Looking for something new and interesting to do this summer?

Here are 5 of Ontario’s best excursions to make your summer fun.  Pack a picnic basket, gas up the minivan and get ready to explore!  The kids will love exploring our beautiful province and learning about Canadian history and geography.

Sandbanks Provincial Park-Prince Edward County

Boasting the world’s largest world’s largest bay-mouth barrier dune formation, Sandbanks Provincial Park in Prince Edward County is home to three sandy beaches, four campgrounds and numerous hiking trails. The Park was created from glaciers some 12,000 years ago.   The surrounding area is artsy and picturesque and is a hotspot for bird migration in spring and fall.  Remember to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!

The Grotto-Bruce Peninsula National Park

The Grotto in Tobermory is a must see natural cave carved from ancient limestone and filled with crystal-clear, turquoise water.  Visitors can hike to the grotto through diverse wetlands, where ancient cedar trees and stunning flora and fauna line the trail.  They can even swim inside the grotto itself!

Agawa Canyon-Algoma

Located 183km northwest of Sault St. Marie the Agawa Canyon is a shallow canyon carved out by the faulting Canadian Sheild and the Agawa River.  The canyon is only accessible by hiking or by the Algoma Central Railway’s, Agawa Canyon Tour Train.   Made famous by the Group of Seven Canadian painters, the Agawa Canyon is a trip worth taking this summer!

Crawford Lake-Campbellville

Take a stroll around the elevated boardwalk surrounding the unique meromictic lake. Step back in time and explore the 15th century Iroquoian longhouses and village and learn about local First Nations history. Follow the Escarpment Trail as it winds through rocky woodlands and along the brow of the Niagara Escarpment. Crawford Lake is sure to be a favourite with children.

Manitoulin Island-Lake Huron

Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world and offers visitors a multitude of things to do.  Accessible by car via the Little Current Swing Bridge (year round) and the Chi-Cheemaun (Ojibwe for ‘Big Canoe’) ferry (seasonally), Manotoulin offers visitors many activities. programs and special events to take part in. But it also offers the opposite – a place to escape to, where you can intentionally set out to get lost and have your own unique experience with the beauty and nature the Island offers.

Treat yourself and your family to these extraordinary Ontario destinations.  They are only a short drive away and will create indelible memories for your family to reminisce about for years to come.

Have you been to any of these spectacular Ontario destinations?  Please share your adventures with us and others who may want to plan a trip to these beautiful Ontario locations…