The museum features a replica of Joseph Brant’s original homestead alongside the modern exhibition spaces. It houses three permanent galleries, travelling exhibitions and provides dedicated areas for educational programs like camps for kids.

Hours, Admission and Parking

Admission to Joseph Brant Museum includes access to all of the permanent galleries, any special exhibits, the Children’s Gallery plus a visit to the rooftop garden. The lake views and seating are a peaceful stop in warmer temperatures.

Admission: Adults $10, Students and Seniors $8, Children $6 or take advantage of the family rate for $30. It includes up to two adults and four children.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM till 4 PM and is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

There is free parking on site at the museum and paid parking close by.

Permanent Exhibitions

The Burlington Gallery – The History and Origin Story of Burlington, Ontario

The Burlington Gallery talks all about Burlington’s history and we honestly learned so many cool things about Burlington and its origins. The exhibits are fantastic and let you get right up close to the historic artifacts.

In The Burlington Gallery, kids and grown-ups will learn all about the history of popular and significant Burlington landmarks. You will witness old toys and board games that our grandparents may have played with. We spent lots of time in this room and we learned a ton. My mother-in-law moved here when she was young, and knows many of the features that are no longer where they once stood.

Teachers and homeschooling families: This would be an excellent place for a field trip!

Enjoy A Stay at The Brant Inn

The second large room, called The Costume Gallery, is dedicated to The Brant Inn. Have you heard of it? I had heard a little bit about it, but it was a great exhibit to have Grandma at because she was familiar with so much of the history and the famous visitors it’s been host to in its time. She told the girls about the clothing, the music and the jewellery. It’s always great to foster that connection between grandparents and grandkids.

Essential Stop: The Children’s Gallery at Joseph Brant Museum

This section focuses on S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) and delivers it in a way kids will love and learn from. Each exhibit in the Children’s Gallery encourages kids to put their brains to use to solve problems and accomplish tasks. Your kids will love it here. My 11-year-old didn’t want to leave! And neither did my husband LOL.

Ride the pedal-powered bikes to see how far you can make it around Burlington. Use the massive light-up pegboard to create a picture. Everything your kids do will be hands-on and there are lots of options for open-ended exploration. Parents have the pleasure of sitting back and watching children learn through play.

Joseph Brant Museum underwent a phenomenal renovation that has created a beautiful destination for learning and exploring in Burlington. This gallery is a great bonus at this family and children’s museum.

Current Special Exhibit: eat make share: a taste of immigration

From Museums of Burlington:

“Canada’s food is as diverse as its people. The way we eat is shaped by over 400 years of immigration. Food connects people to the past, to place, and to other people. eat make share: a taste of immigration explores the connections between food and immigration in Canada through the universal experiences of eating, making, and sharing food.

• Discover the surprising histories behind popular Canadian dishes.
• Learn how individuals and communities express themselves through food.
• Engage in diverse food traditions practised in Canada through multisensory activities.

eat make share: a taste of immigration is a travelling exhibition created by the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and presented by BMO, on view at Joseph Brant Museum April 18 – September 5, 2026.”

Programs For Children

In addition to all of the reasons to visit this family and children’s museum that we listed above, the museum is also a popular host for children’s programming:

Toddler days are designed for children ages 2 to 4. The sessions offer themed hands-on activities every week the cost is $12 per child and one accompanying adult is free.

School break camps at Joseph Brant Museum are popular and get great reviews from parents. Each week has a different theme in the summer and every PA day camp has its own theme as well. Click here to learn more about children’s camps.

Don’t Miss The Gift Shop

One of my new favourite places to buy unique presents for friends and family (and a few for myself!) is the gift shop at the Museum. Their products are quality and curated with a keen eye for in-demand items for kids and adults. I love their mugs and keychains, and their wooden children’s toys are great for gifting to toddlers. You can shop their gift shop online here.

amenities and accessibility

Stroller-friendly: The museum is accessible for strollers

Facilities: On-site washrooms with changing stations are available

Accessibility: Elevator access, and all areas are reachable for visitors with mobility needs

tips for parents

Scavenger hunt: upon arrival request the children’s scavenger hunt. It’s a fun way for kids to engage with the exhibits, and earn a small prize upon completion.

Quiet times: weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, ideal for families seeking a calmer environment.

What to bring: Pack a picnic and enjoy it on the rooftop or at Spencer Smith Park located directly across the street

Upcoming Events At Joseph Brant Museum

More Great Things To Do Locally

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The post Joseph Brant Museum – New “eat make share: a taste of immigration” Exhibit, Children’s STEAM Gallery and More appeared first on Active Parents.

Unlike traditional farms, this is a livestock sanctuary in Hamilton, which means your visit not only entertains your kids—it also helps support animal care and rehabilitation.

Find more animal adventures…

• Springridge Farm in Milton
• Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
• Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls

What Makes Triple C Farm So Special?

This isn’t your typical petting zoo. At Triple C Farm, kids (and adults!) can:

• Walk right into many animal enclosures, like the goats and bunnies
• Pet and interact with friendly goats, alpacas, pigs, rabbits, and more
• Explore the farm at their own pace
• Experience a calm, non-commercial atmosphere

Because it’s a sanctuary, animals are not pressured for feeding or performance, which creates a more relaxed and natural experience.

What You’ll See & Do at Triple C Farm

Meet a Wide Variety of Animals

Expect to see:

• Goats, sheep, and alpacas
• Pigs and mini cows
• Horses and donkeys
• Chickens, ducks, and bunnies

Many animals are rescued and rehabilitated on-site, adding a meaningful layer to your visit.

Hands-On Animal Experiences

One of the biggest highlights? You’re not just observing—you’re interacting.

• Enter animal enclosures
• Pet and hold animals (like baby goats in spring!)
• Learn proper handling from staff

This immersive experience is what makes Triple C stand out from other farms we’ve been to.

Unique Experiences & Events

Triple C Farm also offers bookable experiences like:

• Goat yoga
• Baby goat snuggles
• Animal walks (alpacas, mini horses, donkeys)
• Birthday parties
• “Movies with the goats”

These experiences are available by booking and vary seasonally.

Admission to Triple C

Visits are by appointment only – walk-ins will not be accepted. Booking Fee:

• To secure your booking, a $15 (taxes included) non-refundable booking fee is required.
• Additionally, the farm asks for a $5 per person contribution to the farm upon arrival. This contribution goes towards feeding the animals, their vet bills, etc. Payment can be made by debit, credit, or cash.

Good to Know Before You Go

Booking is Required

• Visits are by appointment only
• Small group sizes help keep the experience calm
• Walk-ins may not be accepted

Length of Visit

• Visits are typically around 1 hour, but you can often stay longer and explore the petting zoo at your own pace

What to Wear

This is a real working farm—so come prepared:

• Closed-toe shoes or rubber boots
• Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty
• Dress for the weather

Why Families Love Triple C Farm

Calm, low-crowd environment
Truly interactive (not just looking at animals)
Supports rescued animals
Great for toddlers through teens
Close to Hamilton, Burlington, and the GTA

It’s consistently described as a “feel-good” family outing where kids can slow down and connect with animals in a meaningful way.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

Go in Spring if You Can

Baby animals (especially goats!) make the experience extra special.

Prep Younger Kids

Let them know:

• Animals may approach them
• It’s okay to take it slow
• Gentle hands only

Bring Hand Sanitizer (Even Though It’s Provided)

There are wash stations on-site, but having your own is helpful—especially with little ones.

Pair It With Other Nearby Activities

Make it a full day by combining with:

• A park visit in Ancaster
• A stop in Dundas Valley
• A local café or treat stop

Visit Triple C Farm at 500 Carluke Road West in Ancaster.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
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The post Triple C Farm in Ancaster: A Hands-On Animal Experience Kids Will Love appeared first on Active Parents.

Our Favourite Kid-Friendly Trails in Hamilton

Eramosa Karst

Address: Upper Mt Albion Rd, Stoney Creek
Parking/Admission Info: $10 per vehicle to park, no additional admission fees.
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

Part of the Hamilton Conservation group of areas, Eramosa Karst is one of the best hiking trails near me. I had never heard of it before, and attendance never seems to max out. Once I saw pictures of it I knew I had to plan a visit. A “karst” is a landscape formed by dissolving rocks like limestone, creating things like sinkholes, caves, and underground rivers.

Tips For Hiking Here

In addition to the karsts, the walking trails are ideal for any age and are stroller-friendly. There is a HUGE old tree that has split in three and provides great climbing. Be sure to take a few minutes to check out the natural spring and the views from the bench. Pack bug repellant for walking in the wooded areas, and sunscreen for walking the boardwalk.

Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Address: 650 Governors Road, Dundas
Parking/Admission Info: $10 per vehicle to park, no additional admission fees.
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

Hamilton is home to some of the best kid-friendly trails in Ontario. This trail is a favourite for our family because there is so much to see along the way. The trees offer a ton of shade. I’m certain the temperatures were at least 5 degrees cooler in their shady canopy.

The trail is smooth ground for the most part, and I saw some families easily pushing their strollers. Along the main loop, you’ll come across the replica of a Victorian railway station that serves as the area’s Trail Centre. It’s also home to washrooms.

Adjacent to it is a piece of the old Toronto, Hamilton and Buffalo Railway track, with a 1929 executive coach car and a 1931 baggage car. Both were donated by the Canadian Pacific Railway. We love catching equestrians riding horseback through the woods. If you have a dog, they are welcome as long as they stay on a leash.

Streams caught our attention as we made our way to the Hermitage Ruins. The magnificent stone mansion was built in 1855 by George Gordon Browne Leith, an immigrant from Scotland. The bricks used in its building originated from the Dundas Valley clay; limestone was quarried at the Credit River valley.

The Hermitage burned down in 1934. After that, Leith’s daughter built a much smaller house among the ruins and lived there until her death in 1942. The ruins have been reinforced using wooden braces to prevent further wear. Hopefully, they will be intact for years to come.

Tips For Hiking Here

Bring your camera for some great views and photo opportunities. Also bring sunscreen and water. Take time to learn about the trains and hermitage – local history is actually cool, kids!

Chedoke Radial Trail – A Free Kid-friendly Hiking Trail

Address: 120 Beddoe Dr, Hamilton
Parking/Admission Info: Pay to park, free admission.
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

Chedoke Radial Trail was another new trail for us. The trail itself is smooth ground and stroller-friendly, making it a great option for kid-friendly hiking. We went at about 11:00 am and the trail was a mix of shade and sun.

The enormous rock wall is awe-inspiring when you think of its size. The incline is roughly 200 meters and the views at the top are beautiful. There are those famous Chedoke stairs, but zero chance I’m walking up 240+ steps if I don’t have to!

Also at this Hamilton hiking trail, there are a few waterfalls that have a current/flow that fluctuates based on the current rain conditions. One waterfall, when rushing after a rainfall, pours down onto the 403!

Tips For Hiking Here

Families of all ages were also enjoying the walk. We parked at the Chedoke Golf Course on a Sunday. The lot was busy with other families and golfers. I am pleased to report that their washrooms were accessible and open (seasonally).

Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in Halton

Hilton Falls Conservation Area

Address: 4985 Campbellville Rd, Burlington
Parking/Admission Info: $10.50 for adults, $7.25 for kids, $8.25 for seniors, kids under 5 free. No fee for parking.
Reservations Required?: No, but if you pre-purchase your admission online you’ll save some money.

What Makes It Great

This Halton Conservation Area hiking trail is another hidden gem that was new to us. It’s a little more out of the city centre, so I expected it to be a bit less crowded, and it was.

Hilton Falls is a great spot for hiking with kids. The terrain is rocky and rooty which makes it challenging for them. Ideal for balancing and working those large muscles! Parents were manoeuvring their strollers, but some parts were a little challenging. If you have a dog, they are welcome as long as they stay on a leash.

The waterfalls and ruins are picture-worthy and the rock formations are impressive. Gather at the fire pit by the waterfall with your hotdogs or marshmallows to cook over the fire! Ideally, visit in the fall so you can see a rushing waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for bugs, frogs, snakes and small fish.

Feeling adventurous? You can mountain bike the trails in the nice weather, or cross-country ski in the winter. I really do love these all-season Conservation Halton kid-friendly trails in Ontario.

Tips For Hiking Here

Wear good shoes that lace up because some of the ground is uneven (#nature). There are port-a-potty style washrooms along the path if the urge arises. Bring hot dogs and marshmallows and impress the kids with lunch!

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Address: 1291 Burloak Drive, Oakville
Parking/Admission Info: $21.00 per standard vehicle for day use. Buses and campers are extra.
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

We love the various kid-friendly hiking trails near me at Bronte Creek. Trails start at the parking lot and, ranging in length from 1 km to almost 3 km, wind along the top of Bronte Creek (always be careful when hiking and biking!) to cover all of the grounds. Bronte has a great leash-free section of the park as well.

Stroll through the forest and along a stream, where, in fall, you can fish for trout and salmon, among other fish. Remind kids to look for frogs, small snakes and bugs and also the Bronte Creek cows are always grazing in the fields. 

Follow the signs for the Gnome Trail and wander down a shaded path to the cutest community of painted gnome homes you ever did see. Bring a frisbee and play some disc golf. With a wheelchair and stroller-accessible trail, this is truly a family-friendly destination sure to please everyone.

Tips For Visiting

You can spend all day here, so bring a picnic lunch, snacks and water. Have some coins ready to get food for the goats who love to be hand-fed. Also bring some hand sanitizer for afterwards. Sunscreen always.

Crawford Lake, Halton Conservation

Address: 3115 Conservation Road, Milton
Parking/Admission Info: $10.50 for adults, $7.25 for kids, $8.25 for seniors, kids under 5 free. No fee for parking.
Reservations Required?: No but if you pay online you’ll save some money.

What Makes It Great

Crawford Lake is one of the most popular Conservation Halton hiking trails and for good reason! It is as full of great history as it is full of kid-friendly hiking trails. No matter what season you visit, you’re sure to love your experience.

Visit the reconstructed 15th-century Iroquoian village. The excavation between 1973 and 1987 uncovered 11 longhouses on the site and over 10 000 artifacts from the day-to-day lives of the Iroquoian people who once lived in the village. Three longhouses have been rebuilt to match archaeological findings.

Explore the village and learn about what daily life was like over 600 years ago through hands-on programs including simulated digs and fire-starting demonstrations. The Deer Clan Longhouse features exhibits that explore Indigenous art and culture.

After you’ve visited the Longhouse Village, walk the trail around Crawford Lake’s unique meromictic lake. With the boardwalk wrapping around the lake, Crawford Lake offers 5 great hikes for any season, ranging in length from 2 km to over 7 km. The boardwalk is stroller-friendly and a memorable kid-friendly trail.

Learn about species at risk as you follow along with the Hide and Seek Trail and view the enormous wooden carvings. The Hide and Seek Trail is located along the blue Crawford Lake Trail as you head toward the lake.

Tips For Hiking Here

Lots of great photo ops and views, so bring a camera. Water, sunscreen and snacks always.

Cherry Hill Gate, Royal Botanical Gardens

Address: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Parking/Admission Info: Free admission, pay parking lot.
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

When I think of hiking trails near me, Cherry Hill Gate is what comes to mind immediately. It’s on the border-ish of Burlington and Hamilton and owned by Royal Botanical Gardens. The kid-friendly trail is relatively smooth and stroller-friendly. The entrance takes you down a steep-ish hill, so if it’s wet out, be warned that it could be slippery.

Once you’ve made it down, keep your eyes peeled for the huge upturned tree stump and a ton of chipmunks. As you walk the trail, be on the lookout for beavers, swans, turtles, snakes, spiders, and a variety of birds.

Much of the trail is a wooden boardwalk so very walkable. Shade is scarce along the boardwalk so go in the mornings or evenings to beat the heat. For years this was our favourite locations for hiking with kids in Hamilton and Halton. It’s easy terrain and lots for them to see and do.

Tips For Hiking Here

Parts of the trail can get muddy after a rainfall. Strollers and wagons do well here. Bring the sunscreen, but leave the bird seed at home. RBG asks us not to feed any of the animals.

Cootes Paradise Trails at RBG (Princess Point / South Shore Trail)

Address: Princess Point entrance – 335 Longwood Road N, Hamilton, Westdale entrance – 85 Oak Knoll Dr, Hamilton
Parking/Admission Info: Free admission, pay parking lot is $3/hour or a day max of $15
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

You can access a variety of trails around the Cootes Paradise Marsh, and each has fabulous kid-friendly hiking to offer. We love the area near the old Hamilton Aviary (Caleb’s Walk, Ravine Road Trail) with its packed gravel trail and lots of shade. That’s the Westdale entrance noted above.

While walking the Princess Point route, take time to stop by The Fishway when it’s in operation. Think of it as a VIP access only gate to keep invasive carp at bay while local fish are spawning. They open and close it on a seasonal schedule and it’s worth seeing.

Download the Cootes Paradise trail map here and you can expand your walk as long as you’d like! Paid parking is available at various spots around Cootes Paradise.

Tips For Visiting Here

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before…sunscreen, snacks and water for everyone.

Joe Sam’s Park Has A Kid-Friendly Hiking Trail

Address: 752 Centre Rd, Hamilton
Parking/Admission Info: Free
Reservations Required?: No

What Makes It Great

We initially visited for the excellent walking paths that take you through forests, over marshes and beside wetlands. The path was smooth and very stroller-friendly. The trail was wide, and ideal for wagons, smaller bikes and toddler exploring.

I cannot recommend this outing enough, especially to parents of young kids who need fresh air. There is also a playground right at the parking lot to entertain you before and/or after your walk. The loop is a nice size, it took us about 1.5 hours to complete, with lots of stopping for photos and exploring.

Tips For Visiting

You can bring small bikes and scooters too. Look for the bird feeders and bridges. We also saw wild turkeys! They’re big, and not very friendly, therefore keep your distance if you see them too. Stay and play at the park when you’re done. This is a popular spot for dog walks, too.

Tips for Hiking with Kids

• Bring water. I know it should be a given, but we have been known to forget, too!
• Bring snacks, too. No one wants to get hangry.
• If you’re going during spring and summer, bring bug repellent and sunscreen.
• Make sure everyone has comfy shoes. Flip-flops need not apply.
• If you want a little one to wander free, choose a location that isn’t a popular mountain biking location.
• Choose a less popular spot and discover a hidden gem.

Share Your Favourite Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails

This concludes my ever-growing list of favourite Halton and Hamilton hiking trails near me. I hope you visit one soon with your family. If you have a suggestion for more kid-friendly hiking trails, please tell me! We love sharing new Hamilton hiking trails and Halton hiking trails with our readers.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
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  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
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  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Hamilton and Halton appeared first on Active Parents.

From massive resort-style parks in Niagara Falls to more affordable day-trip options, this guide covers the best indoor waterparks in Ontario for families, including what to expect, pricing, and tips before you go.

Tip! We also recommended these hotels that have great water slides and/or pools, making them perfect for a mini staycation..

Indoor Water parks in Ontario

Waves Indoor Water Park

Located inside the Americana Resort, Waves Indoor Waterpark is a budget-friendly indoor waterpark that’s perfect for younger kids.

Highlights

• Beach-entry wave pool (great for toddlers!)
• Water slides + splash play structure
• Retractable glass roof (super bright space)
• Cabanas available

Good to Know

• Day passes available
• On-site food options
• Life jackets provided

Why Families Love It

It’s one of the most affordable indoor waterparks in Ontario, with lots to do for little kids.

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.

Sheraton Fallsview Indoor Waterpark (Niagara Falls)

One of the largest indoor waterparks in Canada, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is packed with high-energy attractions for all ages.

Highlights

• 16 waterslides + 6-storey drop slides
• Massive wave pool
• 1,000-gallon tipping bucket
• Year-round outdoor heated pool
• Kids splash area + jungle play space

Good to Know

• Paid parking on-site
• No outside food allowed
• Towels NOT provided (bring your own)

Why Families Love It

This is the closest thing to a full resort-style waterpark experience without staying overnight.

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.

Great Wolf Lodge Resort

Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls is one of the most popular family resorts in Ontario, featuring a massive indoor waterpark included with your stay.

Highlights

• 100,000 sq. ft. indoor waterpark
• Lazy river + wave pool
• Multi-level water treehouse
• Thrill slides for older kids and teens

Good to Know

• Waterpark access requires an overnight stay
• Towels provided
• Multiple restaurants on-site

Why Families Love It

This is the ultimate Ontario waterpark getaway—more than just a pool, it’s a full experience.

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.

Plunge! Aquatic Centre (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.

Highlights

• Indoor + outdoor pools
• Rope swing + climbing features
• Water slide + play structures

Good to Know

• Lower price point than major waterparks
• Time-limited entry may apply
• Bring your own towels

Why Families Love It

Perfect for a short, affordable splash break during a Blue Mountain visit.

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.

Adventure Bay Windsor Indoor Water Park

Adventure Bay Family Water Park is one of the best indoor waterparks in Southwestern Ontario and a great day-trip option.

Highlights

• 5 waterslides + lazy river
• FlowRider surf simulator
• Large splash zone + toddler area
• Interactive water play features

Good to Know

• Very affordable day passes
• Outside food allowed in designated areas
• Towels not provided

Why Families Love It

A great value option with lots of variety for different age groups.

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.

Best Indoor Waterparks in Ontario: Quick Comparison

Waterpark	Best For	Day Pass?	Standout Feature
Fallsview	Big thrills + variety		Huge slides + wave pool
Waves	Younger kids + budget		Beach-entry pool
Great Wolf Lodge	Full getaway		Resort experience
Plunge!	Quick visit		Indoor/outdoor combo
Adventure Bay	Affordable fun		Surf simulator

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.

Tips for Visiting Indoor Waterparks in Ontario

Before you go, keep these tips in mind:

Plan Around Peak Times

Indoor waterparks are busiest during:

• Weekends
• Holidays
• March Break

Try weekday visits for smaller crowds.

Know the Access Rules

• Some parks offer day passes (Waves, Fallsview, Adventure Bay)
• Others require an overnight stay (Great Wolf Lodge)

Pack Smart

Bring:

• Towels (not always included)
• Flip flops
• Snacks (if permitted)

Choose Based on Your Kids’ Ages

• Toddlers → Waves Indoor Waterpark
• Tweens/teens → Fallsview Indoor Waterpark or Great Wolf Lodge
• Budget-friendly → Adventure Bay

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Best Indoor Waterparks in Ontario for Families (2026 Guide) appeared first on Active Parents.

Read More:

Find more top-rated children’s museums we recommend a visit to.

Hamilton is home to plenty of great things to do with kids.

Welcome To The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

The museum was founded in 1972 by a group of aviation enthusiasts who wanted to preserve Canada’s aviation heritage. Today, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive aviation museums in Canada. This Hamilton museum’s collection includes over 40 aircraft, ranging from vintage biplanes to modern jet fighters.

What Kind Of Planes Are At The Warplane Heritage Museum?

One of the highlights of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s collection is the Avro Lancaster, a World War II-era heavy bomber that played a crucial role in the war effort. The museum’s Lancaster, known as the “Mynarski Memorial Lancaster” in honour of a Canadian airman who received the Victoria Cross for his actions aboard a Lancaster, is one of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world.

Other notable aircraft in the museum’s collection include the CF-100 Canuck, Canada’s first jet fighter, and the first fighter aircraft to be designed and built in large quantities in Canada. This plane can fly as fast as 550 miles per hour!

Also check out the CF-104 Starfighter, a supersonic jet fighter used by the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Cold War, and the de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, a versatile bush plane that played a key role in Canada’s remote northern regions.

My favourite planes are the Consolidated PBY-5A Canso because of its harrowing story and sentimental touch, and the Avro Lancaster which you’ve possibly seen flying around the skies on occasion. I love the heroic history of the Lancaster. In total 7,377 Lancasters rolled off the production lines in Britain and Canada, during WW II. Today, 17 Lancasters survive around the world, but only two are in flying condition. Aren’t we lucky to have one so close by?

More Things To Check Out at The Warplane Museum in Hamilton

In addition to its impressive collection of aircraft, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum also houses a variety of exhibits and displays that provide insight into Canada’s aviation history. The museum’s displays cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of flight in Canada to the role Canadian aircraft played in the war and modern history.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the “RCAF Women’s Division”. This exhibit tells the story of the women who served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. The exhibit features uniforms, equipment, and personal stories of the women who served in a variety of roles, including as pilots, navigators, and radio operators.

I spent a long time checking out the Art For Victory exhibit. It highlights the various ways propaganda posters were used to boost recruitment and keep spirits up during the war. I bet you didn’t know that graphic designers and printing companies served such a big role in the war effort.

Visitors to the museum can also take part in a variety of hands-on experiences, such as sitting in the cockpit of a fighter jet or trying their hand at flying a simulator.

Overall, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in aviation or Canadian history. The museum’s impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits, combined with its interactive experiences, make it a must-visit for anyone near the Hamilton area.

5 Must-Dos When You Visit

1. Accept a Tour Guide – Normally I like to do my own thing, but the amount of experience and knowledge Phillip – my tour guide – shared with me was beyond anything I could have imagined. Guides are very willing to tell you all they know and answer your questions. I wandered around with Phillip for 2.5 hours and loved every minute.

2. Look and Listen – Watch the videos and listen to the recordings. You’ll be transported back in time and feel emersed in your experience.

3. Priase The Women of Aviation! Ladies, we did a LOT more than we know, and a lot more than we get credit for. Female pilots flew all over the world and piloted so many massive aircraft. We generally had a smaller frame, which is perfect for piloting those early planes. Thanks, Phillip for letting me know all about women’s role in the war and aviation.

4. Climb Aboard – Many of the aircraft at the Canadian Warplane Museum have open cockpits and visitors are allowed (and encouraged) to sit in them. Make sure you have a staff member with you and listen to a guide as they tell you all about the buttons and dials. Can you tell how much I loved my guided tour?!

5. Visit The Gift Shop – I know that sounds like a commercial, but they have the coolest t-shirts, mugs and posters for aviation fans. Looking for models? Books? Puzzles? You will find some very unique gift items here.

One More Tip…

And last but not least, go slow as you tour through the Hamilton Warplane Museum. There is so much to see and learn, don’t rush your way through. And come back often! Especially in spring and summer when you can see the planes take off and land.

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum – located at the Hamilton International Airport, 9280 Airport Rd, Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0.

Visit them online: Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post 5 Must-Dos For Visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum appeared first on Active Parents.

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 Weekends 2026 – 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 14-16, 2026)
• Mother’s Day Weekend in May (May 9-10, 2026)
• Father’s Day Weekend in June (June 20-21, 2026)
• Family Fishing Week in July (June 27–July 5, 2026)

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!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Free Fishing Weekend 2026 in Ontario appeared first on Active Parents.

Read More: Winter fun for families is all in one spot – here!

Westfield Heritage Village – 2026 Maple Season

What is there to do? During Maple Season, two demonstration sites will be open, including the modern sugar shack. Westfield will also have their maple syrup panels on display, a Maple Trivia Trail to follow, and the St. George Lions will be out to sell pancakes in the Ironwood Hall (TBC for 2025). Visitors will be able to buy maple treats from the General Store and Gift Shop.

A selection of historical buildings will also be open, and volunteer historical interpreters will be providing a variety of demonstrations during your 2-hour visit. Remember to dress for the weather so you can stay warm as you explore the village. Westfield Heritage Village is offering their maple syrup program on the following dates:

• Sundays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29;
• March Break days, Wednesday, March 18 and Thursday, March 19. 

Visitors will also be able to buy maple treats from the General Store and Gift Shop. Due to the popularity of events at Westfield Heritage Village, visitors must reserve a time slot for their visit. Reservations, which include parking, are in 2-hour time slots on the Maple Syrup special program days. No walk-ins during Maple Season.

Pricing / Admission:

• HCA Members -This event is free for HCA Membership Pass holders, but they will be required to pay a $10.00 reservation fee.
• Non-HCA Members – Reservation Fee: $10.00, plus Vehicle Fee: $11.00, plus Per Person Fee: $5.00 per person. Ages 5 and under are free.

Visit the Hamilton Conservation Authority website

Read More: Wondering what’s on this weekend? Wonder no more.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park – 2026 Details

Bronte Creek’s Maple Syrup festival specializes in the history of maple syrup presented on a heritage farm from 1900. Their maple syrup farm includes a pancake house, fresh maple candy, fresh maple taffy, guided tours of Maple Lane, gift shoppe, wagon rides, farm animals, historical tours, family activities and more. Open every weekend in March, and daily during March Break. This is one of the more popular maple syrup festivals nearby.

The Maple Syrup Festival at Bronte Creek is only offered in March. Open every weekend + the week of March Break. To fully experience all that the festival has to offer you will need at least 2-3 hours. Please plan to arrive before 1:00. On days when the weather is amazing line ups for pancakes, wagons, taffy should be expected.

Admission / Pricing:

The festival is included in the daily vehicle access fee:

• Daily vehicle permit $18.00
• Senior permit $14.50
• Disable persons permit $9.00 with proof of Ontario Disability permit)
• Bur permit $62.50

In addition to your park permit, Bronte Creek also recommends you budget about $60 for maple festival popular purchases like the candy shanty, gift shop and maple taffy station. The pancake meals vary in price (see below) Meals include pancakes, sausage or bacon, a drink and of course 100% pure maple syrup! No group rates for meals, and meals are not a required purchase.

• $6.00 small meal
• $12.00 medium meal
• $40.00 family platter

Address: 1219 Burloak Dr, Oakville, Ontario.

VIsit Bronte Creek’s website os the new Maple Syrup Festival wakelet here. You can book your park passes up to 5 day in advance of your visit to make entry faster.

Read More: 13 reasons why you should visit Bronte Creek – even when it’s *not* maple syrup season.

Maple town at Mountsberg Conservation Area

It’s the sweetest time of year at Conservation Halton! The Mountsberg Maple Syrup festival is a popular one! Their sugarbush has been producing maple magic for more than 150 years and educating the public for over 40 years. The park will tap about 300 sugar maples this spring and the crystal-clear sap will be magically transformed into sweet maple syrup in the Sugar Shanty. Purchase a delicious pancake meal, maple-themed sweets & treats!

A visit to Maple Town offers you an exploration of the various demonstrations around the sugar bush – and of course pancakes! Plus, you can add a Wagon Ride (additional fee, first come first serve) through the sugarbush for a truly unforgettable experience or Talons and Tailfeathers for a closer encounter with the Mountsberg Raptors.

Dates and Times For Maple Town

February 28 – April 5 2026 – Weekends, Holidays & March Break
9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Admission – Non-Members

• Adult: $12.50 +HST
• Senior: $10.25 +HST
• Child (5-14): $9.25 +HST
• Child 4 & under: FREE

Admission Members

• Adult: $5.25 +HST
• Senior: $4.25 +HST
• Child (5-14): $3.25 +HST
• Child 4 & under: FREE

Maple Town is one of the more popular maple syrup festivals nearby so don’t wait to book. Click here to book your Maple Town visit.

Crawford Lake Sweet Water

Crawford Lake Conservation Area presents Sweet Water Season, a celebration of the Indigenous heritage of maple sugaring. Your visit focuses on the Indigenous heritage of maple sugaring through a series of exhibits throughout the Longhouse Village. Visitors can take a step back in time to the 15th-century site when maple sugaring was the first harvest of the year.

Sweetwater demonstrations run throughout the day, Guests are encouraged to gather by the fire and learn all about the history of maple sugar making. There will also be guided maple syrup tasting flights offered where you can try different grades of maple syrup, similar to a wine tasting.

Dates and Times

February 28, 2026 – April 5, 2026 – Weekends, Holidays & March Break
10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Included in your Sweetwater Season Experience:

• Longhouse Village Exploration       
• First Harvest: Celebrating Sweet Water Exhibit           
• Maple Syrup Tastings
• Maple Taffy on Snow
• Sweet Water Demonstrations

Admission Fees

• Adult: $10.50 +HST
• Senior: $8.25 +HST
• Child (5-14): $7.25 +HST
• Child 4 & under: FREE

Book your Sweet Water experience here.

Maple Syrup in the park at Terra Cotta Conservation Area – 2026 Info Coming Soon

Come out and explore Terra Cotta Conservation Area this spring at our maple syrup event. Tap into the sweet taste of spring and enjoy pancakes with real maple syrup, taste maple taffy and take home maple sweets and treats, available for purchase from our Park Store! Tour maple syrup demonstrations, take a walk through Tales on the Trail, learn from Indigenous partners and more. Click here for a full line up of Maple activities planned for 2025.

Admission:

Save $3 off your tickets today! Early bird ticket pricing on until February 28th, or until tickets sell out. Buy your tickets here.

• Adult (ages 15 to 64): $13
• Youth (ages 6 to 14): $7.50
• Child (ages 0 to 5): Free
• Seniors (ages 65 years and over): $10.50
• Credit Valley Parks Passholders: Free

Maple Weekend with Sweet Ontario

The Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association will be hosting the Annual Maple Weekend April 4-5, 2026. Participants in Maple Weekend can be found across the province in a number of maple syrup farms and producing areas. Depending on how far you’d like to travel for your syrup fix, you could find yourself at an event in St. Catharines, Halton, Niagara, or head north to Simcoe.

Burlington Lion’s Club Maple Syrup Sale

Prefer to stay warm and cozy, but refuse to give up on that delicious maple goodness? The Burlington Lion’s Club has been selling Quebec Maple Syrup as a fundraising project since 2003. The money they raise from this event is returned back to the Burlington Community. Sweet just got sweeter! Click here for more info.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Maple Syrup Festivals 2026: Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and More appeared first on Active Parents.

From sprawling city centre parks with exciting equipment to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, Burlington offers a variety of outdoor adventures. Explore our curated list of playgrounds that promise fun-filled days and endless smiles for your little ones.

Get Social With Us!

Find us exploring the region and sharing the adventure on Instagram and Facebook!

Explore The Best Parks in Burlington

Brant Hills Park

Brant Hills Park in Burlington is full of possibilities for kids who love to climb, run, splash and play! There are 2 play structures, a splash pad and lots of playing fields and diamonds too. Read about how to enjoy all that Brant Hills Park has to offer here.

Burloak Waterfront Park

On the border of Burlington and Oakville is Burloak Waterfront Park. Its Lake Ontario views, multi-use pathways, shady picnic spots, and rubberized playground base are huge draws for families from all over the region. Find out more about Burloak Waterfront Park here.

Central Park

Central Park shares a parking lot with the central branch of the Burlington Public Library and is adjacent to Central Arena and the New Street Seniors Centre. The unique play equipment allows for lots of balancing and adventure walking. There are slides in every size and shape which are perfect for kids of all ages. Discover what makes Central Park such a popular spot here.

Hidden Valley Park

Hidden Valley Park in Aldershot is home to 2 playgrounds. There are a variety of climbers and slides, and the ramps that connected them provide just as much entertainment. The surrounding park area includes a splash pad, creek area and playing fields. There is no shortage of fun to be had at Hidden Valley Park!

LaSalle Park

LaSalle Park in Burlington’s west end has an upgraded playground, vast amounts of green space and easy access to the marina and waterfront. The playground has plenty of swings, slides, and climbers. But many kids would say the coolest part is the purple kid-powered merry-go-round! Check out how to spend some time exploring LaSalle Park here.

Lowville Park

Lowville Park is a great destination for families who want to play at a playground, have a picnic, fly a kite or explore Bronte Creek all in one spot. This park has a great play structure with a good variety of climbers, swings and slides. The playground is just one of the many amenities Lowville Park has for families to enjoy.

Maple Park

This playground is home to swings, slides and a variety of ways to climb and balance. There are small and medium-sized rock climbing walls, 2 sizes of slides and a see-saw. For even more thrills, there is a kid-powered merry-go-round and a skatepark! Read more about Maple Park and its many features here.

Mountainside Park

Mountainside Park has everything for a variety of age groups between its two parks. One park is smaller, geared towards the under 5 crowd. The playground equipment in the second park area is perfect for your adventurous toddlers and school-aged kids. Discover how to double your fun at Mountainside Park here!

Nelson Park

Located centrally in south Burlington, this park, pool (paid admission) and playground combination truly has something for everyone, during every season. The playground has two big swings three baby swings and a special needs swing. The kids will love the four slides and various climbing apparatuses.

Check out this overview of Nelson Park and more photos of all of the fun!

Norton Park

The play structure here has unique pieces that encourage full-body play and lots of movement for kids. Norton Park is also home to one of Burlington’s largest skateparks, community art, and a splash pad. Read our review and see more pictures of Norton Park here.

Sherwood Forest Park

You’re in for a treat when you choose to visit this park because you get two playgrounds, Burlington’s longest multi-use trail and a whole lot more! There are some really unique climbers and see-saw options, as well as the always-popular dual slides and lots of swings. There is so much to explore here so check out this information about Sherwood Forest Park and area.

Tansley Woods Park

The playground at Tansley Woods is such a great structure for kids of all ages. It is spread out and has a little something for everyone, all with a woodsy touch! There are two playgrounds, one smaller toddler-sized playground and a larger, main playground structure. Discover the unique features of Tansley Woods Park here.

Find The Perfect Park For You

Playgrounds With Cool Climbers

Looking for a park a monkey would love? These are our favorite Burlington playgrounds for kids who love to climb: Burloak Waterfront Park, Central Park, LaSalle Park, Mountainside Park, Nelson Park, Sherwood Forest Park, Tansley Woods Park

Smaller Parks Perfect For Toddlers

When you are a parent of a toddler, age-appropriate equipment is a must when visiting a new playground. Here are some options in the Burlington area: Brant Hills Park, Hidden Valley Park, Maple Park, Mountainside Park, Sherwood Forest Park, Tansley Woods Park

Parks With Splash Pads

On those hot summer park days, cool off with no admission fee at these Burlington parks: Brant Hills Park, Hidden Valley Park, Norton Park, For even more splash pad and wading pool options at Hamilton parks, you can find an even bigger listing here.

Parks With Public Washrooms

When you gotta go, you gotta go! Play without worry at these playgrounds with public washrooms: Brant Hills Park, Central Park, Hidden Valley Park, LaSalle Park, Lowville Park, Nelson Park, Norton Park, Sherwood Forest Park (seasonal), Tansley Woods Park

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

• 
  Hidden Valley Park is a Must-Visit Destination
• 
  Exhibition Park is a Huge Natural Playground in Guelph
• 
  Waterdown Memorial Park Has a Massive Skate Bowl, Playground and Paved Path
• 
  Natural Playgrounds Near Burlington and Hamilton

The post The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Burlington appeared first on Active Parents.

From sprawling city centre parks with exciting equipment to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, Hamilton offers a variety of outdoor adventures. Explore our curated list of playgrounds that promise fun-filled days and endless smiles for your little ones.

Get Social With Us!

Find us exploring the region and sharing the adventure on Instagram and Facebook!

Best Parks in Hamilton

Andy Warburton Park

The rubberized ground cover at Andy Warburton Park and the ample ways to explore, climb and play will make these a playground you keep coming back to. There is even a nearby splash pad, wading pool, basketball court and sun shelter to keep the fun going all day! Read more about Andy Warbuton Park here.

bernie Morelli Community Centre

Located just outside Bernie Morelli Community Centre in Hamilton. The team converted a concrete courtyard into a natural playground for the visitors and the community. Discover why families love the Bernie Morelli natural playground here.

Central Elementary School, Dundas

The site – home of Central Elementary School in Dundas – features an ancient, 100-year-old, 17,000 lbs, 8’ wide silver maple trunk, an amphitheatre, and a wetland teaching garden. Discover why families love Central Elementary’s natural playground here.

Chappel East Parkette

Chappel East Parkette is smaller, but its natural elements and massive owl structure make it an ideal setting for imagination play. Read our review and see more pictures of Chappel East Parkette here.

Confederation Beach Park

Confederation Beach Park has a variety of climbing options, a cool pirate theme and wide-open spaces for running and playing. Big kids will love the monkey bars and ropes, and little ones will like the fake logs for balancing. Find out more about Confederation Beach Park and its amenities here.

Heritage Green Sports Park in Stoney Creek

Heritage Green Sports Park’s playground has some unique features, including a double zipline, one regular one and one special needs swing chair zipline, a mini ropes course and a rope climbing pyramid. For more information and photos of Heritage Green Sports Park, click here.

Matilda Street Natural Playground

Matilda Street’s playground is an example of repurposing at its best! This land used to be a gas station and so, due to site contamination and restrictions, the natural playground was made as the clay cap on top of the existing site.

Mountview Park

Mountview Park’s green and blue colour scheme and bug theme really attract the eye, with two separate play structures, one being specifically for young kids.

Check out this review of Mountview Park and more photos of all of the fun!

Perth Park

Perth Park is nestled in an Ancaster neighbourhood and offers a ton of ways to climb and balance, plus equipment that gives lots of options to use your imagination. Read our review and see more pictures of Perth Park here.

Pier 4 Park

There is just something extra special about a playground at the waterfront! The giant tugboat structure is perfect for make-believe. Run and climb and speed down the many slides. When you need a rest, there is a set of swings and a splash pad to cool you down. There is lots to explore here so check out this information about Pier 4 Park and area.

Waterdown Memorial Park

From the wide variety of climbing equipment, to the splash pad area and even a skatepark, Waterdown Memorial Park has something for everyone! Read more about our experience at Waterdown Memorial Park here.

William Connell Park

When you visit William Connell Park in Hamilton you’ll be treated to a combination of a natural playground, traditional playgrounds, and more sports fields than you could imagine! Read our review and see more photos of William Connell Park here.

Find The Perfect Park For You

Parks With Great Climbers

Looking for a park a monkey would love? These are our favorite Hamilton playgrounds for kids who love to climb: Perth Park, Mountview Park, Waterdown Memorial Park, Heritage Green Sports Park

Parks For Toddlers

When you are a parent of a toddler, age-appropriate equipment is a must when visiting a new playground. Here are some options in the Hamilton area: Andy Warburton Park, Confederation Beach Park, Pier 4 Park, and Waterdown Memorial Park.

Parks With Splash Pads

On those hot summer park days, cool off at these Hamilton parks: Andy Warburton Park, Confederation Beach Park, Heritage Green Sports Park, Pier 4 Park, and Waterdown Memorial Park. For even more splash pad and wading pool options at Hamilton parks, you can find an even bigger listing here.

Parks With Public Washrooms

When you gotta go, you gotta go! Play without worry at these playgrounds with public washrooms: William Connell Park and Confederation Beach Park

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

• 
  Hidden Valley Park is a Must-Visit Destination
• 
  Exhibition Park is a Huge Natural Playground in Guelph
• 
  Waterdown Memorial Park Has a Massive Skate Bowl, Playground and Paved Path
• 
  Natural Playgrounds Near Burlington and Hamilton

The post The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Hamilton appeared first on Active Parents.

From sprawling parks with exciting equipment to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, Oakville offers a variety of outdoor adventures. Explore our curated list of playgrounds that promise fun-filled days and endless smiles for your little ones.

Get Social With Us!

Find us exploring the region and sharing the adventure on Instagram and Facebook!

Best Parks and Playgrounds in Oakville

Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park

This beautiful park has something for everyone. Kids love the pirate ship theme because it brings out their swashbuckling imaginations! The rubberized playground surface is always a bonus, especially for toddlers who tend to stumble more than older kids. There is even more to explore around Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park, so read all about it here.

Colonel William Woods Park

Colonel William Woods Park offers a treehouse-themed playground in a serene woodland setting, ideal for families. The park features diverse play structures, including a tall slide for adventurous kids and a smaller slide for toddlers. Check out more about Colonel William Woods Park here.

Coronation Park

Coronation Park has two new playground areas with everything from a universal carousel to a zip-line and more! Since there are 2 separate play structures, one being smaller and more toddler-friendly, this park is fun for all ages. Find a full list of Coronation Park’s amenities here.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park is a beautiful hidden gem in North East Oakville. The park is full of natural touches that give the playground a real woodsy feeling. Plus, there is accessible parking, toddler-friendly structures and public washrooms. Memorial Park has so much more to offer as you can read about here.

Postridge Park

Postridge Park has a pirate ship structure with a raised treasure map inside the bow. There are monkey bars, climbing apparatuses, a spiral slide and many imaginative play opportunities. Get ready to play like a pirate at Postridge Park!

Shell Park

Shell Park includes a large skatepark, playground and garden space. The playground area is on a rubberized play surface and there are mature trees all around for shade. Read about more of what makes Shell Park a must-visit spot here.

William Rose Park

William Rose Park in North Oakville has 4 slides, and 2 of them are larger and faster than average, which is great for bigger kids. But don’t worry, there are lots of ways for little ones to enjoy the park too! Check out more about William Rose Park’s amenities here.

Find The Perfect Oakville Park For You

Best Oakville Parks For Climbers

Looking for a park a monkey would love? These are our favorite Oakville playgrounds for kids who love to climb: Colonel William Woods Park, Postridge Park, William Rose Park.

Parks With Splash Pads

After all of that playground time, here are some parks that also include a splash pad for cooling down: Coronation Park and William Rose Park. Plus, check out this listing for even more splash pad options in Oakville.

Parks in Oakville With Public Washrooms

When you gotta go, you gotta go! Play without worry at these playgrounds with public washrooms: Coronation Park, Memorial Park, Shell Park, William Rose Park.

find more parks in the area here

We can help you find more outdoor fun here, or check our Calendar and see what’s happening right now! If you’re in a playground mood, we’ve got tons of recommendations for them below!

• 
  Hidden Valley Park is a Must-Visit Destination
• 
  Exhibition Park is a Huge Natural Playground in Guelph
• 
  Waterdown Memorial Park Has a Massive Skate Bowl, Playground and Paved Path
• 
  Natural Playgrounds Near Burlington and Hamilton

The post The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Oakville appeared first on Active Parents.

Are you sending in Valentine’s for your child’s class? We have a great list of non-candy options that are fun, unique and most importantly – easy! Check out our list of non-food Valentine’s Day ideas here.

“Are there any Valentine’s Day events near me?” This was a question we received in our DMs on February 1st. As shown below, I was thrilled to answer YES to this message!

If you’re looking for a day filled with hearts and pink and red, undoubtedly, these Valentine’s Day events fit the bill. Thank you to these businesses for adding warmth and love to our February. This list includes Valentine’s Day events in Hamilton, Burlington, and Oakville. And activities in Milton, Guelph and Kitchener, are here, too! There’s lots of love on the calendar this year, therefore we know you’ll easily find something great to do. Afterwards, maybe some heart-shaped pancakes for dinner?

Share your Valentine’s Day with us on Facebook and Instagram – we love seeing the love!

Valentine’s Day Themed Events Near You

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Valentine’s Day Events Near You 2026 appeared first on Active Parents.

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 too.
• 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 enough, they may be out in their pens!
• 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!

Soak Up The Christmas Spirit

• Use our Google Map to find streets and neighbourhoods decked out in their Christmas lights and displays.
• Wander through Downtown Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park and see the annual Festival of Lights. No cost, and strategically located near some great hot chocolate shops!
• Top Pick: check out our Map of Christmas lights – it includes photos, address, and driving routes.

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.
• 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.

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

• Toboggan the hills, there are 15 city-approved sledding hills in Hamilton and Burlington for you to try.
• Skate at an outdoor skating rink. We know where the best ones are!
• Glide around these cross-country skiing trails in and around Halton and Hamilton.
• One of the most popular outdoor winter activities for families is snow tubing. There are more local tubing hills than you would imagine!

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 Mississauga.
• 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!

Eat Great Food

• It wouldn’t be winter in Canada without a visit to the maple syrup farms and festivals.
• Our readers told us where to find the very best donuts in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville – go get one or a dozen today!
• It’s never not a great time for ice cream! And lots of these ice cream shops in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville are open all year.

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 local libraries. 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!

The post 50+ Things To Do This Winter appeared first on Active Parents.

Tobogganing is one of the easiest and cheapest winter activities to keep kids entertained on a snowy day. Grab a sled and your snow pants and use our list to find a tobogganing hill in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville to visit. We like to choose a new hill each time so we can compare and see which is the best!

These 11 toboggan hills are the city-approved sledding hills in Burlington and Hamilton because the city inspected these locations and determined them to be safest for sledding. Always watch the hills and make sure they’re clear to sled on.

Tobogganing is a Canadian winter pastime that almost makes our frigid winters bearable. While it may look like any hill will work, choose a tobogganing hill that is city-approved as you know it’s a safer alternative to other hills. Get bundled up, and bring your helmets, because you can never be too safe. Here are the designated hills to toboggan near Burlington and Hamilton:

City-Approved Toboggan Hills in Burlington

• LaSalle Park, east of the parking lot. There are 2 tobogganing hills at LaSalle. We like the wide and shorter one as the walk up is easier and the width means less trees to have to maneuver between.
• Tyandaga Golf Course, at hole No. 4, on the west slope
• Central Park, the hill northwest of Community Garden. This is a popular spot for us. I like that there is a long flat runoff at the bottom of the hill, with no obstructions. Lots of parking as well.
• Brant Hills Park and Community Centre, southwest of the tennis courts.
• Nelson Park, east side of the park, north of Centennial Bike Path
• Lowville Park, the hill on the southwest end of the park. This hill is very tall and very fast. My young teens went and enjoyed it, but I would be extra cautious with younger ones on the hill.

Related: Make time to ice skate this winter. We know the best outdoor ice rinks for families to enjoy.

City-Approved Hills For Tobogganing in Hamilton

• Garth and Stone Church Reservoir – 1515 Garth Street, Hamilton – Hill details: Northeast corner, Southern side (East of the parking lot)
• King’s Forest Golf Course – 100 Greenhill Avenue, Hamilton – Hill details: Hole #9 – in front of the 9th green
• Waterdown Memorial Park – 200 Hamilton Street, Waterdown – Hill details: Northeast corner, West of baseball diamond #3. This i s a popular sledding spot for all ages. Bring your ice skates and enjoy the skating rink loop, too.
• Chedoke Golf Course Martin Course – 563 Aberdeen Avenue, Hamilton – Hill details: Martin Course, Hole #10- Tee
• Dundas Driving Park – 71 Cross Street, Dundas – Hill details: Between the former Parkside Public School and the Dundas Driving Park. Another popular hill for families to enjoy.

Popular Toboggan Hills in Oakville

The Town of Oakville website didn’t have info on toboggan hills, so it is better to assume that these locations are city-maintained. I’ve never been to any of these hills, so if you see something unsafe, I would love to know about it. And if you have a location to add/remove, give me a shout anytime. Safety first, always!

• Bronte Creek Provincial Park – 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville – Day admission required, but worth it because there is a ton to do (plus washrooms!)
• Old Abbey Lane Park – 1110 Old Abbey Lane, Oakville – Details: there are 3 hills beside Abbey Lane Public School
• Oxford Avenue & Upper Middle Road – Southeast corner of the intersection – this is a smaller hill that is great for little ones.
• Appleby College – 540 Lakeshore Road West – apparently, kids have been sledding here for many years, have you been?

toboggan safely

Here are a few tips to play safely while tobogganing in Burlington and Hamilton.

• Toboggan during daylight hours, not when it is dark.
• Toboggan when the hill is snow-covered, not when it is icy or bare.
• Check the hill and make sure it is free of obstacles and toboggan in the designated area.
• Wear a helmet designed for winter sports.
• Use a toboggan that is in good shape and has brakes and steering.
• Avoid wearing scarves or any clothing that could get caught in a toboggan and cause injury.
• Always sit down and face-forward on a toboggan.
• Do not build jumps or other obstacles on the toboggan hill.
• Walk up the side of the hill and leave the middle open for others coming down the hill.
• If you fall off of your toboggan, move out of the way to avoid being hit.

Reminder: Visiting these sledding hills is an activity that you do at your own risk. The city, nor Active Parents, is not responsible for any personal injury or damage to your personal items.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
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  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
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  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post 15 Local Toboggan Hills: Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville appeared first on Active Parents.

Each rink offers something different, and if you try a few out, you’re sure to find your family’s favourite. In this list, we share all of the public skating rinks and their addresses. We also share info on booking your skate time (if required) and share some photos of rinks we have been to.

You’ve found skating rinks near you. Looking for more winter fun? We suggest this list of winter things to do.

All of the outdoor ice skating rinks in Hamilton, Burlington Oakville and Milton don’t need much pre-planning at all, and they are free to use!

Jump to your city’s skating rinks by clicking the city name here: Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville, Milton

Outdoor Ice Skating rinks in Burlington

Ice skating in Burlington at Rotary Centennial Pond will be open for skating this winter, with no reservations needed. This is one of the nicest ice rinks near me, and I love skating under the lights.

Enjoy Burlington’s waterfront while skating for free with family and friends all throughout the winter season. Skates are available for free rental, too! Sizes and styles are subject to availability. First come, first served. Skate lending at the Pond must be signed out and returned. Skate aids are also available.

Burlington’s neighbourhood ice rinks

Neighbourhood residents create their own ice rinks as part of a program partnership with the city. These rinks are free, unsupervised, and completely created and maintained by the residents. Find all of the rinks here.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Hamilton

Winter is here and drop-in outdoor ice skating rinks in Hamilton are back. Outdoor ice rinks are weather dependent. During extended periods of above 0-degree temperatures, ice conditions may require rink closures.  Closure notifications will be posted both online and at the park.

Outdoor public ice skating in Hamilton is offered at the following 4 locations:

• Bernie Morelli – Serafini Family Outdoor Ice Rink
• Dundas Driving Park
• Waterdown Memorial Park
• Freelton Community Park

The ice at Valens Lake Conservation Area is frozen and ready for ice skating. Admission is $16.50 for 1 vehicle and driver and each additional passenger over 5 years of age is $5.50. In addition to a great ice skating experience, you can purchase firewood and enjoy a campfire in one of the fire pits. Bring your marshmallows and hot cocoa!

Princess Point also provides access to a designated skating area across Cootes Paradise. The ice thickness is measured each Friday before the end of the day and updated at the on-site signage. Parking for this rink is $3 per hour and is located at 335 Longwood Road. This outdoor rink is a top-recommended option from our community of parents.

Community-Maintained Hamilton Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

Thanks to some awesome Hamilton residents you can access a number of free, community-maintained skating rinks, too! These rinks are often less busy, therefore perfect for first-timers and newbies. These skating rinks are operated by neighbourhood volunteers (weather permitting).

Outdoor Skating rinks In Oakville

Try one of these outdoor skating rinks in Oakville! The rink at Trafalgar Park is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, weather permitting, from mid-December to March. Follow the Town of Oakville on their social pages for rink updates and closures.

• Bloomfield Park  – 2531 Westoak Trails Boulevard
• Clearview Park – 1260 Sir David Drive
• Coronation Park – 1426 Lakeshore Road West 
• George Savage Park – 3200 George Savage Avenue
• Glenashton Park – 1051 Glenashton Drive
• Kinoak Arena lot – 363 Warminster Drive 
• Langtry Park – 2186 Brays Lane (closed currently Jan 2024)
• Millbank Park – 166 Glenashton Drive
• Nautical Park – 355 Nautical Boulevard
• Old Abbey Lane Park – 1110 Old Abbey Lane
• Sixteen Hollow Park – 2140 Westoak Trails Boulevard
• Sixteen Mile Sports Complex – 3070 Neyagawa Boulevard
• Trafalgar Park – 133 Rebecca Street – outdoor refrigerated rink
• Wallace Park – 245 Reynolds Street
• William Rose Park – 455 Wheat Boom Drive 
• Windrush Park – 1225 Windrush Drive

• Admission is free and first come, first served as space allows.
• Capacity limits apply and are subject to change.
• You can rent helmets and skates from the community centre at the Trafalgar Park location.
• Cancellations are posted on-site. Please contact the facility directly for the most up-to-date information.

Ice skating rinks in Milton

Milton’s neighbourhood outdoor rinks program is a collaborative effort between residents and the Town of Milton. The program began in the winter of 2022-23 and provides a community building opportunity where a group of neighbours work together to build and operate the rink at a community park for all residents to enjoy, free of charge.

Outdoor ice rinks are weather dependent and during extended periods of above 0-degree temperatures, ice conditions may require a closure. Closure notifications will be posted on the Town’s social media channels. 

Where to Get Your ice and hockey Skates Sharpened in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville

Make sure your skate blades are sharp before you hit your local outdoor skating rink! Take them to one of these locations to get them sharpened.

SportChek in Burlington Centre – contact them directly for availability.

Fast & Sharp – Mobile Skate Sharpening Service in Burlington. $10 for hockey and goalie skates, and right now they are not accepting figure skates for sharpening. Drop off and pick up currently by appointment only at Dundas Street and Appleby Line in Burlington.

Tydan Blades in Dundas – Contact for info.

Al’s Source for Sports in Burlington

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
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  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
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  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post 23+ Outdoor Skating Rinks in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton appeared first on Active Parents.

Seasonal (and Free) Fun

Go sledding! Enjoy one of the top-approved tobogganing hills in Burlington and Hamilton and hit the hills!

Ice skate with the kids on one of these 23+ outdoor ice skating rinks.

Stroll the Burlington Festival of Lights and sip a delicious hot chocolate.

Outdoor Things To Do

Snow tubing is an awesome way to ring in the new year on an exciting level!

Keep the holiday season alive with a drive through or walk through lights show. We have them all listed for you in one list to make choosing much easier.

Bronte Creek invites everyone to kick off their 2026 on a fresh note with their annual #FirstDayHike . Explore 13km of multi-use trails, plus check out these 13 things we love about Bronte Creek.

Visit one of the many conservation areas in Halton and Hamilton – and beyond! We are so lucky to live in the Greenbelt and have access to such beautiful, natural spaces in our backyard.

Cross-country skiing is such a peaceful way to spend the first day of the year. These locations offer ideal terrain for this iconic winter activity.

Indoor Things To Do

Just say “nope!” to cold and go to the movies! Oakville’s Film.ca movie theatre is open January 1st. Downtown Burlington’s Cinestarz theatre is also open and so is Landmark Cinemas at Jackson Square in Hamilton. Cineplex theatres are all open too – do they ever close?!

Strikes, gutter balls and turkeys will be had on January 1st at the bowling alley! Here is a list of bowling alleys near you to check out.

No matter what you decide to do, if you’re heading out, please call ahead to make sure your destination is open. We source our info from websites, social media and Google, but we would also hate to see you disappointed!

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
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  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Things To Do On New Year’s Day appeared first on Active Parents.

Whether you’re a newbie or an expert cross-country skiier, this sport is an ideal winter activity for you. It’s a great cardio workout and anyone of any age can do it. Here’s where you can cross-country ski near you:

Find More Winter Ideas Here

• Joseph Brant Museum – New “eat make share: a taste of immigration” Exhibit, Children’s STEAM Gallery and More
• Triple C Farm in Ancaster: A Hands-On Animal Experience Kids Will Love
• Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Hamilton and Halton
• Best Indoor Waterparks in Ontario for Families (2026 Guide)
• 5 Must-Dos For Visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Cross-Country Skiing in Milton

Crawford Lake Conservation Area offers 3 cross-country ski trails on Escarpment trails through woods and fields. These trails are easy-moderate and not groomed, so skiiers will need to make their own tracks. It is also the site of a rare meromictic lake and a reconstructed Iroquoian village. No ski rentals. The prime skiing season is from January to March. Admission fee required.

Hilton Falls Conservation Area has 3 trails with a total of 15 km for skiing. The trails take you through Escarpment woods and beaver meadows. They are considered moderate-difficult and are groomed. No ski rentals are available. Admission fee required.

Cross-Country Skiing in Hamilton

“While Hamilton Conservation Authority does not groom or maintain trails specific to cross-country skiing, it doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of great places to go! The trails on the south side of Christie Lake can be challenging in some areas but also very fun. Use the Round the Lake Trail and you’ll get to ski across the dam. The Reforestation and G. Donald Trails in the Dundas Valley will be of particular interest to those looking for more challenging hills. Users are reminded to stay on the trail.” Admission fee required.

Cross-Country Skiing in Burlington

Tyandaga Golf Course in Burlington is open for cross-country skiing. There is no fee to use the grounds.

Mountsberg Conservation Area has 1 ski trail that runs along the shoreline, through woods and sugarbush. It takes you along the Wildlife Walkway with bison, elk, and birds of prey enclosures. This trail is not groomed and considered difficult. No ski rentals are available. Admission fee required.

Did You Know…

You can borrow snow equipment and winter play gear from Oakville Public Library and Burlington Public Library. It’s true!

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Cross-Country Skiing Near Hamilton and Burlington appeared first on Active Parents.

More Winter Fun

Have you tried these cross-country skiing trails?

Grab a sled and toboggan these hills with the family.

Ice skate at one of these 23+ outdoor ice rinks nearby.

Snow tubing Hills Near You

Chicopee Tube Park

Address: 1600 River Road East, Kitchener, Ontario, N2A 4K8  |    website

You saw us zipline at Chicopee this summer, and now that the snow is here, it’s time for Chicopee snow tubing in Kitchener! This hill is one of the most popular in the area, and it’s just a short drive away. Booking your visit in advance is a good idea as very limited amounts of walk-up passes will be available. Bookings are in 90-minute time slots. Kids must be at least 4 years old and 42 inches tall to tube. Kids under 12 must wear a helmet and you can bring your own or rent one at Chicopee.

Mount Chinguacousy

Address: 9050 Bramalea Rd, Brampton, ON L6S 6G7  |   website

Looking for snow tubing near Mississauga? Our readers recommend Mount Chinguacousy. This hill is very popular for snow tubing in Brampton. Purchase your tickets at the hill in packs of 6, 12 and 18 runs. There is a minimum height requirement of 42″ and a maximum weight of 250 lbs for the snow tube hill.  Patrons must bring their own helmets to use for tubing. Rentals are not available. Folks looking for snow tubing in Mississauga will love the short trek to Brampton.

Snow Valley Tubing in Barrie

Address: 2632 Vespra Valley Rd, Minesing, ON L0L 1Y3    |    website

Barrie (Minesing) is 90 minutes from Burlington, so definitely a day trip option for families looking for winter adventure. Barrie snow tubing, skiing and skating are very popular with families and for locals. Snow Valley tubing boasts 3 lifts and 14 chutes over 10 storeys high, so book your visit in advance to avoid disappointment. Start planning your snow tubing in Barrie visit by pre-purchasing your tickets online here. Tickets must be purchased online, there are no walk-up tickets available. Families looking for snow tubing in Toronto tend to flock to this location.

Boler Mountain

Address: 689 Griffith Street, London, Ontario | website

We loved the spring and summer action at Boler Mountain, and winter is going to be just as exciting! Boler Mountain Tube Park boasts 3 tube runs that are 10 stories high, where you can reach speeds of 70 km/hr! Some of our readers recommended this as the best snow tubing in Ontario.

• Must be a minimum of 42 inches in height to ride
• Helmets are mandatory and are provided
• Tickets are valid for 2 hours
• Tickets must start on the 1/2 hour
• The number of tickets per heat is limited and some heats will sell out. The number of slides in 2 hours will vary from 4 to 8 depending on how busy it is.

Lakeridge Snow Tubing and Ski Resort

Address: 790 Chalk Lake Rd, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4   |   website

Make the 120 minute drive to Uxbridge and you will enjoy 2 hours of snow tubing at Ski Lakeridge. All tubers need to measure at least 42″ tall. Tickets must be pre-purchased online before your arrival, then you pick up the tickets upon arrival.

Horseshoe Valley Snow Tubing

Address: 1101 Horseshoe Valley Road West, Barrie, Ontario, L4M 4Y8 | website

Ontario’s Longest Snow Tubing Hill! Get your heart pumping with the all-thrill, no-skill fun of snow tubing. Fly down the hill and then let the magic carpet whisk you back up to the top! Don’t miss this must-do winter activity. 

• Height Requirements: 42″ (3 ft 5 in)
• No age requirement as long as the height requirement is met
• All riders will ride down the hill in their own tube
• Proper winter footwear required
• Helmets are recommended, but not mandatory

Blue Mountain Snow tubing

Address: 150 Jozo Weider Blvd, Unit AW1, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0P7 | website

Snow tubing provides guests with a genuine downhill experience without the speed and equipment associated with skiing and snowboarding. Tubing offers old-fashioned winter fun for the entire family and gives all participants a gentle introduction to the Blue Mountain slopes. Some of our readers recommended this as the best snow tubing in Ontario.

• All tubers must ride alone, including Tykes (age 4 and under)
• Purchase a Play All Day pass for tubing and other winter attractions.

Glen Eden Snow Tubing

Hoping for snow tubing at Glen Eden? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s been gone for a few years now with no sign of returning. If you’re looking for snow tubing in Hamilton and the area, your closest spot is Chicopee.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post 8 of The Best Snow Tubing Hills in Ontario appeared first on Active Parents.

Discover the Wonders of the Botanical Train Display

This enchanting RBG train exhibit features “G scale” model trains chugging through whimsical, miniature landscapes inspired by Canadian landmarks. What makes it truly special is that these iconic structures are crafted entirely from plant materials! Surrounding the display are over 2,500 lush plants, creating a festive, immersive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

The exhibit, sometimes called the RBG Christmas Train, also celebrates Canada’s railroad history, showcasing steam engines of the late 1800s, sleek steamliners of the 1930s, and powerful modern locomotives. It’s a blend of nostalgia and wonder that will captivate both train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.​

Plan Your Visit

• Dates: Open November 27, 2025 to January 4, 2026 (closed December 25, 26, and January 1).
• Location: Rock Garden at RBG, 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, Ontario.
• Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (Last admission at 4 PM), 10 AM to 3 PM on December 24 and 31

Ticket Information

General admission tickets include access to the display:

• Adults: $19.50
• Children (3-12): $11.50
• Senior: $16.50
• Student: $16.50
• Infants (0-2): Free
  If you’re a frequent visitor, consider an annual family membership, which offers unlimited access and discounts on special events.

Make the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive Early: Mornings or early afternoons are less busy, making it easier to explore with little ones.
• Pair Your Visit: Don’t miss RBG’s Christmas Lights show, Winter Wonders, a dazzling light installation in Hendrie Park, running in the evenings. It’s a magical way to extend your family outing​.
• Pack for the Weather: While much of the train display is indoors, the gardens themselves offer plenty of scenic outdoor areas to explore.

Why Families Love The RBG Botanical Train

The Botanical Train Display is more than just a holiday tradition—it’s a chance to connect with nature and Canadian history in a uniquely creative way. Kids are mesmerized by the trains, while adults can marvel at the artistry and engineering behind the exhibit.

Whether you’re a local or visiting Burlington for the holidays, this is one experience you won’t want to miss. For tickets and more details, visit Royal Botanical Gardens.

The post Experience the Magic of the Botanical Train Display at Royal Botanical Gardens appeared first on Active Parents.

Find the Best Decorated Christmas Houses here. We included a map and photos to help you find the best ones to visit tonight! Back for 2025 – Driving Routes!

Did we miss a light show that everyone should know about? Send us a message and tell us about it.

Christmas Lights in Burlington and Oakville

Winter Wonders At Royal Botanical Gardens

Walk-thru light festival in Burlington

This outdoor experience guides visitors through Hendrie Park decked out with festive Christmas lights, light and sound installations, and displays that celebrate the magic of the winter season. Stroll through the garden to the rhythm of festive music while indulging in the warm tastes and fragrances of the holiday season. New this year, enjoy interactive art installations by Canadian artists that invite you to touch, explore, and play, adding a hands-on element where you create the magic! Browse an expanded selection of craft vendors offering unique, handmade gifts perfect for the season. After your walk, head indoors to the Botanical Train display.

Pricing: Kids under 2 are free, kids 3-12 years old are $16 and adults are $20. Discounts for RBG members.

Dates: Thursday to Sunday, November 27, 2025 to January 4, 2026 but not December 24, December 25, December 26, December 31, January 1. Ticketed entry times from 5:30 PM to 10 PM.

Tickets required; get yours today at Winter Wonders – Royal Botanical Gardens

Festival of Lights At Spencer Smith Park

2025 marks the 30th year for the Festival of Lights! Every year thousands of local residents and visitors from across the region, and beyond, wander through the park with family and friends to view the themed displays. From November 29th, 2025 to January 7th, 2026, tens of thousands of visitors will take in the attraction while driving along Lakeshore Road at the City’s waterfront throughout the holiday season. It’s one of our favourites, and we have more details and tips for seeing the lights at their best here.

Holiday Lights by the Lake at Coronation Park

Drive thru light show and walk through lights in Oakville, Ontario

Starting on December 1, Coronation Park will be transformed into a spectacular light experience with the Holiday Lights by the Lake light display. The lights will be on display throughout the winter season through to February 1. 

Now in its fifth year, this family friendly event will feature even more lights and attractions. With more than 90 trees decked in 130,000 lights, paths illuminated by 100 light displays and 13 spotlight and laser displays, the park will be transformed into an unmissable winter destination!

This event and drive through light display are free.

Coronation Park address: 1426 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville

Niagara Falls Winter Festival Of Lights

Drive thru light show and walk through lights in Niagara Falls Nov 15, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026

The most enchanting of Niagara Falls attractions, the annual Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival. Experience the spectacular displays with millions of lights and larger than life displays across the tourism districts.

New to the Falls experience this year, The Laser Light Spectacular is a free, family-friendly show that lights up the night sky with bursts of colour, music, and motion! Set against the magical glow of millions of twinkling lights, the show transforms Niagara Falls into a kaleidoscope of colour and sound. Watch as vivid laser beams dance through the winter air, synchronized to an energetic soundtrack that captures the spirit of the season. It’s the perfect way to make your winter nights shine even brighter! This will be on display every half hour from 6 PM to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday nights from Nov 15-Dec 20 and nightly from Dec 26-Jan 4.

• Over 40 nights of FREE indoor family entertainment at multiple host venues every weekend and nightly throughout the December holiday period
• Special illumination of the Falls every night
• Fireworks at 8 PM every Friday and Saturday night from Nov 15-Dec 20 and nightly from Dec 25-Jan 4
• Niagara Falls Hot Chocolate Trail

Safari Lights at Safari Niagara

Drive-through light show in Niagara

Make this holiday season a special one by driving through this dazzling holiday lights drive-thru adventure! There is snow-much to see! Immersive light tunnels, luminous motion lights, whimsical animal light displays you won’t see anywhere else! This awe-inspiring 3 km drive will immerse you in luminous colour changing motion lights and winding light tunnels, complete with your favourite holiday scenes and displays.

2025 Pricing: Tickets range from $24.95 – $34.95 per car, with weekends being more expensive. Early bird pricing in effect until November 21.

Dates and times: Open from November 21st through December 30th. Time slots are from 5:30 till 7:30 pm nightly.

Visit Safari Niagara’s website to purchase tickets.

Drive-Through and Walk-Through Christmas Lights in Kitchener and Cambridge

Gift of Lights at Bingemans

Drive-through light display in Kitchener

Experience the magic and wonder of the Region’s most spectacular and dazzling light displays this holiday season. Bask in the beauty and wonderment of Gift of Lights; a drive through experience, featuring a breathtaking 40 foot twinkly LED tree, over 300 animated and static light displays and light tunnels.

Dates and Times: November 21st through January 3rd, time slots vary depending on the day of the week you want to visit.

Visit Gift of Lights, Bingemans for more information and to purchase tickets. 

Wonders of Winter

Walk-through light festival in Waterloo Park

Wander through Waterloo Park and enjoy over 100 colourful displays with over 100,000 lights.

Dates and Times: November 29th through January 3rd from 5 PM-10:30 PM each night

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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

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

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
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The post 10+ Board Game Cafes That Are Too Cool To Pass On appeared first on Active Parents.

If you have a child who is ready to progress from pony rides to horseback riding, you’ll want to check out our list of local stables. Many of the centers offer summer and March Break camps.  Let your child experience riding in a camp setting and maybe they’ll want to continue with riding lessons.  Horseback riding is a great way to spend time in nature exploring the trails and is perfect for most skill levels. 

Horseback Riding: Hamilton

Daisy Meadows Equestrian

Address: 6095 Dickenson Rd, Hannon, ON, L0R1P0

Website: https://daisymeadowsequestrian.com/

In addition to training, Daisy Meadows Equestrian offers horseback riding lessons and summer camps for riders of all abilities aged 5-15 years and hosts riding birthday parties. Pony-themed birthday parties for up to 6 guests cost $350 + HST. Bring your own food and decorations, use the air-conditioned camp room, learn to groom a horse or pony,  and ride a pony.

Foxcroft Equestrian

Address: Foxcroft Equestrian, 76 Concession 7 East, Millgrove, ON L8B 1T3

Website: http://www.foxcroftequestrian.com/

Foxcroft has 35 acres near to Waterdown, ON.  They’ve been in business since 1990 and run a riding school and summer camps.  Dates and registration information is available on their Facebook page and under the events tab on the website. 

Vector Equestrian

Address: 995 Concession # 8, Hamilton, Ontario, N0B 2J0

Website: https://www.vectorequestrian.com/

Vector Equestrian in Hamilton has riding lessons and summer camps plus boarding and onsite shows.  Check out their website and call or email for more information or to register.

Triple C Farm

Address: 500 Carluke Road West, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3L1

Website: https://www.triplecfarm.ca/

Triple C Farm is a local livestock sanctuary and petting farm with goats, pigs and alpacas that offers horseback rides, birthday parties and camps among other fun experiences (ask me about goat yoga!).  It’s best to reserve ahead online before visiting this small farm.  You can purchase tickets for events under the Events tab of the website.  They also share photos and information on their Facebook page.

Horseback Riding: Milton

Claddah Stables

Address: 4393 Tremaine Road, Milton ON

Website: https://www.claddaghstables.com/          

Claddah Stables has several horseback riding lessons near me for kids, from PA Day Camps (for $85 for 9 am – 4 pm programming and care and later pick up available for an extra charge) to Riding Lessons, Riding Camp and Saddle Club.  Riding lessons are available for all levels and as a group ($38 + tax per hour), semi-private ($45 + tax for 45 min.) and private ($60 + tax for 30 min.). 

Riding Camps are offered in the summer and for March Break for ages 6 and up. Friday evenings from 6 pm – 8:30 pm is Saddle Club.  For $45 per session, kids learn about the responsibilities of caring for ponies and horses and have a riding lesson.

Vernadee Stables

Address: 7051 McNiven Rd, Milton, ON L0P 1B0

Website: http://www.vernadee.com/

Stress-free riding lessons and riding camp in a quiet 18-stall barn in Milton.  Day camp is all about caring for and riding horses complete with mounted games on Fridays.  Camp is 9 am – 4 pm and costs a reasonable $325 + HST.  Riding lessons cost less with your own horse or, $210 for ½ hour private, $315 for 1 hour private, $180 for 1 hour group or $235 for 1 hour semi-private.

Horseback Riding: Oakville

The Ranch

Address: 2401 Burnhamthorpe Road West, Oakville, Ontario L7M 0P1

Website: https://ridetheranch.com/

The Ranch offers trail riding, lessons and camps. A 1 hour guided horseback trail ride is $80 per person, with a photo included. Ages 10 and up and to a maximum of 250 pounds.

Horseback Riding: Burlington

Bayview Equestrian Centre

Address: 3180 Cedar Springs Road, Burlington, Ontario L7R 3X4

Website: https://www.bayviewequestriancentre.com/

Bayview Equestrian has riding lessons, summer camp and March Break camp.  Lessons are offered indoors in the arena and outdoors in the sand ring. 

Horseback Riding: Niagara

Niagara Riding Stables

Address: 471 Warner Road RR4, Niagara On The Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0

niagarariding.com

Niagara Riding Stables offers trail rides along the Niagara Escarpment for couples and for small intimate groups of no more than four to six riders. Costs are $75.00 per person (taxes extra). They are open all season, no experience necessary, and they have a variety of horses so you will be matched with one that matches your skill level. The trail takes 45-50 minutes with a two-person minimum. The minimum age is 10 years and the maximum weight restriction is 240 pounds.

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
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  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Horseback Riding Near Hamilton, Halton, Brantford, Niagara appeared first on Active Parents.

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 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 $21.  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, therefore make sure you come with refreshments to refuel.

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 Disc Golf Course

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.

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.  The Burlington Public Library, for example, lends Backyard Disc Golf Sets through its lending library. 

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

Hot Off The Presses!

Catch up on what we’ve been sharing this week! Here are our latest articles, 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 Complete Guide to Drive-In Movie Theatres in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara (2026)
• 
  FIFA & World Cup Soccer Events for Families in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara
• 
  Free Summer Gym Memberships for Teens in Canada (2026): GoodLife vs Planet Fitness
• 
  10 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls With Kids

The post Disc Golf Courses Near You appeared first on Active Parents.