7 Amazing Long Weekend Family Getaways in Ontario
*This posst features the best long weekend family getaways in Ontario. It may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you.
Long weekends are a great time to explore new parts of the country – or to return visit our favorite spots as a family. No matter what time of year it is, there are several destinations ideal for long weekend family getaways in Ontario. In this article we share 7 family getaway ideas to add to your list of places to visit in Ontario.
Toronto
Of course, Toronto is always a top destination for a family getaway in Ontario. There’s plenty to do and see for young and old alike. Family favorites in Toronto include double-decker bus tours, a cruise, the aquarium, the CN Tower, a shopping spree at the Eaton Centre, a stroll along the downtown waterfront and why not a Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre.
More specifically, on Labour Day weekend, Toronto hosts the Canadian International Air Show. Young and old alike can admire the aerial acrobatics and watch several aircraft, including the Snowbirds of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Blue Angels of the U.S. Navy.
With all these activities and its easy-to-use public transit system, Toronto is one of Ontario’s best family getaway options for a long weekend.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Toronto:
There is a big offer of apartments and condos for rent via Airbnb/Vrbo-style platforms in Toronto. You can easily find a location that suits your family’s needs, either in the heart of downtown to get everything done on foot or near a subway station for easy commuting.
Many hotels are also ideally located, close to major family-favorite attractions. Here are our top recommendations:
The Chelsea Hotel is ideally located, close to the Eaton Centre and public transport stations. The hotel has two indoor pools – enough to keep everyone busy on a long weekend family getaway. Several restaurants are within walking distance.
The Germain Maple Leaf Square is another great option for a family getaway to Toronto on a long weekend. It’s perfectly located in the heart of Toronto’s downtown action. The hotel is also just a short walk from Toronto Central Station – perfect for families who choose to travel to Toronto by train.
➡️ Read Next: Dont’t miss these blog posts if you’re heading to Toronto: Toronto with Kids: The 10 Best Family Hotels in Toronto & Ultimate Best Things to Do in Toronto with Kids
Elora
If you are looking for a small town where you can combine outdoor activities with sightseeing, Elora is the destination of choice for your family’s long weekend getaway in Ontario. You can enjoy fun outdoor activities for the whole family in the Elora Gorge area – where the river flows through 22-metre-high cliffs. In fact, many activities are offered in this magnificent natural area: tubing down the river, kayak and canoe rental, hiking on marked trails, swimming, etc. The Elora quarry, dating back to the 1900s, is also a wonderful place for swimming and sunbathing.
In the town center, there are many options. You can stroll through the town and admire the limestone architecture dating back to the 19th century, store and window-shop in the many small boutiques and dine out in the restaurants.
Elora is located near the city of Guelph, Ontario, just over an hour from Toronto.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Elora:
If you’re visiting during the summer season, Elora Gorge Campground is a great option for your family getaway in Elora. Camping in this natural environment allows you to make the most of outdoor activities and spend some excellent family time. The campground is well equipped and offers family-friendly services. For more information or to reserve a site, click here.
There are also several hotel and hostel options available in Elora. You can view all these options and check availability here.
Ottawa
We’re partial to this destination because we live in neighboring city of Gatineau. Ottawa is an ideal city for a long weekend family getaway in Ontario. The nation’s capital offers a multitude of family activities to suit all tastes. For political and history buffs, you can visit Parliament Hill and the magnificent Supreme Court of Canada building, both on Wellington Street. A little further on, on Sussex, you can also visit the residence and gardens of the Governor General of Canada. The residence stands on a vast 79-acre site that is well worth a visit.
A stroll through the heart of the Byward Market is also a must on any family trip to Ottawa. You can stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants located there.
Ottawa is also renowned for its many museums: the Museum of Science and Technology and the Museum of Nature are usually very popular with families. The War Museum, the Aviation Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts are also very interesting.
There are also several green spaces and parks available for picnics or just relaxing with the family. For example, the parks near Dow’s Lake, Major’s Park and the Dominion Arboretum are all wonderful places to discover.
Other family activities are also available: the Rideau Canal, concert halls, shopping at the Rideau Centre, the Rideau Canal locks and more.
Finally, many shows and festivals enliven the city throughout the year.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Ottawa:
There are several accommodation options in Ottawa to suit your family’s needs and desires.
Located downtown, the Marriott Ottawa Hotel is ideal for families. An indoor pool and restaurant are available on site. What’s more, its location makes it easy to explore the city on foot.
For a more luxurious experience, the Fairmont Château Laurier is the place to be. Located in the heart of Ottawa, close to the Byward Market and Parliament Hill, this magnificent hotel is the perfect place to stay for a family getaway to Ottawa.
Kingston / Thousand Islands
Kingston is a charming city to visit on a long weekend family getaway. It boasts many historic sites of interest, as well as a number of activities that the whole family can enjoy. For example, you can visit the Kingston Penitentiary and the Agnes Etherington Arts Centre.
In addition, near Kingston are the Thousand Islands – one of our favorite places. You can book a cruise from Kingston and take the opportunity to visit Boldt Castle. Children and adults alike will enjoy this activity.
In Kingston, you’ll find stores and restaurants to suit the whole family.
Also, take advantage of the fact that Kingston is one of the few destinations in Ontario for a family getaway that is connected to the Via Rail network. It’s a great option for those who want to completely unplug and not drive to their destination.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Kingston:
There are several accommodation options available in Kingston. The Delta by Marriott Kingston Waterfront Hotel is a great option for families looking for a place to stay in Kingston. The hotel is located in Kingston’s historic district, overlooking the harbor. You’ll find an indoor swimming pool on the hotel’s rooftop – something for the whole family to enjoy.
Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County’s reputation is well established! It’s a popular destination for family weekend getaways in Ontario. While the town is best known for its vineyards and wine tastings, there’s plenty to do with kids, too.
If you’re visiting this part of the country during the summer season, you can stop off at one of the beautiful beaches in Sandbanks National Park (Dunes Beach, Sandbanks Beach and Outlet Beach).
Visit the Wellington Famers’ Market and enjoy a family picnic in nearby Wellington Park. There’s also a large playground for the kids.
And even with children in tow, you can visit a vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting – some vineyards are kids-friendly.
Prince Edward County is an ideal destination for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of city centers.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Prince Edward County:
There are several options for renting vacation homes and camping in Prince Edward County.
There are also several hotels ideal for families. For example, the Isaiah Tubbs Resort allows guests to enjoy a private beach and children’s playground.
Niagara Falls
Planning a family getaway to Niagara Falls over a long weekend is a great idea. It’s undoubtedly a destination brimming with activities and tourist attractions that will keep the whole family busy for the duration of a weekend. Of course, a visit to the actual Niagara Falls is a must. The evening illumination of the falls is also very impressive. For an even closer look at the falls, you can take a cruise on the famous Maid of the Mist or book a package that includes a cruise and the Journey Behind the Falls experience.
In addition to the Falls, there are many activities to do with children in Niagara Falls: amusement park (Clifton Hill), Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, museums, riverside walks, arcades, green spaces for picnics, mini-golf and more.
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Niagara Falls:
The Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark Resort is a paradise for families visiting Niagara Falls as part of a long weekend getaway. This hotel offers guests free access to indoor and outdoor water parks. Located 3.2 km from the Falls, this hotel is well situated for easy sightseeing.
Perth
Perth is another ideal destination for long weekend family getaways in Ontario. This small city is only an hour drive from Ottawa. Perth is filled with rich history – it’s where the last fatal duel in Upper Canada took place in 1893.
In the historic downtown of Perth, you can find many historic landmarks. Many boutiques, restaurant and breweries can be found in the city centre.
Many park, such as Stewart Park, are ideal places where to stroll and have a family picnic.
The Tay River also crosses Perth’s city. Rent a kayak or a paddle board and have fun on the water!
Where to stay for a long weekend family getaway in Perth:
The Best Western Plus Perth Parkside & Spa is an excellent option for families looking for where to stay in Perth. This hotel features an indoor pool, a spa, a putting green and a restaurant with a terrace. It’s centrally located so it’s easy for families staying at this hotel to explore Perth.
Conclusion: Best Long Weekend Family Getaways in Ontario
Ontario is full of incredible destinations that make for the perfect family-friendly long weekend. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, relaxing lakeside retreats, or fun city escapes, there’s something for everyone. From the beauty of Prince Edward County to the bustling attractions in Toronto and Ottawa, these spots offer a mix of activities to keep both kids and parents entertained. No matter which getaway you choose, a long weekend in Ontario promises a memorable escape filled with quality family time, adventure, and relaxation. So, pack up the car and enjoy everything this amazing province has to offer!
