Taking place on Monday, February 19th, Family Day is around the corner!
This means it's time to plan a memorable outing for you and your loved ones. Luckily, Ontario has no shortage of exciting events and attractions, offering something for everyone of all ages.
Here's your guide to 10 activities across the province that promise a fantastic Family Day.
1. Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto
If the seaweed is always greener in somebody else’s lake, it’s definitely the greenest at Ripley’s Aquarium in downtown Toronto. Pack up the fam and get ready to dive into an underwater wonderland at Ripley's, exploring the fascinating world of marine life as you wander through the impressive 135,000 square-foot facility, home to 16,000 marine animals from around the world. From the mesmerizing dancing jellyfish to captivating sharks, the aquarium is an immersive experience for all ages.
2. Ski Trip to Blue Mountain
Take in the crisp cool air and slopes with a thrilling ski trip to Blue Mountain. Located in Collingwood, Blue Mountain is home to 42 different ski trails, perfect for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time skier, Blue Mountain provides an exhilarating experience for the entire family and for the non-skiers in your brood. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and places to kick up your feet and simply enjoy the scenic winter views.
3. The Factory, London
Housed in an old Kellogg’s facility, The Factory in London is Canada's largest indoor family entertainment centre. It features North America's largest indoor high ropes course and trampoline park, promising a day full of excitement and adventure for the whole family. The Factory is a sprawling 170,000 square feet with endless activities to enjoy. More than just an adventure park, The Factory also hosts events and has a sports bar for a more relaxed atmosphere.
4. Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park, Niagara Falls
Take a splash into the magical world of Great Wolf Lodge. This indoor water park in Niagara Falls offers a fantastic aquatic adventure with water slides, wave pools, a giant tipping buck, mini golf, and more. It's the perfect destination for families seeking both relaxation and excitement and offers the option to book themed suites, enjoy on-site dining, and even get a workout in at the resort’s fitness centre.
5. Ice Skating on the Canal Rideau in Ottawa
Ottawa's iconic Rideau Canal transforms into the world's largest skating rink in wintertime. Bundle up and get ready to glide along the scenic canal, surrounded by picturesque views of the city. A beloved Canadian winter tradition, the Rideau Canal Skateway stretches over 7.8 kilometres. Keep in mind that this activity is weather dependent, so be sure to check if it's open prior to Family Day.
6. Fat Biking at Crimson Ridge, Sault Ste. Marie
If you haven’t tried fat biking yet, Family Day is the perfect day to try something new. Fat biking is a fun new way to explore winter trails on oversized tires designed for snow. Sault Ste. Marie's Crimson Ridge golf course transforms into a winter paradise with over 15 kilometres of groomed scenic and technical trails for fat biking enthusiasts, but if you’re in a different part of the province, a quick search will surely help you source a fat biking experience near you. Best of all, it’s suitable for all skill levels.
7. Mission Possible Escape Room in Milton
Put your family's problem-solving skills to the ultimate test at Mission Possible Escape Room in Milton. With games for groups of two to 16, it's a fresh new way to challenge your minds and have fun at the same time. After your escape, enjoy additional activities at Champs Family Entertainment, including bowling, billiards, and dining.
8. Inside Outside Family Day Festival in Dundas
Head to Dundas Museum and Archives for the Inside Outside Family Day Festival for a day of fun activities, including a scavenger hunt, ice skating, food trucks, and much more. This classic community winter festival offers free activities for all ages, and if you’re a history buff, you’ll love the fact that the Dundas Museum and Archives play an important role in preserving the area's history with more than 18,000 artifacts on display, telling the stories of the Dundas Valley, its small businesses and how people lived there since 1787.
9. Jurassic World: The Exhibition, Mississauga
Jurassic World: The Exhibition arrived next door to Square One in Mississauga last April, drawing visitors from the GTA and beyond. With animatronic dinosaurs, iconic gates, and a “trip” to Isla Nublar, it's a perfect Family Day outing for all ages. The exhibit has been receiving global acclaim for its attention to detail and immersion and is the perfect outing for Family Day fun.
10. Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Spend an afternoon at the captivating Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory for a memorable Family Day adventure. Explore a lush tropical environment filled with more than 1000 free-flying butterflies, exotic plants, and unique ecosystems. There are interactive exhibits and educational programs to experience the wonders of nature as a family, and, for those inclined, live out your dreams of being a fairy princess covered in butterflies for a day.
About the Author
Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.
