What to do in Ontario with kids on a budget?

With kids out of school it’s the perfect time to explore Southern Ontario and make the most of summer vacation while soaking up the warm sun. Canada’s second largest province is home to vibrant multiculturalism, historic sites, natural landscapes with hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches, and many free and budget friendly activities for kids of all ages. Keep reading to learn about four of my favourite Ontario cities.

Discover diverse Toronto

As a single mom raising my son in Toronto I was always on the lookout for budget friendly activities when he was younger. Toronto’s subway system, the TTC, takes you everywhere you need to go and kids up to age 12 ride free. One of the coolest neighbourhoods is eclectic Kensington Market with affordable vintage shops and restaurants serving meals from around the world. Soak up the bohemian vibe on an outdoor patio and walk the streets searching for street art. From Kensington walk or take the TTC to The Royal Ontario Museum to admire dinosaurs at Age of Mammals and visit the famous spooky Bat Cave. The third Tuesday of each month is free from 4:30pm – 8:30pm. Other free things to do in the summer include exploring High Park’s pretty gardens, waterfront, and massive outdoor playground; checking out a free exhibit at Harbourfront Centre in Queen’s Quay; or visiting the Toronto Islands with a picnic and your bathing suit – free admission just purchase ferry tickets. After exploring Toronto it’s easy to see why our motto is “diversity is our strength”.

Hop on and off in Kingston

Kingston, known as the ‘Limestone City’, is conveniently located between Toronto and Ottawa and packed with affordable indoor and outdoor activities. We loved the Hop-On Hop-Off Kingston Trolly Tour as it’s a great way to learn about the city. The cute red trolley makes nine stops including historic old town and friendly guides share interesting facts. We hopped off at Queen’s University and walked around the stunning campus (totally free) admiring pretty limestone buildings. Save money with an all-inclusive K-Pass that includes the Trolley Tour, restaurant deals, admission to museums and attractions, and a 1000 Islands Cruise. My son and I set sail on the Discovery Cruise departing from Crawford Wharf and the narrated tour is a fun way to learn about nearby sights while watching the rolling waves. Summer is meant for gelato, so grab a cone from Mio Gelato and walk along the shore. Stop for a photo with “I” in Kingston sign next to antique Engine 1095, a cool locomotive train in Confederation Park. The park hosts free summer concerts and movies.

Get back to nature in Hamilton

In the heart of Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe is beautiful Hamilton, just a one hour road trip from Toronto. Nestled between the shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, Hamilton is packed with affordable outdoor adventures including peaceful parks, blossoming gardens, hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches. The Hamilton Waterfall Guide has many to choose from including one of my favourites, Tiffany Falls. Perfect for younger kids as it’s a short stroll through the forest to the sound of rushing water and over bridges towards this flowing cascade waterfall. Another one we love is Devil’s Punchbowl – admission is free and there is paid parking. Check out the Toronto Skyline from the observation platform! Bring a picnic and head to Fifty Point Conservation Area, an 80-hectare park with hiking trails and beach to cool off in Lake Ontario. Camping is also available for a chill weekend getaway.

Explore Canada’s capital in Ottawa

Canada’s enchanting capital city is loaded with activities for kids and a fun cultural destination with unique museums and historic roots. Ottawa, situated along the Ottawa River, has many free or almost free summer activities for all ages. Put on your walking shoes and start your trip with Ottawa Free Tours before heading to the historic Byward Market for lunch with many affordable options. Then head to the free Ottawa Art Gallery to learn about the Group of Seven and the free Bank of Canada Museum. I have been taking my son on free tours of Canada’s Parliament since he was little and we love exploring the Senate, House of Commons, East Block, and the exciting Immersive Experience multimedia show.