Somewhere Over The Rainbow_What A Wonderful World

    Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Somewhere Over The Rainbow_What A Wonderful World

    Let the soothing voice of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole take you to a place of peace and tranquility. This beautiful rendition of the classic song will create a serene atmosphere during your trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Somewhere Over The Rainbow_What A Wonderful World