What to Do with Kids in Ontario That’s Actually Fun for Adults Too
Family vacations sound great in theory—until you realize you’re stuck watching your kid ride the same carousel five times. It doesn’t have to be that way. Ontario is full of attractions that strike a balance between kid-friendly and genuinely fun for adults.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full holiday, you’ll find experiences that spark joy for the whole family. From breathtaking natural wonders to engaging museums and thrill rides, Ontario offers shared adventures that don’t feel like a compromise. This guide rounds up the best places where both kids and adults will walk away smiling.
1. Explore Niagara Falls Together
There’s a reason Niagara Falls is one of the most visited destinations in the country. Kids love the misty roar of the falls, boat tours that get you drenched, and attractions like mini-museums or funhouses. But for adults, it’s more than just a splash zone.
From the Canadian side, you can choose between various Niagara Falls tours—from thrilling boat rides to night-time explorations under glowing lights. Whether you’re up for a cruise, a helicopter ride, or a peaceful stroll by the illuminated falls, it’s up to you to decide what kind of experience you want.
Many of these tours come bundled with extras, making it easy to plan without the hassle. With scenic dining, nearby vineyards, and local breweries, there’s plenty for adults to enjoy while the kids unwind.
Spend the whole day here. Kick things off with a boat ride, grab lunch with a view, explore Clifton Hill’s arcade fun, and end with a sunset walk by the promenade.
2. Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto)
If your crew is a mix of curious minds and museum skeptics, the ROM delivers. Kids are instantly pulled in by the towering dinosaur skeletons, gemstone exhibits, and hands-on discovery zones. Everything feels designed to let them touch, explore, and ask questions.
For adults, the museum’s collections span ancient civilizations, contemporary art, natural history, and more. You might find yourself lingering over a mosaic while your child marvels at an Egyptian sarcophagus. The changing exhibits ensure there’s always something fresh to discover.
Located right in downtown Toronto, it’s easy to build this into a half-day trip, maybe followed by lunch at a nearby café or time in Queen’s Park.
3. Blue Mountain Resort (Collingwood)
Blue Mountain is a win for every season. In the warmer months, kids can go zip-lining, explore rope courses, or take scenic gondola rides. Winter brings snow tubing, skiing, and tobogganing. It’s basically a year-round playground.
Adults, meanwhile, can escape to the on-site spa, enjoy mountain-top dining, or take part in guided hikes and bike tours. The surrounding area offers great vineyards and boutique shops for more relaxed moments.
If you book a weekend stay, you get the chance to rotate between high-energy activities and slow-paced indulgences. Everyone gets what they want.
4. Canada’s Wonderland (Vaughan)
Sure, it’s a theme park. But it’s not just for the kids. Canada’s Wonderland is packed with thrill rides, immersive shows, and a full-scale water park.
The kid zones have pint-sized roller coasters and splash pads, while adults can tackle the Leviathan or Yukon Striker for an adrenaline fix. Foodies in the family will appreciate the seasonal food festivals and variety of cuisine options throughout the park.
Plan a whole day. Use a mobile app to track wait times, pack swimsuits for the water rides, and snag a shaded spot to recharge while the kids go wild. It’s an experience where fun doesn’t come with an age limit.
5. St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market & Village
Looking for a slower pace? St. Jacobs offers exactly that. The farmers’ market has pony rides and petting zoos for the kids while adults explore aisles of fresh produce, handmade goods, and local wines.
The nearby village is home to historic sites, charming cafés, and antique shops. There’s a horse-drawn trolley and craft studios that welcome kids, too.
Come early to beat the crowds and make it a weekend outing. It’s relaxing, enriching, and full of opportunities to teach your children about local culture.
6. Thousand Islands Boat Cruise
The Thousand Islands region feels like a fairytale come to life. Kids love the idea of hopping between islands and hearing pirate stories from the captain. Adults enjoy the serene waters, castle views, and photo ops that feel like postcards.
There are many cruise options—some themed, some with live commentary, others with dinner service. For adults, wine cruises or evening trips add a bit of luxury.
Pack snacks, wear sunscreen, and keep cameras ready. It’s a shared experience that blends relaxation and wonder.
7. Stratford Festival or Local Theatre (Seasonal)
Don’t count theatre out just because you have kids. Stratford’s world-class festival stage performances range from Shakespeare to lighthearted musicals that appeal across age groups.
Some shows are designed with families in mind, and the theatre also offers backstage tours and children’s workshops. Adults can enjoy the depth of the acting while kids get their first real taste of the arts.
Make a day of it—stroll through Stratford’s gardens, grab a local bite, and cap it off with a show everyone will remember.
8. African Lion Safari (Cambridge)
Drive through a wild reserve and come face-to-face with giraffes, lions, and zebras—all from the comfort (and safety) of your car. Kids love spotting animals roaming free, and it feels like a real-life safari.
Adults can appreciate the natural behavior of animals in open settings, plus the chance to take great photos. Add in picnic spots and shaded rest areas, and you’ve got a laid-back day that delivers excitement and education.
It’s not just a zoo—it’s an immersive animal experience.
9. Butterfly Conservatory (Niagara Region)
There’s something magical about walking through a rainforest filled with fluttering butterflies. Kids are enchanted by the colors and flight patterns, often chasing their favorite species.
Adults, meanwhile, get a calming, nature-filled escape. It’s quiet, beautiful, and easily combined with nearby attractions like the botanical gardens or a wine-tasting tour.
Pair this with your Niagara Falls adventure to round out a day that’s both restful and full of wonder.
Conclusion
Family trips shouldn’t feel like a compromise. In Ontario, you’ll find places where kids and adults can enjoy equally—whether it’s thrill rides, cultural spots, or time in nature. Plan smart, choose activities that excite everyone, and you’ll come home with more than just photos—you’ll bring back memories that actually stick.
