Looking to get up close and personal with some furry, feather or scaly friends? We know the best places to see and experience animals near you. We love visiting local farms, zoos, animal sanctuaries, greenhouses and more and now we can bring our feedback to parents like you.
Take a look at these articles if you love animals or have a little person who does. These articles include:
- Local Farms with Animals
- Conservation Areas with Farms
- Animal Sanctuaries
- Aviaries and Greenhouses
- Provincial Parks with working farms
- Popular attractions with animals
local farms, zoos, animal sanctuaries, and more Places To See Animals in Halton, Hamilton, Niagara and Waterloo
55+ Family Favourite Fall Activities
Raise your hand if fall activities are your favourite! Indoors, outdoors, active or relaxed, we have put together sooo many things to do with kids near Hamilton, Halton and Niagara.
The Apple Orchard Is Full of Fall Family Fun
The apple orchard was one of the very first places I took my kids to pick apples. I’m pretty sure we went the first year they were open! And we’ve been recommending it to families ever since.
The 7 Best Corn Mazes Near Me In Hamilton and Halton
Get lost – and found – in a corn maze this fall! There is a variety of corn mazes in Hamilton and Halton, perfect for all ages. You’ll even find some super-easy pint-sized mazes just for the littlest adventurers to conquer.
Apple Picking in Hamilton, Halton and Beyond
There are lots of pick-your-own apple orchards throughout Halton and into Hamilton. Here’s our pick-your-own apple guide with all the details you need to find an orchard and have some family fun on the farm over the next few weeks.
25+ Fall Festivals In Halton, Hamilton and Niagara
Autumn events are in full swing and our events calendar is home to the best fall festivals in Niagara, Hamilton and Halton – and beyond! Apple pie, pumpkin spice, wagon rides and more, these family-friendly harvest festivals deliver more than just jack-o-lanterns!
Hanes Corn Maze is Canada’s Largest Corn Maze!
It’s not Fall without a visit to Hanes Corn Maze. Never been? Here’s the scoop on what makes it an ideal destination for a day out with the family.
Local Pick-Your-Own Produce Farms
There’s nothing better than fresh, local produce, and it doesn’t get any fresher than picking your own right at the farm! Read on for local pick-your-own farms. Whether you like to pick yourself, or just buy your produce at the peak of freshness, we’ve compiled a list of local pick-your-own farms that offer one or both options. Be diligent and watch their websites and social media pages because picking seasons can be short. Updated for 2026 Pick-Your-Own Farms In And Near Hamilton Brantwood Farms 251 Powerline Rd Brantford and 89 St. George Road, Paris. (519) 759-4383 Pick your own apples
The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada: A Sweet Family Day Trip in Puslinch
If your kids love animals, a visit to The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada will be a hit. Read about our visit and plan your own with our tips.
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.
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.
Beautiful Sunflower Farms Near Hamilton & Halton
Find a stunning, natural backdrop for some beautiful selfies!
Where To Go Horseback Riding Near Hamilton, Halton, Brantford, Niagara
Our readers often ask “Where can I go horseback riding near me?” so we knew this curated list would help a few families out. If you have a child who is ready to progress from pony rides to horseback riding, you’ll want to check out our list of local stables.
Best Farms For Strawberry Picking in Milton, Burlington, Oakville (2026 Guide)
Make the most of the early days of summer by taking the family to pick your own strawberries in Halton! Strawberries are at their peak sweetness in the early days of summer vacation – June and July – and we know where you can find the best farms for strawberry picking near Burlington, Oakville and Milton!
Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures
A day trip to Niagara Falls is not complete without a visit to Bird Kingdom, the World’s Largest Free-Flying Indoor Aviary. Kids and adults will love this immersive experience that gets everyone up close with birds, turtles, snakes and more!
Downey’s Farm – 20+ Reasons To Visit Today!
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!
Free and Cheap Things To Do With Kids In Hamilton
Having fun with kids in tow doesn’t have to cost a lot with these free and cheap things to do in Hamilton. Hamilton is such an excellent place to explore with kids. The best part is that you can have weeks of fun in the Steel Town without spending any (or much) money at all. Read on to find our best ideas for free and fun things to do in Hamilton with kids. Chase Waterfalls in Hamilton There are SO many beautiful waterfalls to see in Hamilton, 100 in fact! And most of them are extremely accessible even with little
Strawberry Picking in Hamilton – Your 2026 Guide
One of our favourite early summer activities is strawberry picking in Hamilton at a local fruit farm. FInd all of your options, plus pricing and info here.
Strawberry Picking in Niagara – Your 2026 Guide
Our guide to Niagara region pick-your-own strawberry farms provides you with all of the info we could track down online. As farms release more info, we will be back to update our guide – so stay tuned!
Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm Opens May 31!
Make fabulous (and delicious) fall memories at Chudleigh’s Farm in Milton.
African Lion Safari: Complete Family Guide for Visiting With Kids (2026)
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: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go 2026
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.
Beautiful Lavender Farms Near Halton, Niagara & Beyond
Visiting lavender farms like these can be a relaxing and photographic summer outing for your family. Spend some quality time together surrounded by fields of lavender in every shade of purple and violet blue. Go for a walk where the lavender grows, have a picnic, snap some photos, and treat yourself to some honey lavender ice cream.
Hamilton Farm Crawl
What is Farm Crawl Hamilton, you ask? Farm Crawl provides public access to farms across Hamilton to learn about agriculture, see operations and have a “genuine” farm experience. It happens 3 times a year, so get your tickets today!
Triple C Farm in Ancaster: A Hands-On Animal Experience Kids Will Love
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.
Cherry Picking in Niagara, Hamilton, Halton: Family-Friendly Farms
Cherry picking is a fond memory I have of time well spent with my grandparents. Make some memories of your own this summer when you and the whole family go cherry picking near me in the Niagara, Hamilton and Halton regions. We really do grow the best cherries out this way!
Tulip Farms and Pick-Your-Own Flower Farms
Pick Your Own Tulip and Flower Farms Pretty colours and sweet scents await you at these Ontario pick-your-own flower farms. Gather your family together and head out to a local farm this spring. Take photos of your kids as you pick your own tulips or other beautiful flowers. Spend quality time together and return home with a lovely arrangement to add extra cheer to your home. A farm visit, whether it be a pick your own flower farm or a pick-your-own fruits and veggies farm, is a delight for the whole family. You can’t beat the scents and fresh air,
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.
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 summer, at least once in the fall and we even come back for tobogganing in the winter!
Springridge Farm 2026: Top Tips For Visiting From A Local
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.
Andrews Scenic Acres Farm Market
From spring through autumn, Andrews Farm Market – also known as Andrews Scenic Acres – is an ideal outdoor place to go with kids. This Milton farm offers a variety of activities and seasonal events that families will love. Read on for what to expect when you visit.
Must-See Attractions When You Visit Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville
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.
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.
7 Reasons To Visit Cherry Hill Gate This Weekend
This nature reserve beckons outdoor fans, offering a perfect blend of wilderness, charming hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere. Come along with us as we delve into the wonders that await visitors at Cherry Hill Gate.
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 assembled a list of the best places for fishing in Burlington and Hamilton. If you have a favourite fishing spot you recommend, please share it with us! Fishing in Halton and fishing in Hamilton is such a unique way to spend the day in nature. It’s a great family activity for kids and adults of all ages. Wondering where you can fish in and around Burlington and Hamilton? Turns out
Ripley’s Aquarium: Video Tour Highlights + FAQs
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada has been a staple of Toronto family entertainment for years and it continues to be one of our favourite day trips. If you haven’t been in a while rest assured that it’s as good as it’s ever been and even feels more organized now than ever before.
Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms Near Burlington and Hamilton
It’s the time of year to visit a Christmas Tree Farm to bring home your holiday centrepiece. Choose to cut your own tree or buy one that’s pre-cut and ready to tie to the roof of your car.
How To Donate Your Pumpkin Near Hamilton and Halton
Give that jack-o-lantern one more mission when it’s used to feel some animals!
Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City
The Greenhouse is located inside the grounds of Gage Park and playground and creates a warm, tropical oasis right in the heart of The Steel City. The Gage Park Greenhouse is one of our favourite free things to do in Hamilton because the kids and adults alike love visiting. The greenhouse is 14,000 square feet and is home to subtropical plants, dozens of palms, and unique species like the corpse flower. It is named that because its scent is similar to that of a rotting corpse (no thank you!). You can see photos and videos of the Gage Park corpse
Brantford Twin Valley Zoo – 2025 Update!
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.
Enjoy Christmas town, Winterlit and Winter Fun at Mountsberg Conservation Area
Mountsberg Conservation Area is located in Campbellville and features outdoor activities and attractions suitable for everyone from littles to tweens. Grown-ups, too!