Best Canadian Cities for Families

Considering Canada this year? Here are some of the best cities for families to explore and enjoy!

Ottawa

Ottawa might get a lot of love in the winter for its amazing, snow-laden scenery, but Ottawa in the summer is just as pretty. Check out Canada’s capital city, including the ample history, but don’t keep your kids cooped up inside museums for too long. An absolute must — for families especially — is a trip around the Rideau Canal. You can even rent your own boat to sail the waters yourself.

Montreal

Montreal offers plenty of fun for kids and adults alike. Explore the amazing food scene (poutine, bagels and beaver tails, anyone?), the picturesque waterways, the lush green space and Old Montreal. Brush up on your French before you visit — this bilingual city embraces its French history with gusto!

Victoria

On the other side of the country, Victoria is the place to be on Canada’s West Coast. This huge city provides lots for families to do across its neighborhoods, as well as loads of new and upcoming luxury hotels. Beyond the museums and attractions within Victoria’s urban center, it also offers loads of nature to explore, right outside the city.

Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada. Photo: Jennifer Barrow | Dreamstime.com

St. John’s

Back on the East Coast, St. John’s is a quaint city on Newfoundland known as the oldest city in North America. There’s plenty of history and culture to explore, shopping, architecture and hiking. Check out the lighthouses, play along the shore and pack a picnic.

Niagara Falls

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is arguably better than the American side. The views are pristine! Adventurous kids will love a Niagara cruise and getting up close to the powerful falls. However, don’t spend your entire time in this city hanging around the natural wonder. Away from the busy tourist area, you’ll find great hiking, historical attractions and even an amusement park.

Calgary

In Alberta, Calgary is up and coming and gaining popularity quickly with travelers and moving millennials alike. The city blends farmland and city skies effortlessly, for a fun yet relaxed environment. Take the kids to the Calgary Zoo and Glenbow Museum. If you’re visiting in July, you can’t miss the Calgary Stampede, a world-famous affair.

Toronto

Lastly, Toronto should be a consideration for your family’s travels this summer, with its many green spaces, museums and fun food scene. Take your crew to the top of the CN Tower for thrilling heights. Visit the Toronto Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum and the Ontario Science Centre. Make sure you check the city’s calendar before your visit; there are plenty of fun festivals throughout the year that may appeal to your family.