Niagara Region Archives – Active Parents https://activeparents.ca/category/niagara-region/ Things to Do with Kids in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara Thu, 08 May 2025 14:28:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://activeparents.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/AP-Icon-32x32.png Niagara Region Archives – Active Parents https://activeparents.ca/category/niagara-region/ 32 32 Victoria Day Fireworks, Events and Festivals https://activeparents.ca/victoria-day-fireworks/ https://activeparents.ca/victoria-day-fireworks/#comments Thu, 08 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=16767 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 fun events happening all weekend.

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]]> 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 fun events happening all weekend.

Hamilton Victoria Day Fireworks

The Dundas Valley Driving Park is hosting a Victoria Day fireworks display on Sunday May 18 2025. This is a free event, but be sure to support the Rotary Club and the good work they do such as local youth scholarships and food bank contributions. Enjoy some live music and face painting. Food trucks, coffee, snacks & glow sticks available for purchase before the fireworks. Click here to find out about parking, road closures and more.

Read More: Find more fun in Hamilton here

Fireworks Family Night at Mohawk Park

Celebrate Victoria Day with a FREE fireworks show & live Standardbred racing at Woodbine Mohawk Park! On Saturday May 17, 2025, come meet a horse & enjoy great food! Click here to reserve your free tickets. Light show starts at 9:30 pm. Fireworks start at 10 pm (weather dependant).

Family Fun Line Up:

  • Face Paintings
  • Magic Show 7pm & 8:30pm
  • Balloon twisters
  • Meeting a standardbred horse
  • A craft and colouring station

Mohawk Park (Mohawk Raceway), 9430 Guelph Line, Campbellville, ON L0P 1B0

Visit the Welland Pond for Victoria Day Fireworks

Join the Welland Jackfish, North Welland BIA, and the City of Welland for some Victoria Day fun! The fun begins at 4 p.m. with Live music, Food vendors and activities including mini golf, axe throwing, pitching tunnel, and balloon twisting.

Post-game – Fireworks can be viewed from C1 at the Welland Sports Complex following the season opener Jackfish baseball game. Fireworks presented by the City of Welland.
Saturday, May 17, 2025 4 to 9 p.m. (fireworks to follow conclusion of Jackfish game) at Welland Stadium.

Victoria Day Fireworks in Niagara Falls

Canada’s popular annual fireworks series over Niagara Falls begins May 17, 2024, and runs to October 14th, 2024. Dates and Times: Friday, May 17 – Monday, October 14, 2023 at 10:00 pm each night, for approx. 5 minutes each night.

Read More: Find more fun in Niagara here

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/victoria-day-fireworks/feed/ 1 Kids Bowl Free This Summer! Here’s How To Score This Deal https://activeparents.ca/kids-bowl-free/ Tue, 06 May 2025 15:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=56751 Select bowling alleys across Canada and the US offer free bowling for kids during the summer. Register on the website (linked below) to receive coupons for 2 games of bowling every day, all summer long. Read on for where and how to take advantage of the program in Halton and Hamilton.

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]]> Summer is almost here and we have a great idea for keeping kids moving and having fun! Kids Bowl Free is back for 2025, and we know the lanes who want to see YOU.

Select bowling alleys across Canada and the US offer free bowling for kids during the summer. Register on the website (linked below) to receive coupons for 2 games of bowling every day, all summer long. Read below about where and how to take advantage of the program in Halton and Niagara Regions, as well as Kitchener Waterloo.

Sadly, there are no alleys in Burlington or Oakville taking part in 2025.

Kids ages 2 years to 15 years old are invited to register for their free games of bowling. Each alley has different start and end dates, so make note of that.

Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.
Kids bowl free ontario - 4 children holding bowling balls in the bowling alley in Ontario

How Does “Kids Bowl Free” Work?

Summer Entertainment doesn’t have to break the bank! For over 15 years now, bowling centers around the globe have provided 2 FREE Games of bowling each day to kids during the Spring and Summer. This program is designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend time this summer. So, are you wondering how do you get in on the fun? Here’s how:

Step 1: Scroll down and find your local bowling centre.

Step 2: Register your kids. Eligible kids will receive 2 free games each day during the dates provided by the bowling alley. Participating bowling centers set their age limits, see the center registration page for more details.

Step 3: Go Bowling All Spring & Summer!

Once you register your kids, you’ll receive coupons every week for free bowling at your chosen bowling centre. You simply show them to the alley when you arrive and kids will enjoy 2 free bowling games that day. Shoe rental is not included, it’s an extra cost.

Read More: Find more FREE things to do with kids here.

What About The Adults? Can They Also Bowl Free?

Kids Bowl Free loves grown-ups, too! That’s why they created the Family Pass. Family Passes for other family members and adults to bowl are available at an additional cost AFTER you register for kids bowling free. They provide 2 games of bowling daily per person and can only be purchased through the KBF program, not at the bowling alley. You pay just a single payment and you can get 2 Games free all summer long for up to 4 adults during your centres KBF hours. 

Where Do Kids Bowl Free Near Me?

University Lanes Bowling

May 20 to August 22, 2025 | 101 Osler Dr. – Unit 114, Dundas, ON

Echo Bowl

June 1 – to September 1, 2025 | 760 Colborne Street E., Brantford, ON, N3S 3S1

Kingpin Bowlounge

April 15 – September 1, 2025 | 425 Bingemans Centre Dr. in Kitchener, ON

Kingpin Cambridge

April 15 to September 1, 2025 | 355 Hespeler Rd. Cambridge, ON

ibowl.ca Family Fun Center

June 29 – August 31, 2025 | 10 Park Hill Rd. E. Cambridge, ON

University Lanes

May 20 – August 22, 2025 | 101 Osler Dr., Dundas

Lucky Stryx

Kids Bowl Free from May 1 to August 31, 2025 | 7 Klauck Street, Fort Erie, ON

Champs Family Entertainment Centre

July 7 – September 4, 2025 | 300 Bronte St. South in Milton

Fairview Bowling Lanes

May 20 to August 31, 2025 | 285 Geneva St., St. Catharines, ON

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Kids Bowl Free This Summer! Here’s How To Score This Deal appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Free Things To Do With Kids This Month! https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/ https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/#comments Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=53543 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.

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]]> Hello freebies! 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 and all offer FREE admission. This list highlights free things to do in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Niagara and more!

As parents, we understand the joy of spending quality time with our little ones without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of fantastic and FREE fun to enjoy with your kids. From outdoor escapades to creative indoor activities, we’ve scoured every corner to compile the ultimate collection of fun-filled experiences.

We think this list of family-friendly events that are free of charge will knock your socks off. We don’t often appreciate how many great activities for kids (and parents!) our area has, but there are lots!

Get ready to create family fun and let your imaginations run wild, all while keeping your wallet happy. So, let’s dive right in and discover free things to do with kids that guarantee family bonding!

We have combed our events calendar to bring you all the best FREE kids’ events near you. Use this calendar to find free things to do today or free things to do this weekend!

Free Things To Do With Kids Today, This Weekend and This Month

If you have children to keep busy, you may wonder, “What free activities are available nearby?” We have the answer! Here is a list of all the free events happening this month.

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Today

Burlington Lawn Bowling Club Open House

Burlington Lawn Bowling Club 2275 New Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Open House- come on out and try this fun filled sport, get some gentle exercise and fresh air. Meet new friends, bring old ones, every one is welcome. 1:00pm - […]

Free

Mother’s Day Botanical Build

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for an exclusive Mother’s Day event on May 10th. Build your LEGO® Botanicals set together and bond with each other! Plus, enjoy raffle prizes, loot bags, snacks, and refreshments. […]

$55

International Sculpture Day – Family Program

Spencer Smith Park 1400 Lakeshore Road , Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Anchored in the gazebo in Spencer Smith Park, the day will be filled with live music, hands-on arts activities, games, tours, performances and more!

Port Colborne Community Safety Day

Port Colborne Fire Hall 3 Killaly St. W, Port Colborne, ON, Canada

Families can learn about fire prevention, emergency preparedness and personal safety as Community Safety Day returns to Port Colborne on May 10. The free event, hosted by Port Colborne Fire […]

Featured Featured

Police Day with Halton Regional Police Services

Halton Regional Police Services Headquarters 2485 North Service Rd. W., Oakville, Ontario

Rain or shine, the Halton Regional Police Service’s (HRPS) 23rd annual Police Day is taking place on Saturday, May 10 from 12:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M at our Headquarters (2485 […]

Free

Spring Travel Demo Days

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Got some travel on your mind? Join us in store to try out our Travel Activity kit! The perfect travel companion full of activities to keep the little ones engaged. While […]

Lego Mother’s Day Make and Take at Toys R Us

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Bring your builder-kids in-store to create a LEGO® Botanicals Micro Orchid – an evergreen gift for Mother’s Day! In-store ONLY. One per customer, while supplies last.

Sakura Festival

Burlington Performing Arts Centre 440 Locust Street, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Celebrate the spring arrival of the beautiful Japanese cherry blossoms and Burlington’s 36-year friendship with our twin city, Itabashi, Japan. Features of this free event include:- Performances by Burlington’s Do […]

50th Anniversary Block Party at the Art Gallery of Burlington

Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Get ready to celebrate 50 Years of creativity and community at the AGB’s Block Party! At the Brock Park, DJ Cheffy will be bringing good vibes with an electrifying sets […]

Free

Geoffrey’s Book Club Storytime

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Join Geoffrey + his Toys “R” Us crew to check out his must-read picks of the month + some titles that you won’t find on other booklists.

Magna-Tiles Challenge at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Visit us to participate in a MAGNA-TILES® Master Builders challenge! This week's theme will be available in-store to inspire kids on what to build! Complete the challenge, and photograph your build […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free
Event Series Spring Stroller Social

Spring Stroller Social

Downtown Oakville Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Join our Spring Stroller Socials for a leisurely walk through the historic streets of Downtown Oakville, followed by coffee and conversation with fellow moms. We'll meet at the clock in […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Scavenger Hunt at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Celebrate Scavenger Hunt Day with us all weekend! Choose your own adventure - 3 scavenger hunt themes to pick from. Complete a challenge and fill out the ballot forms for a chance to win […]

Featured Featured

Canada Netherlands Friendship Day

Spencer Smith Park 1400 Lakeshore Road , Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Celebrate Canada Netherlands Friendship Day and the 20th anniversary of the twinning agreement between Burlington and its twin city, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands. Hosted by the Burlington Mundialization Committee. Free event featuring: […]

Featured Featured

Burlington Touch a Truck

Mainway Recreation Centre 4015 Mainway, Burlington, ON, Canada

Get an up-close look at City vehicles, including a Burlington Transit bus, street sweeper, snowplow, fire truck, zamboni, and more. Visit and learn about the services provided by City staff […]

Northeast Oakville Fair

Glenashton Park 1051 Glenashton Dr., Burlington, ON, Canada

The Northeast Oakville Fair is a vibrant spring event packed with fun! Enjoy free entry, exciting inflatables, delicious food trucks, live music, sponsored activities, and awesome giveaways. Bring your family and […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Hamilton Newcomer Day

Hamilton City Hall 71 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, Canada

Friday May 30, 2025Newcomer Day is an annual event held by the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council in May that: Welcomes newcomers to HamiltonHelps them understand and access a wide range […]

Lorcana Train and Trade at Mastermind

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Do you love Disney? If so, join us in-store to learn how to play Disney Lorcana TCG, the immersive trading card game! Wield magic inks and the power of Lorcana to assemble […]

Pokemon Make and Take

Toys R Us - all stores Ontario, Canada

Bring your Poké-fans in-store for a fun building session – participants will be randomly given a Kanto classic: Pikachu, Charmander, Squirtle or Bulbasaur!

Featured Featured

Burlington Accessible Sport and Art Fair

Tansley Woods Community Centre 1996 Itabashi Way, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Join us for an exciting showcase of Burlington’s accessible sports, recreation, and arts programs! This free event highlights inclusive opportunities for all ages and abilities, with interactive sessions, demonstrations, and […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Niagara Community Safety Day

Niagara Safety Village 100 Niagara College Blvd, Welland, ON, Canada

You're invited to our annual Community Safety Day! Bring the whole family for a day packed with excitement and learning. Kids will have a blast getting hands-on with demonstrations and […]

Kid’s Fun Day

250 Bunting Road 250 Bunting Road, St Catharines, ON, Canada

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at our **3rd Annual Kids Fun Day**! Join us for a spectacular celebration of community where excitement awaits around every corner!

Downtown Milton SummerFest

Downtown Milton 251 Main Street East, Suite 103, Milton, Ontario, Canada

Get ready for Milton's biggest street festival! Downtown Milton is happening on Saturday, June 7th from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Don't miss out on a day full of free […]

Grimsby Summer Festival

Town of Grimsby 160 Livingstone Ave, Grimsby, Ontario, Canada

Join us downtown Grimsby for our summer festival with kids zone, vendor market, food trucks, live entertainment and licensed beverage area. The Happening in Grimsby takes place June 12, 13 […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Iron Pour at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology 900 Woodward Ave, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

The Steam Museum is pleased to welcome the Canadian Society for Contemporary Iron Arts (CSCIA) for a public Iron Pour! Artists will be on site forging pieces in a live […]

Storytime at Mastermind Toys

Mastermind Toys Stores , Canada

Join us for Storytime every Thursday at 4pm at your local Mastermind Toys store! No sign up required and please arrive 10 minutes early. Click to Find a Store near […]

Free

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Free Things To Do With Kids This Month! appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-month/feed/ 1 Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures https://activeparents.ca/bird-kingdom/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 14:14:04 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=44322 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!

The post Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> 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! I hope you enjoy some of our Bird Kingdom photos from our last visit.

What Kinds of Birds Are At Bird Kingdom?

Right away you will meet exotic Macaws: the Green-winged Macaw, the Blue and Gold Macaw, and the Scarlet Macaw. Our girls were in awe of their beauty! You can’t hold these macaws, but, the kids had enough excitement just watching the bird trainer show us some tricks the Green Winged Macaw could do. 

Up next was the nocturnal tunnel that is home to owls, tarantulas, and bats. Follow the long twisting, multi-level pathway (that our stroller easily fit on), with waterfalls, plants and trees, surrounding our way. We had the option of feeding the Lorikeet birds at specific times throughout the day and got to walk behind a waterfall. The kid’s archaeology dig was closed when we visit, but make sure you look for it when you visit this summer.

Some of the popular birds were the Wood Duck, the Scarlet Ibis, the Vietnamese Pheasant, the Cockatoo, and the Blue Crown Pigeon. Bird Kingdom is home to so many gorgeous feathered friends. There were way too many to keep track of, even for my bird-loving seven-year-old, who was writing all of the names on her clipboard.

a beautiful red macaw parrot at bird kingdom niagara falls

More Than Birds!

We were surprised to be met with a museum of Egyptian artifacts, Niagara Falls interesting facts, and bird’s eggs of all sizes before we hit the first bird sanctuary. From turtles to frogs, and finally to the main attraction: Birds!

Make sure to take time and visit the Ancient Javanese House from the 1800s. Javanese houses in the 19th century were for the wealthy and aristocratic class, and this is the only one of its kind in North America. This architectural beauty is entirely hand-carved from solid teak and was constructed without nails! Please Note: The Javanese House is not wheelchair accessible at this time.

meeting the creatures at bird kingdom niagara falls

Can You Feed The Birds At Bird Kingdom?

Make sure to visit Lorikeet Landing and take part in their nectar feeding. This experience is an additional cost not included in your admission and makes for a great encounter. Each Lorikeet Feeding time has limited slots available, which will be available for purchase at the ticket booth when you arrive ($5.00 per cup of nectar). Feed and interact with the birds at Lorikeet Landing. This interactive experience allows the lorikeets to land on you as you feed them nectar. There are 5 feeding times throughout the day.

More Animal Encounters at Bird Kingdom

Bird Kingdom’s Animal Encounters room allows visitors to get up-close and personal with exotic birds, animals and reptiles from around the world. Meet creatures from the rainforest! Snakes, tortoises, bearded dragons, parrots and amazing creatures are here for you to meet and learn about. Ask the friendly and knowledgeable animal care staff any questions you have.

Please note that at this time you cannot hold or touch the creatures at Animal Encounters.

How Long Is An Average Visit?

After about an hour, we had reached the end of our trip and we headed out into the gift shop, which was fun for the kids to look through. Be prepared to scurry through if you don’t want to buy a souvenir! If your kids are hungry after their visit, check out the cafe on location for some pizza lunch. Instead, we took some time to walk to the falls. About a five-minute walk away was an ice cream shop, and about fifteen minutes down the falls walkway, you would reach Clifton Hill with many shops and restaurants to choose from.

Overall, this was a trip we will not forget and we were glad to spend our Saturday doing something that entertained us all. It can be a challenge to find a place that each individual enjoys when you have a family of multiple ages, and Bird Kingdom did not disappoint!

you'll feel like you're in a real rainforest at niagara falls bird kingdom

Bird Kingdom Tickets

Bird Kingdom tickets are listed below. Be sure to show your CAA card and save a little extra off the price. Click here to pre-purchase your tickets and save.

Buy OnlineBuy At The CounterAnnual Pass
Children ages 3-15$13.95$15.95$29.00
Everyone over 16$19.95$21.95$39.00
plus applicable taxes

Parking, Washrooms and Accessibility

Parking is available on-site for $6

Washrooms are accessible and are located at the beginning of the museum

Bird Kingdom is mostly stroller and wheelchair-friendly, but you may need some help with some doors. There is an elevator that the public can use.

No outside food is allowed on site, and fingers are crossed their restaurant re-opens soon!

Bird Kingdom Niagara Falls is located at 5651 River Road in Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M7.

bird kingdom photos enjoy the free roaming beautiful birds at niagara falls bird kingdom

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> 2025 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Easter Events https://activeparents.ca/easter-egg-hunts-events-near-burlington-hamilton/ https://activeparents.ca/easter-egg-hunts-events-near-burlington-hamilton/#comments Sat, 22 Feb 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=15634 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.

The post 2025 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Easter Events appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Welcome to our guide to Easter events and egg hunts 2025! 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.

In this list, we are sharing the best egg hunts near Hamilton, Halton and Niagara, including events in Milton and Easter egg hunts in Burlington and Oakville. Each listed event includes locations, dates, and details on registering for the big day. Some Easter events near you will need pre-registration and some are drop-in, so make sure you check out that info.

Whether you are a parent looking for Easter events in Oakville, Milton, Burlington or Hamilton to go to with your kids, or just someone who loves the thrill of the hunt, you won’t want to miss out on these exciting events. So get ready to grab your basket and join us as we explore the wonderful world of local Easter egg hunts!

Read on, and you’ll be delighted to see that there are many free easter events near me this year! The kids can have a blast at an easter egg hunt in Oakville and save you some money, too! Don’t miss this especailly-for-dogs easter event in Hamilton, either.

Read More: Find more hop-tastic Easter ideas here in our list of 18 egg-cellent Easter activities for kids to do at home.

Add Your Special Event To This Guide

Are you hosting an Easter event that is open to the public? We want to know about it! You can add it to this list by submitting it here.

The Best Easter Egg Hunts in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton and All of The Bunny Events in Burlington, Hamilton and Beyond

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Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post 2025 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Easter Events appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/easter-egg-hunts-events-near-burlington-hamilton/feed/ 1 Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/ https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/#comments Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=46600 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.

The post Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> 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. You’ll find details on Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, Wave Indoor Waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge, Plunge! Aquatic Centre and Adventure Bay in Windsor.

Tip! We also recommended these hotels that have great water slides and/or pools for when you want a smaller-scale wet and wild adventure.

Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Indoor Water parks in Ontario

Waves Indoor Water park

Waves Indoor Water Park is located inside the Americana Hotel. It has affordable waterpark day passes that include a full day of fun with water slides, a pool, a water play centre, a toddler splash area and more! We love the beach entry (gradual entry) for little kids and grandparents. Private cabanas are available to rent.

There is also an arcade, a surf shop, an outdoor playground, and places to play. Day passes are $39.95 per person for a full day or save 50% on weeknights. Details here.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverage permitted
  • On-site restaurant & snack bar
  • Life jackets are available for free usage (first come, first served)
  • Towels provided onsite

Waves Indoor Waterpark is located at 8444 Lundys Lane, Niagara Falls. Check our Waves reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

Waves Indoor Waterpark

Fallsview Indoor Water park

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is 125,000 square feet of action-packed water fun. It has a massive play area, a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket, 6-storey high waterslides, a full-sized wave pool, year-round outdoor activity pool and sundeck, plunge bowl, two oversized adult-only Jacuzzis and a children’s play area.

Drier options for play include the jungle beach playhouse. Day admission prices start at $32.99 per person entry. There is also a $35 parking fee.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverages are permitted
  • There are on-site restaurants and a snack bar
  • Life jackets are available for free (first come, first served)
  • Towels are not available on-site, so bring some from home.

Fallsview Waterpark is located at 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario. Read Fallsview Waterpark reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

Great Wolf Lodge Resort

Great Wolf Lodge is one of the biggest indoor waterparks in Canada. Families come from all around the province to stay and play here. You must be an overnight hotel guest to use the waterpark, they don’t offer day passes.

Their waterpark features a 4-story interactive fort treehouse complete with slides and toys for all ages. Little kids will love all of the waterslides in various sizes. If you’re looking for high-speed thrills, check out wolf tail which is a thrilling waterslide the teens will love. Don’t miss the frog pond with its obstacles and tube slides for water lovers of every age.

Need to get some R&R? Just grab a tube and float your cares away on the lazy river. Warm up in the whirlpool hot spas – they have one indoor and one outdoor!

Good To Know:

  • 7 onsite restaurants and snack areas to keep you nourished
  • Pool towels available onsite
  • Life jackets are available for free (first come, first served)

Great Wolf Lodge Niagara is located at 3950 Victoria Ave, in Niagara Falls

Read Great Wolf Lodge Niagara reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Great Wolf Lodge

Plunge! Indoor Aquatic Centre at Blue Mountain

I was late to the party when it comes to knowing Blue Mountain had an indoor water feature. While not technically big enough to be an indoor waterpark, it is still a fun place to visit if you’re in the Blue Mountain area. Slip slide down the water slide and enjoy their indoor and outdoor pools. Your family will love the rope swing, dumping bucket and basketball nets, too.

Visit Plunge all year for water park fun. Starting at $16 for a day pass, per person.

Good To Know:

  • No outside food or beverages are permitted
  • No towels are available, so bring some from home.

Plunge is located at 220 Gord Canning Drive, in the Blue Mountains.

Read Plunge! reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.ca.

Plunge! Indoor Aquatic Centre at Blue Mountain

Adventure Bay Windsor Indoor Waterpark

Perfect for a weekend getaway to beat the blahs in winter. Adventure Bay Family Water Park features over 35,000 square feet of wild water adventures for guests of all ages. Attractions include 5 waterslides, “FlowRider”, a surf simulator, a wave pool and an activity pool, a lazy river, tot kids zone, and Splash Zone with slides and giant water tipping bucket. Interactive water play features include bubbling jets and geysers, aqua-cannons, tipping cones, and mini bungee swings!

Day passes start at $17.00 per person.

Good To Know:

  • Outside food & drink permitted in specific dining areas
  • No towels onsite
  • Life Jackets are available for free (first come, first served)

Adventure Bay is located at 401 Pitt Street West in Windsor.

Read Adventure Bay reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on their website here.

Adventure Bay Windsor Indoor Waterpark

Hotels With Awesome Indoor Pools and Waterslides (Almost As Good As An Indoor Waterpark)

You don’t have to go to a full-fledged waterpark to find wet and wild fun! We love these hotels with great waterslides and added family-favourite features.

Chelsea Hotel in Toronto

This hotel is beautiful and family-friendly. Their heated pool is perfect for both kids and adults to enjoy. Plus, their Corkscrew Waterslide loops outside the hotel! You have to be a guest at the hotel to swim. Pool and waterslide hours are limited right now, so check their website for open dates and times.

The hotel also has a teen lounge with old-school arcade games, flat-screen televisions, a foosball table and a pool table. Adults are invited to enjoy it too! Also check out the Kids Centre, complete with dress-up, educational and artistic activities to keep kids having fun.

Chelsea Hotel Family Fun Zone

Read Chelsea Hotel reviews on Tripadvisor or book your visit on Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

Mississauga Meadowvale Hilton

We have stayed here with kids and without and it is an ideal hotel for anyone. Our last visit was a quick Family Day staycation and the kids still laugh about how fast their mom zoomed down this curly water slide. The pool’s open hours have been carrying recently so be sure to check it will be open when you plan to stay.

Read our review here.

London’s Lamplighter Inn

Look at this indoor lighthouse! The Maplighter Inn is a very popular getaway for families and an equally-popular hotel for travelling sports teams. A visit is high on our must-do list. Read our review here.

Best Western Leamington

*Please contact the hotel before you book. Their pool has been under renovation in 2023.

In addition to the mini indoor waterpark and long water slides, this hotel offers an indoor climbing structure, basketball court, badminton, ping pong and more! You can read our review here.

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/dive-into-these-5-indoor-waterparks-in-ontario/feed/ 1 The Coolest Mini Golf Courses in Niagara https://activeparents.ca/niagara-mini-golf/ Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=70344 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.

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]]> Looking for a fun family outing? Discover the best mini golf courses in the Niagara region! Perfect for families, our guide to mini putt near me will help you find the perfect place for some putt putt action. From challenging courses to creative themes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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.

Dinosaur Adventure Golf

Dinosaur Adventure Golf is located on Clifton Hill. You can’t miss it as you walk around the strip. It is one of Canada’s largest mini golf attractions with two 18-hole courses, “Raptor” and “T-Rex”. With 50 life-size dinosaurs and realistic volcanoes along with digital sounds throughout you will feel like you are mini putting back in time. It’s an outdoor course, so dress for the weather.

Price: Adults (13+): $12.99+tax  Child (13>): $6.99+tax

Address: 4952 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4

Dinosaur Adventure Golf is situated in the heart of Clifton Hill.
Dinosaur Adventure Golf is situated in the heart of Clifton Hill.

Wizards Golf

Also perfectly located on Clifton Hill, Wizard’s Golf is an 18-hole glow-in-the-dark mini putt will bring you to a magical world of wizardry in medieval times. The course showcases some brightly coloured wizards, trolls, fairies, castles and dragons. This is an indoor course.

Price: Adults (13+): $12.99+tax  Child (13>): $6.99+tax  Non-Golfer: $3.99+tax

Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4

Wizards Golf in Niagara Falls
photo c/o Wizards Golf

SkipArrr’s Pirate Putt

Located on Clifton Hill (are you sensing a theme?) SkipArrr’s Pirate Putt in a super fun mini putt that will take you on a Pirate adventure! Enjoy the under water vibe, with some glowing aspects as well are lots of cool photo opportunities.

NOTE: *Currently for a special price, 11 1st floor holes are accessible pending installation of the elevator (updated May 10, 2024)

Price: Adults (16+): $14.99+tax  Child (4-15): $11.99+tax Children 3 and under are free.

Address: 4943 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N5

SkipArrr's Pirate Putt indoor mini golf in niagara falls
Photo c/o SkipArrr’s Pirate Putt

Brock Mini Golf and Foot Golf

Located at Brock Golf Centre in Fonthill, this 18 hole mini golf course is a ton of outdoor fun for kids and kids at heart. You’ll find challenging greens, beautiful perennial gardens, and even a couple of ponds you might spot some goldfish in! Your mini golf fee is for one round of 18 holes. But you can double up for just $2 if you want to play a second mini golf round, OR a round of footgolf directly after your first round! Soccer ball rentals are $2.50.

Price: $2 for kids 3 and under, Ages 4-17 are $6.75, adults are $8.75 and folks over 60 are $8.25

Address: 2745 Merrittville Hwy, Fonthill, Ontario  L0S 1E6

Brock Mini Golf and Foot Golf in Niagara
Photo c/o Brock Golf Course

Adventure City

4915 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N5

https://adventurecityniagarafalls.com/

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]]> Free Fishing Weekend 2025 in Ontario https://activeparents.ca/free-fishing-weekend-in-ontario/ https://activeparents.ca/free-fishing-weekend-in-ontario/#comments Sat, 08 Feb 2025 23:40:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=52723 In 2025, 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.

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]]> In 2025, 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.

Wondering where you can fish near you? We have a roundup of reader-recommended fishing holes, lakes, creeks and more in the Hamilton and Halton area. If you have a fishing spot to recommend, please share it with us.

Read More: Where to fish in Hamilton and Halton

Free Fishing Week Ontario
Grab a rod and some worms and enjoy a free fishing weekend!

Free Fishing Weekends 2025 – Free Fishing in Ontario

Normally, in Ontario, you need to possess a fishing licence to fish recreationally. However, four times a year the government allows for licence-free fishing, and these weekends make the ideal time to get out in nature and enjoy a day lakeside.

Free Fishing Weekend in Ontario will allow for licence-free fishing for Canadian residents on the following days:

  • Family Fishing Weekend in February (February 15-17, 2025)
  • Mother’s Day Weekend in May (May 10-11, 2025)
  • Father’s Day Weekend in June (June 14-15, 2025)
  • Family Fishing Week in July (June 28–July 6, 2025)

If you’re not a regular fisher or a fishing licence holder, make sure you take advantage of these weekends. They are a great and fun way to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors!

Read More: More Things To Do on Family Day Weekend

How To Borrow Fishing Equipment

Since 1998, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters has sponsored a program called TackleShare to loan our fishing equipment for free. This program removes the financial barrier that would keep families from enjoying this relaxing sport.

Borrow rods, reels and even tackle is as simple as checking out a book from the library. TackleShare has hundreds of loaner sites in Ontario. They also partner with Ontario Parks to help bring fishing to more families. Just one more way to enjoy a free fishing weekend in Ontario! You can find a list of the loaner sites here.

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/free-fishing-weekend-in-ontario/feed/ 1 Where Do Kids Eat Free in Niagara? https://activeparents.ca/kids-eat-free-niagara/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 21:53:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=51668 If you want to know where kids eat free today in St. Catharines and Niagara, we got you! You can even find some eateries that offer daily or weekly kids eat free in the Niagara Falls area.

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]]> We love a deal and one of our favourites is the kids eat free day at our favourite restaurants. If you want to know where kids eat free today in St. Catharines and Niagara, we got you! You can even find some eateries that offer daily or weekly kids eat free in the Niagara Falls area.

This is also a great way to try out a new restaurant near you while also saving some cash.

This list is up to date as of March 2025, but as always, you might want to call the restaurant to confirm that they’re still offering a Kids Deal on your preferred night. And if you know of any restaurants that offer free kids meals (or kids specials) please let us know!

We also know where kids eat free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton and where kids eat free in Hamilton. Road trip!

Be sure to check out our Discounts page to save on family entertainment today.

Mondays

Visit Johnny Rocco’s Italian Grill in St. Catharines on Mondays where children aged 10 and under eat for free, with each purchase of a regular menu item valued at $14 or more.

Thorold’s Cracker Jacks has kids eat free on Mondays when an adult entree is purchased.

For every adult meal purchased, children 10 and under receive one free kid’s meal at Mick & Angelo’s in Niagara Falls. Kids can also sign up for their Kids Club to get freebies and prizes. Ask your server for details.

Kids eat free on Mondays at Next Kitchen and Bar in Fonthill.

Wednesdays

At Swiss Chalet Niagara Falls, kids eat free on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult meal when you dine-in. Valid until October 31, 2025.

Sundays

At Frontier BBQ & Smokehouse, kids 10 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult dinner. Plus kids 5 and under eat free every day of the week!

Kids aged 0-11 eat free on Sundays at CopaCabana Brazilian Steakhouse. Valid for one child per adult.

At The Manhattan Bar & Grill in St. Catharines, kids eat free on Sundays with the purchase of a regular priced meal.

Kids eat free every Sunday at Hooters Niagara Falls.

Kids Eat Free Today and Every day

Children 5 and under eat for free, with the purchase of adult entrees, at Frontier BBQ and Smokehouse.

Montana’s now offers a Kids Club promotion where kids can sign up and get a free kid’s meal on their birthday and a free Kids Cooler upon sign-up. Click here for the details.

At Mandarin St. Catharines, kids 4 and under eat free from the buffet, and kids 5-12 years old are half-price for the buffet.

Fallsview Restaurant is an upscale option with a #kidseatfree deal every day. From 5:00-6:00 pm each night, kids under 12 will receive a child buffet dinner free with the purchase of an adult buffet dinner.

Kids eat free every day at The Forty Public House in Grimsby with the purchase of a regular priced entree.

Kids always eat free at The Course and The Clubhouse in St. Catharines with the purchase of a $15 adult meal.

At The Commercial Roadhouse in Fort Erie, kids 10 years and under eat for free with the purchase of every adult entree.

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> 50+ Things To Do This Winter https://activeparents.ca/things-to-do-winter/ Sat, 14 Dec 2024 17:58:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=41043 Let’s banish those winter blues! Here are more than 50 things to do during winter in Hamilton and Halton area, including Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Waterdown, Hamilton, Stoney Creek and beyond.

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]]> Let’s banish those winter blues! Here are more than 50 things to do in winter in Hamilton and Halton area, including Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Waterdown, Hamilton, Stoney Creek and beyond. We love keeping this list on hand for those days when you need a little extra motivation to head out into the coldworld. This list of winter thing to do should inspire you to revisit a family favourite winter adventure, try something new and have fun!

Explore Nature

  • Hike at one of our favourite kid-approved hiking spots. We’ve got stroller-friendly hikes here, so bring the littlest explorers with you.
  • Wander near the water. Lake Ontario’s waterfront is easily accessible, smooth-paved in most areas, and always free to explore.
  • Keep an eye on the wildlife all winter in Burlington’s Cherry Hill Gate. Bring your binoculars and observe the birds, squirrels and other animals in the waterways. They’re active no matter the time of year!
  • Visit Bronte Creek Provincial park and explore the working Victorian-era farmhouse and see some of their farm animals. If the temperatures are mild, they may be out in their pens! (spring and summer)
  • Take a trip to the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. It’s a tropical oasis that kids will love.
  • Triple C Farm is one of our favourite places to visit – even in the winter! Their farm takes in animals in need and is home to goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, alpacas, llamas, pigs and more!
  • It’s always a warm, spring day at the Gage Park Greenhouse. Bonus – it’s free to visit all year long!

turtle at gage park greenhouse
Gage Park Greenhouse has turtles, fish and birds!

Soak Up The Christmas Spirit

Add a Memorable Family Experience To Your Calendar

  • Hop aboard one of these epic train rides and enjoy the ride, the sights and the experience.
  • Save your pennies and skip the major leagues! We absolutely love OHL hockey games. They’re family-friendly and full of action for a fraction of the price of a Leafs game. Check out the home games for the Brantford Bull Dogs (who have moved from Hamilton to this arena in Brantford) and the Niagara Ice Dogs here.
  • TreeTop Trekking in Hamilton has their Tree Walk Village open over the winter break.
  • Families who love a challenge will love the skills needed to beat an Escape Room. We have a ton of them to choose from, and each location has different themes, rooms and skill levels required.
  • When was the last time you beat your kids at bowling? Sounds like they could use a rematch and we know the coolest lanes to visit.

winter christmas lights train ride
All aboard for a seasonal train ride.

Run, Jump, Climb and Play!

  • Play Indoors no matter the weather. Here’s our massive list of indoor things to do nearby.
  • You can read our coverage of local play centres here and see which ones are going to be added to your “must-visit list”.
  • Tweens and Teens will love climbing at The Hub Climbing in Mississauga.
  • Indoor play centres are always an option to escape the winter temperatures while also keeping the kids active and moving. Here are the lists of indoor play centres in Halton and this list is for Hamilton and Niagara.
  • My teens love an afternoon at the arcade. And I love when I can beat them at retro video games and air hockey!
  • Bowling is one of our favourite things to do with the kids because we never know who will score the lowest haha! But the best part is that you don’t need to win to have a great time.

Easy Outdoor Activities For Winter Fun

ice skating st spencer smith park
Outdoor rinks are ready for you!

Take a Road Trip or a Day Trip

  • Stratford, Ontario looks like a Hallmark movie set in the winter, and their downtown shopping is quaint. Don’t miss out on their widely-known chocolate shops while you’re there.
  • Spend the day or weekend in Guelph because there is so much to do! Here are 10+ things to do in Guelph to get you started.
  • Have you read our recap of our trip to London, Ontario? You need to add a visit to your winter season itinerary!
  • Staycation-ing is my jam, and we loved our local stay trip in Burlington.
  • Have you heard of Leamington? It’s a cute little town that is home to an excellent hotel that is so much fun you won’t need to leave it!

hotel pool at best western leamington
Best Western Leamington is so fun you won’t want to leave the hotel!

Eat Great Food

Free and Cheap Ideas

  • Look into Postcrossing. We’ve been talking about it non-stop since we discovered it. You get an address for someone who would love to receive a postcard and send them one. You, in turn, get one sent to you. We’ve sent and received cards from Japan, England, Lithuania and Africa!
  • The same goes with Letters From Afar. Kids will love following Isabelle on her world adventures through beautiful letters, maps and stamps. We’ve been subscribers for years and these letters are truly something you can save and read with your grandkids!
  • Get science-y with these easy and quick at-home experiments you can do with simple items from your cupboards. Kids will love it and they’ll leave a little something, too!
  • Check out the Library. They’ve got books, movies, games, learning kits, audiobooks and even family passes to art galleries, conservation areas and museums!
  • Play at the Tansley Woods Community Centre play structure. It’s free!

Read Our Latest Articles

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> 2024 Christmas Markets and Holiday Shopping Events https://activeparents.ca/christmas-holiday-markets/ Tue, 05 Nov 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=45575 There is no better feeling than shopping at a local Christmas Market and finding that perfect gift for someone you care about. This list of local Holiday Markets near Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Hamilton and Niagara will help you do just that!

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]]> There is no better feeling than shopping at a local Christmas Market and finding that perfect gift for someone you care about. This list of local Holiday Markets near Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Hamilton and Niagara will help you do just that!

Every Christmas Market is unique in what they offer and which vendors and makers they have in its lineup. Click on each one and find the very best holiday market to shop at.

Hosting an event? You can add it to our events calendar here – it’s free!

Christmas and Holiday Markets Near You

Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

Asian Heritage Festival

Fowley Park 106 Fowley Dr, Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Join in for a day of food, culture, and performances  at the Asian Heritage Festival at Fowley Park on May 24, starting at 11:00 a.m.! Bring your family, enjoy the […]

Northeast Oakville Fair

Glenashton Park 1051 Glenashton Dr., Burlington, ON, Canada

The Northeast Oakville Fair is a vibrant spring event packed with fun! Enjoy free entry, exciting inflatables, delicious food trucks, live music, sponsored activities, and awesome giveaways. Bring your family and […]

Downtown Milton SummerFest

Downtown Milton 251 Main Street East, Suite 103, Milton, Ontario, Canada

Get ready for Milton's biggest street festival! Downtown Milton is happening on Saturday, June 7th from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Don't miss out on a day full of free […]

Milton Strawberry Fair

Milton Fairgrounds 136 Robert Street, Milton, Ontario, Canada

*Strawberry Tent – fresh strawberries, cake, ice cream and slushies (in partnership with Milton District Hospital Foundation) – CASH PREFERRED *Strawberry Pancake Breakfast (fresh strawberries and pancakes) beginning at 8 […]

Free

Milton Kids Festival

Milton Community Park 805 Santa Maria Blvd, Milton, Ontario, Canada

Join us at Milton Community Sports Park for a day full of fun, laughter, and endless activities for the whole family. 

Burlington Vegfest

Spencer Smith Park 1400 Lakeshore Road , Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Promoting awareness of the health, environmental and ethical benefits of a vegan lifestyle.

More Things To Do Today, Tomorrow and This Weekend

When you’ve shopped till you dropped at Christmas Markets, we can help you find other ways to spend your day! Find more events and activities using our events calendar!

If you are looking for events that are Christmas-specific, you can find them all here.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> 10+ Board Game Cafes That Are Too Cool To Pass On https://activeparents.ca/board-game-cafes/ Fri, 25 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=47798 Board game cafes have been popping up all over the world, and in your city, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a unique and fun experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.

The post 10+ Board Game Cafes That Are Too Cool To Pass On appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Welcome to our list of local board game cafes in Burlington, Hamilton, Niagara and beyond! Board game cafes have been popping up all over the world, and in your city, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a unique and fun indoor experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.

In this blog, we’ll explore what board game cafes are, why they’re becoming so popular, and what you can expect when you visit one. We’ll also give you some insider knowledge on the cafes we’ve been to and share some of our favourite board games to play while you’re there. So sit back, relax, and grab the dice, because it’s your turn!

If you’ve ever caught yourself asking “Is there a board game cafe near me?” then keep this list handy for some serious fun in the near future.

What is a Board Game Cafe?

A board game café is a spot much like. coffee shop or dessert bar where you can play board and card games. Most cafes also served food and drinks. Visitors generally pay a fee (per person or per table) and have access to a huge assortment of board games. The staff are super fans and often recommend games and help you with gameplay and instructions. Many board game cafés also sell the games.

Why are Board Game Cafes So Popular?

Playing board games have always been something fun to do with family and friends, but it can get pricey if you want to play a new game every few weeks. That’s where game cafes shine. For a small fee, you have access to a library of games, all to play and put back if they don’t tickle your fancy. For just a couple of dollars per person, you can try all of the popular and pricey games to make sure you love them. What a fun way to eliminate buyer’s remorse!

Well-stocked locations, like Ludology Boardgame Cafe in St. Catharines is only $5 to stay and play for a few hours, making it very popular.

Read More: Our favourite board games for the whole family

elizabeth playing at mancala monk board game cafe in Hamilton ontario
Our visit to Mancala Monk had us playing Wheel of Fortune and more.

Game Cafes We’ve Been To

In our travels, we have visited 2 board game cafes in Hamilton and 1 in Toronto. We love this low-key rainy-day idea that doesn’t cost much. You can get an entire afternoon of fun for your whole family, with drinks and snacks, for less than $50.

Never Board Games Lounge in Hamilton was out most recent visit to a cafe. With over 900 games to choose from, we tried so many and founds some new faves that we added to our Christmas list. Food drinks and alcohol are available on site. You can also play game in their 2 themed private rooms to really get that immersive feeling.

Mancala Monk board game cafe in Hamilton, was the first one we ever visited. My kids were 8 and 10 and had a ton of board game options. I loved that they could cruise the wall of games and choose any box they wanted to try. Their short attention spans meant we played half of each game we choose, but with over 1400 games to choose from, we were never board.

Next Up – the new board game cafe in Burlington “Nostalgia Game Cafe”

Read More: 47+ Date Night Ideas To Put On Your Calendar

Board Game Cafes Worth Visiting

Dicey Business
We are a cozy board game café with over 400 board games to play while enjoying a good selection of food and drinks. Our Dicey Community loves Board Games, Trading Card Games, Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Art Nights, and anything else nerdy you can think of
Leisure Cafe
A board game cafe with a comfortable retro feel designed as a community gathering place.
Ludology Board Game Cafe
Play one of your Favorites, or play something New. Our staff will help you get gaming! Enjoy our fantastic selection of Food and Drink, while you game or dine! $5 per person, 2-5 hour time limit may apply. 
LVLUP Board Game Store and Cafe
Lots of community gaming events and themed nights for fans of D&D, MTG and more!
Mancala Monk Board Game Cafe
Nostalgia Games Cafe
Burlington's board game cafe. Just opened in November 2023 and offering hot and cold drinks and light snacks. 
Parkway Social
Parkway Social has been an icon of St Catharines since 1958 as an entertainment destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a quirky date night idea or to get competitive with friends or colleagues, our venue is the perfect location. 
The Adventurers Guild
It's $7 per adventurer for a full day's access to the library! And The Adventurers Guild stocks precisely one metric fun-load of games. That translates to the best and first collection in K-dub and the Region - 1500+ games, including board games, retro video games, and role-playing games.
The Bard and Bear Board Game Cafe
The Round Table - Guelph
Board games, axe throwing, archery, escape rooms and more!
The Round Table - Kitchener
Board games, special events, trivia nights and more.

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario https://activeparents.ca/things-to-do-with-kids-in-niagara-falls-ontario/ Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:09:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=58292 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.

The post Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario appeared first on Active Parents.

]]>

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. We recapped our absolute favourite things to do with kids in Niagara Falls to help you plan your visit.

We have visited for the day and for long weekends, so we have the expertise! Many attractions will keep kids entertained and create lasting memories for your family.

Start The Car! Enjoy these day trips and local attractions worth visiting:

A view of Niagara Falls and the Hornblower cruise ship

The 10 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls…According To Us

Experience the Power of Niagara Falls: No trip to Niagara Falls Canada is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring power of the falls up close. Take a boat tour on the iconic Hornblower Niagara Cruises for an unforgettable adventure to the Horseshoe Falls. The thunderous roar and misty spray you experience from the observation deck will leave you amazed!

Visit Clifton Hill: Clifton Hill is a vibrant and bustling street filled with exciting attractions for kids of all ages. Explore the “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” Museum, play games at the Great Canadian Midway and enjoy thrilling rides at the Niagara SkyWheel. Clifton Hill offers non-stop entertainment and is overflowing with fun things to do in Niagara Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls: For a unique perspective, head to Journey Behind the Falls. This thrilling attraction takes you through tunnels behind the waterfall, providing an incredible view of the cascading water. Guests will be captivated by the power and beauty of Niagara Falls from this unique vantage point.

Butterfly Conservatory: Escape into the tropical paradise of the Butterfly Conservatory, where children can interact with thousands of colourful butterflies. Stroll through lush gardens, learn about different butterfly species, and even witness the magical moment when a butterfly emerges from its cocoon. This enchanting experience is both educational and captivating.

Whiz Around Niagara Speedway Go-Karts: The recent addition to the Falls is an exhilarating thrill ride. It offers high-speed fun on a four-story elevated track, featuring hairpin turns and thrilling twists. The go-karts are equipped with 200cc engines, ensuring a thrilling ride for all ages. Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area while racing. It’s a must-visit destination for families, friends, and adrenaline junkies alike.

More Of Our Favourite Falls Adventures

Ride The Niagara SkyWheel: The Niagara SkyWheel, located on Clifton Hill, givers its riders breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding area. Step into one of the climate-controlled gondolas and enjoy a leisurely ride high above the city. Kids will love the panoramic vistas and the chance to see Niagara Falls from a new perspective.

Visit Bird Kingdom: Bird Kingdom is the largest indoor free-flying aviary in the world, featuring over 400 birds from around the world. Kids can explore the lush rainforest setting, watch colourful birds in flight, and even have close encounters with parrots and other friendly feathered friends. Whether you are in Niagara Falls for the day or longer, make sure to stop at Bird Kingdom. In our opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls.

Ride The Whirlpool Aero Car: Take a thrilling ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car, suspended high above the Niagara River. The cable car offers breathtaking views of the swirling whirlpool and the stunning rapids. This unique attraction is sure to create lasting memories for kids and adults alike.

Play Golf with Dinosaurs: Dinosaur Adventure Golf is a prehistoric mini-golf adventure with life-sized dinosaurs. This is one of our favourite things to do in Niagara Falls Canada, and it is the main reason we visit every year. The course is beautifully themed, with waterfalls, lush landscaping, and challenging holes. It’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

Ride The Rollercoaster: House of Frankenstein’s rollercoaster sits 4 stories off the ground and is full of thrills and speed! Riders sit in coffins on this monstrously great ride. It’s Canada’s only rooftop coaster!

An aerial view of the Dinosaur Adventure Golf course taken from the Niagara Skywheel Ferris Wheel, two great things to do in niagara falls

More Tips For Visiting Niagara Falls With Kids

Book A Room With A Falls View. Hotels are a little more expensive in the heart of the area, but the views are definitely worth it, especially if this is your first visit. At night, the falls are illuminated and look gorgeous from high up in your hotel room. Every night, from Friday, May 19th until Monday, October 9th fireworks light up the night sky at 10 pm.

Eat Outside The Core. Like all popular tourist destinations, prices can be higher when you eat right in Clifton Hill and Niagara Falls core. We love taking a short drive or walking to eat kist outside the busy area. Our favourite is The Flying Saucer Restaurant because of its kitch-y theme and good old home cooking. I recommend the meatloaf!

Bring Your Own Food. One way we save money is by bringing our own picnic lunches and eating on the lawns of the Niagara Parks. The scenery is lovely and the price is right.

Be Ready To Walk. You can drive, but the congestion at the base of Clifton Hill isn’t worth it if you ask me. Tie up your walking shoes and bring a wagon or stroller for the kids. There is so much to see that you won’t mind walking, but you will tally up a lot of steps!

Parking Tip!

Thanks to my friend Alison, I just found out about the Niagara Parks Parking Pass. It’s $45 and gives 2 vehicles 1 year of parking! You can use it to park at a variety of local attractions, gardens, wineries and more!

Niagara Falls offers a long list of unique attractions and activities that the whole family will love. From the breathtaking power of the falls to interactive museums, thrilling rides, and unique wildlife encounters, there’s something for every child to enjoy. So, plan your family trip to Niagara Falls, and get ready for an adventure-packed experience that your kids will cherish forever.

Find The Best Hotels Near Niagara Falls

Find your next hotel in Niagara Falls by reading reviews here on Trip Advisor and if you’re ready to book, check out Expedia, Trivago or Hotels.com.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Our 10 Favourite Things to Do with Kids in Niagara Falls, Ontario appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> It’s Cherry Picking Season! Here’s Where to Pick Cherries Nearby https://activeparents.ca/cherry-picking-niagara-hamilton-halton/ Wed, 26 Jun 2024 21:05:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=71734 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!

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Cherry picking is a fond memory I have of time well spent with my grandparents. My grandpa loved sharing a massive bowl of fresh pick your own cherries. He was the one who taught me to spit the seeds in the garden haha! 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!

More Fruit Picking Places For You

June is strawberry season in Ontario! Find local farms in Niagara, Hamilton and Halton here.

Fall is for apple picking and we know the best farms that offer pick-your-own apples in all varieties.

Fresh flowers are so romantic! Find PYO Lavender and fresh flowers to kick off your spring and summer decor and sunflowers for the fall.

little girls cherry picking from a small cherry tree

Cherry Picking in Niagara Region

Cherry picking in Southern Ontario’s Niagara Region is a popular summer activity, offering families a chance to enjoy the outdoors and pick fresh, delicious cherries. Here are some key details and tips for a successful cherry picking trip:

When to Go Cherry Picking

  • Season: Cherry picking season in the Niagara Region typically runs from late June to early July. The exact timing can vary depending on the weather and growing conditions, so it’s always a good idea to check with local farms for the most accurate dates.

Types of Cherries

  • Sweet Cherries: These are the most common type found in the Niagara Region. They are usually available from late June to early July.

  • Sour (Tart) Cherries: These are typically available a bit later than sweet cherries, often in early to mid-July. Sour cherries are great for baking and preserves.

What to Bring

  • Containers: Many farms provide containers for picking, but it’s a good idea to bring your own sturdy containers or baskets, especially if you plan to pick a lot.

  • Sun Protection: The sun can be strong, so bring hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself.

  • Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and standing.

  • Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and snacks to keep everyone energized.

  • Bug Spray: Depending on the time of day and location, bugs can be an issue, so it’s wise to have some bug spray on hand.

  • Cash: Some farms may not accept credit or debit cards, so bring cash just in case.

Tips for Cherry Picking

  • Check Farm Policies: Each farm may have different rules and hours of operation, so check their websites or call ahead.

  • Arrive Early: The best cherries are often picked early in the day, so try to arrive early to get the best selection.

  • Pick Carefully: Handle cherries gently to avoid bruising them. Twist the cherries off the stems to avoid damaging the trees.

  • Sample Before Picking: Some farms allow you to taste a cherry or two before you start picking. This helps ensure you’re happy with the flavor and quality.

  • Storage: Cherries are best picked fresh and eaten soon after, but if you need to store them, keep them in a cool place and wash them just before eating.

Recommended Farms in the Niagara Region

  • Cherry Avenue Farms: Known for their large, sweet cherries, and they offer a great family-friendly experience.

  • Parkway Orchards: Offers a variety of cherries and other fruits, and has a beautiful setting for a family outing.

  • Peach Country Farm Market: A well-known farm that offers cherry picking along with other seasonal fruits and activities.

Before heading out, it’s always best to check the latest information on the farm’s website or give them a call to confirm the picking schedule and any special requirements or events they might have.

Enjoy your cherry picking adventure in the Niagara Region!

little girl with a basket of pick your own cherries standing in the orchard

Where To Pick Cherries Near You

We’ve curated great local farms that offer pick-your-own cherries and included as many details as we could find on their websites and social pages. As with all farming, cherry picking is very reliant on ideal weather conditions. To avoid disappointment, give the farm a call before you head out to make sure their harvest is ready for you. We’ve included phone numbers and website for all of the farms.

Puddicombe Estate Farms

Pick Your Own (PYO) sweet cherries are a highlight of many families who visit Puddicombe Estates Farm. Experience how delicious local Ontario fruit can be, especially when you pick it yourself! They office sweet cherries in July and tart cherries in July-August.

Address: 1468 #8 Highway, Winona (Hamilton).

Phone:

Hildreth Farms

Hildreth Farms offers pick your own cherries at the very end of June and into July. They also have a farmer’s market stocked full of delicious, homemade goodies likes jams and pies and sauces.

Address: 5529 Greenlane, Beamsville

Phone: (905) 563-4423

20 Valley Harvest Farms

The SWEET CHERRIES on Canada Day weekend will be red (like the Canadian flag) and look beautiful! They will need more time on the tree to develop a deeper colour. SOUR CHERRIES will be ripe around early to mid-July. It’s a short season, so you don’t want to miss it! Sweet cherries can be on the trees from 1-3 weeks and sour cherries from 2-4 weeks depending on weather.

Address: 4235 Fifteenth Street, Jordan Station, Ontario

Phone: (905) 562-5272

Parkway Orchard Cherry Picking

Cherry picking at Parkway Orchard will be fully open from June 15th for Cherry picking. Please note farm might be close due to weather or inventory at anytime during the day. Please do check the time or give us a call before your come.

2024 Pick your own price: Ticket entry: $7 Cherry at CAD $7.50 per pound at check out. No minimum purchase

Address: 15000 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Phone: (905) 262-5097

Pick-Your-Own Cherries at Mathias Farm

Mathias Farms is a third generation family run fruit farm in the heart of the Niagara Region.

Address: 1909 Effingham Street, Ridgeville Ontario

Cherry Avenue Farm

An update from Cherry Avenue Farm: “We expect to start our first crop of the year – sweet cherries – around the beginning of July. We do not know the exact start date, as that depends on the weather over the next few weeks. We will start picking sweet cherries as soon as they are ripe enough, so please check back with us in late-June when we will have a better idea of how everything is ripening up”

Address: 4303 Cherry Avenue, Vineland, Ontario
Phone: (905) 562-5481

Sun Valley Farms

Sun Valley Farms’ cherry trees are all easy to pick, grown on a full-dwarf root stock. The cherry season is known for being very short – only a couple of weeks from late June to mid July – and can often be reduced by weather conditions.

Address: 1186 Highway 8, Winona, Ontario

Phone: 289-933-2306

Bridgmans’ Farm

Visit Bridgman’s for sweet and tart cherries in July and come back for peaches, apples and more! We charge by the basket and will supply 7 litre, 4 litre and 3 litre baskets which are included in the price. You can bring your own baskets of these sizes and receive a small credit. Payment is by cash and debit.

Address: 20 Bridgman Lane, Winona ON

Phone: (905) 643-1506

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post It’s Cherry Picking Season! Here’s Where to Pick Cherries Nearby appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Hamilton Farm Crawl https://activeparents.ca/farm-crawl-hamilton/ Mon, 17 Jun 2024 21:10:47 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=71340 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!

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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!

Photo courtesy of https://depositphotos.com/

When is the event?

Farm Crawl dates are June 22, July 27, and Sept. 14, 2024.  Participating farms will be open from 10 am – 4 pm for visitors with tickets.  You may visit multiple farms on the day(s) of the event.

Where are the farms?

There are 10 farms participating in June Farm Crawl 2024.  The farms on the June schedule are:

  • Angora Springs

  • Hearts Content

  • Jerry’s Berries & Lotsa Hostas

  • Manorun Farm

  • Liberty Way Farm

  • Simpler Thyme

  • West Avenue Cider

  • Rock Maple Lodge

  • Summit Station Dairy

  • Between the Vines

Read more about each farm here. By visiting all of the different farms you’ll see animals, plants, flowers, herbs, maple syrup and more. 

How much does it cost?

Ticket fees go towards marketing, advertising and running the event.  Purchase tickets online in advance or on the day of the event.  Tickets cost $35 for a family.  Individual tickets are $17.50 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for children. You can also get a season pass for $50. Be prepared to show your tickets upon entering each of the farms.

Is there anything else I should know?

Farm Crawl runs rain or shine.  Please leave your pets at home.  There is no shuttle bus between the farms, and you should budget 10-30 minutes drive time between farms.

Spend the day outdoors learning from local farmers about where our food comes from and return home with healthy and organic ingredients for a yummy meal to feed to your family!

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> 9 Beautiful Beaches Families Love Near Burlington, Hamilton https://activeparents.ca/local-beaches-near-burlington/ https://activeparents.ca/local-beaches-near-burlington/#comments Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=11086 There are so many beautiful beaches in Hamilton and Burlington! Most are free or cost a small fee to visit for the day. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach near Hamilton or the surrounding area.

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Updated for 2024

There are so many beautiful beaches in Hamilton and Burlington! Most are free or cost a small fee to visit for the day. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach near Hamilton or the surrounding area. They are close by, and each offers something a little different from the others.

We’ve gathered information on the best beaches near Burlington, Hamilton and Niagara to help you plan a beach day to remember.

Notice: Some beaches close when the water isn’t safe for swimming. Further down in this list, you’ll find links to water safety resources.

More Fun In The Water:

Burlington Beach

Address: 1100 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington, ON L7S 1A7 | website

My favourite thing about Burlington Beach is its proximity to my home! This is one of the most popular beaches near me, and we spend a lot of time here every season. This spot is a popular destination, so expect crowds on hot days.

Burlington Beach has a sandy shore and shallow water. You can walk far into the lake and the water won’t go higher than 4 feet. 

Plan for a full day at Burlington Beach because they have washrooms, outdoor showers, a snack bar and a playground, too. With its popularity, parking can be difficult. Arrive early to get a parking spot, and if possible visit on a weekday.

You can find the parking prices and restrictions here.

Burlington Beach photo c/o Inside Halton
Burlington Beach photo c/o Inside Halton

Christie Lake Conservation Area

Address: 1000 ON-5, Dundas, ON L9H 5E2 | website

Christie Lake has a 360-metre-long sandy beach and is a great location to enjoy the sun! Build sandcastles, get some tanning done and relish the views of the conservation area. As far as local beaches go, this one is just a stone’s throw away!

Our readers rate this as one of the best beaches in Hamilton, especially for canoeing and paddle boarding. Extend your visit and play some disc golf.

No reservations are required. Watch their Twitter page for real-time capacity updates. Hamilton Conservation will close access and parking when they reach capacity. Admission to the conservation area is required. Fees are: Per 1 vehicle and driver: $16.00, Per passenger over 5 years of age: $5.00, Walk/bike in: $5.00.

Christie Lake at Christie Conservation area in Hamilton

Kelso Beach

Address: 5234 Kelso Road, Milton, ON, L9E 0C6 | website

Did you know we had such a great beach so close to home? Kelso Beach has a lake for swimming, camping, picnics, canoe rentals, and stand-up paddle boarding. There is a lifeguard on duty. 

Reservations are required. Kelso Beach is part of a 35-hectare lake. Lots of room to play with kids, put chairs on the beach, sunbathe, and play volleyball. After your swim, grab a snack at the beach concession stand.

While you’re here, you can also take a stroll along the boardwalk, try a boat rental, or go fishing.

Pricing: Adults $10.50, Seniors $8.25, Kids 5-14 $7.25, Kids under 5 are free. Reservations are suggested.

Halton Region performs regular checks of the water quality. It’s part of their Beach Monitoring Program. They check many beaches, including Kelso Beach. Click here to see the current water quality conditions at Kelso.

Kelso Beach Swimming-CH
photo courtesy of Halton Conservation

Emerald Lake

Address: 7248 Gore Rd. Puslinch, ON N0B 2J0 | website

Emerald Lake is a local favourite and our readers thought it was one of the best beaches near Hamilton! It has everything you could want for a day at the beach – and then some! This RV resort and water park is a popular destination for families because of its numerous amenities.

At Emerald Lake, you can enjoy the 5-acre spring-fed lake and the 5-acre spring-fed quarry. The quarry has a water trampoline, a rock climbing wall and a catapult. You’ll also have access to the 2′ deep kiddie pool, the 200′ water slide, their 3,200-square-foot splash pad, beach volleyball courts and a basketball court.

Families of all ages rank this as one of their favourite beaches near Hamilton.

Pricing:

  • Ages 3 & under are free

  • (Weekdays) $20 + TX  (ages 4 – 64)

  • (Weekends) $25 + TX (ages 4 – 64)

  • (Seniors – Everyday) $13.27 + TX = $15

Some notes from Emerald Lake’s website: No reservations necessary to visit the waterpark for the day. We do have lifeguards on duty, but it is your responsibility as parents to watch your children. No one under the age of 12 is permitted to go to the water park without adult supervision.

Local Beaches - Emerald Lake
photo courtesy of emeraldlake.ca

Lakeside Park Beach, Port Dalhousie

Address: 1 Lakeport Rd., St. Catharines, ON, L2N 5B3 | website

This has always been one of our favourite beaches near Burlington and Hamilton. The shallow Lake Ontario water is great for younger kids to play in. The sand was warm and perfect for castle building and beach volleyball. They also have a snack bar in case you forget drinks. The beach itself is free to access, but you do need to pay for parking in the lot.

But possibly the best feature is the working antique carousel at Lakeside Park Beach in Port Dalhousie. It’s over 100 years old and each ride is only 25 cents! This is a staple on the ActiveParents summer bucket list!

Local Beaches - Lakeside Park Beach
photo courtesy of trip advisor

Valens Conservation Area

Address: 1691 Regional 97 Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S7 | website

Valens is another one of the Hamilton beaches that has glowing reviews from seasoned campers. Readers raved to us about the facilities and cleanliness. I love the swimming area at Valens. We got multiple times throughout the summer.

Spend the day, or camp overnight, rent a canoe and unwind with the family.

No reservations are required. If the beach reaches capacity, Hamilton Conservation will close the parking lot and beach access. Watch their Twitter page for real-time capacity updates. Admission to the conservation area is required. Fees are: Per 1 vehicle and driver: $16.00, Per passenger over 5 years of age: $5.00, Walk/bike in: $5.00.

Local Beaches - Valens Lake
Valens Conservation Area photo courtesy of conservation hamilton

Bay Beach – also known as Crystal Beach

Address: 4155 Erie Road, Fort Erie, ON | website

The beautiful, clear waters are where Crystal Beach in Fort Erie got its name. The waters are ideal for canoeing and kayaking, some stand-up paddle-boarding, and swimming. Washrooms and change rooms are available for your convenience. Please leave your pets at home, they are not permitted on the beach.

Non-Residents can purchase a day pass to visit Crystal Beach. When you visit on a weekday, passes are $5 per person. When you visit on a holiday or Friday through Saturday, passes are $10 per person. Children 12 years and under are free. 

Residents can purchase a full season pass for only $10 per person. You need to be a taxpayer, and it covers all household members. To help lower costs for families, children 12 years old and under can access the beach for free all season.

Bay Beach photo courtesy of Town of Fort Erie
Bay Beach photo courtesy of Town of Fort Erie

Turkey Point

Address: 194 Turkey Point Rd., Turkey Point, N0E 1T0 | website

Not exactly one of the beaches near Burlington, but this one comes highly recommended so we added it. Turkey Point is an Ontario Provincial Park and it’s open May 3, 2024 to October 27, 2024. It is a 2km wide beach boasting beautiful sand and ideal conditions for busy families. Turkey Point doesn’t have lifeguards on duty.

Life jackets are available to rent, and both paid and free parking are available close to the beach.

Local Beaches - Turkey Point Beach
photo courtesy of Ontario Parks

Long Point

Address: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0 | website

Long Point is another Provincial Park that we highly recommend. I think it’s one of the best beaches near Burlington. Lots of families raved about it and we finally made it there last summer.

The beach is massive and clean, and the Lake Erie water was great. The parking lot fills up quickly, and people come and go all day long. Street parking is also available in various locations. I took this photo below when we were there, and although it looks busy, there was a ton of space. We didn’t have anyone within 10 feet of us the whole time. 

Long Point Provincial Park Beach
Long Point Provincial Park Beach

Know Before You Go…

Wondering if the water is clean and clear? We like to use a few resources to check before we jump into any body of water. Use one, or try a few and make sure they’re all on the same page.

Halton Region’s official water safety resource

Hamilton’s official water quality resource

Niagara’s official beach water testing results

If you’ve been to one of these beaches, share your review below and let other families know what to expect from their day trip. And please use the easy share buttons below to share this story with your friends!

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> https://activeparents.ca/local-beaches-near-burlington/feed/ 3 9 Outdoor Waterparks You Must Visit This Summer https://activeparents.ca/outdoor-waterparks/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:52:03 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=44291 Visiting a waterpark in the summer is one of the more exciting things to do with your kids. We've rounded up all of the waterparks near Hamilton, Niagara and the GTA to help you plan an awesome summertime day trip with your family.

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Visiting a waterpark in the summer is one of the more exciting things to do with your kids. We’ve rounded up all of the waterparks near Hamilton, Niagara and the GTA to help you plan an awesome summertime day trip with your family. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

To help you decide which waterpark to visit next, we have recapped their top features, this year’s prices for 2024, onsite food options and more. We answer your most asked questions and connect you with the attraction website, too!

More thrills for the whole family

Wild Waterworks in Hamilton, Ontario
credit Wild Waterworks in Hamilton, Ontario

Wild Waterworks

Opening Date June 22, 2024

This Hamilton area summer staple will be back again! Located along the waterfront and easily accessed from the highway, this awesome water park boasts a Little Squirt Works kids area, an Eazy River, and multiple Body Slides and Tube Slides. And of course, you can’t forget their famous Wave Pool!

Our readers voted it the best waterpark near Hamilton. Every age will enjoy visiting Wild Waterworks!

2024 Pricing

  • General (ages 11-64) $31.24

  • Children (ages 3-10) $20.04

  • Persons with a disability/their Attendant (each) $20.04

  • Senior (65+ years of age) $26.90

  • Toddler (Children 2 and under) FREE

Know Before You Go

  • Three Restaurants to choose from

  • Outside Food Permitted

  • Parking is free

  • Life jackets are available for free on a first come first served basis

Address: 680 Van Wagners Beach Road, Hamilton

wild-waterworks.com

Wet N Wild Toronto
credit Wet N Wild Toronto

Wet N Wild Toronto

Opening on June 10th!

This GTA favourite is back and better than ever. This huge water park includes Wet N Wild Jr, multiple Body Slides and Tube Slides, and even some Mat Slides for racing! It also offers a Wave Pool, Lazy River and a Water Play Structure so there’s something for everyone at Wet N Wild!

2024 Pricing

  • Over 48″ – $54.95 per person when purchased online (save $10 off when you buy online for a limited time)

  • Under 48” and Seniors – $39.95 per person when purchased online

Good To Know

  • Life Jackets are available for free on a first come first served basis

  • Children under 2 years of age are free

  • Four Restaurants on site

  • Outside food is not permitted

  • Parking is $20 per car

Address: 7855 Finch Ave. W, Brampton

wetnwildtoronto.com

Funsplash waterpark in Hamilton
credit FunSplash Hamilton

FunSplash Hamilton

Opening June 24th!

This unique attraction isn’t your usual water park! It offers 25 different and unique obstacles on inflatables in the lake! Located in the Binbrook Conservation Area, it’s a great destination for families with kids over 6!

Pricing for 2024

  • $25 for two hours (does not include entry fee into the conservation area)

  • $20 for kids ages 4-6 for the small splash park

  • $35 for an all day pass to the large park, $30 for the small park

Know Before You Go

  • Ages 6 and up!

  • Must wear provided PFD

  • Prices are per person, include tax and are the same for children and adults. Price does NOT include the conservation park pass needed to enter the Binbrook Conservation Area. 

Address: 5050 Harrison Road, Binbrook at Binbrook Conservation Area

funsplashsportspark.ca/hamilton/

Bingemans Big Splash
credit Bingemans Big Splash

Bingemans Big Splash

Opening June 22, 2024!

Waterloo Region’s first water park offers multiple tube and body slides, along with a wave pool! They also have a Spray N Play water playground to enjoy.

2024 Pricing

  • Over 48” tall: $43.95 per person at the gate or $39.95 online

  • Under 48” tall: $31.95 at the gate or $26.95 online

  • Under 2: Free

Know Before You Go

  • Life jackets are available for free on a first come first served basis

  • Five Restaurants

  • Outside food and drink are not permitted.

Address: 425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener, ON N2B 3X7

bingemans.com/bigsplash/

Earl Haig Family Fun Park
credit Earl Haig Family Fun Park

Earl Haig Family Fun Park

Earl Haig Family Fun Park will open for the season on June 2, 2024.

Slide into summer and visit Brantford’s Earl Haig Family Fun Park! Bring your friends and family and enjoy a variety of activities and attractions including a splash pad, leisure pool with waterslide, lazy river, mini-putt, batting cages and Snack Shack. Check the website for hours and holiday hours.

2024 Pricing:

Age category Rate
Youth (3 – 14 years) $8.25
Adult $11.65
Senior (65+) $9.70
Two Years and Under $3.00

Know Before You Go

  • You can bring your own food and drink, excluding alcoholic beverages.

  • Earl’s Snack Shack is also open for snacks and hot food. 

  • A refundable deposit of $10.00 is required for locker keys, lifejackets and tube rentals.

  • You can also rent shelters in 2 sizes (50 people and 100 people) and beach volleyball courts.

Address: 101 Market Street South, Brantford, Ontario

brantford.ca/en/things-to-do/earl-haig-family-fun-park-brantford.aspx

Popular Attractions with Amazing Waterparks!

Emerald Lake
credit Emerald Lake

Emerald lake

Experience a day of water fun in our five-acre pollution-free, spring-fed quarry lake.

  • Waterpark opens on May 21st, Victoria Day, and weekends only until June 22nd.

  • Open 7 days a week from Friday, June 23rd until the end of the day on Sunday of the Labour Day long weekend in September.

  • The waterpark will be closed completely on Labour Day Monday for the year 2024.

(No one will be admitted into the waterpark after 6:30 pm). All Hours Weather Permitting.

2024 Pricing

  • Ages 3 and under are free

  • (Weekdays) $17.70 + TX = $20 (ages 4 – 64)

  • (Weekends) 22.13 + TX = $25 (ages 4 – 64)

  • (Seniors – Everyday) $13.27 + TX = $15

Water Park Includes:

  • Snack bar

  • Life jacket rental available (or bring your own)

  • 5-acre spring-fed quarry 15 to 40 feet deep, with high and low diving area.

  • Watertoys in the quarry include trampolines, a rock-climbing wall, Saturn, teeter-totter, and jungle joe plus an obstacle course!

  • Lots of picnic areas

  • Large 2-foot deep kiddie pool with water jets

  • Kids playground

  • 18 regulation-size sand volleyball courts throughout the waterpark

  • Basketball courts

  • Sandy beach area

  • Lots of great picnic areas with picnic tables

Address: 7248 Gore Rd. Puslinch, ON N0B 2J0

emeraldlake.ca/water-park

Splash Works at Canada’s Wonderland

Open for the season!

Probably the best-known waterpark in the area, Canada’s Wonderland SplashWorks is an incredible destination for summer fun. Included in your Wonderland entrance fee, it turns a hot summer day into cooled-down fun! With 17 water slides and water attractions, there’s something for everyone. Hours fluctuate between 11 am – 6 pm or 7 pm. Read about Canada’s Wonderland here.

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan

Splash Island at Toronto Zoo

Starting June 18, Open Daily!* (*Except Monday, June 24)
Monday to Friday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Weekends: 10:00am – 6:00pm

From June 28 – September 2, Open Daily
10:00am to 6:00pm

Free with Zoo Admission

Looking to cool down while you visit the animals? The Splash Island at Toronto Zoo is a great destination inside this world-famous zoo! With water slides, splash pads, and a water playground, you’ll have a great time playing no matter how old! Splash Island is open from 10 am – 6 pm.

Misumu Bay Splash Park at African Lion Safari

Open May 18 – Sept. 2, 2024!

Included in Safari admission – learn about African Lion Safari here

Heading on a safari this summer? Be sure to stop by Misumu Bay while you’re at it! This kid’s splash and water park is a fun destination for the younger ones. Offering slides, tipping buckets and many play structures, it’s the perfect way to cool off!

Know Before You Go

  • Height restriction of 38′

  • Opens daily at 11 am

  • Closes weekdays at 5:30 pm

  • Closes weekends at 7 pm

1386 Cooper Road, Cambridge

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post 9 Outdoor Waterparks You Must Visit This Summer appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> Where To See Trains: 8 Places in Halton, Hamilton & Beyond https://activeparents.ca/where-to-see-trains/ https://activeparents.ca/where-to-see-trains/#comments Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:04:50 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=57274 Wondering where to see trains nearby? If you’re a train enthusiast or simply love the charm of locomotives, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic places near you where you can witness the beauty of trains up close. Here’s a list of must-visit locations.

The post Where To See Trains: 8 Places in Halton, Hamilton & Beyond appeared first on Active Parents.

]]>

Wondering where to see trains nearby? If you’re a train enthusiast or simply love the charm of locomotives, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic places near you where you can witness the beauty of trains up close. Here’s a list of must-visit locations.

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train (seasonal)

Various locations (visited 168 communities in 2022) across Canada and the USA

The CP Holiday Train started in 1999, travelling across Canada and the USA in November and December, making stops, hosting concerts, and collecting money and food for people in need.  The website has a train tracker once the Holiday Train has started.  Watch for local stops in November and December. While the Holiday Train does not offer rides, it does deliver holiday cheer! Enjoy the free concerts and be sure to bring donations for the food bank.

Freeman Station Rail Museum

1285 Fairview St, Burlington, ON L7S 1Y3 | website

(Currently closed) Wondering where to see trains in Burlington? The Station was built in 1906 by the Grand Trunk Railway and moved to its current location and restored by the Friends of Freeman Station volunteers.  It is open for public events, class visits and private rentals. Visit the Station to learn about Burlington rail and telecommunications history.  There’s a lovingly restored 1913 Canadian Pacific Boxcar and a 1929 Canadian National Caboose onsite. When you’re there be sure to check out the model electric train diorama.  Accessible parking and washrooms.

Freeman Station in Burlington
Freeman Station in Burlington

Halton County Radical Railway

13629 Guelph Line, Milton, ON

Halton County Radical Railway (HCRR) has historical trains, streetcars and railway objects.  There’s 2 km of track and operating streetcars.  Take a ride and get off for an ice cream.  The HCRR is owned and operated by the Ontario Electric Railway Historical Association.  It is open weekends in June and Thurs to Mon in July and August from 10 am – 5 pm.  Streetcars operate from 11 am – 4:30 pm. Pay per entry or purchase a family pass for 2 adults and 2 children for $70 for one time or $125 for unlimited visits.  If you have a young train enthusiast in the family or you are looking for a unique birthday party idea, the Halton County Radical Railway does birthday parties.

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology

900 Woodward Ave, Hamilton, Ontario L8H 7N2 | website

Known as the Steam Museum, the Museum offers Train Days by the Golden Horseshoe Live Steamers in the summer and into the fall.  Train Days is a free event included with Museum entry that is by donation held on select days each summer.  Ride on a miniature steam train for free around the grounds.  Kids are gonna love it.  Check the Active Parents calendar for upcoming Train Days events. 

Dundas Valley Conservation Area

650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E3 | website

At Dundas Valley Conservation Area, visitors can discover a unique attraction—a decommissioned train. This vintage train car, nestled amidst the natural beauty, serves as a fascinating reminder of the area’s history. It offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore its interiors and imagine the journeys it once embarked upon. The train car as well as a replica of a Victorian train station stands as a captivating feature, blending heritage with nature in this picturesque conservation area.

Visit this retired train car at Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Port Stanley Terminal Rail

Port Stanley Terminal Rail, 309 Bridge Street, Port Stanley, Ontario, N5L 1C5 | website

Welcome to Post Stanley, home to a tourist railway that’s been operating for 40 years.  There’s a 1-hour train ride and a 6-hour train ride departing from the Port Stanley Terminal.  The 1-hour Scenic Train Ride is a deal at $15 for adults and $9 for children aged 2 – 14 years.  Free for infants 1 and under. Train rides are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm in May and June. Young kids will also enjoy the special event trains: Easter Bunny Trains, Teddy Bear Trains, Moms Day and Dads Day, Extended Parkside Trip, Music on the Rails. Murder Mystery, Pumpkin Patch and Santa Trains.   The gift shop has train-themed merchandise, Melissa & Doug, Thomas the Tank Engine and other children’s books and toys.  Train tickets may be purchased online or in the gift shop.

Waterloo Central Railway

50 Isabella Street, St. Jacobs, ON, N0B 2N0 | website

The Heritage Hopper is a fun family afternoon train excursion with hop-on and hop-off stops along the way from Waterloo to St. Jacobs.  It makes stops at Northfield, Farmer’s Market and finally St. Jacobs.  Ride on a restored steam train and shop for fresh local produce.  There’s separate pricing for first class, coach, child, adult and senior.  A family pass for 4 costs $74.99.  Watch for themed trains for the holidays, specifically at Easter and Christmas.

Visit Westfield Heritage Village

Westfield Heritage Village, 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, Ontario L0R 1X0 | website

A trip to Westfield Heritage Village is a trip back in time and there’s the historic Jerseyville station and Locomotive 103 steam train to explore.  The locomotive was built in 1910 by Montreal Locomotive Works.  It’s been fully restored, is the largest artifact in the Village, and is used in programming, photo shoots and movies.  Parking at the Conservation Area is $11 per car and admission is $5 per person aged 6 years and up.

Westfield Heritage Village
This beauty is located at Westfield Heritage Village

Local GO Train and Via Rail Stations

You don’t have to travel far to find a go train station or a via rail station in our region. The stations are busy and exciting, no matter the time of day. You can watch from afar or get an up-close look from the platform. Trains go whizzing by all day and passengers love to exchange waves.

Upcoming Events Train Fans Might Like

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

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Burlington Touch a Truck

Mainway Recreation Centre 4015 Mainway, Burlington, ON, Canada

Get an up-close look at City vehicles, including a Burlington Transit bus, street sweeper, snowplow, fire truck, zamboni, and more. Visit and learn about the services provided by City staff […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

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Niagara Community Safety Day

Niagara Safety Village 100 Niagara College Blvd, Welland, ON, Canada

You're invited to our annual Community Safety Day! Bring the whole family for a day packed with excitement and learning. Kids will have a blast getting hands-on with demonstrations and […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Kitchener Touch a Truck

Kitchener Memorial Auditorium 400 East Ave, Kitchener, ON, Canada

Come together with fellow industry professionals for an engaging, educational event for families in your area. Both children and parents will have the chance to interact closely with different types […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

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$12

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
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Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12
Featured Featured

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum

Joseph Brant Museum 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 […]

$12

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

The post Where To See Trains: 8 Places in Halton, Hamilton & Beyond appeared first on Active Parents.

]]> https://activeparents.ca/where-to-see-trains/feed/ 1 50+ Fun Date Night Ideas You Need To Put On Your Calendar https://activeparents.ca/date-night-ideas/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:00:34 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=54849 Discover the best date night ideas in southern Ontario. Our curated list of day dates, free dates, outdoor dates and more grows all the time to provide couples with more inspiration to spend one-on-one time together.

The post 50+ Fun Date Night Ideas You Need To Put On Your Calendar appeared first on Active Parents.

]]>

Discover the best date night ideas in southern Ontario. Our curated list of day dates, free dates, outdoor dates and more grows all the time to provide couples with more inspiration to spend one-on-one time together.

Discover the best date night ideas for couples in Halton, Hamilton, Niagara and Waterloo

Parents need a break from family life to recharge and rekindle.  It’s so important to take time away and rediscover who you are when you’re not changing diapers or driving to practice. We are sharing some fun date night ideas that are even closer to home.  Whether you are looking for quiet or exciting, we’ve got you covered.

Jump To A Category

Music and Movies | Food & Wine | Spas | Live Theatre | Take a Class | Play Games | Be A Tourist | Enjoy Nature | Be Active | Watch Live Sports

Music and Movies

For Music Lovers

The Royal Botanical Gardens have special year-round events for ages 19+.  Enjoy the beautiful gardens outdoors or indoors, stroll through a special exhibit or listen to live music while nibbling on delicious appetizers and sipping a glass of beer or wine.  Purchase tickets online for After Dark events. Admission to the WinterTide T.U. Jazz Fest is only $15. If you missed out on WinterTide, don’t worry, the RBG also hosts a summer concert series.

Take your sweetheart for live music, drinks, and appetizers at Uptown Social.  Duelling pianos entertain the crowd every Thursday from 7-10 pm and Friday and Saturday from 9 pm-12 am.  Be sure to reserve your table in advance by calling (905) 331-4700. 

For The Cinephiles

Treat yourself to a new release or a popular classic showing at The Westdale in Hamilton. This theatre has been an important part of Westdale since it opened in 1935. The Westdale Cinema also showcases art and independent films. Films selected for screening are thoughtfully curated, ensuring we show the best of independent films and documentaries, interweaved with cinematic classics and all-time favourites, giving special attention to showcasing diverse Canadian works.

See a movie and share a bucket of popcorn.  We also love that these indie movie theatres offer you big savings on tickets and concessions! You may also enjoy blockbuster movies at Landmark Cinemas.

To save on tickets and watch international films, you could go to Film.ca in Oakville or Cinestarz in Burlington.  Tickets at Film.ca are $10 for general admission and $6.50 on Tuesdays.  Tickets at Cinestarz are only $9 for general admission, $7 for matinees and $5 on Tuesdays.

Summer Outdoor Movie Nights

Grab a lawn chair or a soft blanket and watch a movie under the stars. Movie schedules are announced in early June, so keep your eyes on our calendar and details.

Read More: 8 tips to find an awesome babysitter

Food and Wine

Date Night Ideas For Foodies

Tourism Burlington runs Taste of Burlington, a Prix-Fixe Program 2 times a year, in the winter and again in the fall.  It’s the perfect occasion to have a lunch date or dinner date at a restaurant you haven’t been to before.  Prix-Fixe meals include a starter, entrée and dessert.  Lunch prices range from $15-$45 per person depending on the restaurant, and dinner from $40-$79 per person.  Participating restaurants include casual to fine dining with menus that feature burgers, pizza or burritos to pasta, steak, and salads.  Take the opportunity to have a date night at a participating Taste of Burlington restaurant of your choice.

Taste of Oakville also runs each winter.  Taste of Oakville has Prix-Fixe lunch and dinner menus at 30+ restaurants, and some with live music.  Even after Taste of Oakville has ended it’s still a great idea to check out their list of participating restaurants for date night ideas.

Go very casual and snare an order of the best french fries in town, according to the locals.

Date Night Ideas For the Wine, Beer & Cider Fans

If you are looking for a date night that includes a drive in the countryside, head towards wine country and treat yourself to a glass of home-grown wine from Niagara Wineries. Here are some top recommendations from our wine-loving crowd.  

The Edison Room at the Block Co. serves up gourmet charcuterie, wine and local craft beer.  Reserve a table with your someone special to hear Juno award-winning musicians play on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm.

Redstone Winery and Restaurant, in addition to delicious food and wine, also hosts outdoor concerts in the warm weather

13th Street Winery has fire pits, a sculpture garden, an art gallery and a bakery onsite.  They also have the best butter tarts – you’re welcome.

If you prefer craft beer, we recommend these breweries.

Burlington’s own Nickel Brook Brewery has beer, cocktails, root beer and ginger beer. They have a tap room in Etobicoke too.

Newark Brewery has a great selection of food and Canadian-made beers with a European flair. Visit any day, or make a special trip for one of their trivia nights.

Collective Arts Brewery and Beergarden is open daily and is also pet paws-itive so feel free to bring your little furry friend on your date. Very photo-worthy.

Waterloo Brewing and Taphouse is calling you if you love good food and great beer. Waterloo Brewing is Ontario’s first and largest craft brewer.

And if cider is more your thing you’ll enjoy this local gem.

Explore the orchards and enjoy a glass or 2 of crisp cider at West Avenue Cider House. Watch their website for fun events.

Read More: Can’t get away soon? Take the kids and enjoy a dinner out where kids eat free

Spa Dates

Book a couples massage at a spa and relax and unwind together. Go for the day or stay over. We have the scoop on the best day spas near us.

Live Theatre

There’s always a full calendar of events at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, Village Theatre Waterdown, and the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts.  Take your date for comedy, dance, music, theatre and more. Support up-and-coming actors and actresses by taking your date to a Theatre Sheridan performance.  These performances are outstanding, super convenient and good value for money with tickets starting at just $20, and $15 for students and seniors.

Local Performing Arts Venues

  • Burlington Performing Arts Centre – 440 Locust Street, Burlington

  • Theatre Sheridan – 1430 Trafalgar Road, Oakville

  • Oakville Center for the Performing Arts – 130 Navy Street, Oakville

  • Theatre Ancaster – 357 Wilson St E, Ancaster

  • Village Theatre Waterdown – 317 Dundas Street East, Waterdown

  • Theatre Aquarius – 190 King William St, Hamilton

  • First Ontario Performing Arts Centre – 250 St Paul St, St. Catharines

  • Shaw Festival Theatre – 10 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake

  • Hamilton Family Theatre – 46 Grand Ave S, Cambridge, ON

Get Hands-On With a Class

Cooking Classes For Adults

As an alternative to eating out, register for a cooking class, prepare something delicious and enjoy your meals together.  Learn a new recipe to entertain and feed your friends.  Longo’s offers adult cooking classes starting at $40 per person. 

Pottery Throwing Classes

For those more into fine arts than culinary arts, try a wheel workshop at Crackpot Studio in Oakville.  Also in Oakville, Pottery N Paint Café offers pottery and painting workshops for couples, groups and individuals.  The Pottery Wheel Try Me session is perfect for first-timers.  Creative Insight Pottery & More in Waterdown offers Saturday Nights Pottery and Wine and Saturday Adult Paint and Sip Nights events regularly. 

Enjoy a Sweet Retreat

Who can resist quality chocolate?  Book a chocolate-tasting tour at Chocolate Tales in Hamilton.  Their pair their house-made chocolate with beer, wine, and more! You can even learn to make truffles and macarons!

Date Night Ideas For Couples Who Like To Play Games

Board Game Cafes are the perfect first date or casual date for anyone who loves having fun while being slightly competitive. Hundreds, even thousands of board games await your visit. Many are licensed to serve alcohol and food and they are just begging to be visited. With a small per-person playing fee ($5-10) this is an inexpensive way to spend an evening out. Check out 10+ area board game cafes here.

Be a tourist

Consider a day date to see some local attractions.  Chances are if you grew up in the same city you’re living in now, you’ve never done all of the local attractions.

Stay in Halton and Hamilton and visit a local art gallery or museum, the Joseph Brant Museum or the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.  You can even make memories by booking a flight aboard one of their vintage aircraft! 

Make your way to Niagara and take in the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake complete with wineries, cute food emporiums and beautiful scenery.

For more small-town charm, be sure to visit St. Catharines and hop a ride on their Antique Carousel in the park.

You can squeeze a ton of fun into a single day in Stratford, Ontario.

More tourist destinations we enjoy:

Little Canada is a miniature collection of Canadian landmarks, located in Toronto’s bustling Younge Dundas Square and easily accessible by GO Train.

Bird Kingdom is home to exotic birds, both large and small, as well as a menagerie of other animals.

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is a tropical getaway and will have you feeling like you’re in an enchanted forest.

Date Nights For Nature Lovers

Take your special someone to wander the trails and smell the roses at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Their events calendar is always full, and the Rock Garden is a peaceful and romantic destination.

The University of Guelph Arboretum is home to thousands of native trees, plants and blooms. The packed gravel pathways are bike-friendly and perfect for strolling along.

Choose a low-impact trail to explore if the weather is cooperating. Our list includes paved and packed pathways that are perfect if you don’t want to break a sweat.

If you can get away overnight, we highly suggest you treat yourselves to a Glamping Getaway at Four Corners Algonquin. We did and it was one of our fave weekends to date. So simple and peaceful and luxurious!

Keep it casual and pick up some fresh ingredients from the farmer’s market and make a fab dinner at home.

Just as summer is winding down, we are treated to fields upon fields of blooming sunflowers. Snap a photo or two and even pick your own at certain fields.

Active Date Night Ideas

If sitting and sharing a quiet meal is not your preference, consider a more active outdoor date. We know some great low-impact places to hike so you can chat and wander without getting out of breath.

Mini golf is a staple date night idea because it’s casual enough to be fun and silly, but you can turn up the competition a little too. Play outdoors in the good weather or all year long at this indoor glow-in-the-dark course in Oakville.

Teach one of your favourite pastimes to your partner when you take them like hiking, fishing, footgolf, or an indoor bowling date. 

Need a great idea for a winter day date? Hit the hills for some exhilarating snow tubing. We know the best local hills, and some even let you go tandem. Very romantic. How about an evening on the ice? These local outdoor ice skating rinks are perfect for just that.

Prove your trust(and trustworthiness) when you belay for each other at The Hub indoor climbing centre in Mississauga. You can’t miss the massive dragon!

Catch A Local Game Live

Where To Watch Local Sports

Our four seasons mean we have 365 days of sporting events to look forward to. Get your tickets and your popcorn, and cheer on these home town teams.

The Intercounty Baseball League has teams across the region. Baseball season opens in May and runs through the end of August. The league is made up of 9 teams from southern Ontario, with special mention to the Hamilton Cardinals, Kitchener Panthers, Guelph Royals, and Brantford Red Sox.

The Niagara River Lions are our local Canadian Elite Basketball League Team and let me tell you the games and talent are next level! The CEBL consists of 10 teams across Canada.

You can never go wrong when you catch a Hamilton Ticats football game at Tim Horton’s Field (aka Ivor Wynn Stadium iykyk).

Ride the GO train to Exhibition Place and cheer for TFC (Toronto Football Club) at BMO Field. Go Reds!

And who would we be without a plethora of hockey games to choose from? Hamilton Bulldogs, Niagara IceDogs, Guelph Storm and Kitchener Rangers all play close by, and go head-to-head in Ontario Hockey League (OHL) on-ice action.

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]]> Watch Free Outdoor Movies This Summer https://activeparents.ca/movies-under-the-stars/ Fri, 31 May 2024 15:28:29 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=45555 Back for 2024! Enjoy free outdoor movies near you this summer! Nothing tells you it's summertime like the release of the movies in the park schedule. We've got the whole line-up here for you, so start popping that popcorn!

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Back for 2024! Enjoy free outdoor movies near you this summer! Nothing tells you it’s summertime like the release of the movies in the park schedule!

You may be asking why I love an outdoor movie so much. I’ll tell you! I really think these are the ideal family activity for a summer evening. Very little preparation needs to go into the outing. We sometimes picked up McDonalds or a cheap pizza and ate it picnic-style on the grass before the movie started. Other times we get kid-approved charcuterie-style dinners. For some reason, kids will eat lots of anything when it’s served al fresco!

I don’t know about your kids, but mine loved going to the free outdoor movies in the park in their pajamas, and that made the transition to bed pretty easy. Another win!

My kids loved that this was an event filled with other kids. It was like their version of Coachella haha! Big performance, people everywhere and a very casual vibe. They’ll meet and make new friends and the fresh air will tire them out. Many of the free outdoor movies are help at big park spaces, so there’s usually a playground to enjoy and maybe even a splash pad! Maybe it’s better than Coachella?

Photo courtesy of depositphotos.com

What Should You Bring To Movies In The Park?

You don’t need much to make this casual outdoor activity with kids great. Here’s what we suggest bringing with you to the free outdoor movie night

  • Camping chair or picnic blanket to sit on

  • Drinks and snacks for everyone

  • Wear your fave jammies

  • Bring a small blanket just in case the temp drops once the sun goes down

  • Bug spray – just in case

  • Something to do before the movie starts – a frisbee, a ball, skipping rope, a scooter, an activity book, etc.

What Free Outdoor Movies Are Playing in 2024?

Here is the list of scheduled dates and locations for Movies Under The Stars in Burlington. Movies are shown on Thursdays and will start at 9 pm, and the locations rotate through different Burlington parks.

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Today

Movie Night at Niagara Outlets

Niagara Outlets 300 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, Canada

Join us in watching Shrek 2 at the Outlet Collection at Niagara on Friday June 27th. Bring your chair or blanket and friends and family for this free outdoor movie! […]

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]]> 100 Days of Fun: Summer Event Calendars For June, July and August https://activeparents.ca/summer-events-calendars/ https://activeparents.ca/summer-events-calendars/#respond Thu, 30 May 2024 13:00:06 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=70734 Fill your summer break with FUN thanks to our June, July and August calendars that offer you something AWESOME to do every day!

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The best part about summer break is all that free time. But the overwhelming part of summer break is all that free time! Don’t stress, because here at Active Parents we are well versed in finding great things to do in your community and close by.

We’ve created these summer event calendar highlighting 3 months of great things happening near you through June, July and August. Our regions are firing up with summer festivals, outdoor movies, free community concerts, beach days and so much more. It’s an exciting time to be a local, don’t you agree?!

Our June, July and August summer event calendars are your cure for summer boredom and the key to making some serious memories with the kiddos this year.


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image promoting our summer events calendars available for downloads

What’s So Special About Our Summer Event Calendars?

Our summer event calendars can be used in a variety of ways to make your summer so much easier. Here is some inspiration:

Download the calendars from our drive and they will have a linked event or blog to give you complete details. Everything from the beach beaches to play visit, the coolest splash pads to chill out at and of course the best in free kid-friendly activities all summer long. Download our calendars to your phone, tablet or desktop and the links will be active and ready for you when you need them.

You can print our calendars, too! Post them on your fridge or keep them in your purse. Circle all of the most-do activities for your bucket list and cross them off as you go!

Keep us in the loop! Tag us on Instagram when you cross and activity off you summer event calendars!


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]]> https://activeparents.ca/summer-events-calendars/feed/ 0 Pick-Your-Own Strawberries in Niagara https://activeparents.ca/strawberry-picking-in-niagara/ Thu, 23 May 2024 16:00:48 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=44488 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!

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Strawberries are at their peak sweetness in the early days of summer – June and July. The farms we’ve listed below offer strawberry picking in Niagara, Ontario and the surrounding region.

Is There Strawberry Picking Near Me in Niagara Region?

There most certainly is! Our guide to 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! As with all weather-reliant events and activities, always check with your preferred farm before you head out to pick in case all of their strawberries have been picked. Weather plays a huge part in ripening and how many visitors a farm has. No one wants that kind of disappointment! Most farms have either a hotline with daily updates, active social media pages with daily info or a website. Prices, quantity and quality will vary from farm to farm, as will hours. As this info is released we will update our guide.

Pick Your Own Strawberry Season is Here!

strawberry picking in niagara region niagara strawberry picking

The Best Farms for Strawberry Picking in The Niagara Region

Fenwick Berry Farm

Address: 1760 Balfour St. Fenwick, ON

Formerly called Berry Fresh Farms, Fenwick Berry Farms grows some of the most delicious Ontario strawberries. According to their website, their harvest of strawberries is between May and July, and they also harvest raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries through the summer. You-Pick opens June 16. Pre-Picked Strawberries and other seasonal fruit and veggies from Fenwick Berry Farm can be bought at their market at 1760 Balfour St. in Fenwick.

2023 PYO Strawberry Pricing: Pick your own Strawberries: $3.50/quart or litre (2022 pricing. 2023 pricing not yet available)

Payments accepted: Cash, credit card, debit, and e-transfer accepted at the barn

fenwickberryfarm.ca

DeVries Fruit Farm

825 Canboro Rd., Fenwick, ON

DeVries has a farm market store full of produce from its 200 acre farm, local produce and baking. In early June they also have pick your own strawberries. Call (905) 892.8724 ahead to know what is available and fresh. Store hours are Mon – Fri. 8 am – 6 pm and Sat 8 am – 5 pm.

Payments accepted: Diners Club, Discover, Master Card, Shop Pay & VISA

https://www.devriesfruitfarm.com/

Tigchelaar Farms

Address: 4161 Jordan Road, Jordan Station, L0R 1S0

PYO will begin between June 15 and June 20, 2023. Check Facebook or call (905) 658-2265 to hear a recorded message with daily updates about picking and crop conditions. Make sure to bring containers clearly labeled with metric (litres) measurements to fill with berries, otherwise, suitable new baskets are available to purchase onsite. Farm hours are Mon – Fri 8 am – 7 pm and Sat & holidays from 8 am – 5 pm.

2023 PYO Strawberry Picking: $4.00/ litre

https://tigchelaarberries.com/

Murphy’s Country Produce

Address: 2040 Guyatt Road, R.R. # 1, Binbrook, ON, L0R 1C0

Murphy’s offers so much more than strawberry picking in Niagara Region! This farm has been in the family for over 100 years and has grown to over 60 acres of produce-producing land. While at Murphy’s you can also PYO peas, fava beans, raspberries, zucchini, okra, melons, cucumbers, pickling cukes, slicing cucumbers, green & yellow beans, eggplant, tomatoes, brussels sprouts, romano beans, sweet & hot peppers, pumpkins, squash and more! In addition to their farm, Murphy’s has their own produce stand located right on the farm. The stand is open from the beginning of the strawberry season to the end of October.

The farm offers a small shaded picnic area, with a washstand to clean up after you are done picking. You can buy cold drinks, chips, and chocolate bars on site, or pack a lunch, and make it a fun family day trip! Before you head to the farm to pick your own strawberries, call for a daily crop update: 905-692-5733.

Payments Accepted: Cash Debit, Visa and Mastercard

murphyscountryproduce.com

Hildreth Farms

Address: 5529 Greenlane, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B3

Choose from sweet strawberries or juicy cherries when you arrive to pick your own at Hildreth Farms in Beamsville. But don’t stop there! This Niagara farm also boasts a wide selection of delicious bread, cookies and pastries to go along with your fresh-picked produce. You can follow them on Instagram for daily updates on their harvest and see what’s new in-store. Pick your own opens in June weather permitting.

https://www.hildrethfarms.ca/

Blueberry Knoll Berry Farm

Address: 1091 Hutchinson Road, Lowbanks, ON N0A 1K0

Summer hours start June 14, 2023. The farm is open Mon – Fri 8 am – 6 pm and Sat from 8 am – 5 pm. Pick your own strawberries opens June 14. Bring your own pail from last year or buy a new one – no other containers are permitted. Picking is between 8 am and 4 pm. The last entry for picking is by 4 pm to finish before the farm closes.

2023 Pick your own pricing: 3-litre pail $14 or 5-litre pail $21

Payments Accepted: Cash, Debit & Credit

https://www.blueberryknoll.com/

Looking for More Farms with Strawberry Picking?

The southern Ontario region is blessed with beautiful farmland, and you should explore it all! Choose a new farm every year, or visit a few each season. You really can’t find better quality fruits and vegetables than the ones that just came out of the soil today! Click here and you’ll find our list of farms with PYO strawberries Oakville, Milton and Burlington and this list of Hamilton PYO Strawberry Farms. We know families love picking berries, apples, pumpkins and more. What a great way to teach kids where the food on their dinner plate comes from!

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]]> 7 Niagara Farmer’s Markets Worth Visiting https://activeparents.ca/niagara-farmers-markets/ Mon, 06 May 2024 16:38:24 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=69949 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.

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Niagara farmer’s markets are a great opportunity to buy fresh local produce and meet the people who lovingly grow the fruit and vegetables.  Additionally, many farmer’s markets sell artisanal work, baking and other locally made delicacies.  Some, like the Niagara Falls, Niagara on the Lake and Ridgeway Markets, have weekend entertainment for the family.  Others, like the St. Catharines Farmer’s Market run year- round.

Read More: Click here for Farmer’s Markets in Halton and Hamilton.

Grimsby Farmer’s Market

Grimsby Farmer’s Market has vendors with fresh produce, plants, trees and flowers, meats, cheeses, preserves and treats like nuts, popcorn, and ice cream.  Watch the website for the Christmas Market too and shop local for unique gifts like fudge, baking, cider, and wine barrel décor, for the holiday season.

Address: Main Street Grimsby (between Christie and Ontario Streets)

Hours: Thursdays from 3pm-7pm, early June to early October

Market @ the Village Niagara on the Lake

The Market @ the Village has fresh produce and prepared foods to eggs, cheese, baking, frozen soups, honey and maple syrup to body and home products and jewellery, antiques and gifts.  Enjoy a beverage, eat breakfast or lunch in the picnic area, and be entertained by local musicians.

Address: 111 Garrison Village Drive, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0

Hours: Saturdays 8am-1pm, late May to early October

Niagara Falls Farmer’s Market

The Niagara Falls Farmer’s Market sells fresh farm produce, prepared foods, artisanal goods, and baking.  It’s also worth special mention – the market will also “routinely host a whole range of children’s activities, community initiatives, musicians, and other entertainers.”

Address: The Exchange, 5943 Sylvia Place, Niagara Falls, ON, L2G 1S9

Hours: Saturdays 7 am – 1 pm rain or shine from mid-May to late October

Pelham Farmer’s Market

Support local.  The Pelham Farmer’s Market slogan is “from our gate to your plate.”  The market is an open-air market.  Bring cash.  There is no ATM onsite though some vendors will accept debit or credit.  Go check out the local produce and please leave your pets at home.

Address: Municipal Parking Lot, 20 Pelham Town Square, Fonthill

Hours: Thursdays from 4pm to dusk, May to October

Ridgeway Farmer’s Market

You’ll find fresh produce, baking, artisanal products at the Ridgeway Farmer’s Market.  You’re invited to bring a lawn chair and stay for the music.

Address: 282 Ridge Road North, Fort Erie, ON, L0S 1N0

Hours: seasonally (late May to early October) from 8am-1pm

St. Catharines Farmer’s Market

The St. Catharines Farmer’s Market runs year-round and has a bit of everything from fresh produce to prepared foods, baking, beverage and artisan merchandise like crystals, minerals, wood designs and dyes.  Other vendors sell specialty chocolates, cheeses, meats, and sauces.

Address: 91 King St., St. Catharines, Ontario L2R 3H6

Hours: Year-round on Thursdays from 8 am – 2 pm and Saturdays from 7 am – 1 pm

Welland Farmer’s Market

The Welland Farmer’s Market has been operating since 1907 and is the largest farmer’s market in Niagara.  Vendors sell a variety of fruit and vegetables, meats, and cheeses, baking and artisanal goods.  Among the items listed are cheesecake, chocolates and K9 treats.

Address: 70 Young Street (between Young and Division Streets), Welland, ON

Hours: Saturdays from 7am-12pm

Hot Off The Presses!

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]]> Disc Golf Courses Near You https://activeparents.ca/disc-golf-courses/ Fri, 03 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=55465 Explore diverse settings for disc golf enjoyment! From serene parks and beachfronts to bustling college campuses and sports complexes, this list guides you to unique places to perfect your throws.

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Get outside and get active with friends while playing at one of these area disc golf courses.

What Is Disc Golf?

Disc golf is a sport that involves throwing a flying disc or Frisbee into a basket or target, similar to traditional golf where players hit a ball into a hole. The objective is to complete a course with the fewest number of throws possible. The course is typically laid out over a large outdoor area, often in a park or wooded area, and can consist of 9 or 18 holes, each with a designated starting point and target.

Players must navigate various obstacles, such as trees or other natural terrain, in order to successfully complete each hole. Disc golf is a popular recreational activity and there are many courses near us. It’s family-friendly, gets you in the fresh air and makes for a great date night idea.

Disc golf course and tee

Disc Golf Courses Near You

No matter where you live, the chances are good that you have a course near you. Several of the courses below are open year-round and free to use. Occasionally you need to pay for admission to the Provincial Park or Conservation Area.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Address: 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville, Ontario, L6M 4J7

Entry to Bronte Creek Provincial Park is required, by way of a day pass, season’s pass or annual pass.  A daily vehicle permit is $18.  The 18-hole course is located beside Parking Lot F.  Rental equipment is not provided.  The Friends of the Park website lists club and league playing times.

Sherwood Community Center

Address: 6355 Main St W, Milton, ON L9T 2Y1, Canada

There’s plenty of parking at the Sherwood Community Center in Milton.  Amenities include an arena, pool, cricket park and disc golf course.  The disc golf course is in the park behind the Community Center. The course was built in 2020 and is suitable for beginners and for practice.

Christie Lake Conservation Area

Address: 1000 Highway 5 West, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E2

Entry to Christie Lake Conservation Area, without an HCA pass, is $16 per vehicle and driver.  Passengers 5 and over are an additional $5 each.  It is $5 to walk or bike into the park.  Christie Lake has an 18-hole championship disc golf that is open year- round.  Download a scorecard and fact sheet provided on the website.

Buncrana

Address: Buncrana Golf Course, 1079 Hwy 8, Dundas, ON L9H 5E1

Buncrana has it all, disc golf, footgolf and golf. Fees are $10 for adults and $5 for juniors (under 12). Children under 6 play for free. A day pass is $20. Want your own discs? They also sell disc starter packs of 3 discs for $32.

King’s Forest Golf Course (*seasonal)

Address: 100 Greenhill Ave, Hamilton, ON L8K 6M4

King’s Forest is an 18-hole Championship Golf Course with a seasonal disc golf course.  Disc golf fees are $6 +HST for 18 holes and $10 + HST for a full day.  A fall/winter season membership is $100 + HST.  Equipment lending and sales are available onsite.  The course will re-open in November 2023.

Firemen’s Park Disc Golf Course

Address: 2275 Dorchester Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S4

The Niagara Falls Disc Golf Club, Ontario Disc Sports Association, City of Niagara Falls and the Stamford Centre Volunteer Firefighter’s Association opened an 18-hole course in the lower level of Firemen’s Park.  This is a mixed-use, free-to-use park with parking.  There are no restrooms or drinking water available.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Center

Address: 14 Anderson Lane, Niagara-on-the-Lake

NOTL opened its first course in 2022.  The 9-hole course weaves through the trees outside of the NOTL Community Center.  It is free to use, and discs are available to borrow or buy at the Community Center.  Course hours are 7 am-10 pm.  Washrooms and a first-aid kit are available in the Community Center.

Columbia Lake University of Waterloo Disc Golf Course

Address: the University of Waterloo Environmental Reserve, parking across the street at 275 Frank Tompa Dr., Waterloo, ON

Columbia Lake is a small 9-hole University of Waterloo course.  Limited access is available to non-University of Waterloo students who purchase a Day Pass for $2.65 or a Season Pass for $50.  Limited parking spots are available.  The course is not maintained in the winter months.

Soper Park

Address: 120 Shade St., Cambridge

Soper Park in Cambridge is home to a 9-hole course.  The park hours are 7 am-11 pm.  It is a mixed-use park and washrooms are available.

disc golf player throwing

Learn More About Disc Golf

Learn more about the game by reading up on it. The Professional Disc Golf Association has A Complete Beginner’s Guide. Many public libraries lend sports equipment, including for disc golf – check out our Beyond Books: Public Library posts.  The Burlington Public Library, for example, lends Backyard Disc Golf Sets through its lending library. 

Once you get a feel for it, if you like disc golf, you might even decide to join a Disc Golf Club. You’ll find more courses and disc golf course reviews on UDisc – it’s also an app for disc golfers.

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]]> Happy Rolph’s is a Free Animal Sanctuary Kids Will Love https://activeparents.ca/happ-rolphs-animal-farm/ Thu, 02 May 2024 14:31:13 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=44780 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.

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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.

Read More: Find more farms here

Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm – How It Came To Be

Just a short history of this sweet farm… Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm was created by Harry “Happy” Rolph when he build a bird sanctuary on his property. Happy, along with his wife Jen, built several ponds on the property to help attract more birds, and eventually grew to attract thousands of birds annually to the property. When the couple decided to retire in the 70s, the sanctuary was purchased by the Province, City and Niagara Conservation Authority, and eventually was bought by the City of St. Catharines. To honour his work, the location was renamed Happy Rolph Bird Sanctuary in 1974.

welcome to happy rolph's animal farm

What Animals Are At Happy Rolph’s?

Spend a few hours getting up close with animals. Rolph’s has everything including alpacas, horses, chickens, turkeys, llamas and a big hog. The grounds are well-kept and wheel-friendly. In staying with its bird sanctuary roots, you can visit the large pond that is home to swans, mallards, ducks and geese. You can buy some feed for them at the farm as well.

Read More: Read more of our favourite day trips here

Is Happy Rolph’s Free?

Yes! Happy Rolph’s is a free place to visit! Voluntary donations are accepted. You can bring in your own picnic lunch and snacks, just don’t feed the animals! And if you feel so inclined, you can purchase a bag of duck feed for just $2 and help fill the feathered bellies of the ducks and swans in the pond.

the playground at happy rolph's animal farm

More Things To Do At The Farm

  • Enjoy their playground with swings

  • Bring a picnic – lots of picnic tables

  • Walk the grounds, they’re stroller and wheel friendly

  • Bring some cash and feed the ducks for $2 per bag of feed

the pond at happy rolph's animal farm

Address and Hours and Parking

Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm is located at 650 Read Rd, St. Catharines, ON L2R 7K6. They are open daily, and free to visit any time. Summer greenspace hours are dusk to dawn, animal area hours are 10 am – 8 pm and washrooms are 7 am – 8 pm. There is free parking available on-site, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so visit through the week if you can. Some visitors report parking on the street, but please watch for local regulations if you do this. Visit their website here. When you plan your visit, expect to spend a few hours here, and then wander down the path to Lake Ontario and enjoy the view.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

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]]> The Best Drive-In Movie Theatres in Hamilton Halton and Niagara https://activeparents.ca/drive-in-movie-theatres/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:04:42 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=31686 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.

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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.

An evening at the drive-in is an evening everyone can enjoy. It’s a long-time favourite date night idea no matter your age. Watch a double feature (and occasionally a triple feature) of your favourite classic movies or a hot new release. I love that it’s cozier than a typical theatre and a little more private.

Kids love the drive-in theatre experience because it’s exciting and out of the box. There’s nothing better than watching a movie in your jammies while eating popcorn in the comfort of your vehicle.

Make More Summer Memories With These Ideas


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5-Drive-In Theatre

2332 Ninth Line, Oakville | Website

This 3-screen theatre in Oakville shows some amazing double-feature movie combinations. Pre-buy your tickets to secure your admission. You can also buy tickets at the box office using cash, credit and debit. When the weather is great, expect to see screenings sell out.

The concession stand offers in-car food delivery. Enjoy the typical treats plus burgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers and a ton of different combo deals.

Prices: Start at $14 per person, with a car load ringing in at $25.00. Kids under 5 are free.


Starlight Drive-In Theatre – Now Open!

Address: 59 Green Mountain Rd East, Stoney Creek | Website

With 3 screens, each showing a double feature, the movie selection is sure to please everyone in your group. The concession stand at this Hamilton drive-in movie theatre also sells deep-fried pickles, pretzels and funnel cake! Make the evening easy on yourself and opt for their in-car food delivery option.

Starlight is a popular destination on the weekends. Arrive at least an hour before showtime to get a great spot and get your snacks before the movie starts. You can pre-buy your tickets online or pay cash, debit or credit card at the box office when you arrive.

Prices: Start at $14 per person, with a car load ringing in at $25.00. Kids under 5 are free.


Skyway Drive-In Theatre (formerly Named Can View)

1956 Highway #20 in Fonthill | Website

This theatre reopened under the same ownership as 5-Drive In and the Starlight. That means you can expect the same great service and delicious treats at the concession stand. This location has 4 screens, each showing a double feature every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday night.

Prices: Start at $13 per person, with a car load costing $25.00. Kids under 5 are free.

Mustang Drive-In

5012 Jones Baseline, Guelph | Website

Come out and enjoy blockbuster features under the stars every weekend in Guelph. Mustang Theatre has 1 large, outdoor screen that shows 2 movies each night. You can sit outside in the fresh air or in the comfort of your own vehicle.

The box office opens at 7:30 and films are shown Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Concessions are always available and range from movie night staples to cheeseburgers and poutine.

Prices: General Admission is $13.00, Kids 6-12 Years Old are $5.00 each, and 5 years and younger are FREE! Or visit on Carload Sundays and pay $20 for up to 7 people in one vehicle (excluding long weekends).


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]]> Family Vacation: Sherkston Shores Cozy in the Quarry Cottage https://activeparents.ca/sherkston-shores-cozy-in-the-quarry-cottage/ https://activeparents.ca/sherkston-shores-cozy-in-the-quarry-cottage/#respond Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:31:17 +0000 https://activeparents.ca/?p=66574 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.

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Sherkston Shores is a popular family vacation destination, and one we hadn’t been to before 2023! It is a spot that I’ve had recommended to me many times by annual visitors, and I’m so glad I got to visit. It’s a family-friendly resort located on Lake Erie in the town of Sherkston, near Port Colbourne, Ontario which is a quick 90 minute drive from Burlington. Read on to learn more, and hear my thoughts on our visit.

Where To Stay at Sherkston Shores

Sherkston Shores by Sun Retreats offers a variety of ways to stay and enjoy a few days or weeks on the grounds. My family was invited to spend a September weekend at Cozy in the Quarry, an AirBnb available for you to book all year long. It was modern and offer us the ideal amount of space. Cozy in the Quarry has 2 bedrooms. The main bedroom has a double bed and ensuite washroom with shower. There was lots of storage in the closet and drawers. 

My kids has the second bedroom with bunk beds. The bottom bunk was a double and the top a single, with a very cool staircase to the bunk. The stairs doubled as drawers which the kids loved. The girls has their own washroom as well – another perk! I don’t wan tto share a bathroom with two teenagers! 

The cottage living spaces were clean and minimal which made for a lovely calmness while we were there. The house came with lots of board games and TVs in almost every space. My kids were in paradise. The kitchen came with those essentials you always forget, like salt and paper and cooking spray. Again, everything was clean and minimal, so even though we cooked all of our meals there, clean up was so quick and easy. Perfect for a vacation. 

My favourite part of the cottage, and where I spent the majority of my time when at home, was the backyard. There is a large covered deck with comfortable patio furniture and an outdoor TV. It also had a cozy hanging chair that my girls claimed as their own. Walking down the steps is the outdoor dining area, a BBQ (that comes with propane!) and a campfire pit. We played some cornhole while were barbequed our meals and soaked up some sun on the grass. 

I enjoyed this rental so much, I’ll be checking my calendar for 2024! 

Beaches and Water Activities

Mother Nature gifted us another beautiful late summer weekend so we took in all of the water fun Sherkston Shores offers. We swam in Lake Erie and laughed non stop as the waves tried to take us out. It was a windy day, so normally it’s not rought. The sand was light and warm and the beach was so clean. 

After the lake swimming, we dipped into the waterpark – which was amazing! Multiple pools, water slides, wading pools and a massive splash pad. There is a beach bar, lots of loungers and shuffle board to play between swims. 

My one regret is that we didn’t make time to swim in the quarry. The 27-acre spring fed Quarry is a popular spots for swimming, water sports, fishing (catch-and-release), and has sandy beaches for a relaxing warm summer day.  The quarry is almost 70ft deep in the deepest part (the middle) and offers great snorkeling I’m told. Scuba Divers can explore the remains of a 100-year-old mining operation on the quarry floor. If you have scuba gear make sure to pack it for your visit to Sherkston Shores. 

If you want to add more excitement to your water adventures, you can rent these items for an additional cost: (https://www.sherkstonadventuresports.com/ )

  • Kayaks and canoes

  • Water balloons

  • Aqua trikes

  • Paddle and surf boards

  • And fishing equipment

Family Fun Is Front and Centre

Sherkston Shores and Cozy in the Quarry were build for families. Everything from the rentals to the grounds to the amenities have family fun as their goal. I mentioned before that I have multiple friends who have been going for years and who have recommended it every summer. 

Kids scooter and bike everywhere when they’re not riding shotgun in golf carts driven by their parents. Didn’t I mention the GOLF CART?! Yes, renting with Cozy in the Quarry includes a golf cart for booting from one attraction to another. This was no doubt my husband’s favourite part. 

Lots of kids were playing soccer on their fields, zooming around of wheels and having a great time at the multiple playgrounds dotted through the huge resort. 

More Fun on Dry Land

When you want to take a break from swimming in the lake and the pools, your fun is only beginning! We played many rounds of mini golf in our short stay. We also spent more than a few quarters in the arcade because who can resist an arcade?! It’s like Las Vegas to us. There are also tennis and pickleball courts, basketball courts and a ball hockey arena, too. Bring your sports equipment and you will never be bored. 

For an additional fee you can also jump into some thrilling activities including:

  • Aerial ropes challenge and rock climbing

  • Bungee tampoline

  • Axe throwing 

  • Archery

You can find more info and current pricing details here.

Dining and Restaurants:

You can make this an official vacation by skipping the kitchen and dining at on-resort restaurants. There are two to choose from, one being a casual family spot and the other is a poolside patio bar that offers small nibbles to enjoy throughout the day. 

Seasonal Highlights:

There’s no doubting that you will get the biggest bang for your vacation buck if you visit Sherston Shores during the hot summer months. We stayed in mid September and still enjoyed everything the resort had to offer, so don’t count out the end of summer weeks. 

Tips for Staying at Cozy in the Quarry at Sherkston Shores:

  • Bring all of your own food, but if you forget something, no need to stress because Sherkston has a grocery store in site. They really have thought of everything. 

  • Pack everyone’s favourite pillow and blanket. Linens aren’t included, but you’ll get a packing list when you book. 

  • Bring a friend! Cozy in the Quarry sleeps 7 people, so next time my kids can each bring a friend. 

  • Do everything! We should have brought scooters and more sports equipment because the amount of FREE fun is unmatched. 

Contact Information and Booking Details:

Learn more about Cozy in the Quarry and other properties available at Sherkston Shores to rent. 

Cozy in the Quarry

Guest House Properties in Niagara  https://www.guesthouseproperties.com/ 

Sherkston Shores https://www.sunoutdoors.com/ontario/sun-retreats-sherkston-shores 

Looking For More Family Getaways?

We love sharing about great destinations to visit with your kids, and weekend getaways are no exception. Read on for some first-hand reviews and write ups of places we’ve visited together.

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