our top Resources for Parents
Parents need a break! We’ve got some great cheat sheets here to help make your family time easier and more fulfilling. We add more articles all the time, so check back often!
The One Minute Rule That Changed How I Tidy (And How You Can Use it Too!)
Have you ever wish you could wave a magic wand and have your home stay tidy effortlessly? Same. While I can’t promise magic, I’ve got the next best thing for
Things To Do This Weekend With Kids: May 16-19, 2025
The weekend is here and we have combed through our events calendar to bring you a list of fun things to do this weekend in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and beyond!
Splash Pads, Outdoor Pools and Wading Pools in Burlington
Spend your summer cooling down at a Burlington splash pad (sometimes called splash parks or spray pads). Most of them are free summer activities! If you need a bigger refresh, we love the outdoor pools in Burlington. They offer waterslides, climbing walls, and they feel like local water parks.
Joseph Brant Museum – New “Game Changers” Exhibit, Children’s STEAM Gallery and More
With multiple galleries and a rooftop garden, there’s something for everyone so make sure to bring the whole family. It’s perfect for little kids and we even had Grandma with us!
Happy Rolph’s is a Free Animal Sanctuary Kids Will Love
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm in St. Catharines is a must-visit for families. Pack a lunch and bring the kids, because this is a day trip you’re going to want to add to your summer bucket list.
Ride the Antique Carousel at Lakeside Park
Take a trip back in time when you ride the antique carousel at Lakeside Park in Port Dalhousie. It really is a thing of beauty and nostalgia.
The Best Drive-In Movie Theatres in Hamilton Halton and Niagara
Taking the kids to a drive-in movie is a classic memory maker. This list curates your options for drive-in movie theatres in Hamilton, Oakville, Niagara and more. You have a variety of options to choose from.
Mini Golf in Niagara Falls – The Coolest Courses For Families
Grab your putters and get ready for an adventure that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a mini golf pro or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Niagara’s mini putt courses won’t disappoint.
Victoria Day Fireworks, Events and Festivals
Hellooooo Summer! Victoria Day is the (un)official kickoff to our Canadian summer, and it couldn’t come at a better time! This weekend you can enjoy Victoria Day fireworks, festivals and more fun events happening all weekend.
The Best Mini Golf Courses To Play Right Now
Mini golf is a classic pastime that’s been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. It’s a fun and easy activity that’s perfect for a family outing or a date night. In this article, you’ll find some of the best local mini-golf courses in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville.
Kids Bowl Free This Summer! Here’s How To Score This Deal
Select bowling alleys across Canada and the US offer free bowling for kids during the summer. Register on the website (linked below) to receive coupons for 2 games of bowling every day, all summer long. Read on for where and how to take advantage of the program in Halton and Hamilton.
50+ Experience Gifts for Kids and Families
So many of you are moving towards giving gifts that are going to gather dust to end up in the landfill sooner rather than later, so we thought we’d inspire you with a list of some of our favourite Experience Gifts for Kids.
The Wonderlab at Toys R Us Burlington (Closed)
The Toys R Us Burlington location has had a serious glow up and families are going to love visiting even more now! Come along as we take you on a tour of the brand new FREE Wonderlab!
Free Things To Do With Kids This Month!
This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family.
African Lion Safari: Ontario’s Wildest Safari Adventure
Great news for fans of African Lion Safari – they are open for the season and have lots of WILD fun in store for you and your family! We have the inside scoop on what you can expect when you visit this summer, updates on the new African Lion Safari ticket prices plus some tips and important info for visitors.
Things To Do On Mother’s Day: Events, Ideas and Brunch Spots
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and it’s one more great opportunity to celebrate the mother figures in your life! We can help you spoil those moms in your life with our inspirational list of things to do on Mother’s Day.
Day Spas in Ontario That Will Leaving You Feeling Like A Whole New Person
Moms provide for their families each and every day of the year. This Mother’s Day, give your Mom, or a Mom you love, the gift of rest and relaxation – a treatment, a day, or even a night or two at a spa. This list has outdoor, indoor, day and overnight pampering options to make the Moms in your life feel appreciated and special.
Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans
Springridge Farm is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do! Let us show you why Springridge Farm in Milton is always a great way to spend a day.
Stroller-Friendly Trails Near Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville
Here are some of the best-loved and most recommended stroller-friendly trails in Burlington, Oakville and Hamilton. We asked our followers with wee ones where they love to walk with their wagons and wheels.
Shell Park in Oakville – Skate Park, Playground, Gardens and a Big Dog Park
Have you been to Shell Park in Oakville? This park space truly has something for everyone, no matter their age! Your family – from babies to retirees – will find
Gage Park Greenhouse: Tropical Oasis in The Big City
The Greenhouse is located inside the grounds of Gage Park and playground and creates a warm, tropical oasis right in the heart of The Steel City. The Gage Park Greenhouse
Driving Schools to Get Your Teenager Driving
In this list, we’ve curated a selection of reputable driving schools that cater to the needs of both new learners and those looking to refine their skills.
Kids Eat Free At These Hamilton Area Restaurants
We love restaurants where kids eat free which is why we love this list of restaurants where kids eat free or cheap in Hamilton.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Burlington, Oakville and Milton?
“Where do kids eat free?” is one of the most frequently asked here at Active Parents, so we keep our list of places where kids can eat free updated! Turns
House and Home Services Directory
Are you looking for trusted home services in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara? Whether you’re planning a renovation, searching for an expert home designer, or need a reliable realtor, our directory
40+ Things To Do on a Rainy Day
Rain showers bring spring flowers, right? So, while you’re dealing with the damp weather and waiting for spring flowers, choose a rainy day activity (or two) from our list and keep boredom at bay! Plus a list of all the indoor events today and coming up!
Ripley’s Aquarium: Video Tour Highlights + FAQs
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada has been a staple of Toronto family entertainment for years and it continues to be one of our favourite day trips. If you haven’t been in a while rest assured that it’s as good as it’s ever been and even feels more organized now than ever before.
Mind-Body Wellness Guide: Halton, Hamilton and Niagara
Welcome to the Mind-Body Wellness Guide, your go-to directory for discovering holistic health practitioners in Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara. Whether you’re looking for natural health solutions, integrative wellness experts, or mind-body healing, our guide connects you with trusted professionals.
18 Easy Easter Activities Anyone Can Master
I love any holiday that involves crafts and baking, and Easter is no exception. But I always have bigger dreams than I can execute. I envision myself a mini-Martha Stewart, and I’m more of a from-the-box-with-jelly-beans-on-top kinda cook. So, if you’re in the same category, read on. I’ve gathered up some festive and easy-to-execute Easter activities to make Easter memories with your family.
Bike Mechanics: Expert Assistance in Hamilton and Burlington
Every summer, parents and kids need bike tune-ups. If you’re looking for bike mechanics in Burlington or bike mechanics in Hamilton, we can help! We asked our community who they
Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures
A day trip to Niagara Falls is not complete without a visit to Bird Kingdom, the World’s Largest Free-Flying Indoor Aviary. Kids and adults will love this immersive experience that gets everyone up close with birds, turtles, snakes and more!
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Halton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Hamilton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Hamilton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
10 Things To Do With Kids in Guelph
Guelph, Ontario is just a short drive from the Burlington Hamilton area and makes for an ideal day trip, no matter what season. It’s a favourite of ours, so we put together some of the top Things To Do With Kids in Guelph.
Burlington Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Hamilton Area Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Hamilton and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Oakville Summer Camps With Single Day Booking
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Triple C Farm: Get Up Close With Adorable Farm Animals
Triple C Farm is one of our most recommended farms in Hamilton to visit. If you’ve got little kids who love visiting petting zoos, or adults who love a great cause, Triple C Farm is the place to be.
Find A Great Summer Camp in Kitchener and Waterloo
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps for kids in Kitchener and Waterloo. Our Camps Guide will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
Summer Camps For 4 Year Olds
These are the needles in the haystack – summer camps for 4 year olds! Many camps take kids over 6 but these ones know that children in kindergarten need summer
STEM Summer Camps in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
One way to keep the summer slide at bay is to enrol your kids in a summer camp that will challenge them and keep them learning all summer long! STEM
5 Must-Dos For Visiting the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, the museum is home to a vast collection of aircraft and artifacts that showcase Canada’s rich aviation history.
High-Energy Excitement at Activate Burlington
Activate in Burlington will have the entire family on the edge of their seats with excitement and energy!
100+ Awesome March Break Activities For 2025
March Break is full of things to do in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and the Waterloo Region. We’ve loaded our events calendar below and put together a long list of March Break activities and fun things you can do with the kids this week (or anytime)!
Children’s Museums and Galleries Families Love
Discover top family-friendly museums in our area. Explore pioneer life, famous sports figures, art, science experiments, and hidden passages. Perfect for hands-on learning and fun!
Sports Summer Camps: Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Summer is just around the corner, and parents are already planning out their children’s summer activities. If you’re looking for an exciting and active way to keep your kids busy, consider enrolling them in a summer sports camp in Burlington, Oakville or Milton.
Sports Summer Camps Near Niagara
Summer is the perfect time for children to stay active and explore new interests. If you’re in the Niagara region, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many summer sports camps available for children of all ages and abilities.
Sports Summer Camps in Hamilton
Summer sports camps in Hamilton offer a fantastic opportunity for children and young adults to stay active and learn new skills during the summer months. With a variety of sports to choose from, including soccer, basketball, tennis, and more, there is something for everyone.
2025 Guide To Easter Egg Hunts And Easter Events
With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about fun activities to do with your family and friends. One of the most exciting events of the season is the Easter egg hunt. And lucky for you, there are plenty of options right in your local area.
Art Gallery of Hamilton – How To Visit For Free!
The Art Gallery of Hamilton is one of the city’s best places to visit for families. And we have the scoop on how you can visit for free! Read on to find out.
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory (Photos + FAQs Answered)
Experience a tropical oasis right in the city when you visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and learn why your family will thank you for taking them.
Dive Into These 5 Indoor Water parks in Ontario
Escape the winter blahs when you visit one of the best indoor waterparks in Ontario! We have several to choose from, so our guide will help you compare features and amenities, plus prices.
Top Tutors For Kids in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara
Explore diverse options for tutoring in Oakville. Burlington, Hamilton and beyond, both in-person and online. Discover how modern tutors blend traditional and modern methods to enhance learning from elementary to high school. Join us to unlock a comprehensive guide that empowers students for academic success.
Summer Camps in Burlington
Summer camps are a great way for kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun during the summer months. If you’re located in Burlington and are looking for summer camp options for your children, you’re in luck!
Milton Summer Camps 2025
Summer is just around the corner and for many parents, that means finding fun and educational activities to keep their kids occupied during the long break. Milton summer camps offer
Fishing in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and More
If you are asking yourself “Are there any great fishing spots near me?” then you are in the right spot. With the help of our amazing community of readers, we’ve
Free Fishing Weekend 2025 in Ontario
In 2025, Ontario has planned four Free Fishing weekends. These are times when you can fish without a licence. They are a great reason to get out with the kids and try your hand at angling.
Your Complete Guide to Oakville Summer Camps
The countdown to the last day of school is on and that means parents like you are looking for summer camps in Oakville. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you! Art camps, Music Camps and STEM camps, plus everything in between!
Maple Syrup Festivals 2025: Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and More
Is there anything more Canadian than visiting a Maple Syrup festival and eating freshly-poured-on-snow maple syrup candy? We don’t think so, either! That’s why Active Parents has rounded up these local Maple Syrup festivals in Ontario that you should visit. Bon appetite!
Cambridge Summer Camps For Kids 2025
Are your kids counting down the days until school is out for the summer? It’s definitely an exciting time, and it’s also the time that parents like you are looking for summer camps in Cambridge. If your kids need care during the summer, we have a list of the best summer camps near you!
50+ Hamilton Summer Camps For Kids 2025
It is only weeks and days until school is out for the summer! Kids are excited and parents like you are busy looking for the best Hamilton summer camps! If your kids need care or just some entertainment this summer, we can help you find what you are looking for. We know our guide is much easier than throwing “summer camps Hamilton” into your fave search engine.
30 Easy Acts of Kindness for Kids
Kids are born loving and kind, and parents like us need to help them nurture and grow their compassion. That sounds like a big job but it’s actually super simple!
Outdoor Summer Camps in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville
Outdoor Camps For Kids in Hamilton, Oakville, Burlington and Milton Outdoor camps are exactly what summers call for! Enjoy as much sunshine and fresh air as possible, right? Winters are
Speech Therapy and Speech Language Pathologists
Top speech therapy services in Halton, Hamilton & Niagara. Explore local SLPs and clinics to support your child’s communication development.
100+ Kids Birthday Party Places Near Hamilton and Halton
Host your next birthday party at one of these fantastic birthday party places in Hamilton, Burlington, Milton and Oakville. We have some creative and top-rated places to party nearby and
Niagara Region Summer Camps 2025
Summer is a great time for kids to take a break from the academic year and engage in fun, exciting, and educational activities. Summer camps in Niagara are a great
Where Do Kids Eat Free in Niagara?
If you want to know where kids eat free today in St. Catharines and Niagara, we got you! You can even find some eateries that offer daily or weekly kids eat free in the Niagara Falls area.
Feel Like A GIANT At Little Canada
When you’re looking for things to do in Toronto, Make sure to consider a visit to Little Canada. They have put together some miniature displays of some of Canada’s most popular locations. The detail and the size will blow your mind!
Valentine’s Day Events Near You 2025
Spread the love with your little ones at one of these Valentine’s Day events. We have lots to choose from, all gathered into one easy-to-use guide because we strive to make planning quality time simple.
Valentines for Kids That Aren’t Candy – Non-Food Valentines
Looking for great ideas for Valentines that aren’t chocolate? We can help you there! Most schools ask that, in order to control allergens and sugar intake, kids bring non-food Valentines to class on February 14th. This year, why not give a candy-free option a go?
Family Day 2025 – Fun Things To Do With Kids
Celebrate Family Day with the kids! Below you’ll find a long list of great things to do in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Hamilton! Family-friendly events, all in one place to help you make the most of this long weekend.
15 Ways To Earn High School Volunteer Hours
No one expects a grade 9 student to know what they want to be when they grow up, so if your high school student hasn’t identified their passion or skill yet, don’t worry. We’ve got great suggestions on how to earn those volunteer hours, and maybe unlock a hidden passion or talent!
2025 March Break Camps in Niagara Region
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Niagara, St. Catharines and the Region. Our Guide to Spring Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
Guelph Civic Museum: Lots of Hands-On Exploring For Children
You know how much we love a children’s museum, and the Guelph Civic Museum has a wing dedicated to hands-on fun for kids that we know you’ll love.
2025 March Break Camps in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps for kids in Kitchener and Waterloo. Our Camps Guide will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
March Break Camps 2025 in Burlington, Oakville, and Milton
Our Guide to March Break Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out.
March Break Camps 2025 in Hamilton
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Hamilton! Our Guide to March Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out. Active Parents includes every single camp we come across because we want to help parents (and kids!) choose the best camp to complement their passions and personalities.
Adult and Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve At Home Party Ideas
Looking for New Year’s Eve at-home ideas? Want to throw a new years eve party for kids? We’ve got you covered from decor to food to ways to celebrate midnight with little people who can’t stay up that late!
The Easiest Way To Track Santa’s Sleigh with NORAD
Here is how to track Santa’s sleigh as it makes its way through the night sky, delivering gifts to children around the world who celebrate Christmas.
Things To Do On Christmas Day: 20+ Activities You Will Love
The holidays are all about spending time with families and friends — but that doesn’t mean you have to spend that time…at home! Whether you have to shift your Christmas dinner plans or you don’t celebrate Christmas, there are still a lot of fun things to do on Christmas Day.
Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunts For All Ages
Kids will love walking or driving by Christmas Houses in Burlington and Hamilton (and beyond) when they have a mission to complete! Print these scavenger hunts and see how many of the items they can find.
50+ Things To Do This Winter
Let’s banish those winter blues! Here are more than 50 things to do during winter in Hamilton and Halton area, including Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Waterdown, Hamilton, Stoney Creek and beyond.
Family New Year Events 2024
We know it’s a time-honour tradition to ring in the new year with a celebration of some size, and we can help you outsource the planning and cleanup. 3…2…1… Let’s ring in the new year with the kids!
Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms Near Burlington and Hamilton
It’s the time of year to visit a Christmas Tree Farm to bring home your holiday centrepiece. Choose to cut your own tree or buy one that’s pre-cut and ready to tie to the roof of your car.
Where To Donate Your Christmas Tree After Christmas
Donate your Christmas Tree to one of these locations
The Candlelit Stroll – Wintertime Fun In Downtown Burlington
The Candlelit Stroll through Downtown Burlington is a free family-friendly event transforms the downtown core into a winter wonderland of lights, glowing storefronts and merriment.
Experience the Magic of the Botanical Train Display at Royal Botanical Gardens
Looking for a delightful winter outing that the whole family will love? The Botanical Train Display at Burlington’s Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is a must-see seasonal attraction that combines the charm of model trains with breathtaking natural artistry. Here’s why this exhibit deserves a spot on your family’s holiday itinerary.
Walk Through and Drive Through Christmas Lights Displays
Enjoy the season by going to drive-thru Christmas light festivals and walking through light displays. No matter which of these Christmas light experiences you choose, you will agree that Ontario is all glowing with magic during the Holiday season.
Map of Christmas Lights in Burlington, Hamilton and Beyond
2024 marks the 7th year that our Map to the Best Decorated Christmas Houses has been wowing families all over the region. Easily find the best-decorated homes with our map and photo gallery!
80+ Stocking Stuffers for Kids of Every Age
Our family loves opening our stockings on Christmas morning. It’s like the pre-game show to the big present-opening party. Here are some of our favourite stocking stuffer ideas, and ones that come highly recommended by our community of parents like you.
The Best Christmas Towns From Toronto to Niagara
Holiday lights, snowy strolls, outdoor ice skating and Christmas markets galore.
Burlington Festival of Lights – 2024 Dates and Photos
It is rare to have such a beautiful light festival also be FREE but the Burlington Festival of Lights is just that! Here’s when it starts, ends and what displays you can expect to see.
Ice Skating Lessons For Kids and Adults
Want to learn to skate? These ice skating lessons near Burlington, Oakville and Milton will have you gliding gracefully before you can tie your skates! Ice skating in the wintertime
Santa Photos 2024: Where To Get Santa Pictures This Year
Where’s Santa? He’s a very busy man at this time of year, but Santa always makes time for little boys and girls. Here is where and how you can visit Santa this year.
9 Advent Calendars For Kids That Aren’t Chocolate
One of the ways our family counts the days till Christmas (besides my kids asking hourly “How many days till Christmas, again?”, is with an Advent Calendar.
Letters to Santa – Important Dates For Grown-Ups!
Canada is one of the few places where when you mail your letters to Santa, he writes back! It must be because we’re so nice! It’s time to make your list, check it twice, and hope that Santa sees you when you’re being nice!
The CP Holiday Train Is Back For 2024 & Stops Near You
The CP Holiday Train is back on track for 2024! Here is where you can see the train and enjoy the concert near Hamilton, Milton and Toronto.
2024 Christmas Events in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara
It’s that time of year again! Gather round for holiday cheer, kisses under mistletoe, and dashing through the snow to enjoy Christmas activities in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville and beyond.
Santa Claus Parades 2024 – Route Maps and Dates
Updated for 2022! Santa has a very busy season ahead of him, and so do you! Use our guide to find a Santa Claus Parade (or two) that fits your family’s schedule.
8 of The Best Snow Tubing Hills in Ontario
We have some fabulous locations for snow tubing near us. All this snow makes now the perfect time to find a snow tube hill nearby and plan an exciting day on the slopes with your family.