Top 3 Family Vacation Hot Spots in Ontario, Canada

Summer is here and after so many months being stuck outside, I’m sure I’m not the only one planning a family vacation!

Most families, though, are still staying somewhat close to home. And why not? Some of the most beautiful places in the world are right here in our own home country of Canada.

So, why not take this opportunity to explore your own backyard and check out the province of Ontario?

Ontario has everything from metropolitan cities to quiet farmland to some of the most stunning wilderness on planet earth.

If you’re looking for new places to explore, consider these top three family vacations in Ontario:

1. The Toronto Islands, Toronto

If you’re not from Toronto, you may not know that the city has a chain of 15 small islands just a short distance off the city’s coastline on Lake Ontario.

It’s a popular summer destination for Torontonians as it has several beaches, bike paths, restaurants, and exciting attractions.

Getting to the islands is easy — ferries depart from downtown Toronto’s Jack Layton Ferry Terminal regularly from about 8 am to 10:30 pm each day.

Find your way to the beach and spend the day relaxing on one of the Great Lakes! Afterwards, you’ll have an entire evening to experience the tourist attractions in Toronto and the nightlife of one of North America’s most vibrant cities.

2. Muskoka, Ontario

If relaxing in nature is more your speed, check out Central Ontario’s beautiful Muskoka district. Surrounded by luscious forests, lakes, and wildlife, it’s been a cherished summer vacation spot for over one hundred years.

Hundreds of people own or rent cottages in the region. Muskoka summer homes are known for their elegance, beauty, and access to all things related to nature.

You may find yourself waking up to the sound of deer running by your window, and you’ll love spending the afternoon boating on the lake.

There are incredible vacation spots in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, and Huntsville — all towns offer gorgeous lakeside cottages and family attractions such as hiking trails and delicious restaurants.

Once you get a taste of this magical part of the world, you may just want to keep coming back every year with your own summer home!

If you have decided to purchase, you’re sure to have a pleasant experience with Gravenhurst real estate agents, who can help find you a perfect cottage to enjoy for many years to come.

Gravenhurst is a lovely town to consider, because it’s much more cost-effective than other parts of the region. It’s also family-friendly with lots to see and do.

3. Stratford, Ontario

Are you a theatre-loving family? Do you love sitting back and taking in the sights and sounds of Shakespeare on a Sunday afternoon?

If that’s the case, Stratford is the place for you. Stratford sits on the Avon River (much like its British counterpart), and there are charming shops and restaurants to check out in the town.

The world-renowned Stratford Theatre has been going strong since 1952 and showcases some of Canada’s finest actors, directors, costume designers, and more.

Quick tip: seating is at a limited capacity this summer, so get your tickets now!

There’s no limit to the amazing places to visit in Ontario, but starting with Toronto and its islands, beautiful Muskoka, or the quaint town of Stratford is a perfect way to start exploring the province.

And once you’ve seen how much these places have to offer, you may just want to plan all your family vacations in Ontario! As the province itself says, it’s “yours to discover!”