As a resident of the western GTA and a father of two active young kids, my wife and I are always looking for new and fun adventures for our family. Living in the GTA, we are very lucky to have so many options for fun-filled activities right here in our own backyard, or a short drive away! Whether you are looking to spend a relaxing day outdoors exploring nature or are planning for an action-packed day-trip there are many activities available at varying price points.

We all lead busy lives balancing work, family and other commitments. Whatever it may be that you and your family enjoy doing, I encourage you to always make time for family time. Get out there and make the best of the day, it doesn’t always take a lot of time or cost a lot of money; these are the moments that you and your children will remember and appreciate in years to come.

Some of our family favorites in the GTA include the following “Top 5 Picks” listed below (not in any particular order):

Blue Jays Game – Toronto, ON

This has quickly become a family favorite in our house. At least once a year we get out there and make the trip into Toronto to support our Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. This always turns into an action-packed day trip starting from the exciting Go Train ride into the city! We always make a point to see them play on Jr. Jays Saturday’s. Every Saturday, they cater to the youngest fans out there. Included in these events are fun and interactive activities for the kids, face painting, snacks (aka-treats!), opportunities to meet “Ace”, the Blue Jays mascot and finally, the grand finale…an
opportunity to run the bases at the end of the game. Always a hit, with our kids, and us, every year.

Santa’s Village – Bracebridge, ON

Nestled in the heart of Muskoka is Santa Claus’ “summer home” where he and Mrs. Claus get away from the North Pole for the season! Santa’s Village, amusement park and camp ground, located in Bracebridge, ON is fun for the whole family. You can make this a day-trip or turn it into a longer stay and rent out one of their campsites! This amusement park offers excitement for the whole family; from the youngest toddler to the most adventurous member of the family. Whether the families just want to ride the rides, go zip lining and climb the high-ropes course in the trees. Some are brave enough to climb the 70’ jump-tower, Flight line, and jump off… I did it and have the video to prove it… there’s something for everyone. But most importantly, an opportunity for the little ones to meet Santa and his reindeer in the “off-season”!

Centre Island – Toronto, ON

A ferry-ride away from the Big City is Toronto Island, a great escape from the everyday hustle n’ bustle of the city. Always a hit, there’s something for everyone to do on the island. Pack up the family and a picnic lunch and head down to the island for the day! Whether you chose to go to Centreville theme park, visit the animals at Far Enough Farm or simply spend the day walking or biking around the island, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon with the family.

Kelso Conservation Area – Milton, ON

Our family loves to spend a day at Kelso Conservation Area, where there’s always something new and different to do and explore. Kelso is located on the Niagara escarpment in Milton, Ontario. There are activities offered here all year round. For a very low cost, the family can have a fun-filled day outdoors. Some of the activities you can find at Kelso include biking, hiking, swimming at the beach, boating, camping and of course skiing at Glen Eden in the winter….so many options, so hard to fit it all into one day. Kelso is definitely worth multiple visits throughout the year!

Elora Gorge (Grand River Conservation Area) – Elora, ON

Elora Gorge, located in Elora, ON, is a beautiful natural conservation area in the Grand River Valley. Elora Gorge offers stunning views in all seasons and a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Activities include numerous hiking and biking trails at various levels of difficulty, tubing adventures down the Grand River, overnight camping, splash-pads for the kids, fishing and canoeing. What more can you ask for in a day-trip at a conservation area?!