A Week of Family Fun in Ontario, Canada

Thursday, September 7: Toronto

Start your trip in Ontario's vibrant capital city, Toronto. In the morning, explore the iconic CN Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Afterward, head to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, home to a fascinating array of marine life. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Harbourfront, filled with parks, shops, and restaurants.

• CN Tower: Estimated cost - $40, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: Estimated cost - $35, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Harbourfront: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Eggspectation, a popular restaurant known for their extensive menu of egg dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Burger's Priest, a casual burger joint that serves up mouthwatering burgers with all the fixings. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner at Canoe Restaurant and Bar. Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, this upscale restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline while serving up a menu of elevated Canadian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $70 per person.

Friday, September 8: Niagara Falls

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Niagara Falls. Start your morning with a thrilling boat ride on the iconic Maid of the Mist, where you'll get up close to the powerful waterfalls. In the afternoon, visit the Butterfly Conservatory, a tropical paradise filled with beautiful butterflies. As the evening sets in, witness the breathtaking illumination of the falls.

• Maid of the Mist: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Butterfly Conservatory: Estimated cost - $16, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Illumination of the Falls: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 9: Ottawa

Travel to Canada's capital city, Ottawa. Start your morning with a visit to Parliament Hill, where you can explore the beautiful historic buildings and even join a guided tour. In the afternoon, discover the fascinating exhibits at the Canadian Museum of History. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Parliament Hill: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Canadian Museum of History: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Rideau Canal: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, September 10: Blue Mountain

Escape to the scenic Blue Mountain region. In the morning, take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, or zip-lining. In the afternoon, visit Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, where you can explore caves and enjoy stunning views. As the evening sets in, relax and unwind in one of the cozy lodges in the area.

• Outdoor Activities at Blue Mountain: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - Half-day
• Scenic Caves Nature Adventures: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Accommodation at Blue Mountain: Estimated cost - Varies

Monday, September 11: Kingston

Head to the historic city of Kingston, located on the shores of Lake Ontario. In the morning, explore Fort Henry National Historic Site, immersing yourself in the rich military history. In the afternoon, take a scenic cruise along the Thousand Islands, marveling at the picturesque landscapes. As the evening approaches, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.

• Fort Henry National Historic Site: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Thousand Islands Cruise: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Waterfront Dining: Estimated cost - Varies

Tuesday, September 12: Muskoka

Experience the natural beauty of the Muskoka region. In the morning, go on a scenic hike in Algonquin Provincial Park, known for its stunning forests and lakes. In the afternoon, visit the Muskoka Heritage Place, where you can explore historic buildings and engage in interactive exhibits. As the evening sets in, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on one of Muskoka's picturesque lakes.

• Hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park: Estimated cost - $20 (park entrance fee), Estimated time spent - Half-day
• Muskoka Heritage Place: Estimated cost - $15, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride in Muskoka: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 13: Toronto

Return to Toronto for some final exploration. In the morning, visit the Royal Ontario Museum, home to fascinating exhibits spanning natural history, art, and culture. In the afternoon, explore the fun-filled Ontario Science Centre, where both children and adults can engage in interactive displays. As the evening approaches, indulge in some retail therapy at the iconic Eaton Centre.

• Royal Ontario Museum: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ontario Science Centre: Estimated cost - $25, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Eaton Centre: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Elora Gorge Conservation Area. Located near Guelph, this stunning natural area offers hiking trails, swimming opportunities, and breathtaking views of the Elora Gorge. Another local favorite is the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton, where you can explore beautiful gardens, nature trails, and even spot some wildlife.

Check hotel and flight prices here.