our top Resources for Parents
Parents need a break! We’ve got some great cheat sheets here to help make your family time easier and more fulfilling. We add more articles all the time, so check back often!
Splash Pads, Outdoor Pools and Wading Pools in Burlington
Spend your summer cooling down at a Burlington splash pad (sometimes called splash parks or spray pads). Most of them are free summer activities! If you need a bigger refresh,
Adventure Village – High Energy Excitement Awaits
Nestled amidst lush greenery and boasting a myriad of attractions, Adventure Village promises an action-packed day out for parents and kids alike. Read on for details and enjoy our Adventure Village photos, too!
The Coolest Mini Golf Courses in Niagara
Grab your putters and get ready for an adventure that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a mini golf pro or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Niagara’s mini putt courses won’t disappoint.
Things To Do This Weekend With Kids: Events and Activities
The weekend is here and we have combed through our events calendar to bring you a list of fun things to do this weekend in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and beyond!
2024 Victoria Day Fireworks, Events and Festivals
Hellooooo Summer! Victoria Day is the (un)official kickoff to our Canadian summer, and it couldn’t come at a better time! This weekend you can enjoy Victoria Day fireworks, festivals and more
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Hamilton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Hamilton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Halton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
Visit Lowville Park in Burlington Every Season
The amount of fun, fresh air and family time you can get from a visit to Lowville Park in Burlington is limitless! We try to visit a few times every
Farmers Markets in Burlington, Oakville and Hamilton
Visit a Farmer’s Market in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville. It’s a great way to support the hardworking folks who grow and make our food, and to show the kids where their dinner ingredients *really* come from!
5 Must-Do Activities at Halton County Radial Railway Museum
The Halton County Radial Railway Museum is a volunteer-run train museum and a unique attraction to visit in Milton. You’ll love the history and hands-on exploration that happens.
40+ Ideas For Father’s Day Fun + Father’s Day Events Near You
Looking for great things to do on Father’s Day? We can help! this list of 40+ ideas will surely spark interest for your dad. And check out the planned Father’s
Driving Schools to Get Your Teenager Driving
In this list, we’ve curated a selection of reputable driving schools that cater to the needs of both new learners and those looking to refine their skills.
7 Niagara Farmer’s Markets Worth Visiting
These Niagara region summer farmer’s markets are a great opportunity to buy fresh local produce and meet the people who lovingly grow the fruit and vegetables. Treat yourself to some fresh grown faire grown close to home.
The Best Mini Golf Courses To Play Right Now
Mini golf is a classic pastime that’s been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. It’s a fun and easy activity that’s perfect for a family outing or a date night. In this article, you’ll find some of the best local mini-golf courses in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville.
Kids Bowl Free This Summer! Here’s How To Score This Deal
Summer is almost here and we have a great idea for keeping kids moving and having fun! Kids Bowl Free is back for 2024, and we know the lanes who
African Lion Safari: Ontario’s Wildest Safari Adventure
Great news for fans of African Lion Safari – they are open for the season and have lots of WILD fun in store for you and your family! We have the inside scoop on what you can expect when you visit this summer, updates on the new African Lion Safari ticket prices plus some tips and important info for visitors.
Safari Niagara: Where Wildlife Meets Family Adventure 2024
Nestled in the picturesque region of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Safari Niagara is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts, families, and wildlife lovers of all ages.
Happy Rolph’s is a Free Animal Sanctuary Kids Will Love
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm in St. Catharines is a must-visit for families. Pack a lunch and bring the kids, because this is a day trip you’re going to want to add to your summer bucket list.
Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm Opens May 31!
Make fabulous (and delicious) fall memories at Chudleigh’s Farm in Milton.
Triple C Farm: Get Up Close With Adorable Farm Animals
Triple C Farm is one of our most recommended farms in Hamilton to visit. If you’ve got little kids who love visiting petting zoos, or adults who love a great cause, Triple C Farm is the place to be.
Downey’s Farm Welcomes Families Back For 2024
If you’re looking for a full day of fun at the farm, Downey’s Farm is where you need to go! Animals, pumpkins, slides and more!
Now Open! Brantford Twin Valley Zoo
Twin Valley Nature Park ranks high on the list of must-visit destinations for so many reasons. Read on for those reasons, plus some helpful hints for your day with the animals.
Things To Do On Mother’s Day: Events, Ideas and Brunch Spots
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and it’s one more great opportunity to celebrate the mother figures in your life! We can help you spoil those moms in your life with our inspirational list of things to do on Mother’s Day.
The Best Drive-In Movie Theatres in Hamilton Halton and Niagara
Taking the kids to a drive-in movie is a classic memory maker. This list curates your options for drive-in movie theatres in Hamilton, Oakville, Niagara and more. You have a variety of options to choose from.
Oakville Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario
Escape the winter blahs when you visit one of the best indoor waterparks in Ontario! We have several to choose from, so our guide will help you compare features and amenities, plus prices.
Chess Clubs For Kids: Oakville, Burlington and Hamilton
In our guide, you will find chess clubs in Oakville, chess clubs in Burlington and Hamilton-area clubs. They welcome kids of all skill levels from newbies to future youth chess championship winners!
Dance, Gymnastics and Cheer Programs in Hamilton
Discover the best cheerleading, dance, and gymnastics programs for kids in the Hamilton area with our comprehensive directory. Find the perfect fit to keep your child active, engaged, and having fun.
Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario
Your summer vacation plans should include a visit to Canada’s most popular tourist destination! Niagara Falls, Ontario, is an exciting destination that offers an array of activities for the entire family.
Family Vacation: Sherkston Shores Cozy in the Quarry Cottage
Sherkston Shores is a popular family vacation destination, and one we hadn’t been to before! It is a spot that I’ve had recommended to me many times by annual visitors. Read on to learn more, and hear my thoughts on our visit.
Pier 4 Park in Hamilton Has a Tugboat!
Meet me at the pier – Pier 4 that is! This waterfront destination in Hamilton is full of reasons to visit from an amazing nautical-themed playground and is just a hop, skip and a jump from the famous Theodore Tugboat Too!
LaSalle Park in Burlington – You Gotta Go Here
LaSalle Park in Burlington’s west end is one of our favourite parks to visit. It’s got an upgraded playground that kids love, vast amounts of green space and of course, easy access to the marina and waterfront.
Norton Park Burlington
One of Burlington’s largest parks, Norton Park is home to something for everyone, at every age, during every season. You’re going to love playing here at this park & playground.
Brant Hills Park Has A New Splash Pad!
Brant Hills Park in Burlington is a park and playground full of possibilities for kids who love to climb, run, splash and play! And that’s most kids, right? Thanks to
William Connell Park in Hamilton Has TWO Playgrounds
When you visit William Connell Park in Hamilton you’ll be treated to a combination of a natural playground, a traditional playground, and more sports fields than you could imagine! SPRING
The Best Hamilton Skate Parks According To Locals
Summer is the prime time for skateboarding, scootering and BMX biking, and these Hamilton area skateparks provide the perfect location for kids (and adults!) to perfect their next trick! If
The 5 Coolest Skate Parks in Oakville, Ontario
Oakville is home to five outdoor scooter and skate parks, spread throughout the town. They vary in size and style, but all pack a punch of fun and exercise for kids on wheels. We have details on what each one offers so you can choose the coolest one for your little thrashers.
Skateboard and Scooter Parks in Burlington
Burlington has 10 skateboard and scooter parks spread out across the city. Each one has different benefits, and we’ve laid it all out here to help you choose your next
Shell Park in Oakville – Skate Park, Playground, Gardens and a Big Dog Park
Have you been to Shell Park in Oakville? This park space truly has something for everyone, no matter their age! Your family – from babies to retirees – will find
Ride the Antique Carousel at Lakeside Park
Take a trip back in time when you ride the antique carousel at Lakeside Park in Port Dalhousie. It really is a thing of beauty and nostalgia.
Centreville – A Full Day of Toronto Adventure For Families
I hadn’t been to Centre Island since I was a kid, so I was thrilled to go back with my mom and my own kids, and the day was even more fantastic than I expected.
Glamping in Ontario at Four Corners Algonquin
One of the best summer getaways we’ve had so far is glamping in Algonquin with Four Corners Algonquin. The comfort level and 5-star accommodations made this a vacation to remember. If you’re thinking of glamping in Ontario, you need to check out everything that Four Corners has to offer.
Free Things To Do With Kids This Month
This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family.
2024 Solar Eclipse – Where And How To See It
A total solar eclipse is heading your way! On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be able to be seen across parts of Mexico, the US, and Canada and we have front row seats here near Burlington!
18 Easy Easter Activities
I love any holiday that involves crafts and baking, and Easter is no exception. But I always have bigger dreams than I can execute. I envision myself a mini-Martha Stewart,
Central Park in Burlington Has A Super Fun Playground
Burlington‘s Central Park is aptly named because it’s smack dab in the middle of an area filled with things to do for families. The playground was just renovated, and here
Hamilton Area Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Hamilton and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Burlington Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
C Hotel By Carmen’s
We love a great staycation! So when we heard about the March Break getaway promotion at C Hotel by Carmens, we knew a mini getaway to close-by Hamilton was in our immediate future.
Win Family Passes To SpringFestTO 2024!
SpringFest offers Greater Toronto families an indoor fun park with the latest in children’s entertainment, games and activities. SpringFest is thrilled to be back for another year of quality family entertainment.
Opening Thursday! Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans
Springridge Farm is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do! Let us show you why Springridge Farm in Milton is always a great way to spend a day.
13+ Things to Do At Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville is just one of the 340 Ontario Parks. We visit multiple times a year in every season because there’s always something fantastic to do at Bronte Creek. Here are some highlights of what you can expect when you visit.
Parent Support Groups and Social Programs
Parent support groups and social programs for new parents are a great way to connect with parents in the same stage of parenthood as you are. New parents, experienced parents,
Local Farms and Zoos in Hamilton and Halton – Places to See and Feed Animals
Kids will glow when they get to see some local and exotic animals and insects on your visit to these places. Visit one or all of them! Remember to bring your summer essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and a water bottle.
Where To Donate Your Stuff Near Hamilton and Burlington
If you’ve been cleaning and purging your no-longer-loved items, we know exactly where to take your goods to donate them in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. Let’s give those pieces
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (Photos + FAQs Answered)
Experience a tropical oasis right in the city when you visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and learn why your family will thank you for taking them.
Art Gallery of Hamilton – How To Visit For Free!
The Art Gallery of Hamilton is one of the city’s best places to visit for families. And we have the scoop on how you can visit for free! Read on to find out.
High-Energy Excitement at Activate Burlington
Activate in Burlington will have the entire family on the edge of their seats with excitement and energy!
Digital Dilemmas: Parenting in the Age of Screens
Parenting in the digital age is challenging. As a parent, I understand the difficulty navigating the delicate balance between harnessing the benefits of technology and mitigating its potential drawbacks. Thank you to Susie Beghin, RECE, Author, and owner of Alpha’s Discovery daycare centres for providing her experience and expertise on this topic.
2024 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Events
With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about fun activities to do with your family and friends. One of the most exciting events of the season is the Easter egg hunt. And lucky for you, there are plenty of options right in your local area.
Summer Camps in Burlington
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Milton Summer Camps 2024
Summer is just around the corner and for many parents, that means finding fun and educational activities to keep their kids occupied during the long break. Milton summer camps offer
Family Day 2024 – Fun Things To Do With Kids
Celebrate Family Day with the kids! Below you’ll find a long list of great things to do in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton! Family-friendly events, all in one place to help you make the most of this long weekend.
The Hamilton Aviary Bird Sanctuary
A visit to The Hamilton Aviary is a great way to feel tropical while supporting this wonderful, volunteer-run bird sanctuary in Dundas, Ontario.
Fishing in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and More
If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve
Best Donuts in Hamilton, Burlington and Beyond
Baked or fried? Yeast or cake? Filled or ring? However you like them, we’ve got ’em! Our guide to the best doughnuts in Hamilton and Burlington, as voted on by
Outdoor Birthday Party Venues
If you are lucky enough to have a summer birthday, take your party outside to one of these outdoor birthday party venues.
Maple Syrup Festivals 2024: Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and More
Is there anything more Canadian than visiting a Maple Syrup festival and eating freshly-poured-on-snow maple syrup candy? We don’t think so, either! That’s why Active Parents has rounded up these local Maple Syrup festivals in Ontario that you should visit. Bon appetite!
Free Fishing Weekend 2024 in Ontario
In 2023, Ontario has planned four Free Fishing weekends. These are times when you can fish without a licence. They are a great reason to get out with the kids and try your hand at angling.
Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks: Hamilton and Niagara
Kids indoor playgrounds near Hamilton and Niagara are magnets for children! I know mine love them. They offer a new and exciting destination full of high-energy activities for kids of
Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks in Burlington Oakville Milton
Indoor play centres and trampoline parks are excellent destinations no matter the weather or season! When you want something high-energy and full of excitement, an indoor play place serves your needs.
Family Weekend Getaway at Best Western Leamington
We took a weekend getaway to Leamington of all places! And I’m as surprised as you are to say that this hotel is now going to be one of our most recommended local stations! Read on to find out why we loved it so much!
100+ Awesome March Break Activities For 2024
March Break 2023 is full of things to do in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and the Waterloo Region. We’ve loaded our events calendar below and put together a long list of March Break activities and fun things you can do with the kids this week (or anytime)!
The Best Toy Stores in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
Welcome to Toy Haven! Our directory is your passport to a world of play, showcasing the charm and uniqueness of local independent toy stores near you. Immerse yourself in a curated collection of toys that go beyond the ordinary, handpicked for their quality, creativity, and educational value.
Your Complete Guide to Oakville Summer Camps
The countdown to the last day of school is on and that means parents like you are looking for summer camps in Oakville. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you! Art camps, Music Camps and STEM camps, plus everything in between!
Valentines for Kids That Aren’t Candy – Non-Food Valentines
Looking for great ideas for Valentines that aren’t chocolate? We can help you there! Most schools ask that, in order to control allergens and sugar intake, kids bring non-food Valentines
Music Classes Near Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville and Milton
Embrace your child’s talent and register them for a music class in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville or Milton today! Our list will help you find a local class or school that will help foster your child’s skill or passion.
8 Reasons Your Family Has to Visit London Ontario Soon!
Put London Ontario high on your list when you’re planning your next family getaway. Whether your crew includes little kids, big kids or grandparents, The Forest City has plenty to do for everyone.
Kids Cooking Classes: Hamilton and Halton
Are you looking for cooking classes for kids in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville? We’ve put together a huge guide of all of the ways to get your kids into the kitchen!
Family Photographer Guide
If you’re looking to get maternity, newborn, milestone, first birthday, cake smash or family photos taken, this is the resource for you! We’ve compiled a list of local family photographers and their specialties. Capture your adorable kids at every stage of their cuteness with a professional family photo session. Our list includes Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Hamilton photographers and photo studios.
Cambridge Summer Camps For Kids 2024
Are your kids counting down the days until school is out for the summer? It’s definitely an exciting time, and it’s also the time that parents like you are looking for summer camps in Cambridge. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you!
50+ Hamilton Summer Camps For Kids 2024
It is only weeks and days until school is out for the summer! Kids are excited and parents like you are busy looking for the best Hamilton summer camps! If your kids need care or just some entertainment this summer, we can help you find what you are looking for. We know our guide is much easier than throwing “summer camps Hamilton” into your fave search engine.
Parent and Tot Programs in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville
Parent and Tot classes are a great way to have fun with your little one, while also learning new skills and meeting new parents and kids.
Free and Cheap Things To Do in Burlington With Kids
Some are well-known places to visit and some are hidden gems only the locals know about. We are bringing you our favourite free and cheap things to do with kids in Burlington. And expect this list to grow as we find more and more free, local adventures.
Valentine’s Day Events Near You 2024
Spread the love with your little ones at one of these Valentine’s Day events. We have lots to choose from, all gathered into one easy-to-use guide because we strive to make planning quality time simple.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton?
“Where do kids eat free?” is one of the most frequently asked here at Active Parents, so we keep our list of places where kids can eat free updated! Turns
Kids Eat Free At These Hamilton Area Restaurants
We love restaurants where kids eat free which is why we love this list of restaurants where kids eat free or cheap in Hamilton.
Outdoor Summer Camps in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
Outdoor Camps For Kids in Hamilton, Oakville, Burlington and Milton Outdoor camps are exactly what summers call for! Enjoy as much sunshine and fresh air as possible, right? Winters are
30 Easy Acts of Kindness for Kids
Kids are born loving and kind, and parents like us need to help them nurture and grow their compassion. That sounds like a big job but it’s actually super simple!
Natures Superheroes: Brand New Winter Exhibit at RBG
Royal Botanical Gardens is back with another amazing, interactive exhibit for the winter and spring. If you have school age kids or lifelong learners, this is a great way to spend a few hours together.
Feel Like A GIANT At Little Canada
When you’re looking for things to do in Toronto, Make sure to consider a visit to Little Canada. They have put together some miniature displays of some of Canada’s most popular locations. The detail and the size will blow your mind!
15 Local Toboggan Hills: Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville
Tobogganing is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to keep kids entertained on a snowy day. Grab a sled and your snow pants and use our list to find a tobogganing hill in Hamilton and Burlington to visit.
15 Ways To Earn High School Volunteer Hours
No one expects a grade 9 student to know what they want to be when they grow up, so if your high school student hasn’t identified their passion or skill yet, don’t worry. We’ve got great suggestions on how to earn those volunteer hours, and maybe unlock a hidden passion or talent!
23+ Outdoor Skating Rinks in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Outdoor ice skating rinks are a great place to take your kids in the winter. Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton each are home to multiple ice skating rinks, open all winter.
Cross-Country Skiing Near Hamilton and Burlington
Cross-Country skiing in the Halton and Hamilton areas is a great way to get outside and be active, all while maintaining a safe physical distance. Here’s where you can cross-country ski near you.
8 of The Best Snow Tubing Hills in Ontario
We have some fabulous locations for snow tubing near us. All this snow makes now the perfect time to find a snow tube hill nearby and plan an exciting day on the slopes with your family.
2024 March Break Camps in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps for kids in Kitchener and Waterloo. Our Camps Guide will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
March Break Camps 2024 in Hamilton
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Hamilton! Our Guide to March Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out. Active Parents includes every single camp we come across because we want to help parents (and kids!) choose the best camp to complement their passions and personalities.
March Break Camps 2024 in Burlington, Oakville, and Milton
Our Guide to March Break Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out.
2024 March Break Camps in Niagara Region
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Niagara, St. Catharines and the Region. Our Guide to Spring Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.