Family Trip

10 Jun 2026Updated last time

10 best places for Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

This family-friendly trip is all about balancing excitement, learning, and relaxation while staying close to Toronto. From the playful energy of Canada’s Wonderland and the incredible animal encounters at the Toronto Zoo and African Lion Safari, to the educational exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, every stop offers something memorable for kids and adults alike. Outdoor lovers can enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Toronto Islands, the scenic landscapes of Blue Mountain Resort, and the lush trails and gardens at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Add in the natural wonder of Niagara Falls, and you have a collection of destinations that turn a simple weekend into a full family adventure filled with fun, discovery, and lasting memories.

Recommended Activities

1
Toronto Zoo
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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.
2
Royal Ontario Museum
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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.
3
Canada's Wonderland
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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.
4
Niagara Falls
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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.
5
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
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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.
6
Blue Mountain Resort
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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.
7
Canada's Wonderland
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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.
8
Toronto Islands
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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.
9
Royal Botanical Gardens
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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.
10
African Lion Safari
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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.

Restaurants

The Lockhart
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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.
O.NOIR
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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.
The Poop Café
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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.
Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre
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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.
The Sultan's Tent
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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.
The Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL)
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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.
Signs Restaurant & Bar
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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.
El Catrin Destileria
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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.

Hotels

The Gladstone Hotel
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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.
Hotel Ocho
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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.
The Drake Hotel
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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.
Gibson's Suites
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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.
The Broadview Hotel
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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.
The Drake Motor Inn
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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.

Local Events & Happenings

Suite Rental
Suite Rental
For directions or venue information
Paramount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga (2.81 mi)
1 Jan 2025
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Dead Romantic, Phear
Dead Romantic, Phear
The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
28 Jun 2024
Visit Website

Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch
Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch
The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
29 Jun 2024
Visit Website
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.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
5 Jul 2024
Visit Website
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.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
6 Jul 2024
Visit Website
Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica
Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica
The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
13 Jul 2024
Visit Website
Shania Twin
Shania Twin
The event will take place at The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto.
The Rockpile Bar & Nightclub in Toronto (3.43 mi)
19 Jul 2024
Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

If you're looking for a change of pace, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming, old-fashioned town about 30 minutes away. In Toronto, your older child might enjoy visiting the...
Toronto/Niagara Falls Family Trip Suggestions
If you're looking for a change of pace, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming, old-fashioned town about 30 minutes away. In Toronto, your older child might enjoy visiting the...
/r/canadatravel
View on Reddit
From bustling cities to serene ... advice, tips, and stories you need to explore Canada. Share your experiences, get recommendations, and connect with fellow travelers in our ...
Looking for tips and suggestions for a family vacation to ...
From bustling cities to serene ... advice, tips, and stories you need to explore Canada. Share your experiences, get recommendations, and connect with fellow travelers in our ...
/r/canadatravel
View on Reddit

Priorities: indoor water park or pool, shopping, zoo, anything fun for young kids. Share ... Niagara Falls has Great Wolfe Lodge and Fallsview Indoor waterpark. Our kids like ...
Last minute family trip?
Priorities: indoor water park or pool, shopping, zoo, anything fun for young kids. Share ... Niagara Falls has Great Wolfe Lodge and Fallsview Indoor waterpark. Our kids like ...
/r/ontario
View on Reddit
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
View on Reddit
During the summer, Centreville Amusement Park on Center Island which caters to little kids. High Park has a great playground with a large castle that's very popular with ...
Family Vacation to Niagara Falls & Toronto
During the summer, Centreville Amusement Park on Center Island which caters to little kids. High Park has a great playground with a large castle that's very popular with ...
/r/canadatravel
View on Reddit
There was so much to see and do and the hotel rooms were beautiful and spacious. Highly recommend for a family getaway! ... Great Wolf Lodge. You can even buy the meal plans a...
Where is your favorite weekend "staycation" destination for a family in Ontario?
There was so much to see and do and the hotel rooms were beautiful and spacious. Highly recommend for a family getaway! ... Great Wolf Lodge. You can even buy the meal plans a...
/r/ontario
View on Reddit
Port Hope. Its only about 1 hour outside Toronto though. ... I hear Fenelon Falls in the Kawarthas has some nice family attractions. Check Trip Advisor. ... Warsaw caves. Abou...
Hey guys looking for a getaway with family somewhere near 2-3 hours from Toronto for 2 nights.
Port Hope. Its only about 1 hour outside Toronto though. ... I hear Fenelon Falls in the Kawarthas has some nice family attractions. Check Trip Advisor. ... Warsaw caves. Abou...
/r/askTO
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I suggest seeing the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, Casa Loma, Toronto Zoo. There are Habour boat tours also. Consider the Toronto City Pass. If you want to try something a...
Planning a vacation to Niagara Falls and Toronto. Any stops to consider while we visit?
I suggest seeing the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, Casa Loma, Toronto Zoo. There are Habour boat tours also. Consider the Toronto City Pass. If you want to try something a...
/r/AskACanadian
View on Reddit
If youre set on hitting Agincourt-Markham it would be closest to the Toronto Zoo (buy your tickets ahead of time) and maybe something to do that day. There are lots of dim sum...
Visiting Toronto with family
If youre set on hitting Agincourt-Markham it would be closest to the Toronto Zoo (buy your tickets ahead of time) and maybe something to do that day. There are lots of dim sum...
/r/askTO
View on Reddit
It's okay that it's a zoo. ... If youre coming to the falls just do the tourist stuff. Im local and I go with the kids now and again, its fun. ... Thanks for answeri...
Planning a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto with kids (10 & 6) Does this itinerary make sense?
It's okay that it's a zoo. ... If youre coming to the falls just do the tourist stuff. Im local and I go with the kids now and again, its fun. ... Thanks for answeri...
/r/niagarafallsontario
View on Reddit
Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls is a good time. ... Hi! As others have advised, book a hotel. Given the state of Air BnB and that a sweeping majority of the rentals in Toronto a...
Family Trip to Toronto / Niagara Falls
Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls is a good time. ... Hi! As others have advised, book a hotel. Given the state of Air BnB and that a sweeping majority of the rentals in Toronto a...
/r/askTO
View on Reddit

10 best places for Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

Family Weekend Getaways From Toronto

Recommended Activities

Toronto Zoo

Royal Ontario Museum

Canada's Wonderland

Niagara Falls

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Blue Mountain Resort

Canada's Wonderland

Toronto Islands

Royal Botanical Gardens

African Lion Safari

Restaurants

The Lockhart

The Lockhart

O.NOIR

O.NOIR

The Poop Café

The Poop Café

Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre

Mysteriously Yours Dinner Theatre

The Sultan's Tent

The Sultan's Tent

The Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL)

The Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL)

Signs Restaurant & Bar

Signs Restaurant & Bar

El Catrin Destileria

El Catrin Destileria

Hotels

The Gladstone Hotel

The Gladstone Hotel

Hotel Ocho

Hotel Ocho

The Drake Hotel

The Drake Hotel

Gibson's Suites

Gibson's Suites

The Broadview Hotel

The Broadview Hotel

The Drake Motor Inn

The Drake Motor Inn

Local Events & Happenings

Suite Rental

Suite Rental

Dead Romantic, Phear

Dead Romantic, Phear

Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch

Blakk Zzabbath Sozziety, Devilwitch

The Blushing Brides / Tribute to The Rolling Stones

The Blushing Brides / Tribute to The Rolling Stones

80's Gone Wild - Tribute to Hair Bands

80's Gone Wild - Tribute to Hair Bands

Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica

Sandman/ Tribute to Metallica

Shania Twin

Shania Twin

Travel Gems from Reddit

Toronto/Niagara Falls Family Trip Suggestions

Looking for tips and suggestions for a family vacation to ...

Last minute family trip?

Family Trip to Toronto / Niagara Falls

Family Vacation to Niagara Falls & Toronto

Where is your favorite weekend "staycation" destination for a family in Ontario?

Hey guys looking for a getaway with family somewhere near 2-3 hours from Toronto for 2 nights.

Planning a vacation to Niagara Falls and Toronto. Any stops to consider while we visit?

Visiting Toronto with family

Planning a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto with kids (10 & 6) Does this itinerary make sense?

Family Trip to Toronto / Niagara Falls