9 Kid-Friendly Summer Day Trips Near Toronto

Keeping the kids entertained can be challenging at times. The city of Toronto has so much to offer, but sometimes the hustle and bustle of the city can be too much, and all you want is a nice and quiet kid-friendly place outside where the kids (and adults too!) can enjoy the outdoors and tire themselves out, until the Happy Ending that is napping in the car.

Or if you're really lucky, at home.

We've been to many (if not all) of the beaches in Toronto, and have travelled far to the ones outside the city, but really struggled to find something in the middle: Not in the city, but also not too long of a drive. Somewhere with activities for the kids, but that's not too crowded. Somewhere where we can easily find parking, but not pay $30/day.

Thankfully we’re surrounded with some amazing options that will let you and the kids escape the city for the day, almost expenses free! Unless the ice-cream truck finds you.

How do you find those places though? Ask a desperate mom with 2 little ones. I set out on a quest for the most fun places in and around Toronto, and then went and explored them all, just to bring you this post.

Kidding.

It was for my family and friends, but I'm happy to share as I got tired of reading different versions of the same article over and over again, all listing the EXACT same places, which are mostly not suitable for families anyways.

Here are 9 destinations that make for fun, kid-friendly summer day trips. All locations listed are within a maximum 1 hour drive from Toronto, depending on traffic of course.

1. Kew Gardens (near Woodbine Beach) Located in downtown Toronto (East end), this busy park lies in the Toronto Beaches neighbourhood and stretches from Queen Street East down to the Lakeshore. Given its perfect location, you can enjoy the best of all worlds: Park, playgrounds, splash pads, the beach and Queen West shops and restaurants. A typical day for us starts at the beach and ends with a picnic in the park, accompanied by lots of beer from local breweries in the area. Parking can be tricky in the summer, so if you decide to spend the day there, try to arrive as early as possible. How early? if you have little kids this won't be an issue as they probably wake up before the sun.

2. Sibbald Point Provincial Park

Located on Lake Simcoe, this location is a great spot for day-use. The park has a sandy beach and shallow water perfect for kids, as well as a huge playground, just 1 min walk from the water. This means that you can sit between the water and the playground and have a beer while your kids play and swim. During the hot summer months, the park can get extremely busy, so...arrive early!

3. Earl Rowe Provincial Park This visually stunning park is located in the middle of south-central Ontario countryside (Alliston). With its luscious greenery, vast lakes, and scenic valleys created by Boyne River, Earl Rowe is a perfect site to visit for swimming, camping and hiking. There's also a large outdoor swimming pool, but due to Covid we haven't had a chance to try it yet.

4. Rockwood Conservation Area Name a better duo than Swimming and Picnic! Rockwood Conservation Area has both a pretty beach and a picnic area, once beside the other. You can even bring your canoe / kayak, or rent one there.

5. Marie Curtis Beach and Park This park has it all, and it's so close to Toronto! There is a playground, wading pool, super-fun splash pads, a public swimming beach, picnic spots and walking trails including a connection to the Waterfront Trail. You will always find something to do there.

6. Christie lake conservation area Located in Hamilton, Christie Lake does it all! It has you covered from hiking, swimming, boating and fishing to biking, picnicking and even disc golf. One of the most beautiful lake settings on the Niagara Escarpment, Christie Lake is where you’ll want to spend the day with your family and friends.

7. Lynde Shores conservation area Calling all bird-watchers! (and kids who love birds). Located in Whitby, this place is mostly liked for its numerous opportunities to observe migratory avian species in wild habitat. Well-marked trails pass through picturesque coastal environs, and a number of birds nest here, including waterfowl and shorebirds migrating along the north shore. The wheelchair- and stroller-accessible walks add up to a total of 5 km (3.1 mi), and allows all family members to enjoy its beauty. Tip: bring a bag full of seeds and let your kids feed the bird. If they're lucky enough, a bird might even land on their hands :)

8. Forks of the Credit Provincial Park Located in Caledon, Ontario, Canada, is part of the Ontario Parks system and is part of the Niagara Escarpment biosphere. It might not have a beach, but it does have amazing hiking trails that are wonderful in all seasons. It's a great alternative if you're looking for a chance to view a gorgeous waterfall, a nature hike along the river and a picnic.

9, Caledon Probably one of my favourite towns in Ontario. If you drive the Forks of the Credit scenic road, you'll not only enjoy its incredible views, but can also stop in on of Ontraio's rider hangouts, Higher Ground, and enjoy one of the best coffees in the country. Ok, and ice-cream too. On the side of the road there's also a hidden creek. No sign will tell you where it is, but if you drive north from Higher Ground and look to your left, you will see many cars parked on the road. The creek is a hidden gem where you can picnic and enjoy the cold and clean water. But don't tell anyone! If you're unable to find it, you can always head to #8 listed above :)

Don't forget to pack a swimsuit, sunscreen and a smile! and stay safe.